Report Someone Else

Conduct that demonstrates poor judgment or skill resulting in violation of the Practice Act that is reportable, includes, but is not limited to:

• Drug diversion suspected
• Failing to account for wastage of control drugs/falsification of documents
• Forgery
• Giving medication without an authorized order
• Inappropriate behavior or mental health impairment
• Impairment due to prescribed medication, illegal drugs or alcohol
• Positive workplace drug screen without a valid prescription
• Positive workplace drug screen due to illegal drug or alcohol use
• Serious medication errors or charting errors
• Repeated or concerning medication errors or charting errors
• Boundary concerns
• Certain mental and behavioral issues

You are encouraged to review your board’s Practice Act and rules and regulations frequently.

Health care professionals often avoid dealing with drug impairment (legal and/or illegal) in their colleagues. There is a natural reluctance to approach a co-worker suspected of impairment. There is the fear that speaking out could anger the co-worker resulting in retribution or could result in a colleague losing his/her job or even their license.

Under the Rules of the TN Board of Nursing (Rule 1000-1-.13, Unprofessional Conduct and Negligence, Habits or Other Causes) and other health-related rules of ethical conduct, anyone with knowledge of a practice that is or could be below the acceptable standard of care must immediately notify the appropriate authorities. In Tennessee there are two recognized appropriate authorities:

1. Tennessee Department of Health, Division of Health Related Boards, Office of Investigations, or
2. Tennessee Professional Assistance Program

An advantage to reporting to TNPAP is early intervention. Once notified, TNPAP will:

• Contact the individual
• Refer the individual to an appropriate treatment facility or practitioner for evaluation
• Monitor and verify treatment progress and compliance
• Advocate once monitoring agreement has been signed

Individuals who are referred and refuse TNPAP services will be referred on to the Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Investigations. The TN Department of Health will determine if a practice act violation has or has not occurred and will take the appropriate action.

Click here for online referral form.