Case Result: RN Reported to IPN and Later Refused; Case Dismissed, Restriction Removed

Professional:
Registered Nurse

Primary Issue:
An RN was accused of suspected drug abuse related to long-term use of narcotics for congenital abnormality. The RN, without advice of counsel, agreed to IPN monitoring. Following two months of intensive therapy, IPN demanded a five-year contract. The RN refused and was reported as non-compliant with IPN. The Board of Nursing issued a complaint and demanded the RN enroll in IPN.

Benefit of Using Chapman Law Group:
The RN retained our attorneys to defend her in the Board of Nursing complaint for alleged drug use. We reviewed the entire investigative file, including the original IPN evaluator report. We also reviewed every medical and counseling record. During the review, it was clear the original evaluator did not recommend inpatient therapy or any therapy at all. In spite of this, IPN intentionally mischaracterized the evaluation and told the RN that the evaluator recommended therapy and a long-term monitoring contract — but the evaluator had only recommended education to counsel the RN on possible long-term complications of narcotic use. We filed a motion to dismiss and demanded a hearing or the reconsideration of the case by the Board of Nursing Probable Cause Panel.

Result:
The Board of Nursing Probable Cause Panel reconsidered the case and dismissed the investigation, finding no probable cause.

Areas of Law:
Nursing License Defense
Substance Abuse Matters
Intervention Project for Nurses (IPN)

Disclaimer:
This information is a sample of our past results. Prospective clients may not obtain the same or similar results. Every case is different and each case must be evaluated and handled on its own merits. The circumstances of your case may differ from the results provided. The information provided has not been reviewed or approved by the State Bar.