Can I be a nurse with a criminal history?

backtowork · Jan 6, 2012

OOoo need alot more info before even attempting an answer..can you share what you were arrested for and I am sorry..I don't know what an Alford plea is?

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jan 6, 2012

I don't know if an Alford plea would be considered the same as "guilty" because you're saying you're innocent but admitting there's enough evidence to convict you. I'm not a lawyer, and your best bet is to consult with one so you know what to put on applications as far as prior convictions go.

Most BONs consider criminal charges on a case-by-case basis, and people with convictions have been licensed and hired. When you apply for licensure, you will have to state your convictions and provide the required documentation (see your BON site for specific details) about the crime. Again, an attorney to help with dealing with the BON is the best thing you can do for yourself.

Best of luck whatever you decide.

charli_appleRN · Jan 7, 2012

If you have never been in trouble before, it's possible to get your record expunged in a year or two. You would have to get that taken care of before you can go to nursing school.

Editorial Team / Admin · Jan 7, 2012

Doesn't matter if expunged or not with BON. If BON asks if ever arrested, charged, convicted.....you have to answer yes. Expunged records make no difference.

Merlyn · Jan 7, 2012

It depends on the BON in your state best to consult a lawyer.

lifelearningrn, BSN, RN · Jan 7, 2012

That will definitely have full access to your records- I had to get Texas BON clearance for nursing school which was a full state and federal background check.

I'm not saying don't try, but the arrest alone will throw up a flag and you will have to explain your situation to the BON before being allowed to sit for the exam. If it's something you really want, don't let that stand in your way.. just cross your "t"s and dot your "i"s.

Kyasi · Jan 7, 2012

Sorry to say, but this may come back to haunt you. I would definitely consult a lawyer. Even if you were able to get your license, getting a job may be a problem. We have a question on our application asking if the applicant has ever been arrested or bonded. I always ask the question verbally during an interview even if they write in 'no'. A few weeks ago, I had to stop the hiring process because the applicant lied and told me she had not ever been arrested. We ran her background checks and found that she had been arrested for theft, convicted and rec'd a 24 month sentence, 23 mos suspended, which meant she spent a month in jail. I couldn't hire her because we won't hire anyone who was convicted of theft for home care but also because she lied to me during the interview. Sadly, this all happened 12 yrs ago and she had turned her life around and would probably have made a good employee. I have hired people who have had convictions in their past when they were truthful with me during the interview.

Every employer will have different standards but you should find out if this will affect your ability to be licensed before you continue your education.

smiley gal · Mar 15, 2012

Hello Kyasi/Everyone

You appear to know a lot about nursing and criminal backgrounds.I made a very silly mistake last year that i regret everyday.I was arrested for shoplifting, its a misdemeanor.I currently have a 3.7 GPA,and i am applying to nursing school,sometimes i get discouraged if i will be allowed to do clinicals.I really want to become a nurse,but don't know who to talk to for advice.I honestly pray that i get given a second chance to correct my stupid mistake and make my family proud.Please i will appreciate responses from anyone.

FLmomof5 · Mar 17, 2012

Smiley gal, you should start your own thread.