What to Do If You're Contacted by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Getting contacted by the ASBN can feel like your whole world just flipped upside down. Whether it's a formal complaint, an investigation notice, or a phone call from an investigator — you need to take it seriously.
But don't panic. Thousands of nurses have been through this — and many have come out stronger. Here's what to do next to protect your license and your career.
Don'tIgnore It or Delay Your Response
Even if the complaint seems minor or false, you must respond. The ASBN assigns deadlines, and if you miss one, you could lose your license without even having a hearing.
Don'tCall the Board Without a Lawyer
It's tempting to explain the situation or clear your name. But the Board isn't there to help you — they're there to investigate potential violations. What you say may be misunderstood, documented, and used against you later.
Don'tDiscuss It at Work or Online
Anything you say — even in private messages — can come back to haunt you. Avoid posting on nursing forums or social media, talking to coworkers, or texting details to friends. Even seemingly harmless comments can be misinterpreted or reported.
DoStart Gathering Documents for Your Attorney
While waiting for your legal consult, start collecting:
- The complaint or letter you received
- Your timeline of events (include dates, shifts, names)
- Relevant texts, emails, or notes
- Evaluations or HR records (if you have legal access)
DoHire a Nurse License Defense Attorney
This is not the time to go it alone. A skilled attorney will draft your written response, communicate directly with the Board, and guide you through interviews, hearings, and negotiations.
KnowWhat Comes Next
The Board's investigation may take months — or longer. You might not hear anything for a while after your response. Next steps may include requests for more documents, interviews with others, review at the next quarterly Board meeting, and ultimately dismissal, a Consent Agreement, or a hearing.
You're not alone — and you're not powerless.
Most nurses don't know what to do when they get that first Board letter. Acting quickly, staying silent with the Board, and getting the right attorney can make all the difference.
Schedule a Free, Confidential Consultation