As a nurse, the last thing you ever want to face is the loss of your license. You went to school for many years and do all you can to help your patients. Sometimes, you think that you have to be a superhuman to avoid a lawsuit. Other times, you realize that patients are just confused about what is malpractice and what is a true complication out of your control.
If you are faced with a lawsuit and could lose your nursing license, there are a few things you can do to help yourself. Depending on your position and where you work, there may be protocol for handling lawsuits, but if not, you should consider the following options.
1. Apologizing reduces lawsuits
The reality is that apologizing has been shown to reduce the likelihood of patients turning to a lawsuit. Why? They feel heard, and they realize that you’re taking the situation seriously.
2. Respond to the Board of Nursing appropriately
Another thing you can do to help yourself is to work with your attorney to respond to the Board of Nursing’s investigation as thoroughly as possible. You want to answer questions as well as you can. Given that the injury alleged may have happened a year ago or more, do your best to recall the patient and their records.
3. Get ready to defend yourself
The best thing you can do for yourself is to be prepared to set up a strong defense. While the allegations against you may not be truthful or may be due to a misunderstanding, you still want to do all you can to protect your rights and license.
