ANOTHER criminal record question, with a twist

HappyNurse2005, RN · May 17, 2006

well, when you apply to BON for your nursing liscense, you'll have to mention the bipolar.

in my state, there is a question about whether or not you have a condition that could possibly impair your ability to practice nursing, and you would have to mention that. (not that it would disqualify you)

i'd talk to the board sooner rather than later, maybe before you start school, in case they wont let you take boards, better to now know.

that will all depend on your state's board of nursing.

good luck

Melina · May 17, 2006

Thanks for encouragement HappyNurse. I know the BON asks to disclose any brain disorder. I'm not worried about that. I guess I'm more worried about getting into a program.

sailornurse · May 17, 2006

Please check now with BON in states you plan to work. You may not be able to get a license in some states. It depends on if it was a misdemeanor or a felony (I get these mixed up which is worse). Also I teach at a nursing school & we do mandatory criminal background checks before you are admitted, certain crimes will keep you out of the programs, this is pretty standard. Texas is stricter then New Mexico in licensing for people with criminal records.

HM2VikingRN, RN · May 17, 2006

Hi all,
I've lurked on this site for quite a while. As a pre-nursing student, I don't have much to input, but lately, I have needed some advice.
Here's the situation: When I was 18 (in 1991), I was convicted of robbery and auto theft. I did a search and got a lot of good info about nurses with criminal records. What I really need to know, though, is whether it would do more harm than good if I mentioned the mitigating factors. I have bipolar disorder, and I wasn't diagnosed until 1992. I don't want it to sound as if I am making excuses for my behavior, but I do think my illness was a factor. I have been on meds and stable for over ten years. I am a 4.0 student, I have volunteer experience in the field, I have great professional references, blah, blah, blah... it really comes down to who I was 15 years ago, and I want to be honest and concise.
I guess my question is: what do you all think about my situation? Should I mention my crime in the context of my illness? Does it sound like I'm not taking responsibility? Or worse, does it sound like I am unfit? Any thoughts, suggestions will be much appreciated.
~Melina

To me your willingness to be honest is key. When you discuss the incidents with the school and/or BON I think it is really important to point out that you know the bipolar disorder contributed to the crime and that you also know that you must stay on your medications to manage the illness. What you are trying to tell them is that the mental illness was a risk factor for you and you are committed to managing that risk factor to prevent future misbehaviors. A note from your doctor attesting to your long term compliance with medications and clinical stability will also help. Best of luck!