I am not a criminal!!

Published

Okay all you Fl nurses / nursing students: I need some guidance. I'm a 1st year student, scheduled to graduate in December 2007. I have a criminal background from 16 years ago (I was 18) that has been SEALED (not expunged). The charge is a felony and is for "sale of controlled substance". I have tried contacting the BON and my school, but nobody seems to have any REAL information. I need to know if I'm wasting my time in nursing school, only to be denied a license.

I''m doing exceptionally well in school, and have no other marks on my record. I even worked for the past 10 years as a social worker for people with HIV / AIDS. Anyone have any real knowledge / personal experience with this situation??

All help is GREATLY appreciated.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in geriatrics,emergency,hospice.

Hi Maggie-

Well I can tell you my story. I too did something really stupid when I was young, and now have a felony on my record. It has not been sealed or expunged. Before I started nursing school, I applied to the Florida BON for an exemption. Which is where they will consider the crime,a nd let you know if you can practice or not. They granted me the exemption, as I have not been in any trouble before or since. If you go to their website, you can download or have an exemption request sent to you. Normally, as I understand it, as long as it did not involve patients, and was non violent, they are very understanding. Good luck to you!

Christopher

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

hello, maggieo71,

questions we seem to be encountering more and more often have to do with the effects of a criminal history on nursing licensure:

  • is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a criminal history?
  • is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a dui?
  • what happens if you are charged or convicted of a crime after licensure?
  • can i go to nursing school and/or be licensed if my record has been sealed or expunged?

these are questions that the members of allnurses.com cannot answer. the only reliable source of information is your state board of nursing.

please refer to this thread for other information:

nursing licensure with a criminal history

good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion