New RN.. DO I have ANY chance of finding ANY job with assault misdemeanor?!

Nurses Criminal

Published

Getting frustrated now, Texas Board gave my license but with stipulations for 1 year due to criminal background. Not to get much into details of my charges but they both deal with domestic violence from being in an abusive relationship. 2009- Deferred adjudication for disorderly conduct and 2011- Deferred adjudication for assault to family member. There's nothing else on my background except for these two. These charges are listed publicly on my license for the one year, but I have to be working as a nurse before the 1 year starts.

I CANT FIND A JOB, I have been applying any and every where. I recently updated my resume to include getting my ACLS certification and also I am starting UTA's RN- BSN program this year.

I need help, how can I move forward with my nursing career if no one will hire me because of my background??

Where are some types of facilities that may hire me???

Any advice or suggestions are greatly appreciated

sdlane

98 Posts

Have you tried a SNF? They may hire you.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN

4 Articles; 7,907 Posts

Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Unfortunately, your criminal record may make you a less-than-desirable applicant to some employers. Is it fair? Not always. But that's how it is :(

Really look ANYWHERE: don't just limit yourself to acute care hospitals. Try SNF, corrections, psych, rehab, clinics, offices, dialysis...go after anything that will be RN work. Be as flexible as possible. And a lot of facilities do decide on a case-by-case basis so be sure to explain your side of the story and submit as much supporting evidence as you can (e.g., character references, completion of all court requirements, etc.).

Best of luck.

mitchk727

1 Post

I highly recommend attempting to obtain employment at a psych facility, unit, etc. Try working at an addiction center--like a detox or a rehab. Even if none of that pertains to your case, those facilities are typically more forgiving, as they understand the complex social constructs by which domestic violence (and things of that nature) occur.

Seriously--look up employment at a rehab facility, methadone clinic, or detox. Offer character references--and MOST IMPORTANTLY--be honest and forthright during your interview process. Don't get into detail over the phone, and wait to talk about it with the nurse manager or administrator who is interviewing you--NOT the HR person!

I got sober about 5 years ago, live in NYC, and have a felony. I have had no problem finding employment in those types of places. Now, I have almost obtained my nurse practitioner license from a prestigious university.

We are a product of our environment. It's what we do today that speaks to our character. Hold your head up high. Getting a nursing degree is difficult--no joke. You deserve some credit for your accomplishments.

Katiebaby4848

19 Posts

Good luck to you!

lashuna1028

30 Posts

I found a job! Started working 2 weeks ago at a skilled nursing facility! I am leaving this comment because I remember feeling like I was the only RN in Texas with my issue and no one was able to guide me. If anyone is in a similar situation please feel free to PM me.

I will say this, when I started making finding a job my full time job, getting up and dressed like I was going on interview, calling places in area first before going there to see if they were hiring and filling out applications.. it didnt take long at all to find this job... ANYONE in a situation like mine online applications WILL NOT WORK, you have to go out and show your face. Don't mention anything about stips to HR or anyone else but the Director of NUrsing (the person that will be signing your stip papers) which is usually the one interviewing you. Be upfront and direct (the hardest part) before you even start the interview. Something like " Before we proceed, I need to be upfront and tell you that I have stipulations for x amount of time with board of nursing for x" and ask if he/she would be willing to work with you. Sell yourself, be genuine about your mistakes, and show your passion for nursing. Please PM if any questions

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN

4 Articles; 7,907 Posts

Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Congratulations and best of luck with the new job!

Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

Good for you- facing your problem head-on, no blame. Your hard work has paid off- congrats!!!

favraeRN

5 Posts

Specializes in well babies/ newborn/ mother-baby.

Congratulations!

rhythem

1 Article; 9 Posts

lashuna1028 can you email me @ [email protected] I'm in a similar situation and have a few questions to ask you and i have not met the requirments to pm.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN

4 Articles; 7,907 Posts

Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.
I'm in a similar situation and have a few questions to ask you and i have not met the requirments to pm.

Once you have 15 posts at the forum, you will be able to send private messages (PM).

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