Fighting Accusations of Unprofessional Conduct in Kansas Nursing

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Accusations of unprofessional conduct can be devastating for a nurse in Kansas. The Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN) uses this category to cover a broad range of behaviors, from boundary violations to inappropriate communication. Because the definition is so wide, even conduct outside of direct patient care—such as social media use or off-duty behavior—can trigger disciplinary action.

What Counts as Unprofessional Conduct

Unprofessional conduct can include:

  • Failing to maintain professional boundaries with patients.
  • Engaging in inappropriate relationships with patients or colleagues.
  • Breaching patient confidentiality.
  • Acting dishonestly or unethically in documentation or communication.
  • Using offensive language or displaying unprofessional behavior in the workplace.

KSBN evaluates whether the nurse’s behavior reflects poorly on the nursing profession or threatens patient safety.

Investigation and Penalties

Once a complaint is filed, the Board investigates by reviewing witness statements, workplace policies, and sometimes social media activity. Penalties for unprofessional conduct can range from reprimands to probation, suspension, or license revocation.

Defense Strategies

Defenses may involve showing that the allegations were exaggerated, retaliatory, or taken out of context. For example, a boundary violation claim might be countered with evidence of proper consent or cultural misunderstandings. In social media cases, demonstrating that posts were taken out of professional context can help reduce penalties.

Why Legal Counsel Is Critical

Because unprofessional conduct is defined so broadly, these cases often depend heavily on interpretation. An attorney ensures that your side of the story is heard and that evidence favorable to your defense is not overlooked.

If you are a Kansas nurse facing accusations of unprofessional conduct, your license could be in jeopardy. Call Sanger Law Office, LLC today at (785) 979-4353 for a confidential consultation. Attorney Danielle R. Sanger will fight to protect your reputation and your ability to practice nursing in Kansas.