Can I lose my license for verbal abuse?

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Jan 30, 2015

Simple answer is yes. More so it depends on the exact scenario and whether the claim can be substantiated. Contact your professional liability carrier for information and support.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jan 30, 2015

Nurses HAVE lost their license for being verbally abusive to patients. The BON is not your friend--it's priority is protecting the public, not you. And do not think that for one minute that if you just have a chance to explain to the BON what really happened, the BON will be understanding and make everything go away. The BON is far less sympathetic than you think.

We can't give you legal advice. I would call your malpractice carrier ASAP and ask for guidance.

If you don't have malpractice insurance, I strongly recommend contacting an attorney to help you deal with this. (you can find attorneys versed in nursing matters here: TAANA Executive Office - Home ). Yes, attorneys cost money. But having a disciplined, suspended or revoked nursing license is far more costly in the long run.

Best of luck.

Gooselady, BSN, RN · Feb 1, 2015

Verbal and physical abuse are both against the law. Verbal abuse is considered a form of assault, and as a licensed professional, verbal assault is and/or ought to be considered a crime worthy of prosecution, simply due to having the authority and responsibility of a licensed healthcare worker.

We're not yelling insults at our boyfriends because we're jealous and possessive. We are professionals held to a higher standard of behavior because we have a greater amount of 'power' and influence over the well-being of others. Abusive behavior (whatever verbal or physical) is a symptom of a deeper personal problem, because most nurses go their entire careers without being called on the carpet for verbal abuse. Usually it is a long-standing personal problem that occurs personally and professionally. The symptom is evidence of some serious insecurity, distorted thinking, and immaturity. It's not just a one off problem, and I doubt this incident will be considered as such. Taking 100% total and absolute responsibility, including taking the initiative to get some psychological help before being told to will probably help your case.