Criminal Record Effect On Career

Hey TMich...

Golly what a tought time you've been through. And somehow managed to get your RN and RT also. And now drug-free? I take my hat off to you, pal.

For what it's worth, I'd hire you, too. If it was up to me.

Here's my little story. About 12 yrs ago I committed Assault & Battery on a miserable SOB who desperately needed it. (My first wife's abusive husband, threatening my children after I had custody).

It's never hurt my career--but I was an RN when I did it. And it has made me 'explain' my conviction on job applications and when getting licenses in other states.

I have known RNs who were junkies, already employed at a Hospital when their stealing narcotics was noticed--and in some cases the Hospital works with them, putting them on a probationary basis and requiring that OTHER nurses handle all the drugs for them (even tylenol, lopressor, ancef, synthroid!!). This gives them the health insurance to pay for Rehab.

I'd advise you to go to the really large state-university, teaching hospital closest to you--thinking they'd have a more 'professional' hiring policy--and be completely straightforward. Offer to take routine, un-announced UrineDrugScreens. Give them your best 'good look'. And hope.

Best to you

Papaw John

Talk to the BON and ask them how to petition for re-licensure. They may or may not allow you because of the felonies. But. How will you know unless you go through the process?

Most BONs allow nurses a second chance after drug dependence. The BON might considers your 'sins' part of that whole deal.

If it were me, I wouldn't take it as fact that I couldn't be re-licensed unless I heard it straight from the BON in a determination regarding my particular circumestances.

Go to their website, find their tele, and call and talk to somebody on Monday.

~faith,
Timothy.