BRN outlines enforcement, adjudication and probation rules; public raises concerns about records and testing access

Board officials on Feb. 26 delivered a detailed overview of the Board of Registered Nursing’s enforcement and adjudication processes and answered questions about the public posting of discipline records, testing and travel options for nurses under probation or the intervention program.

Tim Bunder, deputy chief over discipline and probation, told the board that enforcement begins when the board receives a complaint — which can come from arrests flagged by the Department of Justice, healthcare facilities, other licensing agencies or members of the public — and that investigations follow with either desk or field work. He outlined the path from substantiated investigation to referral to the Attorney General’s office; possible pleadings include accusations, statements of issues or petitions to revoke. He said most cases settle rather than go to hearing; settlements can include probation with monitoring, education requirements or cost recovery. “Protecting the public is paramount,” Tim said, framing how the board determines appropriate discipline.

Bunder described the board’s use of 820 mental or physical examinations when there is reason to believe a nurse cannot practice safely. He said the…