Is misdemeanor automatic disqualification for school/work?

LoriAlabamaRN · Nov 11, 2005

Many people have the same problem- do a search on here and you will see. I would check with your BON and with your school. Any employer should see that the incident was long ago. I know I wouldn't keep it from hiring a nurse.

Lori

HappyJaxRN · Nov 11, 2005

I made one stupid mistake as an 18 year old senior in high school and got arrested for petty theft. Now 11 years later, I completed my BA, served several community organizations, became a "productive" citizen, and most importantly never got in trouble again. Now I want to pursue another bachelor's in nursing. Unfortunately, my record couldn't be suppressed as a minor because I had just turned 18 three weeks before. My grades are pretty good (3.7 in my first BA, 4.0 in my prereqs) and I have extensive volunteer experience. I'm just really afraid that one mistake will ruin any chances I have of being a nurse. Is an arrest an automatic disqualification? Will any hospital even hire me? Does anyone have any advice on what will happen or what I should do? Should I just give it up? Do I actually stand a chance?

I believe how the process works, and yes you still have a chance, is that you have to disclose it to your school as well at the nursing boards. They're going for find out anyway when they do a background check on you. So definitely be honest. You may have to write out what happened and submit it to them or even go before the board to explain what happened. Definitely don't let it deter you from what you want to do. Everyone makes mistakes. Be up front and honest. Good luck.

kattben · Dec 11, 2005

I am currently in the nursing program, and a friend of mine has ran into the same problem. She was convicted of a felony when she was 18. She currently works at the hospital, the problem that she may run into is whether the state allows her to practice as a nurse. I also talked to a human resource person at the hospital and she stated that it all depend on what the person did and how many years ago it was. my advice to you is to find out the what the policies are in the state you live. i don't think it would affect you. Another thing is always be honest. THe human resource lady told me that if they pull up any information that is not given on the application, they will not hire a person.

Best of luck to you

suzanne4, RN · Dec 11, 2005

You need to talk to the BON for your state. They decide each case on its own merit, and they make the final decision. Any decision is strictly up to them and is enforced by them.