LVN License Question

[tothepointeLVN, LVN]

Now I've asked in forums if being bipolar (but stable) is a problem to licensing and I've been told no but does anyone know what kind of certification if any is required to show the board. I was discussing this with my therapist this morning and he has never heard ofthe BON making licensees jump through hoops before but I have heard it can be a problem.

What do they ask on the application?

[caliotter3]

The application can be downloaded from the board's website and you can see the questions that are asked. Since your bipolar disorder is being appropriately treated and does not interfere with your ability to practice or function in daily life you can truthfully answer no to any question concerning your health. If that is not the case, then you wouldn't be considering pursuing the license.

[BTRN]

"Since your bipolar disorder is being appropriately treated and does not interfere with your ability to practice or function in daily life you can truthfully answer no to any question concerning your health. If that is not the case, then you wouldn't be considering pursuing the license."

Clearly this is a bad idea. If you get caught lying to the BON about ANYTHING you will likely lose your license to practice forever. If you are worried that anyone has to jump through hoops, take a look at the BON website. Just search the phrase "approved with stipulations" in the website. There I found a ton of "HOLY SMOKES I CAN'T BELIEVE THEY APPROVED THAT GUY FOR A LICENSE" entries.

My point is that yes, the BON is deathly serious about honesty and integrity and no, they are not on some witch hunt trying to destroy the dreams of those who wish to pursue nursing. A letter from your doctor with details about the hx of your illness, a visit to Austin, and an appearance before three or so folks with a couple of questions is about all you will go through. For some, however, a visit to their shrink (and a fee along with it) is required but this is not necessary for the majority of people.

Keep your head up. Remember why you chose Nursing. Follow your dreams. And don't let anything, including your fears, stop you.

Tags: RN, LVN, Bipolar, BON, honest, letter from your doctor

[tothepointeLVN, LVN]

I never considered not revealing my diagnosis to the board that was suggested by other people and not me. I did talk to my therapist about it and he did say he's never heard of people in California being made to jump through hoops in his 35 years of practice. I just want to make sure my dx wasn't a do not pass go do not collect $200 situation before starting school.

[tothepointeLVN, LVN]

I couldn't find any approved with stipulations on the CA site but by looking at the texas site is seems most of the approved with stipulations are about those with convictions I didn't see any metal health related.

[BTRN]

"I never considered not revealing my diagnosis to the board that was suggested by other people and not me. I did talk to my therapist about it and he did say he's never heard of people in California being made to jump through hoops in his 35 years of practice. I just want to make sure my dx wasn't a do not pass go do not collect $200 situation before starting school."

I was replying to the person who posted a reply to your first post, actually. And, I am glad you are doing the right thing. I do not know much about the CA BON, but I am sure it is better than TX, a very conservative state.

[tothepointeLVN, LVN]

I looked at the license application for CA and didn't see anything where it asked about mental health so maybe I'm worrying over nothing but I like to be prepared

[dianah, ASN]

A respectful reminder to post to the topic at hand, without personal attacks, per TOS.

Thank you.

[caliotter3]

You need to direct your questions to your Board of Nursing. They have the final say.