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A Broward County nurse has had both of his state licenses suspended after a patient accused him of giving her unwanted foot massages and trying to kiss her during a medical appointment, according to state records. Broward Nurse Suspended By State Surgeon General Over Foot Massage, Kiss Allegations.
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo signed an emergency suspension order Friday against Yordy Brito Aguila, halting his ability to practice as both a registered nurse and an advanced practice registered nurse. Brito had held the registered nurse license since 2009 and the advanced practice registered nurse license since 2015.
The order centers on an appointment that took place Feb. 4 at Primary Medical Physicians' office on Taft Street in Hollywood, where Brito worked. State records list that same Hollywood address as Brito's official address on file for both of his licenses.
According to the suspension order, a patient identified as Patient 1 arrived at the office that day for a follow-up visit related to an injured ankle. What happened during that appointment forms the basis of the accusations now threatening Brito's career in nursing.
Friday's order is only an emergency measure. State officials say an administrative complaint will be filed soon, opening a formal process that could end in lasting discipline against Brito or his full exoneration.
Until Friday, Brito's professional record had been free of any prior disciplinary action, based on his online profile with the Florida Department of Health.
The factual information above was sourced from miamiherald.com as of June 30, 2026.
The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.
When a medical professional is accused of sexually abusing or assaulting a patient, many victims don't know where to turn first or what rights they actually have. Our team spoke with longtime Florida attorney Michael Haggard, who has spent decades representing patients in cases against nurses, doctors, and the facilities that employ them, about the legal routes available to those harmed by the very people meant to care for them.
Editor Darla Medina: When a patient says a nurse touched them inappropriately or made unwanted advances during treatment, what are their options?
Attorney Michael Haggard: A patient in that position generally has both a path through the state licensing board and a separate path through civil court. Reporting to the Department of Health can lead to suspension or revocation of a provider's license, but that process doesn't compensate the patient. A civil lawsuit is a way for someone to seek financial accountability for what happened to them.
Medina: Who can be held responsible in a civil case like that — just the nurse, or others too?
Haggard: Often more than just the individual. Depending on how the misconduct occurred, a practice or medical facility can sometimes be held responsible as well, particularly if there were warning signs that weren't acted on or if supervision was lacking. Each case depends heavily on its own facts.
Medina: What should someone do if they believe this has happened to them?
Haggard: Write down what happened as soon as possible while the memory is fresh, including dates, locations, and any witnesses. Report it to the facility and to the Department of Health. And talk to a lawyer early, because evidence and witness memory can fade quickly, and there are time limits on filing a claim.
Medina: Is it common for victims to hesitate before coming forward?
Haggard: Very common. Patients often feel embarrassed, doubt themselves, or worry they won't be believed, especially when the person involved is someone they were supposed to trust for their care. That hesitation is understandable, but waiting too long can make a case harder to pursue.
Victims of sexual abuse by a nurse or other medical provider don't have to face the legal system alone. Contact The Legal Herald today to be connected with an experienced attorney for a free, no-obligation consultation, and learn what options may be available for you or someone you love.
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