Ex-Nurse Faces 20 Criminal Charges For Allegedly Working Without License, Stealing Opioids

Former registered nurse Elizabeth Rainwater faces serious charges after allegedly continuing to practice nursing without a license and diverting controlled substances from vulnerable patients.

According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), Rainwater surrendered her RN license as part of a plea deal in 2024. Despite this legal agreement, she allegedly continued working as a nurse at a Franklin, Tennessee nursing home until September 10, 2024. During this period of unauthorized practice, investigators claim she diverted controlled substances, including opioids, from elderly residents under her care.

The case has resulted in multiple criminal charges: 

• One count of impersonating a licensed professional
• 19 counts of fraudulently obtaining controlled substances. 
• Rainwater was arrested and held on a $40,000 bond

The Rainwater case raises important questions about verification processes. How was she able to continue working without a valid license? Most healthcare facilities require regular license verification, but this case suggests potential gaps in the system. 

The Rainwater case, while disturbing, provides an opportunity for healthcare organizations to review their credential verification processes and controlled substance protocols. 

🤔Nurses, share your thoughts in the discussion forum below.

Crime