A simple charting error can quickly spiral into a career-threatening charge of willful falsification. What you viewed as an honest mistake, the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA) may treat as a fraudulent act.
Meeting the standards of Pennsylvania law
Under the Standards of Nursing Conduct, you must document and maintain accurate records of nursing care provided to each patient. The board may classify the following as willful falsification:
- Claiming a successful assessment when no one performed it
- Changing the time or date of an entry to cover a missed deadline
- Leaving out vital information
As a nurse, the state holds you to rigorous standards. A minor error can become evidence used to question your integrity and fitness to practice.
Understanding the consequences of falsification
Falsifying records falls under unprofessional conduct and fraud or deceit in practice. The State Board of Nursing takes this seriously. They often penalize violators with formal reprimands, license suspensions and revocations. The board may also levy civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, though actual assessments often vary based on the severity of the unprofessional conduct.
Facing the hearing with legal counsel
When the BPOA starts an investigation, your career and reputation are at stake. Attempting to explain your side directly to a board investigator is risky. Any statements you make during the investigatory phase will be used against you in a formal hearing.
Protecting your livelihood requires a strategic defense. Seeking legal counsel can provide the guidance you need in navigating the BPOA’s disciplinary process.