How long does background check take??

Nurses Career Support

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I had job interview. In the interview, the nursing manafe said that she would make decision in two weeks. Adter two weeks of the interview, i got an email requesting references. They didn't ask references information when i had interview.

I entered my references contact information in their online survey system. However, I have not had any from the hospital although all of my references completed their survey 1 week ago.

I was told that i almost got the job if they ask for reference check. Now i am getting nervous because i have not heard from them. Does this mean that i am not getting the job? How long does background check take usually?

Thank you!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

This 'hidden' part of the employment process is so frustrating! Many organizations use a 3rd party to do background checks because this work is highly specialized and tedious. The scope of the information is pretty much dictated by Federal regulations - including criminal background check, primary source verification of credentials, 'real identity' check (yes, that is a real thing), etc. The amount of time it take depends upon who is doing it. If they use a good 'outside' vendor, it can be pretty quick (1 week) but if they use a cheaper vendor or have to do it themselves, it can take much longer.

I don't have any words of wisdom for you. Just keep repeating "patience is a virtue" ;) . And, when you get that job, be sure to tell the HR folks that they need to maintain better communication with job candidates ... just to make sure they don't jump ship because no one is keeping them informed.

Best of luck to you!

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You should always----Always call them back for follow ups.

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