How To Save Your Nurse License After Being Falsely Accused Of Drug Diversion

Nurses are expected to handle medications that are very valuable and highly addictive. Some nurses choose to steal drugs that are meant for patients and instead consume the drugs themselves or intend to sell them on the black market in an act known as "drug diversion." If you are falsely accused of drug diversion, you will want to act quickly to defend your license. 

Inaccurate Medical Records Can Lead to Accusations of Drug Diversion

There are various potential reasons why you might be accused of drug diversion. You may be accused of having faked documents needed to administer medication to a patient. For example, you might be accused of increasing the dosage required beyond what the patient would actually need. Therefore, it's important to make sure that your medical records are always accurate and sensible.

Medications Might Be Disappearing

You might be accused of stealing medications from a dispensary or a cabinet. Some nurses have even been accused of stealing medication directly from the patient themselves. The stealing of medications can lead to criminal penalties and you might also risk the loss of your nursing license.

How to Respond

If you are accused of drug diversion, you must respond even if you believe that the accusations are unfounded. It might be possible that the medications are being stolen by a different medical practitioner. 

The investigation can proceed very quickly and you might find yourself at the hearing stage. Therefore, you must contact a nurse license defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney will help you craft an effective response that will allow you to counter accusations of having stolen medications. 

Potential Disciplinary Action

Once the complaint has been filed, your case will become public and anyone will be able to see these records including potential hirers. You will need to speak before an administrative law judge to defend your license. If you are not able to convince the judge that you are innocent, you may face disciplinary action. This can include the temporary suspension or permanent revocation of your license.

Criminal Charges

If you are facing criminal charges, you'll also need an attorney to help you prepare a criminal defense. This will be necessary to avoid fines and potential jail time. Fortunately, there are lawyers who specialize in helping nurses protect their licenses and will be able to explain your legal options and help you build the best possible defense.

Contact a local nurse license defense attorney to learn more.