Defending Medication Error Complaints in Kansas
Medication errors are among the most common reasons Kansas nurses face complaints with the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN). Whether the issue involves the wrong dosage, incorrect documentation, or administration to the wrong patient, these cases are taken seriously and can result in harsh penalties.
Why Medication Errors Trigger Complaints
Medication administration is a core nursing responsibility, and the Board expects nurses to follow the “five rights” of medication safety—right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time. When an error occurs, patients may be harmed, but even near-miss incidents can result in disciplinary review.
How KSBN Investigates Medication Errors
Investigators will typically request medication logs, charting records, witness statements, and pharmacy data. They want to determine whether the nurse acted carelessly, failed to follow facility policies, or engaged in conduct that places patients at risk.
Consequences of Medication Errors
Depending on the severity, penalties can include mandatory remedial training, probation, suspension, or revocation. Even a single error can have career-altering consequences if the Board determines it was due to negligence or repeated misconduct.
Defense Strategies
A strong defense may highlight systemic issues, such as understaffing, unclear protocols, or faulty equipment, rather than individual misconduct. Nurses may also show that they took immediate corrective action or that the error was minor and caused no harm.
Why Legal Counsel Is Vital
Medication error cases are rarely straightforward. The Board often interprets them as evidence of negligence, but an attorney can help reframe the incident, present mitigating factors, and argue for dismissal or reduced penalties.
If you’re a Kansas nurse facing a medication error complaint, don’t risk your license by going it alone. Contact Sanger Law Office, LLC at (785) 979-4353 today for a confidential consultation. We defend Kansas nurses against medication-related complaints and protect their right to practice.