The Texas BON has strict guidelines and standards that it expects all licensed nurses in Texas to follow. The majority of these standards are relevant to a hospital or medical setting, however; the BON also imposes a code of conduct when off-duty.
Let’s suppose that on your day off you decide to engage in drugs and alcohol and get pulled over by a Texas state trooper and end up getting arrested for a DUI. While many people may live under the philosophy that what they do in their off-shift hours is their business, but in reality the impact can be detrimental to your nursing career. Think twice before engaging in any illegal activities during or after your shift and even your days off including taking controlled substance, pills (taking some from your work), fighting in a bar, or having an assault issue with your boyfriend or girlfriend.
The Texas BON is permitted to take disciplinary action for offenses including but not limited to drugs and alcohol abuse. If you are a nurse who has been approached by the BON, it is imperative to respond to their inquiry in a timely manner. It is advisable to consult an experienced Houston nurse lawyer prior to preparing your response to the BON.
To learn more about the BON complaint process and how to best prepare for your case, consult an experienced Texas nurse attorney who has handled nursing license defense cases.
Some Penalties You May Face If Disciplinary Action is Taken:
- Monitoring
- Administrative Penalty (Fine)
- Directive to Fulfill Neglected Obligation (Specific Performance)
- Public Reprimand
- License Restriction or Impositions on Practice
- TPAPN Directive
- Probation of a License Suspension
- Active Suspension as a Requirement of Probation
- Revocation
Even though your first response may be that you are compelled to handle the situation yourself, it is important to consider the ramifications of handling the situation without proper guidance and knowledge or fully understanding the BON complaint process.
Speak to a Knowledgeable Houston Nurse Lawyer First
Consult a nurse attorney before you proceed with the BON complaint process to protect your nursing license. Contact nursing license defense attorney Yong J. An for a confidential consultation by calling or texting 24/7 at (832) 428-5679.
