Welcome to the Complaints/Consumer Protection Homepage

The majority of nurses are competent and caring individuals who provide a satisfactory level of care.  However, when a problem is experienced with a nurse and you believe that the nurse’s performance may be a violation of the Nursing Practice Act, you are required to submit a complaint to the Board of Nursing.  Board staff will then handle the complaint in accordance with the Nursing Practice Act, Rules promulgated by the Board, policies and guidelines to determine if an actual violation has occurred.

All complaints are taken very seriously and will be evaluated for possible violations.  The Board can only take formal action if there is clear and convincing evidence that the nurse violated state nursing laws or rules. Each case will vary and must be considered on its own merits.  The final decision that is reached is based on the findings of an inquiry or investigation. Many complaints are resolved through informal processes.  In other instances, a formal administrative hearing is held.  Throughout the complaint review process, the nurse’s due process rights must be respected.  That means that the nurse is informed of any allegations regarding the nurse’s practice, that the nurse has an opportunity to respond and defend against the allegations and that the matter is heard by a fair and impartial body.