Does being in a monitoring program make it harder to get nursing jobs for the rest of your life?

[NurseGray]

When I was being investigated, I had to sign a cease practice agreement, which was reported to the NPDB. I imagine this will show permanently on the NPDB. Now I'm in a monitoring program, which I obviously have to disclose to employers. But once I'm done with monitoring, won't any employer in any state be able to see what's on the NPDB? They'll obviously ask why I signed a cease practice agreement. Does this mean I'll have a hard time getting a hospital job for the rest of my career? 
 

Does anyone have any experience searching for jobs after finishing monitoring? Is it as difficult as finding a job while in monitoring? 

[SheelaDavis]

See previous response in other thread. No, it's easier, much easier and I would even say, EASY to find a job after monitoring. Don't hide your monitoring program completion, because it's impossible to hide your NPDB entry. Employers can see this forever. The fact that you completed monitoring works in your favor, not against. It's looked at as a positive Because you are in the NPDB. I would be aggressive about disclosing it. Most jobs, especially in 2025 and beyond ask about whether you have had entries into the NPDB, and if they don't ask it, it's AUTOMATIC that human resources checks. They have access and it's as simple for them as one click of the mouse to check the NPDB which literally takes them 10 seconds. When you get asked the NPDB question on future applications, this is where you click Yes and when it says "Explain," be sure to include that you "Completed a 3 or 4 or 5 year (however long it was) State of......Monitoring Program which was "rigorous, required daily check ins, and random drug testing and required meetings and monthly/quarterly reports." The previous sentence is a PLUS, it's looked at as favorable by employers because it puts them more at ease about your past and the anxiety they had from seeing your name in the NPDB gets immediately lowered because you have years of proven safety under a rigorous monitoring program.

[NurseGray]

SheelaDavis said:

See previous response in other thread. No, it's easier, much easier and I would even say, EASY to find a job after monitoring. Don't hide your monitoring program completion, because it's impossible to hide your NPDB entry. Employers can see this forever. The fact that you completed monitoring works in your favor, not against. It's looked at as a positive Because you are in the NPDB. I would be aggressive about disclosing it. Most jobs, especially in 2025 and beyond ask about whether you have had entries into the NPDB, and if they don't ask it, it's AUTOMATIC that human resources checks. They have access and it's as simple for them as one click of the mouse to check the NPDB which literally takes them 10 seconds. When you get asked the NPDB question on future applications, this is where you click Yes and when it says "Explain," be sure to include that you "Completed a 3 or 4 or 5 year (however long it was) State of......Monitoring Program which was "rigorous, required daily check ins, and random drug testing and required meetings and monthly/quarterly reports." The previous sentence is a PLUS, it's looked at as favorable by employers because it puts them more at ease about your past and the anxiety they had from seeing your name in the NPDB gets immediately lowered because you have years of proven safety under a rigorous monitoring program.

Thank you for this! This gives me a lot of hope! I was worried that I accidentally flushed my entire career down the toilet by ending up on the NPDB. 

[Prime]

I completed Arizona's state monitoring program from 2021 to March 2025. Since then, finding meaningful nursing employment has been almost impossible.

I have extensive experience, and when I interview, supervisors and staff are always enthusiastic—they see my value. But once my background check reaches HR or compliance, the door closes. Every time.

It's frustrating. It's demoralizing. I've been forced to accept the lowest-paying jobs in the lowest-tier facilities, despite my qualifications and dedication.

And I am not alone. Across Facebook, countless nurses share the same story. If you search for Recovery Room for Nurses, or Nurses for Change, you'll find a group where we're supporting each other and working toward change.

The problem is so pervasive that we are beginning to unite and call for legislative action—to give qualified nurses who have completed their monitoring programs a fair chance at employment. If we truly believe in rehabilitation, healing, and growth, then our systems should reflect those values.

This issue is now gaining national attention. I recently reached out to Arizona Representative Selina Bliss, who is currently developing a proposal on this matter. I don't yet know the specifics, but I look forward to hearing more—and I know this is just the beginning.

If you want to stay informed, join our Facebook group. Change will only happen if we stand together.