During a nursing board complaint investigation, what action might the board take?

• A. Immediately revoke the license without process
• B. Publicly publish the nurse’s disciplinary history
• C. The board investigates, may request records, and may initiate formal disciplinary action
• D. Dismiss the complaint without notice

Answer: (C)

Disciplinary investigations involve gathering information and safeguarding the public while evaluating potential violations. The board conducts a thorough review, may request records from employers or facilities, and can interview the nurse and other witnesses to build the factual picture. If the gathered information suggests rules were violated, the board may move forward with formal disciplinary action, which could result in sanctions such as reprimand, probation, suspension, or revocation, and may include conditions imposed on practice. The board can also issue temporary restrictions when there is an immediate danger to patient safety. Actions like revoking a license without any process or dismissing a complaint without notice aren’t consistent with the required due process, and public disclosure of disciplinary history generally follows a formal action rather than occurring solely during an investigation.