Top 5 Things Nurses Need to Know to Protect Their Nursing License

As a nurse, your license is the foundation of your career and a reflection of your dedication to providing excellent care. However, the fast-paced, high-stakes healthcare environment can sometimes lead to unintentional mistakes or oversights that put your license at risk. At WOW Solutions, we’re here to empower you with knowledge and strategies to safeguard your nursing license and career.

1. Understand and Follow Your State's Nursing Practice Act

Your state’s Nursing Practice Act (NPA) outlines the legal scope of practice for nurses. Ignorance of these laws can lead to unintentional violations.

Key Tips:

• Review your state’s NPA regularly.

• Stay informed about updates or changes in regulations.

• Never perform tasks outside your scope of practice.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Do I fully understand the scope of practice outlined by my state?

• Am I up to date with any changes in my state’s nursing laws?

2. Document Accurately and Thoroughly

Documentation is your best defense if your actions are ever questioned. Incomplete or inaccurate records can create significant liability.

Key Tips:

• Document all care provided, including patient interactions and clinical decisions.

• Be objective, clear, and concise.

• Avoid shortcuts or undocumented verbal orders.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Is my documentation clear and accurate enough to reflect the care I provided?

• Am I adhering to my facility’s documentation policies?

3. Maintain Professional Boundaries

Professional boundaries ensure the nurse-patient relationship remains therapeutic and ethical. Boundary violations can lead to disciplinary actions.

Key Tips:

• Avoid personal relationships with patients or their families.

• Do not share personal information or engage on social media.

• Be cautious about gifts or favors from patients.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Am I maintaining appropriate boundaries with my patients?

• Have I ever crossed a line that could be perceived as unprofessional?

4. Advocate for Safe Staffing and Work Environments

Unsafe staffing levels and hostile work environments can lead to errors that jeopardize your license. Being proactive about these issues is critical.

Key Tips:

• Report unsafe staffing levels to supervisors.

• Refuse assignments if you believe they are unsafe or beyond your capabilities.

• Collaborate with colleagues to foster a culture of safety.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Am I speaking up about unsafe working conditions?

• Do I feel empowered to refuse assignments that put my license at risk?

5. Obtain Professional Liability Insurance

Relying solely on employer-provided coverage may not fully protect you. Individual liability insurance offers additional peace of mind.

Key Tips:

• Research and purchase a reputable professional liability insurance policy.

• Understand what your policy covers and doesn’t cover.

• Keep your policy active and updated.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Do I have personal liability insurance to protect my license?

• Have I reviewed my policy to understand its terms and conditions?

  
  

Final Thoughts

Your nursing license is one of your most valuable assets. By understanding your legal responsibilities, maintaining professional standards, and taking proactive measures, you can protect your license and your career.

At WOW Solutions, we’re committed to helping nurses navigate the complexities of their profession with confidence. If you have questions or need guidance on safeguarding your license, reach out to us today.

With care and professionalism,

Mishaun Jackson (Coach Mimi Real Talk)

Coach | Legal Nursing Consultant | Advocate