Federal Guidelines

[Florida nurse]

Could someone explain the federal guideline for hiring nurses and background checks.When filling out some applications it asks if you have ever been convicted. On others it asks if you have ever been arrested. What if a person has been arrested but not convicted? Aren't nurses innocent until proven guilty? I am having my records expunged but it will take 5 months.The state of Florida is so backed up on expungements.I will still be the same person after they are expunged so this all seems so silly. In 5 months I can get a job but not now.My skills are going to get rusty!Any advice or comments would be appreciated.I can even explain the whole nine yards because I have plenty of time.

PS There are a LOT of nursing jobs here in Florida!