Frustrated

Nurses Criminal

Published

Hi! Long time lurker and first time poster. I find a lot of inspiration here! Anyway on to my story.

Starting from the beginning I have always wanted to be a nurse. Since I could walk from what I'm told. This was only reinforced when at a young age I had to have surgery. God bless the surgeon but he terrified me the more he discussed the procedure. Terrified and mute at this point a nurse named Katie, I'll never forget the name came to chit chat. She got my mind off the impending procedure and didn't leave my side till I was out. She put me at ease in so many ways. This woman was no nurse but my hero.

Fast forward 10 years and I apply for college with a nursing major. However, last year I made a stupid mistake and was charged with misdemeanor theft. I won't bore you with details or make excuses for it. It was unbelievably out of character and idiotic.

Ive been trying my best to contact my states BON and with no luck. I just want their opinion on whether I could attend clincals or become licensed for that matter. I will he truly heartbroken if I have destroyed my chance at the career I know I would love.

Sorry for the mess. I just needed to vent and maybe get some advice on a next step. I've seen nothing but kindness and compassion on this forum. Thank you for your time!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Best wishes for a positive outcome.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you! I'm doing my best to stay positive.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care.

Have you actually been convicted of or plead guilty to misdemeanor theft, or is the case still open? If you have not yet been convicted, please hire a good lawyer and have them push the D.A.'s office to have the charge reduced to something that won't affect your ability to be employed. I work for a lawyer and worked on a case where a nurse was dismissed and her license was yanked for stealing meds, she ended up in rehab for a year, and then we somehow got her license back on a provisional basis. If she could go back to practicing after that, I have no doubt that you have hope in your situation. Your best bet though is to get in touch with a very good lawyer.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Expungement of Criminal Records: The Basics | Nolo.com

look up your local laws and if you can afford it talk to a lawyer. You may be able to get it removed from the records. If you get it expunged there maybe additional steps to take to have it removed from public access. In some states you cannot remove it from public record.

this is only my brief understanding of the topic. I am not a lawyer but i do recommend seeking legal advice if you are concerned.

best luck,

Joe

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you for your responses. I do think I will consult with a lawyer. No matter the cost if it gives me a shot I'll attempt it. I was unfortunately convicted. I looked up expungement in my state and it takes 5 years after the conviction to start the process.

This takes the wind out of my sails a bit but Ive not given up.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care.

Keep going! Everyone deals with setbacks of one type or another. If this is something that's really meant for you, you will find a way to stick with it and things will work out for you somehow :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I love this site!

My family and friends have told me to choose another profession or take the advancement opportunities I've been offered at my current job.

I just can't picture myself doing anything but nursing. I know it won't be all sunshine but leaving work everyday knowing I made a positive impact in a patients/residents day would be worth more than factory supervision (my current job).

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I wouldn't give up! I can't offer much advice on this one, but I hope that everything works out for you! Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thanks! Something tells me I'll need a boat load of luck. Just keep swimming is now my mantra lol.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

if you were convicted, I don't know how much a lawyer can help-it doesn't hurt to consult with one though. I would go to the BON in person and ask them your questions. I understand that it may be a far drive, but it's cheaper than hiring a lawyer who may or may not know how the BON works. At least you will have your answer.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

They're about an hour away. I may just have to do it. I've heard of people with worse crimes becoming licensed. I know that's not grounds for myself though.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment