I am writing this message to encourage people who are in a similar predicament as I once was.
I finished nursing school in April 23' at the age of 41. I was always nervous due to my past criminal background which consisted of assault/battery, threats to due harm, disorderly conduct disturbance of the peace. I was 18 when I began to get these charges as I was in a tumultuous unhealthy relationship with a man and the mother of his child that brought on so much pain and had me confused and toxic. This also led to me having unhealthy friendships. I would continue to get these charges until the age of 23 and subsequently get arrested at the age of 26 due to an old case that was not properly disposed of.
In the end, all of those cases were dismissed after completion of probation, restitution fees etc.. I was super scared when I applied to take NCLEX. I applied in October of 23' and finally got approved by GMC in Fecruary 24' (4 months later). I took my exam a week later and PASSED!
I wrote this message to encourage others because this forum really helped me in my waiting process. It was difficult and scary not knowing whether or not I would be approved and have this wonderful opportunity to be the nurse I deeply desired and worked hard for.
A few tips: When applying, know that any criminal charge you have or had in the past must be addressed regardless of disposition. The BON wants to know everything from when it happened, what was the outcome, what did you learn and how you go about preventing those things from happening in the future. It is very important that you are detailed in your letter addressing every charge, while also providing your record whether from the court house ( in my case I had to get it from probation as my cases were sealed so courts had no record). It is IMPORTANT that you check yes, if you have ever had a charge because in the eyes of BON a criminal charge regardless of disposition is considered a conviction. DO NOT OMIT!
The wonderful thing about BON is that they understand that we are humans and we make mistakes in life. They want to see authenticity and that actual change has been made. They are pretty forgiving especially if there has been no pattern of charges going forward. I also don't have any restrictions. I know it may be different for others depending on the types of charges. I was the worst of the worst in my eyes but by Gods grace, I have been given a second chance and now My title at my work place has changed to RN.
Please be honest and be encouraged. I can answer any questions you may have. God Bless!
I highly doubt it! I had way more cases and charges than you and I have not had any issues by Gods grace. Also, In most states a background check goes back 7yrs - 10 the most.
I know it's stressful but you will be fine. Would you keep me posted? 😊
Does apply to applying for your RN license? I had some arrest with dismissed charges and further back was at the wrong place at the wrong where I pleaded not guilty but was issued PTI everything was 9-14 years ago
I have a misdemeanor DV on my record from 21 years ago - nothing prior, nothing since. At the initial court appearance the judge let me go on my own recognizance and she ordered me to take classes, so I guess that was a diversion program. Because it was so long ago I don't remember pleading. My background check came back and it says court dismissal. I also have a certified copy of a letter stating the case has been purged, concluded, and dismissed.
Does this mean I'm wasting my time in nursing school? My school had me sign a waiver saying they aren't responsible if the BON won't liscence me. But, how would I even be allowed to do clinicals then. I'm so confused.
I've been arrested 5 times, the last time was in 2014. 3 disorderly conduct, 1 dui, 1 domestic violence assault. I've gotten my fingerprint clearance card reinstated , passed the HESI and am on my last 2 pre-reqs. I've had all but the dui sealed within the last year. None of my charges disqualify me from the program- but I guess I'm nervous what may happen when it comes to clinicals. Do you have any knowledge/ or info when it comes to this?
2ndChanceNurse
16 Posts
One more thing.. I didn't need an attorney nor did I have to go before the board. Also, there are no restrictions on my license. Be blessed!