Whistleblowing--is it really worth the consequences?

This article explores general principles of state whistleblower laws and alerts nurses to considerations when deciding whether to report an employer violation. Reporting an employer violation can be difficult for any employee but especially for nurses because nurses are torn between their desire and duty to advocate for clients' safety and their desire to maintain employment. The author suggests questions to consider when deciding to "blow the whistle" and alerts nurses to statutes of limitations that may affect when nurses must report violations. The article also illuminates policy and procedural issues for various states that affect how and to whom nurses report violations to protect themselves under whistleblower protection laws. Finally, this article explores personal and professional consequences that nurses should consider before reporting violations. Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.