Carleen Health Institute of South Florida, also known as Carleen Home Health School II, was a private nursing school with campuses in West Palm Beach and Plantation, Florida. The school is now permanently closed following its identification as a central participant in Operation Nightingale, a nationwide federal investigation into the sale of fraudulent nursing diplomas and transcripts.
For Texas nurses who attended Carleen Health Institute, this investigation has prompted increased scrutiny from the Texas Board of Nursing. Acting promptly with legal guidance is critical to protecting your ability to practice.
An Operation Nightingale license defense lawyer can help nurses respond to board inquiries, verify educational credentials, and defend their licenses.
Carleen Health Institute and Texas Nursing License Risks
Federal authorities found that the leadership of Carleen Health Institute allegedly sold more than 7,300 fraudulent nursing diplomas and transcripts to individuals who had not completed required coursework or clinical training. In late 2025, the school’s president and owner, was indicted on multiple federal charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
The school was ordered to conduct an orderly closure in 2022 and was fully out of operation by early 2023. As of 2026, the institution remains permanently closed, and its former leadership continues to face federal trial.
For nurses who attended Carleen Health Institute, this means:
- Verification of educational credentials may trigger scrutiny
- Eligibility for RN, LPN, or LVN licensure could be challenged
- Licenses obtained using these credentials may be suspended or revoked
NCLEX and Credential Review Concerns
The use of fraudulent diplomas to qualify for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) raises serious licensing concerns. Texas nurses who attended Carleen Health Institute may face:
- Requests for transcripts and proof of legitimate coursework
- Questions about eligibility for the NCLEX
- Potential disciplinary action or license revocation
Early legal intervention is crucial to ensure a nurse’s professional record is protected.
Texas Board of Nursing Oversight and Enforcement
The Texas Board of Nursing collaborates with federal and state regulators to investigate cases involving fraudulent educational credentials. In matters connected to Operation Nightingale, the Board may:
- Conduct formal investigations into educational background
- Request documentation of training and clinical experience
- Initiate disciplinary proceedings
- Suspend or revoke nursing licenses
Delaying or mishandling communications with the Board can have serious consequences.
Protecting Your License During an Operation Nightingale Review
If you are a former student of Carleen Health Institute and your Texas nursing license is under review, Bertolino LLP can help. Our nurse license defense attorneys assist by:
- Reviewing allegations related to their education
- Collecting and verifying supporting documents
- Communicating with the Texas Board of Nursing on your behalf
- Responding strategically to investigations
- Representing clients in disciplinary proceedings
We guide nurses through the process to safeguard their licenses and ability to practice.
Complete a Case Evaluation form now
Protect Your Nursing License Now
Texas nurses affected by Operation Nightingale or former students of Carleen Health Institute should seek experienced legal representation immediately.
Bertolino LLP represents nurses across Texas, including Dallas, Fort Worth, El Paso, Waco, Amarillo, Arlington, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Plano, Lubbock, and surrounding areas. Call (512) 476-5757 to schedule a consultation with a Client Success Liaison at our Austin office and protect your professional future.
Call or text (512) 476-5757 or complete a Case Evaluation form
