TAMPA, FL - February 27, 2026 - PRESSADVANTAGE -

Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC, a Florida healthcare license defense firm, is advising Florida-licensed nurses to exercise caution when using social media, as the Florida Department of Health (DOH) continues to enforce professional conduct standards that extend beyond the workplace.

In Florida, nurses are held to professional standards that apply both on and off duty. Posts made on personal social media accounts, even those intended for private audiences, may trigger a DOH investigation if a complaint is filed.

Common issues that lead to disciplinary review in Florida include potential HIPAA violations through patient-related stories, photos taken inside healthcare facilities, posts discussing workplace disputes or patient interactions, content perceived as unprofessional conduct, and threats of harm or potential harm to patients, or any comment that could be perceived as threatening patient safety.

Even when patient names are not included, identifiable details or background information in images can create compliance concerns under Florida law.

“Many Florida nurses are surprised to learn that their online activity can become part of a Department of Health investigation,” said Lauren A. Leikam, founder of the firm and former prosecutor for the Florida Department of Health. “Once a complaint is filed, the process becomes serious very quickly. Early, experienced legal representation can make a significant difference in how a case proceeds.”

Disciplinary consequences in Florida may include license restrictions, fines, mandatory education, probation, or suspension, depending on the severity of the allegations and prior disciplinary history.

With digital communication continuing to blur the line between personal and professional life, the firm encourages Florida healthcare professionals to understand how the Florida Board of Nursing and the Florida Department of Health evaluate online conduct.

Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC, represents Florida-licensed healthcare professionals facing Department of Health investigations and administrative complaints. The firm provides strategic defense for nurses, physicians, pharmacists, and other licensed professionals throughout Florida.

Healthcare professionals who receive notice of a Florida DOH complaint related to social media or professional conduct are encouraged to seek legal counsel promptly.

About Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC

Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC, is a Florida healthcare license defense firm representing licensed professionals throughout the state in Department of Health investigations and disciplinary proceedings. Led by a former prosecutor for the Florida Department of Health, the firm focuses exclusively on protecting the licenses, reputations, and careers of Florida healthcare professionals.

For more information, visit www.leikamlaw.com. A free phone consultation is available for Florida-licensed professionals. A consultation does not constitute legal advice.

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For more information about Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC, contact the company here:

Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC
Lauren Leikam
(813) 278-7761
[email protected]
14502 N Dale Mabry Hwy Suite 200, Tampa, FL 33618

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