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Can you lose your nursing license for not reporting abuse?

On Behalf of | Jun 4, 2025 | Nursing License Defense |

Being a mandated reporter is a critical responsibility. Mandated reporters have a legal obligation to report observed or known abuse or neglect – particularly of vulnerable children and adults.

Nurses, like many other medical professionals, are in positions where they encounter people who are victims of abuse and/or neglect but are unwilling, unable or too afraid to tell anyone. They may end up in the hospital, clinic or doctor’s office with injuries caused by their abuser, who may be there with them and refuse to leave their side so that they don’t have the opportunity to report their abuse. Abusers may even threaten nurses – subtly or outwardly – if they report their suspicions.

What does the Nursing Practice Act say?

The Nursing Practice Act requires nurses to report cases of known or suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate law enforcement agency “immediately or as soon as practically possible.” They must then follow up with a written report to the appropriate state and local agencies “within two working days of receiving the information regarding the person.” 

Mandatory reporting typically relates, as noted, largely to victims who are particularly vulnerable, like children, the elderly and other adults who are physically and/or mentally disabled. It also includes spouses and others who are victims of domestic violence.

If a nurse fails to comply with their mandatory reporting requirements, the Board of Registered Nurses (BRN) considers it “unprofessional conduct” that “can result in disciplinary actions against the RN’s license by the BRN.” A nurse could also potentially face fines and even jail time. 

Knowing the law and the reporting process 

As part of their training, nurses should learn the signs of abuse and neglect in patients – even if the patient is getting medical care for something unrelated or is there with a child or someone else receiving care. They also need to know their obligations and the reporting process.

Any nurse who is facing disciplinary action related to their mandated reporting responsibilities needs to take the matter seriously. Getting legal guidance to protect your rights and your nursing license is an important first step.

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