How is a nursing complaint processed by the Board?

• A. It is immediately escalated to criminal court
• B. The nurse presents defense at a public hearing without any investigation
• C. The board cannot review complaints; they go to a professional association
• D. A complaint is filed, the board investigates, may request records, a probable cause panel may determine if action is warranted, and if so, a formal disciplinary process occurs

Answer: (D)

Nursing complaints are handled as regulatory, not criminal, actions by the Florida Board of Nursing. When a complaint is filed, the board begins an administrative review and investigation, gathering information and records from the nurse, employers, and others as needed. A Probable Cause Panel may be convened to decide whether there is probable cause to believe a violation occurred and that disciplinary action might be warranted. If the panel finds probable cause, the board moves into a formal disciplinary process, starting with an administrative complaint and notice of hearing, and proceeding through due process—often with a hearing before the board or an administrative law judge, and possible settlements or sanctions. If no probable cause is found or the investigation clears the nurse, the matter may be closed or dismissed.