Does anyone know FIRST hand whether or not a hospital will actually consider a candidate with a felony on their record?
More than 14 years ago when I was only a teenager, I was charged as an accomplice in a theft. I DID NOT do the crime and I actually was the one that reported it. But maybe cause I knew so much about it or the state's attorney had a quota to meet, who knows, I was also charged. At the time, I was a young, scared kid who had no understanding of what my rights were or how a conviction would effect me. I didn't have a lawyer (just the PD). So, when they offered me a deal that if I plead guilty they would let me go, I took it. I think they even told me the conviction would come off my record. Anyways, it has never effected me getting a job before. I worked mostly in daycares.
Now I am a new grad nurse with a license and even though I know it is tough for all new grad to find jobs right now. I need to know if I even have a chance. The state gave me a license so they don't see my conviction as a threat to patients. Will the hospitals or other facilities? I know hospitals do background checks so am I wasting my time applying? They say they don't automatically disqualify you if you have a conviction but one hospital I know won't even take an ex con as a volunteer. I am so worried that I went through all this schooling, time, and money to be a nurse, and now I can't. It's hard to know if I don't get responses from the employers because of lack of experience or if it is my background.
If there is anyone out there who was hired AFTER a felony conviction and the hospital knew about it, please tell me. Please only responses intended to help. I don't need anyone judging me. I am an honest, law abiding citizen who has never hurt anyone in her life. Nursing is my passion, I am not going to switch careers or give up. I am hoping to hear from someone who knows first hand whether a hospital will consider me or not. Thanks in advance!
