How to get license restrictions lifted in Texas?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Having your nursing license reinstated with monitoring conditions in Texas can be particularly challenging, especially when seeking employment. Here are steps you can take to lift the restrictions potentially:

Understand the Monitoring Terms

• Review the monitoring agreement and understand all the conditions of your monitoring. This includes reporting requirements, restrictions, and periodic evaluations.
• Contact the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). Speak with a representative to clarify your monitoring conditions and the process for requesting modifications or early termination.

Consult with a Legal Professional

• Hire an attorney. Seek advice from an attorney experienced in professional licensing issues and criminal defense in Texas. You can find a nurse attorney at The Association of Nurse Attorneys.  They can help you determine if lifting the monitoring requirements is feasible.
• Discuss options. Your attorney can discuss your options for early termination of monitoring, including the possibility of petitioning the BON.

Demonstrate Compliance and Rehabilitation

• Strict compliance. In the meantime, diligently follow all the terms of your monitoring. Non-compliance can extend the period or worsen the restrictions.
• Positive behavior. Maintain a clean record, show evidence of rehabilitation, and demonstrate that you are a trustworthy professional.

Gather Supporting Documentation

• Character references. Obtain letters of recommendation from previous employers, colleagues, or community leaders who can attest to your character and professionalism.
• Proof of rehabilitation. Gather certificates from rehabilitation programs, professional development courses, or counseling sessions you have completed.
• Employment efforts. Keep records of your job search efforts, applications, interviews, and any volunteer work in healthcare.

File a Petition for Early Termination

• Prepare a petition. With the help of your attorney, petition for early termination of monitoring. This petition should include all supporting documentation and a compelling argument for lifting the restrictions.
• Submit to the BON. File the petition with the Texas Board of Nursing. Ensure that you follow all the procedural requirements.

Seek Employment Support

It can be beneficial for your recovery to be employed, but finding an employer willing to manage the extra work and record-keeping for monitoring can be challenging. If you haven't already done so, try dialysis and sub-acute.

• Job placement services. Utilize organizations that specialize in helping individuals with criminal records find employment. Some nursing associations and non-profits offer resources and job placement services.
• Networking. Connect with other nurses, healthcare professionals, and organizations that may have openings for positions that can accommodate your monitoring conditions.

Stay Informed and Advocate

• Stay updated. Keep abreast of any changes in Texas laws or BON regulations affecting your monitoring status.
• Advocate for yourself: Be proactive in communicating with potential employers about your situation. Emphasize your qualifications, rehabilitation efforts, and commitment to professional excellence.

Additional Resources

• Texas Nurses Association (TNA). This organization offers resources and support for nurses in Texas, including those facing disciplinary actions.
• Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) provides employment assistance and resources to help you find a job.
• Legal aid services. If cost is an issue, seek help from legal aid organizations that offer free or low-cost legal assistance in Texas.

By taking these steps, you can work towards lifting the monitoring restrictions on your nursing license, improving your job prospects and professional standing.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth