Louisiana Prior Arrest with complete dismissal Denied to enter Nursing School

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Hi,

I would really appreciate if someone would help me understand my current situtation.

I am currently an LPN and having been going to school in attempts to earn my RN. I was accepted however will not be able to go at present. I had 2 prior arrests however all charges were dismissed. I have never been convicted or plead guilty to anything. The Louisiana State Board of investagation will not allow me to enter the nursing program this fall until their investagation is complete, which I was informed today that it will not be in time for me to attend nursing school this upcoming semester. The investagator further told me the LSBN did not care if it was dismissed, if they found fought they would take administrative action against me. I was stunned and confused to say the least. These arrests were a very long time ago with ALL dismissed. I have no convictions. Can I be denied entrance all together?

Any feedback is appreciated

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Specializes in CMSRN.

I'm shocked they have anything to do with you attending school at all. I know in Indiana it doesn't matter what you have on your record going in to school as long as you pass the background check for the clinical site. Of course it's a completely different story when it comes to applying with the BON to take the NCLEX. If the charges presented that much of an issue, I don't understand why they would allow you to continue to work as an LPN. I really hope you're able to work it out with the state and start nursing school.

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Hi,

I'm currently going through this same situation. They are not letting me start until they are done investigating. I have no conviction and three arrests on my record. Can you please tell me you outcome with this. I am devastated.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

In many states, including LA and mine - prospective nursing students must first pass a criminal background check in order to be accepted to nursing school - rather than postponing it until they apply for NCLEX. This has put an end to the horrible situation whereby students may discover that their entire nursing education has been a waste because they are unable to take NCLEX even though they have successfully graduated.

The investigatory process requires a series of steps (outlined in the NPA rules & regs) that must be completed and the results have to be reviewed by the BON. There is no way to rush it. IMO, the reason that the process is so slow is that BONs are severely underfunded... they have very few resources to accomplish everything they have to do. Based on a review of disciplinary actions listed in public records, failure to divulge all relevant information is also a mistake that is taken very seriously by the BONs.

I know it is probably not much comfort, but this issue is not unique or rare. It is frequently resolved in favor of the student. Wishing you the best of luck for a positive outcome.

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