Disciplinary Actions by the Nevada Board of Nursing
Understanding Disciplinary Actions by the Nevada Nursing Board for Nurses Facing Criminal Charges
Nursing is a profession rooted in trust, compassion, and service. Yet, for many dedicated nurses, a single mistake or criminal charge can jeopardize not only their career but also their livelihood. If you’re a nurse facing criminal allegations in Nevada, it’s essential to understand how the Nevada Board of Nursing may respond. At Las Vegas Nurse Lawyers, we’re here to provide clarity, support, and expert defense. Contact our knowledgeable nurse license defense attorneys today at 702-466-1234 to learn more about your options and how we can help.
Why Does the Nevada Board of Nursing Take Disciplinary Action?
The Nevada Board of Nursing’s primary responsibility is to protect public health, safety, and welfare. It achieves this by regulating the practice of nursing and ensuring that all licensed nurses meet high professional and ethical standards. When a nurse is accused of criminal behavior, the Board assesses whether that conduct reflects their ability to practice safely and competently.
The Board has broad discretion in its decision-making process. Even minor criminal charges, unrelated to nursing practice, can lead to disciplinary actions. Understanding the potential consequences and your rights is critical to safeguarding your nursing license and career.
Types of Criminal Charges That May Lead to Disciplinary Action
The Nevada Board of Nursing evaluates a wide range of criminal offenses, including but not limited to:
- DUI charges or other substance-related offenses
- Drug diversion or misuse
- Fraud, including Medicare/Medicaid fraud
- Theft or embezzlement
- Assault or domestic violence
- Sexual misconduct
It’s important to note that the Board doesn’t just act on convictions. An arrest or charge alone could trigger scrutiny, even if the case hasn’t resulted in a guilty verdict. This underscores the importance of early legal intervention.

How Does the Disciplinary Process Work?
The disciplinary process can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially when your career hangs in the balance. Here’s what you can expect:
Complaint or Notification
The process often begins with a complaint or notification to the Nevada Board of Nursing. This could come from an employer, law enforcement, or even a member of the public. The Board will review the complaint to determine if it warrants an investigation.
Investigation
If the Board deems it necessary, they’ll investigate the allegations. This may include reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and requesting a statement from the nurse involved. It’s vital to consult with an experienced defense attorney before responding, as anything you say can impact the outcome.
Hearing and Resolution
If the investigation finds evidence of misconduct, the case may proceed to an administrative hearing. This hearing functions as a trial before the Board, and the nurse has the right to present evidence and call witnesses. The outcome will determine the type of disciplinary action imposed.
Now, let’s explore the types of disciplinary actions that the Nevada Board of Nursing can take against nurses facing criminal charges.
Types of Disciplinary Actions
The Nevada Board of Nursing has a range of options when it comes to disciplining nurses. The severity of the action depends on the nature of the charges, the evidence presented, and the perceived risk to public safety. These include:
1. Letter of Concern (Non-Disciplinary)
A letter of concern is the least severe action the Board can take. While it doesn’t constitute formal discipline, it stays on the nurse’s record and may be considered in future cases. It serves as a warning, acknowledging that the nurse’s actions warranted attention but didn’t rise to the level of formal punishment.
2. Reprimand or Censure
A reprimand is a formal statement of disapproval added to the nurse’s file. While it doesn’t restrict their ability to practice, it is publicly accessible and can impact their career. Employers and future licensing boards will see this disciplinary mark.
3. Fines and Financial Penalties
The Board may impose monetary fines as part of disciplinary action. These fines are often accompanied by other sanctions and are meant to reflect the seriousness of the offense.
4. Mandatory Education or Training
Nurses may be required to complete educational courses, such as ethics, substance abuse treatment, or clinical skills refresher programs. This is common in cases involving DUIs or professional misconduct.
5. Probation
Probation allows nurses to continue practicing but under strict conditions. These conditions often include:
- ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″ value=”2″>Attending counseling or treatment programs
- ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″ value=”4″>Avoiding further legal or professional violations
While on probation, any additional infractions can lead to more severe penalties, including suspension.
6. License Suspension
A suspension temporarily revokes a nurse’s ability to practice. The duration depends on the severity of the offense and their compliance with Board directives. To regain their license after suspension, the nurse must often meet specific requirements, such as completing treatment programs or additional training.
7. License Revocation
Revocation is the most severe sanction, permanently removing a nurse’s ability to practice in Nevada. While it’s sometimes possible to petition for reinstatement after a certain period, the process is lengthy, challenging, and far from guaranteed.
8. Voluntary Surrender of License
Instead of undergoing a hearing and potential disciplinary action, some nurses choose to voluntarily surrender their license. While this avoids formal penalties, it also ends the nurse’s ability to practice and is recorded as a disciplinary action.
9. Referral for Criminal Prosecution
If the Board believes the conduct warrants criminal charges, they may refer the case to law enforcement or prosecutors. This can result in additional legal consequences beyond the Board’s discipline.
How The Las Vegas Nurse Lawyers Can Help
Navigating the disciplinary process can be daunting, especially when your career, reputation, and future are on the line. At Las Vegas Nurse Lawyers, we specialize in defending nurses before the Nevada Board of Nursing. Here’s how we can help:
- Strategic Defense: We analyze the specifics of your case, identify weaknesses in the Board’s evidence, and build a customized strategy to protect your license.
- Representation at Hearings: The Board’s administrative hearings can feel like uncharted territory. Our legal team ensures you’re well-prepared and advocates on your behalf.
- Mitigating Consequences: Even if discipline is unavoidable, we work to minimize the impact on your career by negotiating for reduced penalties.
- Guiding You Through the Process: From responding to complaints to preparing for hearings, we are with you every step of the way.
Protect Your Career With Expert Legal Representation
For nurses, a criminal charge isn’t just a legal matter—it’s a threat to their hard-earned career. The Nevada Board of Nursing’s disciplinary actions can be life-altering, but you don’t have to face them alone. At the Las Vegas Nurse Lawyers, we’re passionate about protecting the rights and careers of Nevada’s nurses.
If you’re facing disciplinary action or criminal charges, contact us today for a consultation. Together, we’ll fight to preserve your license and future. Don’t wait until it’s too late—your career is worth defending.