Nursing School, Licensure & Employment with Criminal Record

[luvmyfab5]

I have seen some posts regarding criminal records, but i guess i wanted to be more specific in hopes that someone has experienced something similar or knows someone who has.

before having twins, i had completed all prerequisites and just needed to apply for the RN program... actually had completed all my AA requirements as well for the BSN program too.

i was arrested with the charge of child abuse. the disposition of the case was decline to prosecute. in fact i had to supply this information to get a badge for volunteerism with parks and recreation.

i probably should also get a statement from dcf regarding the matter. the supervisor stepped in, stated that she was surprised i was arrested and requested the state not pursue the matter.

since then the arrest record has been sealed, but i understand that doesn't mean much.

i'm just wondering what this does to my nursing goals.

[tnbutterfly - Mary, BSN]

questions we seem to be encountering more and more often have to do with the effects of a criminal history on nursing licensure:

• is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a criminal history and if so, can i get a job?
  
• is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a mip, dui, or other related charges?
  
• what happens if you are charged or convicted of a crime after licensure?
  
• can i go to nursing school and/or be licensed/be employed if my record has been sealed or expunged?
  
• what if i have a “deferred adjudication”? will i have to declare this as a conviction?
  
• will i be able to go to nursing school and/or attend clinicals with a criminal record?
  
• what can happen if i receive a mip/dui/dwi or other charge while still in school
  

these are questions that the members of allnurses.com cannot answer. the only reliable source of information is your state board of nursing.

if you are currently licensed as a nurse and have been charged with or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor including dui/dwi or any criminal offense, you need to contact the bon in every state you hold a license/wish to be licensed and ask their reporting requirements.

if you are a nursing student or are interested in becoming a nurse you need to contact your bon and/or your school of nursing directly. you need to be completely candid with them as to the nature and disposition of the crimes. each board of nursing makes a determination on a case by case basis and some are willing to issue a declarative statement in advance.

[luvmyfab5]

unfortunately the florida board of nursing site states that they cannot speculate on possible licensing as supported by florida statue. that it is handled when applying for a license and not until that time.

i have five children and do not want to waste time and financial resources on a fruitless venture.

i had hoped someone may know of similar situation.

however, i will be speaking with the dean of nursing as well as human resources of prospective employers.

thank you for your guidance.