January 20, 2025 In Uncategorized

Common Ways Nurses Get in Trouble with the Minnesota Board of Nursing—And How Attorney Fabian Hoffner Can Help

Nurses are the backbone of healthcare, providing compassionate and skilled care to patients across Minnesota. However, like all licensed professionals, they are held to high ethical and professional standards. The Minnesota Board of Nursing (MBON) is responsible for overseeing nursing licenses and ensuring that nurses adhere to state regulations. Unfortunately, many nurses find themselves facing disciplinary action—sometimes due to misunderstandings, systemic workplace issues, or personal struggles.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons nurses run into trouble with the Minnesota Board of Nursing, and how attorney Fabian Hoffner provides legal defense to protect their licenses and careers.

How Nurses Get into Trouble with the Minnesota Board of Nursing

  1. Substance Abuse & Impairment on Duty
    Nursing is a demanding profession, and some nurses turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with stress. However, working while impaired—or even being suspected of substance use—can lead to immediate action by the MBON. Nurses who test positive for substances or refuse drug tests can face license suspension, revocation, or mandatory participation in monitoring programs.
  2. Medication Errors & Documentation Issues
    Administering the wrong medication, incorrect dosages, or failing to document properly can lead to patient harm and Board scrutiny. Even if a nurse makes an honest mistake, they can still be held accountable, especially if there is a pattern of errors or poor record-keeping.
  3. Criminal Charges or Arrests
    Nurses must report any criminal convictions or arrests that could impact their ability to practice safely. DUIs, theft, assault, and drug-related offenses are common reasons the MBON may investigate a nurse’s license. Even charges unrelated to nursing can lead to disciplinary action.
  4. Patient Abuse, Neglect, or Boundary Violations
    Allegations of mistreatment, neglect, or inappropriate relationships with patients can trigger an investigation. Whether the claims are valid or not, such accusations can permanently damage a nurse’s reputation and career.
  5. Practicing Without a Valid License
    Working with an expired or lapsed license, or failing to meet continuing education requirements, can result in penalties. Some nurses unknowingly practice without a current license due to administrative issues, but the MBON still considers it a serious violation.
  6. HIPAA Violations & Breach of Patient Confidentiality
    Discussing patient information outside of proper channels, accessing medical records without a legitimate reason, or sharing patient details on social media can lead to disciplinary action. HIPAA violations are taken very seriously and can lead to fines, suspension, or even criminal charges.
  7. Workplace Conflict & Retaliation from Employers
    Sometimes, nurses face Board complaints after conflicts with supervisors or colleagues. In some cases, nurses who report unsafe conditions or advocate for patients may find themselves targeted with retaliatory complaints.

How Fabian Hoffner Defends Nurses’ Licenses

If you are under investigation by the Minnesota Board of Nursing, it is critical to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Attorney Fabian Hoffner specializes in defending nurses and other healthcare professionals facing disciplinary actions. Here’s how he can help:

  • Legal Representation During Investigations: He helps nurses respond to MBON inquiries, preventing them from making statements that could unintentionally harm their case.
  • Defense Against False or Exaggerated Claims: Many nurses face complaints based on misunderstandings or workplace retaliation. Hoffner works to challenge weak or unfounded accusations.
  • Negotiating Alternative Resolutions: Instead of license suspension or revocation, Hoffner negotiates for alternative disciplinary measures such as remedial education, probation, or participation in professional assistance programs.
  • Advocating for Nurses in Hearings: If a nurse’s case goes before the Board, Hoffner provides skilled legal advocacy to defend their right to practice.

Protect Your Nursing Career

If you’re a nurse facing an MBON complaint, don’t wait until it’s too late. Seeking legal counsel can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Attorney Fabian Hoffner has a strong track record of defending nurses and ensuring they receive fair treatment from the Board.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit www.fabianhoffner.com or call 612-206-3777.