Can a Patient’s Family Member File a Complaint Against You in Kansas?
Nursing is a demanding profession that requires teamwork, professionalism, and ethical integrity. But sometimes, even in clinical settings built on collaboration, workplace tensions rise. In Missouri, nurses can face license-threatening complaints not only from patients—but also from their co-workers. If a fellow staff member files a complaint with the Missouri State Board of Nursing, the implications can be serious, even if the accusation feels personal or unfounded. You need to act immediately to protect your license, reputation, and career.
Why Do Co-Workers File Board Complaints?
Complaints from colleagues can stem from various sources—some valid, others rooted in conflict, personality clashes, or retaliation. Common allegations include:
- Accusations of unprofessional conduct or bullying
- Claims of patient neglect or abandonment
- Alleged substance abuse or impairment on duty
- HIPAA violations or inappropriate disclosures
- Concerns about falsifying documentation or charting errors
What begins as a simple disagreement or miscommunication can snowball into a formal investigation. Unfortunately, the Board does not consider office politics; it takes every complaint seriously, regardless of where it originates.
What Happens After a Peer Complaint Is Filed?
Once a co-worker submits a complaint to the Missouri State Board of Nursing, the Board initiates a review process that could lead to a full investigation. You may receive a letter from the Board requesting a response or notifying you of the investigation.
At this stage, the Board may:
- Review your charting and medical records
- Interview your peers, supervisors, or patients
- Examine your prior disciplinary record, if applicable
- Ask for a written statement from you
What you say to the Board—verbally or in writing—can be used against you later. Many nurses try to handle the situation alone, believing they can “clear things up.” This is a mistake. You need legal protection the moment you learn of a complaint.
What to Do When You Learn a Co-Worker Filed a Complaint
If you suspect or know a colleague has filed a complaint against you:
- Don’t retaliate. Avoid confronting the person or discussing the matter with others at work.
- Remain calm and professional. Continue documenting your work carefully.
- Secure representation immediately. A Missouri nursing license defense attorney can guide you from the start.
- Preserve records. Save any emails, shift logs, or other documents that support your position.
Even if your employer hasn’t disciplined you, the Board can still act independently on the complaint. Don’t assume that silence from your facility means the matter is over.
How an Attorney Can Help You Defend Your Missouri License
An experienced license defense attorney will:
- Draft your written response to the Board
- Advise you on what not to say
- Identify helpful evidence and witnesses
- Represent you in communications and hearings
- Push for early resolution or dismissal when appropriate
Many Board complaints from co-workers are ultimately found to be baseless or exaggerated—but only after a thorough defense has been mounted. That process takes skill and strategy, especially when your livelihood is at risk.
Don’t Wait for the Board to Decide Your Future
Time is critical. Once a Board investigation is underway, every step counts. If you’ve been accused of wrongdoing by a fellow nurse, CNA, supervisor, or technician, protect yourself before the situation escalates.
Get Help From a Missouri Nursing License Defense Attorney
At Sanger Law Office, LLC, we represent Missouri nurses facing disciplinary action. Whether a co-worker’s complaint is based on a misunderstanding, mistake, or retaliation, we know how to fight back effectively. The sooner you involve us, the better your chances of preserving your license and career.
Call us at (785) 979-4353 for a confidential consultation. We’re here to help nurses protect what they’ve worked so hard to achieve.