Safe Harbor

What it is:
Safe Harbor is a legal protection that allows nurses to refuse an unsafe assignment without being punished.

Why it matters:

• Protects nurses from unsafe situations
• Helps prevent patient harm
• Supports ethical nursing decisions

Example:
A nurse who is assigned too many high-acuity patients can invoke Safe Harbor to protect their license and ensure patient safety.

When to use Safe Harbor:

• When a nurse believes an assignment is unsafe
• When asked to perform duties outside scope of practice
• When staffing is inadequate to provide safe patient care
• When patient acuity exceeds safe nurse-to-patient ratios

How to invoke Safe Harbor:

• Notify supervisor immediately
• Complete a Safe Harbor Quick Request form (written or verbal)
• Document concerns before accepting the assignment
• Continue to provide safe care until relieved