Background Check

[aspiring79]

hi everyone,

i am very interested in becoming a nurse, and i have recently been reviewing a handbook for a local 4-year university. i came across some information that you may be refused licensure if you have anything on your record more than just minor traffic offenses. in 2001 i was convicted of a misdemeanor dui. i was young and dumb, but this situation caused me to turn my life around. i'm just wondering if anyone knows if this is considered a minor offense or could this possibly be held against me. i would greatly appreciate any adivce you can give me. if this could be a problem how should i address it?

thanks for any help in advance. :)

[bluechick112, BSN, MSN, RN]

Hi,

I know that this has been something I've been discussing with a friend on and off while we've been finishing our prerequisites for nursing. Neither of us have a DUI on our records, but we know that here in CA if you have a DUI you'll be turned away from most, if not ALL nursing schools. I'm not sure if this is the case throughout the country, but I know that's how it is here in CA.

My advice would be to contact the schools you're considering applying to. Maybe they have different policies? I'm not sure. But I do know that a DUI is considered the kiss of death here in CA for nursing majors.

Best of luck :heartbeat

[Nj_2_FL]

I, unfortunately am on the same boat as you. I had to contact BON of FL, and they told me that it is case by case. You have to make sure you report it when it comes time to enter Nursing school. If it comes up, make sure you have all of the papers ready including the disposition, and lots of letters of recommendation. They also told me not to stress about it, that it is only a DUI. I'm not sure if this helps, and I know each state is different, but be upfront with them explain your story. For me, I was arrested but not charged. The case ending up being closed, with no penalties. Like you i'm finishing up my pre req's and am wishing for the best. Remember its about how bad you want this. Don't let this stop you from completing your dream. I know this is tough, but think positive. Good luck

[bluechick112, BSN, MSN, RN]

I was just thinking and maybe if you looked at a school which requires a personal essay it would help. Atleast then you could talk about how it turned your life around and how you really learned from it and took it as a learning experience and blah blah blah...

Just a thought! :)