It’s best to seek the help of a nurse attorney when facing different complaints and allegations. However, some nurses tend to face these results instead without thinking that nurse attorneys are always reliable for matters such as these.
On or about September 2, 2018, the LVN failed to use medical equipment responsibly which resulted in patient harm. During the said date, the LVN was assigned to care for a patient who has a chronic back disorder and has been prescribed high-dose opioids administered via patient-controlled analgesia.
Subsequently, during the said date, the patient-care technician summons the LVN to the patient’s room, stating the patient isn’t breathing. The LVN calls a code, but the patient can’t be resuscitated. The LVN notifies the supervisor, who in turn notifies the coroner.
The LVN and a colleague begin removing equipment from the patient. The LVN discard the opioid remaining in the PCA without noting the amount discarded, and return the PCA to central supply for cleaning. The coroner determines an autopsy is needed because of the abrupt nature of the death; the physician refuses to sign the death certificate due to concerns over PCA tampering. Because the equipment wasn’t preserved, it wasn’t available as evidence to help the coroner evaluate the patient’s death.
Because of this, a complaint was filed against the LVN for failure to properly utilize the equipment to be used for the patient.
The Texas Board of Nursing sent a letter to the LVN regarding the issue so then she can have the chance to defend herself. However, she was not able to provide a good defense for herself. Therefore, the Board placed her LVN license to a disciplinary action instead.
If you ever undergo cases such as this, it’s best to seek the assistance of a good nurse attorney as it could make the case better in your favor. Be sure to find a nurse attorney who’s experienced and knowledgeable in several nurse cases to ensure the best assistance possible.
If you also received a complaint regarding a case filed on you, you should hire a nurse attorney immediately before it’s too late. Texas nurse attorney Yong J. An is one of those dedicated nurse lawyers who helped various nurses in their cases since 2006. You may contact him 24/7 at (832) 428-5679 for more information or if you want to schedule a private consultation.