Criminal background and Nursing

[Medicine11]

I really need help I recently graduated from a Medical Assisting program, and I loved it so much that I now want to become a Registered Nurse. I also was recently convicted of DWI and a Class A Misd Assault. I have been reading forums on this topic and I feel worse than before. I am 22 (and these are also my first ever offenses) and I am hoping that one stupid night will not mess up my entire future, and I won't be judged because of it. So my questions are 1) I've mainly read that you can get your License, but can't find a job; should I even use my money to pay for nursing school when no one will give me a chance? 2) Would me working as an MA throughout school make my chances better? 3) If you are a nurse, is there like stipulations to your employment because of your background?....If anyone has any stories, PLEASE share them. Especially if you're located in Texas. Thanks

[calidreamin]

Im in nursing school now, but I'm pretty sure to be an RN you MUST have a clear background, no criminal offenses. Thats why they require a background check when applying to and being accepted to schools. Sorry , also may help to just contact some nursing schools and see their requirements

[cracklingkraken, ASN, RN]

Since it is a recent offense, it could hinder you.

I would speak with the BON directly for an accurate answer.

[Meeshie]

Your best long term bet here is to get your record expunged. Talk to a lawyer and see what would be required in your state to do so.

[mrsboots87]

It is not true that you need to have a perfectly clean background to get licensed. Some offenses won't affect licensure, especially if they're old. The problem here is that the offense is alcohol related, assault, and recent. This does not look good. Does it mean OP will never be a nurse. Probably not. But it very likely means OP will not become a nurse in the near future. However, the only way to get a real answer is to ask the BON since they decide who gets licensed or not.

[WereBadger]

I had a fellow nursing student in my LPN cohort who had been dealing with the same thing that it sounds like you will be. In her case she did have to meet with the DON at our clinical site, and apparently there was a little extra discussion that went on, but I do know that she just passed her NCLEX-PN and didn't seem to have any issues with her background from the BON side of things. So, I think that it must be possible, just be prepared to work a little extra hard on 'proving' that you're in a different place now to those that might assume otherwise.

[Decade1]

Here's an idea.... when you really have no idea what you're talking about, don't say anything. OP keep your nose clean, work hard, and prove you're worthy. You'll get your license. Depending on where you live you have to potentially have to jump through hoops, and no matter where, you'll have to explain yourself, but a criminal record IS NOT and SHOULD NOT be a life sentence. Don't beat yourself up too much, but STAY OUT OF TROUBLE.

[Mavrick, BSN, RN]

The BoN in the state you want to obtain a license will determine if you get that license. No one on this board can tell you.

RNs do not have to have a clean record. Be honest because the board will conduct a background check and find out. It really depends on the nature and timing of the offense whether you will have sanctions or be denied licensure altogether.

Here is a decision making criteria website from the Washington Nursing Commission.

http://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Docu...dureA21.05.pdf

As you can see a simple assault occurring within the last three years will result in issuance with sanctions. If more than 3 years, credential will be issued. Assault 1 or 2 no matter how long ago will result in credential denial. However, these are guidelines so the board may may adjustments based on the individual's circumstances.