How to File a Complaint

Notice on Collection of Personal Information For Filing a Consumer Complaint

Most consumers receive quality care from their health care providers. However, in the event a consumer's quality of care is compromised by a LVN or PT, the Board should be notified. A complaint may be filed by writing or calling the Board's Enforcement Unit at the following address and telephone number:

Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive Suite 205
Sacramento, CA 95833
Telephone (916) 263-7827
FAX (916) 263-7857
Enforcement Email

You may also use the Board's Complaint form which can be printed and mailed to Board at the above address.

Online Complaint Form

On-line Complaint Form

When Should a Complaint be Filed?

A complaint should be filed when a consumer is:

  • Abused in any way;
  • The victim of sexual misconduct;
  • Treated by an LVN or PT impaired by drugs or alcohol;
  • Treated negligently; and/or
  • Treated in any manner that brings into question issues of competence or professional conduct.

Who may file a Complaint?

Anyone may file a complaint if they believe a licensee has violated the law or provided substandard care. Complaints are most often received from consumers, their families, other members of the health care industry, law enforcement agencies, and health care facilities.

Pursuant to Sections 2518.6(a)(1) and 2576(a)(1) of the Vocational Nurse and Psychiatric Technician regulations, respectively, licensed vocational nurses and psychiatric technicians are required to report to the Board instances of unprofessional conduct by their fellow licensees.

Major Types of Violations

There are many types of violations for which an LVN or PT may be disciplined. Most involve unprofessional conduct which includes but is not limited to:

  • Incompetence...
    Incompetence is the lack of possession of and the failure to exercise that degree of learning, skill, care and experience ordinarily possessed by a responsible licensee.
  • Gross negligence...
    Gross negligence is a substantial departure from the standard of care which, under similar circumstances, would have ordinarily been exercised by a competent licensee, and which has or could have resulted in harm to the consumer.
  • Conviction of a serious crime...
    The Board may take action against a LVN or PT who has been convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions or duties of the LVN or PT. For example, conviction of any crime involving sexual misconduct, abuse of a client, illegal possession or use of dangerous drugs, or driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, is grounds for disciplinary action by the Board. In addition, the Board, may deny a license to a person applying for licensure.