Criminal Liability for Nursing Errors and Incidents

By Kathleen Martin,RN, MSN, MPA, LNHA, CPHQ, WCC

Webinar Topic: Wound Care, Legal

CE Credit(s): 1.0

Length: 50 minutes

Webinar Description: 

You hear a knock on your door at home. The police are there to arrest you. You are shocked. “For What?” you shout. Although relatively rare, nurses do get arrested and convicted of making fatal errors. This program discusses the types of cases that nurses may be vulnerable in relation to criminal charges and prosecution. In this program we explore the types of criminal cases that nurse may find themselves, as well as the systemic causes. Three recent, actual case studies are provided for discussion. The purpose is twofold: to demonstrate to nurses areas of criminal vulnerability, as well as for the aspiring LNC as far as potential case work and challenges.

Objectives

Upon completion of the program, the participant will be able to:

• Discuss differences between negligence, medical malpractice, gross negligence, and criminal law.
• Discuss criminal liability for medical errors, wounds, and other areas.
• Learn about system errors that result in gross negligence and criminal allegations.
• Identify challenges for safe nursing practice.
• Discuss high risk areas for medical errors.
• Learn best practices to promote a just culture.

Nancy Morgan Wound Care is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the California Board of Registered Nursing-Continuing Education Provider license/certification number 17756. 1.0 Contact Hour (s).