Qualifying for a nursing license is a long and challenging process. If an issue arises, you may wonder, “What should you do if you’re a nurse placed on administrative leave in North Carolina?” It is important to protect your license and career.
As early in the process as possible, you should hire a healthcare licensing lawyer who can explain the relevant healthcare license laws. They can also respond to any inquiries or requests that could lead to your reinstatement.
Hire an Honest Healthcare Licensing Lawyer
Being placed on administrative leave can leave you overwhelmed and worried about the future of your career, along with your ability to provide for yourself and your family. You need experienced legal representation to safeguard your interests and protect your rights.
At North State Law, we have years of experience in helping licensed professionals respond to complaints. We have represented clients throughout North Carolina before the North Carolina Board of Nursing. Our firm can defend those who are facing complaints, investigations, or licensing issues involving their Professional License.
Number of Nurses in North Carolina
According to the North Carolina Board of Nursing, as of July 2026, there are over 192,000 registered nurses and licensed practical nurses in North Carolina. Of these nurses:
- 143,674 are employed in nursing
- 140,020 are living in North Carolina
- 127,108 are working in North Carolina
- 16,566 work outside North Carolina
Types of Complaints That Could Lead to Administrative Leave
Licensing and complaints are handled by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. Under North Carolina General Statute Section 90-171.47, anyone with a reasonable suspicion that misconduct has occurred can file a complaint with the Board of Nursing.
Anyone who does file a complaint is also protected from any criminal prosecution or civil liability stemming from the action. The only exception is if someone knowingly files a false complaint or otherwise acts with reckless disregard when filing a complaint. These complaints may also impact a professional’s Medical License and require a response before the Medical Board.
Numerous behaviors could warrant a complaint, per the Board of Nursing. These include:
- Inappropriate prescribing
- Sexual misconduct
- Theft
- Fraud
The Board of Nursing also recognizes some situations where disciplinary actions may be appropriate, including:
- Neglect of duties
- Inappropriately interacting with a patient
- Exceeding the scope of their practice
- Breach of confidentiality
If you have engaged in these or other behaviors and have been placed on administrative leave as a result, you need an experienced North Carolina healthcare licensing attorney. They can review your options with you and present a strong defense to the Board of Nursing while helping protect your Nurse Practitioner License or Nurse License.
Steps to Take While on Administrative Leave
While on administrative leave, there are some steps you should take to begin your healthcare license defense. These include the following:
- Ask your Human Resources department for written documentation of your leave terms and the specific reason for the investigation.
- Gather evidence related to the misconduct accusations. These could include personal notes, shift schedules, and any communications related to the incident.
- Do not discuss the investigation with anyone or post about it on social media.
- Consult a healthcare licensing attorney.
Contact North State Law
The consequences of being placed on administrative leave could result in the loss of your license or a permanent record of the misconduct. Don’t risk a permanent mark on your record due to inadequate representation. Contact the team at North State Law today to schedule your initial consultation.
