Fighting Accusations of Unprofessional Conduct in Kansas Nursing
Accusations of unprofessional conduct can be career-threatening for any nurse practicing in Kansas. Whether the claim arises from a misunderstanding, a one-time mistake, or an exaggerated report, the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN) takes such allegations seriously.
Unprofessional conduct is a broad term that covers a wide range of behavior and actions. When the Board receives a complaint alleging this type of violation, it may launch a formal investigation that can lead to disciplinary action, including probation, suspension, or license revocation.
Understanding how unprofessional conduct is defined, the consequences that may follow, and how to fight these allegations is essential to protecting your license and your reputation.
How Kansas Defines Unprofessional Conduct
The Kansas Nurse Practice Act gives the KSBN the authority to discipline a nurse for unprofessional conduct, which includes but is not limited to:
- Falsifying or altering patient records
- Verbal abuse or inappropriate communication with patients, families, or colleagues
- Insubordination or failure to follow physician orders
- Inappropriate relationships or boundary violations with patients
- Failing to safeguard patient privacy and confidentiality
- Practicing nursing while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Abandonment of a patient without reasonable cause or notice
- Engaging in conduct likely to deceive, defraud, or harm the public
Unprofessional conduct also includes behavior outside of work that reflects poorly on the profession. For example, criminal convictions, especially those involving dishonesty, violence, or drug use, can be considered evidence of unprofessional conduct—even if they didn’t occur in a clinical setting.
How a Complaint Is Processed by the Kansas State Board of Nursing
1. Complaint Is Filed
The complaint may come from a coworker, patient, supervisor, or facility, and sometimes even anonymously. The Board reviews the complaint to determine if the allegations warrant an investigation.
2. Investigation Is Opened
If the KSBN believes the complaint falls under its jurisdiction, an investigation is initiated. This involves:
- Requesting a written response from the nurse
- Interviewing witnesses and coworkers
- Reviewing patient records and facility policies
- Collecting relevant documentation
3. Board Review and Disciplinary Decision
The Board will determine whether a violation occurred. If so, they may impose a range of penalties depending on the severity and circumstances of the case.
Potential Disciplinary Outcomes
Allegations of unprofessional conduct can lead to:
- Formal reprimand or censure
- License probation, often with monitoring, additional training, or work restrictions
- Suspension of license for a specified period
- Revocation, making it illegal to practice nursing in Kansas
- Fines, continuing education requirements, or ethics courses
Discipline imposed by the Kansas Board is also reported to national databases, which can affect a nurse’s ability to work in other states.
Strategies for Fighting Allegations of Unprofessional Conduct
If you are facing a complaint or investigation, taking quick and thoughtful action is essential. Below are strategies that may be used to protect your license and defend your record:
1. Consult a Nursing License Defense Attorney Immediately
Don’t respond to the KSBN without legal advice. An experienced Kansas nursing license defense attorney can:
- Help you understand the allegations
- Draft your response to the complaint
- Advise you on how to avoid self-incrimination
- Represent you at hearings and during negotiations with the Board
2. Respond Professionally and Clearly
The KSBN will ask for your written response. This is your chance to explain your side of the story and present any clarifying context. Your tone should be respectful, factual, and focused on accountability if appropriate.
3. Provide Documentation and Evidence
Gather any evidence that supports your case, such as:
- Patient records
- Written protocols and procedures
- Witness statements
- Performance evaluations
- Email correspondence
Demonstrating that you followed proper protocols—or that a misunderstanding occurred—can be crucial.
4. Show Remediation and Insight
If any part of the complaint has merit, showing that you’ve taken steps to improve can significantly reduce the severity of the outcome. This may include:
- Enrolling in ethics or communication courses
- Attending counseling or therapy
- Engaging in professional mentoring
- Writing a personal reflection or accountability letter
The Board wants to see that you understand what went wrong and have taken it seriously.
5. Challenge Vague or Unsubstantiated Allegations
Sometimes, complaints lack specific evidence. Your attorney may help you challenge unsupported accusations by demanding more clarity or highlighting inconsistencies in witness testimony.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Unprofessional conduct cases often involve subjective judgments about behavior, tone, and ethics. Even if you feel you’ve done nothing wrong, failing to respond appropriately can escalate the situation.
An experienced license defense attorney will help you:
- Understand the implications of the allegation
- Protect your rights during the investigative process
- Present a strong and persuasive defense
- Negotiate for dismissal, diversion programs, or lesser penalties
- Prepare for and represent you at disciplinary hearings
Call Attorney Danielle Sanger to Discuss Your Case
If you’re facing accusations of unprofessional conduct in Kansas, don’t wait to take action. Your license, your livelihood, and your professional reputation are at stake.
📞 Call Sanger Law Office, LLC today for a free consultation:
(785) 979-4353 for Kansas
(816) 520-8040 for Missouri
With decades of experience helping nurses across Kansas, we’ll fight to protect your license and provide the legal support you need to move forward with confidence.