Nursing Suspension Legal Guidance

I have been a licensed practical nurse (LPN) since *, and was previously a cna starting in *. I was suspended following an incident involving missing narcotics allegedly occurring between October * and October *. However these alleged missing narcotics was not “noticed” until October *. I, along with supposed * other employees, were questioned on this date. Although i remain employed, i have been off the schedule since the suspension and have received no further communication or documentation from the employer, corporate offices, or involved authorities regarding the investigation. This presents multiple complexities. It appears that procedural issues related to prescription fulfillment, medication dispensing, and record-keeping could have contributed to this incident. Notably, the facility’s protocols for medication handling (including filling and dispensing procedures) and regulations around employee access to narcotics may not have been fully observed. Additionally, I believe the situation may involve elements of retaliation from earlier in the day of October * and/or, potentially connected to personal matters, or issues with a previous workplace. I have maintained an exemplary career since becoming licensed as an LPN in *. With an impressive resume that reflects over a decade of dedication, I have earned the respect of peers and the community. In *, I was nominated for and received a prestigious award from the local chamber of commerce, recognizing my commitment to going above and beyond. This award is not typically designated for medical professionals but was given based on community and peer recognition of my contributions. Furthermore, it does not appear that the suspension follows the company’s handbook guidelines. According to the handbook, suspension is defined as a disciplinary measure, yet I have not been informed of any specific disciplinary action or wrongdoing, nor have been given any explanation for what I am being disciplined for. This lack of transparency regarding the suspension’s basis has left me in a prolonged state of uncertainty and lack of income. Although the nursing board and local police were reportedly notified on October *, the I have not received follow-up contact from the nursing board, police, or corporate representatives. If any misconduct occurred, there are other employees who also had access to the narcotics in question, yet no other suspensions have been reported yet they were reportedly questioned. Given these factors, I seek guidance on clarifying my status, addressing potential retaliatory elements, and ensuring a fair investigation process. Followed by potentially receiving compensation for Work missed and undue stress, along with defamation and fear of not knowing what to do by unintentionally incriminating myself or the ability to seek out other employment due to reportedly licensure being reported

Tennessee

I haven’t consulted

The handbook doesn’t give detailed instructions on this situation

Yes

Are there laws about how long an investigation can be without information on what is happening? How long does an employer have before they make a decision? How long does the nursing board have to decide on the report given

As much info as possible

I don’t even know if the board is investigating. I was told by my employer it was reported. As of today nothing reports on my license

Details on prolonged investigation

Yes

I don’t want to bring red flags to my name. How do I find out if there’s an ongoing investigation with the board without implicating me

Yes

Yes