Getting your first job on license probation?

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I have been kind of chronicling my experience with the California Board of Registered Nursing and my licensing battle with them for about a year now. I was finally licensed in a couple months ago and was able to be ruled out of participating in the BRN's treatment programs (random samples, support groups, rehab, etc.), however, I'm still on probation for 3 years unless I meet the requirements (working at least 24 hours a week for 6 months as an RN, turning in my reports on time, not violating any terms, etc.).

My issue is that I haven't been able to find a job :'-( I have literally applied to every job anywhere and what I find most of the time is that it's required to have an "unencumbered license" or the application has screening questions regarding disciplinary actions. I've had 5 interviews since I've been licensed. I'm a really great interviewer and have never not been offered a job up until this point. I make sure to research the company's mission and core values, the specifics of the job I'm applying for, prepare questions for the employer, and I wear a really nice suit. I prepare and come to the interview very confident.

So, I'm left wondering why I can't get a job and the only thing that comes to mind is my license being on probation. Since I've been dealing with this, I've felt judged, discriminated against, and mistreated by many people. I'm beginning to feel extremely defeated right now. When I started nursing school I truly felt like I had found my purpose in life and I feel really lost because I haven't been able to continue with my passion. I could really use some advice from anyone in California who's gotten a job after they started probation. Any ideas or tips would be much appreciated!

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hey 3rdeyeRN, were you able to get a job? any updates?

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Hi bruin2010,

Sadly, no. I've been licensed for 6 months now and no job. I've interviewed a lot and was even extended several job offers, but once probation is brought up things go south. It's really discouraging. The only way I'll ever get off probation is if I work as a nurse for at least 6 consecutive months during the probation period.

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3rdeyeRN, don't give up! Have you tried applying to non hospital facilities like clinics? I think like you said you just need to get off probation and then you can work at a hospital eventually with a clean license. Please continue to update when you can and good luck!

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How was your evaluation for ruling out substance abuse with the board? I've been offered in a settlement the same thing. 3 years probation with rule out terms. Terrified. This was for a DUI 7 years ago.

Any info would be much appreciated!

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Hey @3rdeyeRN, any news on a job? I am about to accept probation, still waiting on the judges decision from my hearing and then the boards decision to accept or reject said decision. But I'm pretty sure I'll be getting probation for 3 years, hopefully with the rule out option(since I already completed a substance abuse/psych eval). Feeling pretty scared to start the job hunt.

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wollybear could you please email me ? [email protected] i would love to ask you some questions if you do not mind. thanks in advance!

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