There may be no more ethically complex situation for nurses than the question of whether to intervene during an emergency. Nursing licensing rules and regulations can be just as complex. Can you offer assistance? Are you obligated to offer assistance? What happens if something goes wrong?

If you rendered help during an accident or emergency and now you're facing charges from your state board of nursing, don't try to handle the situation yourself. Licensing regulations give you the right to legal representation. Make the most of that right by hiring the best representation you can—the Lento Law Firm's Professional License Defense Team.

To find out more about how we can help, dial 888-535-3686 or take time now to tell us about your case.

Know Your State's Regulations

The issue of whether or not you can and/or should stop at an accident and render help is a matter of state rather than federal law. That means the rules that govern your actions will be specific to your state, and it's always in your best interest to familiarize yourself with those rules.

That said, every state has some type of "Good Samaritan" law designed to protect nurses and other healthcare workers who intervene during an emergency.

Most of these have similar features, such as

• You are generally protected, provided you act in "good faith" to render assistance.
• You are protected as long as you are not demanding or receiving any sort of compensation.

However, your state may have restrictions on your ability to render emergency assistance in a healthcare facility. There may be rules regarding whether or not you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There may be rules regarding whether or not you can assist in ways that go beyond your professional training.

What is Your Obligation?

A handful of states, including Minnesota, Rhode Island, and Vermont, have enacted state laws that require individuals to respond to accidents with emergency assistance, irrespective of whether or not they are healthcare professionals. In such states, the nursing board might hold you accountable if you fail to stop and provide professional assistance during an emergency.

Again, it's important you check your own state's specific regulations. If you should live in one of these states, you'll also want to read carefully through your list of obligations to make sure you do what is required by law.

What Can the Lento Law Firm Do for You?

Whatever your particular situation, you never want to handle a professional license defense on your own. The very moment you're charged with an offense, or if you simply worry that you might be facing some kind of scrutiny from your professional board, you need to contact the Lento Law Firm for help.

We know what your state has to say about nurses. We're familiar with processes and procedures, and we're experienced in representing healthcare professionals at board hearings. Keep in mind that these are unique judicial processes, and most attorneys haven't dealt with them. We have.

To find out more about exactly what the Lento Law Firm can do for you, contact us today at 888-535-3686 or use our online form.