What Happens After a Patient Files a Complaint Against You in Missouri?
A Practical Guide for Nurses Responding to a Missouri State Board of Nursing Investigation
If you’re a nurse in Missouri and receive notice that a patient has filed a complaint against you, the first feeling may be panic. But before reacting emotionally or making any statements, it’s critical to understand that how you respond can have a lasting impact on your nursing license, your reputation, and your ability to continue working.
At Sanger Law Office, LLC, we’ve helped countless Missouri nurses successfully respond to patient complaints. Here’s what you need to know about the complaint process, how long it takes, and what you should (and should not) do if you’re contacted by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Step 1: The Complaint Is Filed With the Missouri State Board of Nursing
Anyone can file a complaint against a nurse in Missouri—a patient, a family member, a coworker, or even an anonymous third party. Common patient complaint allegations include:
- Medication errors
- Poor communication
- Breach of confidentiality
- Inappropriate behavior or language
- Neglect or unprofessional conduct
- Failure to follow physician orders
- Unsafe or impaired behavior at work
Complaints are submitted to the Missouri State Board of Nursing (BON), which operates under Chapter 335 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. The Board is required to review every written complaint to determine if it falls within its legal authority and whether it warrants a formal investigation.
Step 2: You Receive Notice of the Complaint
If the Board finds that the allegations may involve a violation of the Missouri Nurse Practice Act, you will receive a formal written notice. This will typically include:
- A description or summary of the complaint
- A request for your written response
- A strict deadline (often 30 days) to submit your response
This is the critical moment in your case. What you do next can determine whether the complaint is dismissed—or escalates to formal disciplinary action.
Step 3: The Investigation Process Begins
Once your response is received, the Missouri State Board of Nursing opens an official investigation. This may include:
- Reviewing patient records and documentation
- Interviewing the complainant, coworkers, and supervisors
- Reviewing your prior disciplinary history or employment records
- Analyzing your written response for professionalism, insight, and credibility
The goal of the investigation is to determine whether there is evidence that you violated professional, ethical, or legal standards of nursing practice.
Possible Outcomes After the Investigation
The Board’s decision depends on the strength of the evidence and your response. Outcomes may include:
- Case closure with no action if the complaint lacks merit or evidence
- Letter of concern or formal censure (non-disciplinary notice of issues)
- Settlement offer that includes probation, restrictions, or education
- Formal disciplinary charges, which may lead to a hearing
- License suspension or revocation in severe cases involving harm or misconduct
If the case proceeds to a hearing, you have the right to present evidence, call witnesses, and be represented by legal counsel.
What You Should Do After Receiving a Complaint Notice
✅ Hire a Nursing License Defense Attorney Immediately
Don’t try to handle the situation alone. At Sanger Law Office, LLC, we will:
- Analyze the complaint
- Draft your official response to the Board
- Guide you through the process and protect your rights
- Advocate for dismissal or favorable resolution
- Represent you during any hearing, if needed
✅ Gather Evidence and Documentation
Secure any relevant records, including:
- Patient charts and nursing notes
- Communication with supervisors or coworkers
- Performance evaluations or witness statements
Your legal counsel can determine which records are useful to support your defense.
✅ Stay Professional and Avoid Retaliation
Never contact the patient or complainant. Don’t post about the complaint on social media or discuss it with colleagues. Anything you say or do may become part of the record.
What You Should Avoid Doing
❌ Do Not Ignore the Complaint Letter
Failing to respond by the deadline can result in automatic disciplinary action—even if the original claim lacks merit.
❌ Do Not Respond Emotionally or Without Guidance
Defensive, angry, or unprofessional language in your written response may damage your credibility and escalate the case.
❌ Do Not Alter Records or Notes
Attempting to change documentation after a complaint is filed can lead to further disciplinary action and even criminal liability.
How Sanger Law Office, LLC Protects Your Nursing License
We understand how overwhelming it is to be accused of wrongdoing when you’ve dedicated your life to patient care. Whether the complaint is based on a misunderstanding, a mistake, or a false allegation, our firm offers:
- Skilled representation at every stage of the process
- Clear guidance on what to say, what not to say, and how to respond effectively
- Proactive defense strategies that position you favorably with the Board
- Comprehensive support through settlement negotiations or hearings
- Long-term planning if your license is placed on probation or conditions
Our mission is to protect your career and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Call Danielle Sanger Today!
If you’ve been notified that a patient has filed a complaint against you in Missouri, don’t wait to act. Your nursing license—and your future—may depend on how you respond right now.
📞 Call Sanger Law Office, LLC today for a free consultation:
(816) 520-8040 for Missouri
(785) 979-4353 for Kansas
Let us help you protect your license, defend your reputation, and keep your career on track.