Not goodbye, but the start of something new!
- Advocate Maggie MSN RN
- Mar 17
- 15 min read
Hey, my fellow Nurses! Can you believe it’s already March of 2025?! Time is flying, and I’m falling fast and quick into some major changes. As my Nursepreneurs say, “fall fast and quick”—and trust me, I’m doing just that. I’m pivoting into law school (yep, you heard that right!), while also expanding into mentoring, masterclasses, speaking events, and developing my YouTube channel.
I started this subscription just under a year ago, and what a year it’s been. Now, as I look toward the future, I’m stepping into a new phase, embracing even bigger opportunities, and I’m so excited to have you along for the ride. But here's the thing: this isn’t goodbye—this is just the beginning of something bigger, better, and bolder!
I’ve decided to go all in on law school, and as you can imagine, that’s going to take up a lot of my time. But I’m not leaving you behind! I’m bringing you with me as I expand to new platforms and continue my advocacy for nurses.
You can find me on YouTube, where I’ll be sharing tips, stories, and insights for nurse entrepreneurs and advocates, as well as continuing on TikTok and contributing to Nurse.org—where I’m writing articles, co-hosting the Conversing Nurse Podcast with RaDonda, and interviewing some of the most innovative nurse leaders in the field.
And guess what? This month is International Women’s Month—a time to celebrate women who are breaking barriers, leading change, and lifting each other up. We, as nurses, are no exception. We show up every day, not only for our patients but for each other. We push boundaries, advocate for what’s right, and continue to make waves in healthcare. And let me tell you, that’s something worth celebrating.
It’s a little bittersweet writing this because, yes, this is my last blog here—but don’t worry, this is far from the end. It’s just the beginning of an exciting new chapter where we’re going to pivot, grow, and expand even more. As nurses, we are entrepreneurial, we are change-makers, and we are creating an impact that extends beyond the hospital walls. Your role matters. Your voice matters. And together, we have the power to shape the future of nursing.
So, what’s next? I want you to follow me as I continue this journey of growth and change. You can find me on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and on Nurse.org—where I’m sharing even more of what I’ve learned, as well as contributing to the larger conversation. And don’t forget, you can always join me in the comments! Comment WWMD (What Would Maggie Do?) if you’re looking for advice, answers, or just want to be part of the conversation. I’m here, I’m listening, and I’m ready to support you in every way I can.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Thank you for showing up every single day, for your patients, for your peers, and for yourself. The future's so bright for us—nurses are changing the world—and I’m so excited to see where this next chapter will take us.
So, let’s keep the conversation going. Join me on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Nurse.org. Let’s show the world what nurses can do. 🌟💪
I need YOU to be a part of this journey, and here’s how you can get involved:
Catch me on Nurse.org: I’m writing regularly over there, sharing articles that tackle tough, real-world nursing issues. From being under investigation to medical malpractice and documentation, I’m diving into the heart of what really matters in our profession. Plus, you’ll find me contributing regularly on some of the most pressing topics in nursing today. Search for my name on Nurse.org and stay connected to the ongoing conversation—this is where I’m making a real difference, and I want YOU to be a part of it!
Listen to the Conversing Nurse Podcast: I provide information solo as well as alongside my incredible co-host RaDonda Vaught, and we go deep into nursing rules and regulations and advocacy with a 4-part series. We’ll talk about informed consent, ethical dilemmas, patient advocacy, and so much more. But it doesn’t stop there—I’ll also be recording solo episodes, where I share mentorship tips, strategies for navigating the legal side of nursing, and real-time insights into the latest trends that affect us as nurses. Whether it’s tackling your rights or providing actionable advice to thrive in this profession, Conversing Nurse Podcast is the place to be.
But that’s just the beginning!
What I’m Doing:
Developing my YouTube Channel: I’m taking my content to the next level, diving into educational videos and breaking down legal concepts, nursing advocacy, and practical tips for success. It’s all about helping you excel.
Masterclasses and Coaching: In addition to my regular content, I’m offering coaching, masterclasses, and personalized mentorship to make sure you’re ready for whatever comes your way. These resources will help you level up your skills and your career.
Public Speaking Events: I’ll be speaking at nursing events and conferences, spreading the message of nursing advocacy and professional empowerment. Keep an eye out for me on various platforms!
This isn’t just about learning—it’s about growing together as a nursing community, owning your expertise, and shaping the future of our profession. With all the resources I’m building, including coaching, masterclasses, and mentorship, you’ll be more prepared than ever to take on new challenges. Let’s make 2025 your year to thrive, grow, and own your nursing journey!
So, be sure to check out Nurse.org, where I’ll continue sharing valuable articles and insights. And listen to the Conversing Nurse Podcast—whether with RaDonda or solo episodes from me, we’ve got so much to talk about, and I want you along for the ride.
We’re just getting started, and the best is yet to come! Stay connected, stay engaged, and let’s make a difference together.
Nursing Tips for Bedside Nurses
Documentation is Key: What you do and or do not document does matter! I do not care what anyone else says! I promise you, it will not be your memory, it will be what you did or did not document that will assist you in ways you cannot even imagine to include even confidence.
Scope of Practice - Always ensure that you, as a nurse do not practice outside your scope. In this month's example obtaining informed consent, the consent process is within your scope of practice. If you're unsure, consult with your team. Proper documentation is vital for both patient safety and legal protection. Speaking of documentation, check out my Charting Course—it’s a game-changer for nurses looking to improve their documentation skills and avoid legal pitfalls.
Know Your Rights: Stay informed about your organizational policies and always the state's nursing rules and regulations, especially those related to scope of practice to ensure you're working within legal boundaries.
Celebrating International Women's Month
Honoring Women in Nursing: Nursing has historically been a female-dominated profession, and during International Women’s Month, we recognize the power of women in healthcare. Let’s also remember and appreciate our male nurses who help us push forward together.
Trailblazing Women in Nursing: Nurses like Clara Barton and Lillian Wald paved the way for modern nursing, and their advocacy continues to inspire us to make a difference today.
How Nurses Can Advocate for Themselves, Their Patients, and Their Colleagues
As nurses, our role goes beyond bedside care—we are advocates in every aspect of our work. We advocate for better working conditions, patient safety, and our professional rights. But how can we ensure our voices are heard? Start by knowing your worth—when you understand your scope of practice, you can confidently speak up for yourself and your colleagues.
Advocating for patients is about more than just administering care—it’s about ensuring they have a voice in their treatment plan. Never hesitate to ask questions, seek clarification, and request a second opinion if you feel it's in the patient's best interest. Collaboration is key to effective advocacy.
Key Strategies for Understanding Organizational Roles and Communicating with Leadership
Effective advocacy within an organization starts with understanding the power dynamics and knowing who to approach. Get to know your leadership team and understand their priorities. The best way to influence change is by aligning your concerns with the organization’s goals—whether it’s improving patient care, addressing staffing issues, or enhancing workplace safety.
Communication is critical—whether it’s advocating for better staffing ratios or standing up for a patient’s rights. Learn how to communicate effectively with leadership by being clear, concise, and evidence-based. Use data and patient outcomes to make your case. And don’t forget, leadership is also there to support you—approach them respectfully with the goal of creating positive change.
Real-World Advocacy Story: The Consent Case
Here’s a case where a nurse found herself in a difficult situation: In a busy hospital setting, a patient was scheduled for a procedure. The nurse had the patient sign the consent form before the doctor spoke to the patient about the procedure. The nurse then witnessed the consent form but wasn’t involved in the conversation about the procedure’s risks and benefits.
This situation is a significant concern because it implies that the nurse provided informed consent, which is not within the nurse’s scope of practice. Informed consent is a process that requires a thorough conversation between the physician and the patient, outlining risks, benefits, and alternatives. Nurses should only witness the signature on the consent form, not facilitate or provide the information required for informed consent. By allowing this process to occur outside of the proper scope, both the nurse and the patient were put at risk.
The nurse advocated for herself by alerting leadership about the situation, which led to a review and adjustment of the consent process. The hospital revised its procedures to ensure the physician speaks to the patient about the procedure before the nurse witnesses the consent. This case highlights why it’s crucial to know your scope and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.
Maggie’s Advocacy Tip: Know Your Scope and Your Rights: If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’re being asked to take on a role outside of your scope—whether it’s consenting a patient or handling a legal issue—don’t hesitate to speak up. Informed consent is a legal and ethical responsibility of the physician, not the nurse. If you’re unsure, ask for guidance. Advocating for yourself is the first step in advocating for your patients and colleagues.
Learning from Real Cases: Consent Confusion in a Hospital Setting
This month, we’re diving into a real-world case that involves informed consent in a hospital setting—a critical issue for nurses to understand, as it has significant legal and ethical implications. In this case, a nurse was asked to witness a consent form after the patient had already signed it. The problem? The nurse also filled out the form before the physician had properly discussed the procedure’s risks and benefits with the patient, which is outside the nurse’s scope of practice. This misunderstanding can easily lead to serious consequences for both the nurse and the patient.
Key Learning Points from the Case:
Scope of Practice is Crucial: Nurses need to clearly understand their role in the consent process. The physician is responsible for explaining the procedure, risks, and alternatives to the patient—not the nurse. Nurses should only witness the signing of the form once informed consent has been properly obtained.
The Legal and Ethical Importance of Informed Consent: Informed consent is a process, not just a form. It’s about ensuring that the patient has all the necessary information to make an informed decision about their care. When nurses step outside their scope, they may inadvertently contribute to ethical violations and legal risks.
Clear Communication is Key: In this case, a lack of communication between the physician and the nurse led to a breakdown in the process. Nurses need to advocate for clear communication regarding roles, especially in the consent process, and should feel empowered to speak up when procedures aren’t being followed.
How Nurses Can Avoid the Same Pitfalls:
Know Your Role: Be confident in your scope of practice and never hesitate to ask for clarification. When in doubt, speak up—don’t assume you know what’s expected of you. You’re not alone in this!
Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about legal and ethical standards in nursing, especially around areas like informed consent. Ongoing education—like the courses I offer on charting and navigating legal pitfalls—can keep you up-to-date and protect you from potential mistakes.
Collaborate and Communicate: Teamwork is essential, and advocating for patient safety means clear communication with the physician, charge nurse, and other team members. If there’s confusion about consent or any part of a procedure, speak up before moving forward.
Protecting Yourself: Safeguarding Your License and Career
As nurses, protecting your license and career should always be top of mind. It’s not just about providing the best patient care—it's also about safeguarding your professional reputation and ensuring you’re compliant with both ethical standards and legal requirements. In this section, we’ll explore some essential tips for keeping your practice safe and ensuring you are always prepared to protect yourself in difficult situations.
1. Documentation: Your First Line of Defense
One of the most critical tools for protecting your career is accurate, timely documentation. Poor or incomplete documentation is one of the most common reasons nurses face disciplinary action. Here’s how you can ensure your documentation protects you:
Document Everything: Whether it’s a conversation with a physician, a patient’s condition, or a procedural step, make sure every detail is documented. The saying “If it’s not written, it didn’t happen” rings true in healthcare.
Be Clear and Concise: Avoid jargon and make your entries clear. Document facts, not opinions. If you’re charting something unusual or concerning, make a note of the actions you took and why, and if you escalated the issue to a higher authority, be specific.
Stay Timely: Complete your documentation as soon as possible after an event. Waiting to chart can lead to inaccuracies and memory lapses, which could jeopardize your defense in case of a legal issue.
Use Your Charting Courses: If you’re unsure about best practices for charting, consider taking my charting course. This will help ensure you're using the right terminology, and following protocols that not only protect your patient but your legal standing as well.
2. Liability Insurance: Peace of Mind for Every Nurse
Liability insurance is one of the best ways to ensure that you are financially and legally protected if something goes wrong in your practice. While your employer might have insurance, it may not cover you personally in every situation.
Get the Right Coverage: Look into nurse-specific liability insurance to protect yourself from professional mistakes, negligence claims, or patient allegations. This can also cover the costs associated with defending yourself in court.
Understand What’s Covered: Be sure to know what’s covered under your policy—whether it includes legal defense, settlement costs, or malpractice insurance.
3. Legal Obligations: Stay Informed and Compliant
Understanding your legal responsibilities is key to avoiding risky situations that could threaten your career. Nurses are held to certain standards of care that vary depending on their state board of nursing regulations. Staying informed and compliant will give you a solid defense in any situation.
Know Your Scope of Practice: Understanding what is within your scope of practice and what is not is essential. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult your state board of nursing or legal counsel.
Follow Facility Policies: Each facility has its own protocols and procedures. Ensure you are fully trained on those policies, especially in areas like medication administration and patient consent. If you encounter any uncertainties, ask for clarification rather than risking a mistake.
Regularly Review State Laws: Stay up to date with nursing regulations in your state, including licensure renewal requirements, continuing education, and patient care standards. Subscribe to nursing newsletters or check out nurse.org for updates that could impact your career.
4. Professional Boundaries: Maintaining Safety and Integrity
Establishing strong professional boundaries is not only essential for patient care, but also for protecting your career. Boundaries help you navigate difficult situations, protect you from unnecessary legal risk, and ensure you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Set Clear Boundaries with Patients: Nurses often form strong emotional connections with patients, but it’s crucial to maintain a professional relationship. Establish clear boundaries regarding personal involvement and communication.
Be Cautious with Social Media: Your online presence can impact your professional reputation. Always maintain professionalism in your posts and interactions on social media, remembering that anything you share can be seen by colleagues, patients, or potential employers.
Report Unsafe Practices: If you witness unsafe practices or anything that compromises patient safety, it’s vital to speak up. Reporting concerns and advocating for patient safety is not only part of your ethical obligation but also helps protect you and your license.
Take Action Now!
Your nursing career is worth protecting, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned nurse, it's critical to stay informed and be proactive. Visit nurse.org to find more resources, including articles I’ve written on nursing advocacy and protecting your license, and be sure to check out my charting courses and consulting opportunities.
By actively protecting your license, you’re ensuring that your career continues to thrive—and that you can keep doing what you love: caring for patients and making a difference.
Conclusion: This is Not Goodbye, It’s a New Beginning—A Bigger, Bolder Chapter.
Wow. Here we are, and it’s not easy to say this, but this is the final blog post I’ll be writing here. But let me be clear—this is not goodbye. This is simply the beginning of a new chapter in my life, and I want to take a moment to share that with you, my fellow nurses.
When I first started this journey with you, I was focused on one thing: helping you protect what you’ve worked so hard for—your career, your reputation, your peace of mind. Over the years, I’ve been honored to be a voice for nurses, to stand by your side as an advocate, to break down the complex, confusing world of nursing investigations, licensing issues, and legal battles. I've poured my heart and soul into every post, every video, every podcast. And guess what? It’s been an incredible journey, but it’s time for me to take everything to the next level.
I’m pursuing law school because I want to give you more. I want to expand my impact, dive even deeper into advocacy, and create even bigger changes for the nursing community. I want to fight for nurses on a whole new level. This is my promise to you—I'm not going anywhere. I’m growing, and I’m bringing all of you with me.
I’m about to jump into even more life-changing work with Nurse.org and dive into new platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where I’ll be able to advocate for YOU in a more accessible and powerful way. This is where the future lies, and you better believe I’ll be there—ready to bring you along every step of the way.
Looking for More Resources?
You’ve always been the reason I’ve fought so hard. You deserve the best. So, even though this chapter may be ending, my commitment to your growth, protection, and success isn’t going anywhere. You’ve got access to some of the best resources I’ve created, and I want you to take full advantage of them. Don’t let these opportunities slip by.
Here’s a reminder of what’s still available for YOU:
Let’s be real—documentation is one of the hardest parts of our job. But it’s also one of the most crucial. My charting course is designed to help you master this skill, protect your career, and ensure you’re not making the common mistakes that so many nurses make when they’re under pressure. I’ve seen what happens when charting isn’t done right, and I’m here to make sure you’re prepared and protected. Plus, you’ll earn CE credits—and who doesn’t need those?
I know the thought of the courtroom can make your heart race, but you don’t need to fear it. With this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to expect if you ever have to step into one. Imagine walking in with confidence, knowing exactly how to handle the situation. I want you to be prepared for whatever comes your way. This isn’t just about protecting your license—it’s about empowering you to step into the unknown without hesitation.
I’m here for YOU. One-on-one. If you’re struggling with something, or if you’re just not sure where to go next in your career or legal journey, book a consultation with me. Let’s break it down together, and I’ll give you the tools you need to move forward with confidence. My goal is to help you clarify your path, tackle your fears, and make sure that you're not just surviving but thriving.
This is your gateway into a whole new world—legal nursing. If you’ve been thinking about transitioning into this exciting field, now is the time. I’ve made this course affordable so you can get started confidently without spending a fortune on other programs that don’t deliver. You already have the nursing knowledge; I’m here to show you how to use that knowledge in a whole new way. It’s time to take your skills to the next level, and I’ll be with you every step of the way.
I’ve built these resources for you—because I believe in your potential. Because I want to make sure you’re set up for success, no matter where you are in your nursing or legal journey. So take advantage of what’s still available, and don’t forget, I’ll be here for any questions you have along the way.
Tools for Legal Nurse Consultants (LNCs): Whether you’re a new LNC or a seasoned one, I’ve got practical guides to help you level up your skills and grow your business. From case evaluation to report writing, I’ve broken it down so you don’t have to guess.
Tips for Charting and Documentation: Accurate documentation is non-negotiable. If you want to protect your license and your reputation, you need these tips to ensure you’re always one step ahead. This isn’t just about charting—it’s about your future.
Understanding Nursing Board Investigations: If you’re ever in the middle of a Board of Nursing investigation, I want you to be prepared. I want you to take control of the situation and not be blindsided. This guide will give you everything you need to know, and then some.
Stay Connected & Keep Pushing Forward
Nurses, this is not the end. This is a new beginning, and I’ll be right there with you, continuing the fight for your rights and your career.
You can still find me on TikTok, Instagram, and Nurse.org—I’m bringing a new wave of support, and I’ll be there, stronger than ever. My mission is still the same: to empower YOU. You’re not alone in this fight, and I’ll never stop supporting you, no matter where I go.
You’ve trusted me for so long, and I will continue to pour my heart and soul into everything I do. Stay tuned for even more content, resources, and support as we move forward together. I’m not going anywhere. I’m just getting started.
You’ve got this. Always remember— you are NEVER ALONE!!! We are stronger together! You are stronger than you know. Keep fighting. Keep pushing. And I’ll be right here, cheering you on.
Disclaimer: This case review is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional legal advice. For specific legal matters, please consult a qualified professional.
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