Nurses encounter demanding daily scenarios, from managing patients and medication charts to structuring wellness plans and providing life-saving care. While a nurse's dedication can be tried and tested by understaffing, what compounds the challenge is the retaliation they face from understaffed hospitals taking measures against overworked nurses who bravely speak out. Yet, they also risk violating licensing requirements because of their situation. For professional guidance on navigating these, call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or go online now. 

California Nurses Protest Conditions and Face Backlash  

Nurses assembled at the Antelope Valley Medical Center to protest constant short staffing, leaving them overworked and unable to keep up with patient care. The nurses, represented by the California Nurses Association and National Nurses United, claim management fails to comply with the state's minimum nurse-to-patient ratios. Moreover, allegations have risen that the facility has “suspended one nurse and threatened to fire five others for speaking out on the issue.” 

One registered nurse working in the Antelope Valley emergency room asserted that work conditions are “dire,” and sometimes, they are forced to make patients wait hours for care. Another who reportedly refused to take on four new patients above the minimum of three was allegedly suspended and risks “termination” if their refusal continues.  

What Happens When Nurses Are Overworked?  

Each additional patient placed on a nurses' roster means more work per shift in charting, monitoring systems and vitals, and managing patient care. When facilities add more than the state's three-patient mandate, it leads to more stringent working conditions for the nurse but also a lack of care for the patient. Unfortunately, nurses are in a tough position because they also risk discipline from licensing boards because of insufficient care.  

The California Board of Registered Nursing (CBRN) provides nurses with the credentials to practice but also holds them accountable to the public. When patient care falls below acceptable thresholds, patients—or any member of the public—can file a complaint with the CBRN. The board will investigate claims of “gross negligence or incompetence,” among other categories related to the professional responsibilities of the license holder.  

Even though nurses may fall behind in their duties because of understaffing, that doesn't mean they're immune from patient complaints. If disciplinary authorities substantiate complaints, it potentially means the termination of credentials, leaving nurses unable to work.   

How Can the Lento Law Firm Help Licensed Nurses?  

Nurses facing unacceptable working conditions shouldn't have to endure discipline from licensing boards. And with so much time, money, and education invested into becoming a licensed nurse, the need for professional representation is clear.  

The Lento Law Firm's Professional License Defense Team understands how dedicated nurses face challenges with retaliation from employers when facilities fail to follow the law and the need to balance patient care and licensing requirements. Our team of attorneys will defend you from adverse action against your license status from the state board and represent you in any complaint investigation process. If you're a licensed nurse fighting to keep your credentials, call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or visit us online to schedule a consultation.