Has anyone heard about the Texas Nurse who anonymously wrote a letter of concern regarding a doctor and unethical practices. I am not gossiping or pointing any fingers but would like to understand/clarify what happened. I briefly heard this on my local news station at the end of the story- so in fairness- didn't get the whole report. Please, again, my intentions are not to spread rumors or start trouble... To my understanding this nurse is now labeled as a whistle blower. All for trying to be an advocate to the pt's she takes care of (which I thought was a nursing 101 expectation) and in turn was made the focus of investigation. Computer was confiscated and she faces the harsh reality of harassment with 5-10 yrs of prison time? If this is the case, what are we as nurses, as "patient advocates" to do if we see or question something which we feel is not right? Keep quiet and say nothing? Ignore and go on while knowing you could stopped something you think is wrong or a situation which could of had a better outcome? I don't know about you (healthcare or any position that advocates) but this scares the crap out of me. This is just as bad as knowing a child is being abused and looking away for fear of punishment or repercussions. We are obligated to question any and everything in the best interest of out patients. If we don't or are made scared not too, WHO WILL? Please, any feed back or clarifications. Nobody should ever be afraid of saying, informing, or reporting what is not right.I think this is a subject and/or potential situation we may all someday find ourselves.  I Pray RIGHT prevails. This is where the all to often "politics" comes into play and good people get hurt. Doctor and/or nurses. which ultimately and unfortunately hurts the ones who they care for.

 

This is what i found on Google. Durango Texas: Kermit Texas Nurse Faces 10 Prison Years For ...