As a registered California nurse, you probably know colleagues or former colleagues who have had to defend their licenses in front of the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Some may have been successful; some may have failed. When discussing these cases, you may overhear people use terms that you do not fully understand.
Here are some of the phrases the BRN may use if bringing a disciplinary action:
- Accusation: This is a legal document the BRN issues to make you and the public aware that you have been charged with violating the Nursing Practice Act.
- Nursing Practice Act: This is where the BRN sets down the rules you must follow in your work as a registered nurse.
- Notice of Defense: If you wish to contest the charges, you need to reply to the board within the specified period telling them you want to do so.
- Default Decision: If you do not reply with the Notice of Defense, the board will consider the charges against you true and take action accordingly.
These are some of the actions the BRN may take:
- Public Reproval/Reprimand: This a public admonishment; however, the board does not restrict you from doing your job as usual.
- Suspension: You are not allowed to practice for a certain amount of time. The duration may be made clear or may be left open.
- Revoked: The BRN takes away your license. You cannot work as a registered nurse in the state unless the revocation is stayed.
- Stayed: They delay taking the license away, giving you a chance to complete a period of probation to keep it.
- Probation: A determined period where you will be able to work under certain restrictions, with the BRN keeping an eye on you.
A basic understanding of terms is vital. However, you will need the help of an attorney who fully understands all the terminology and regulations if facing a California BRN disciplinary case.