4,500 Patients at Risk? Florida Woman’s Unlicensed Nursing Raises Serious Questions About Patient Safety
Imagine receiving medical care, trusting that the person attending to you is a qualified and licensed professional. Now, consider the chilling reality that the individual might be an imposter, lacking the necessary training and credentials. In Florida, a recent case has brought this nightmare scenario to light, leaving thousands of patients potentially at risk. A woman in Flagler County, Florida, was arrested in August 2025 for allegedly impersonating a registered nurse and providing medical care to over 4,400 patients at a local hospital without a valid license. This alarming situation raises serious questions about patient safety, the hiring practices of healthcare facilities, and the potential legal ramifications for those affected.
The Shocking Details of the Case
Autumn Bardisa, 29, is accused of working as an unlicensed nurse at AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway from June 2024 through January 2025. The investigation began when hospital staff, while reviewing her credentials for a potential promotion, discovered that she possessed only an expired Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license. Further investigation revealed that Bardisa had allegedly used another nurse’s license number and submitted false documentation to secure her position.
According to reports, Bardisa had attended Rasmussen University and graduated in March 2022, but failed the state nursing licensing exam. She later passed the exam in early 2025, after being fired from the hospital. During her time at AdventHealth, she allegedly provided medical care to 4,486 patients. She is also accused of selling prescription medication (Semaglutide, or Ozempic) to a coworker and administering a birth control injection to another employee.
Bardisa now faces seven counts of practicing a health care profession without a license and seven counts of fraudulent use of personal identification information. She was arrested and held on a $70,000 bond. Sheriff Rick Staly described the case as “one of the most disturbing cases of medical fraud we’ve ever investigated,” emphasizing the potential risk to thousands of lives.
The Legal Implications of Unlicensed Nursing
Practicing nursing without a license is a serious crime in Florida. Under Florida Statute 464.016, it is classified as a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and potential probation. Moreover, using titles such as “Nurse” without proper licensure can result in first-degree misdemeanor charges, carrying penalties of up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Beyond criminal penalties, individuals harmed by an unlicensed nurse can pursue civil lawsuits for medical malpractice. To establish a malpractice claim, the patient must prove that the nurse had a duty of care, breached that duty, and that the breach directly caused injury or damages. This can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses.
Patient Rights in Florida
Florida law provides patients with certain fundamental rights, ensuring they receive safe and ethical medical care. These rights, outlined in Florida Statute 381.026, include:
- The right to be treated with courtesy and respect.
- The right to know who is providing medical services and who is responsible for their care.
- The right to receive information about diagnosis, treatment options, and potential risks.
- The right to refuse treatment, except as otherwise provided by law.
- The right to access their medical records and receive an itemized bill.
In light of the recent case, it’s crucial for patients to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their rights. Patients have the right to verify the credentials of their healthcare providers. If there are any doubts about the qualifications of a medical professional, patients should immediately report their concerns to the healthcare facility and the Florida Department of Health.
What to Do If You Suspect You Were Treated by an Unlicensed Nurse
If you believe you may have been treated by an unlicensed nurse, it’s essential to take the following steps:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you experienced any adverse effects or complications from the care you received, seek immediate medical attention from a licensed healthcare provider.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, including dates, names of providers, and any specific concerns you have.
- Report to the Authorities: File a complaint with the Florida Department of Health and the healthcare facility where the incident occurred.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, advise you on your legal options, and help you pursue compensation for any damages you suffered.
The Importance of Due Diligence in Healthcare Hiring
The case of the unlicensed nurse highlights the critical need for healthcare facilities to conduct thorough background checks and credential verification for all employees. This includes verifying licenses, certifications, and educational qualifications. Implementing robust hiring procedures can help prevent unqualified individuals from providing medical care and protect patient safety.
Moving Forward: Protecting Patients and Ensuring Accountability
The incident involving the unlicensed nurse in Florida serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks within the healthcare system. It underscores the importance of patient vigilance, robust hiring practices, and strict enforcement of licensing regulations. By working together, patients, healthcare providers, and regulatory agencies can help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future and ensure that all individuals receive safe, competent, and ethical medical care.
If you or a loved one has been affected by the actions of an unlicensed healthcare provider, it is crucial to seek legal guidance. Contact our firm today for a free consultation. We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.