Missouri Nursing License Defense After Allegations of Improper Use of Medical Equipment
Modern healthcare depends on medical equipment used to monitor patients, administer treatment, and respond to emergencies. Nurses may work with infusion pumps, cardiac monitors, oxygen delivery systems, feeding pumps, suction devices, and other equipment requiring appropriate training and attention. When a device malfunctions or a patient experiences complications, an employer may investigate whether the nurse operated the equipment correctly. If the employer believes the nurse failed to meet professional standards, the incident may result in a complaint to the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Medical equipment investigations require careful examination because device-related incidents may involve mechanical failures, software problems, inadequate maintenance, unclear instructions, or improper setup by another healthcare professional. A nurse may have followed the available procedures while encountering an unexpected malfunction. Before determining whether professional discipline is appropriate, investigators should distinguish operator error from equipment failure and other contributing circumstances.
Nursing Responsibilities Involving Medical Equipment
Nurses must use equipment within their authorized scope of practice and according to applicable training and facility procedures.
Responsibilities may include verifying settings, monitoring device function, recognizing alarms, and responding to unexpected changes.
The level of training required depends on the equipment and clinical setting.
A nurse should seek appropriate assistance when unfamiliar with a device or procedure.
Common Equipment-Related Allegations
Investigations may involve incorrect infusion pump settings, failure to respond to an alarm, improper oxygen equipment use, or inaccurate monitoring.
Other complaints concern failure to recognize a malfunction or inadequate documentation of equipment problems.
An employer may investigate after a patient receives an incorrect infusion rate or experiences a complication associated with a device.
The investigation should identify whether the problem resulted from the nurse’s conduct or another cause.
Equipment Malfunctions and Maintenance Problems
Medical devices can malfunction because of mechanical wear, software errors, calibration problems, or inadequate maintenance.
A device may also produce inaccurate readings under certain clinical conditions.
The investigation should examine maintenance records, manufacturer information, and reports of similar problems.
An apparent user error may involve a technical issue that was not immediately recognizable.
Missouri Nursing License Disciplinary Issues
RSMo § 335.066 establishes grounds for professional disciplinary proceedings.
A medical equipment complaint may raise allegations concerning competency, monitoring, or failure to follow treatment procedures.
However, the Board must evaluate the actual evidence.
A device malfunction does not automatically establish that the nurse operated it improperly.
Developing a Defense
Relevant evidence may include device logs, maintenance records, nursing documentation, treatment orders, and witness statements.
Training records may establish that the nurse was qualified to use the equipment.
A defense may demonstrate that the nurse followed the applicable procedure or responded appropriately after identifying a malfunction.
Legal counsel can help organize the technical and clinical evidence.
Contact Sanger Law Office, LLC
If you are accused of improper medical equipment use or failure to recognize a device malfunction, Sanger Law Office, LLC can help defend your Missouri nursing license.
Call (816) 520-8040 to schedule a confidential consultation concerning your professional licensing investigation.