Tara?

Tara04 · Dec 9, 2006

Everything is going great! Last day of clinical is on Tuesday and then the mock boards on the 18th. Graduation is still scheduled for Jan. 11th. I'm soo excited.

I do have a major concern, maybe you or others can help. My husband was involved in the sale of marijuana to an undercover police officer back in January. I was in class that day and when I got home, no more than 5 minutes passed before the police were knocking on my door. They found 5 small bags of marijuana hidden somewhere in my home. I don't know where they found it because I was in handcuffs sitting on the couch.( Thank GOD my children weren't there). I was so pissed at my husband for putting me and my children in harms way. I went to court and received a "stet" for posession of marijuana. A "stet" meaning that as long as I don't get in any trouble for a year the court would not proceed with the case. There wasn't a guilty or no guilty plea, just stay out of trouble and you'll be fine is what they told me.

Now however it's time to apply to board of nursing so I can I sit for the NCLEX. Do you think I can take the exam if I have criminal drug charge on my record? It's not a violent crime and no guns or anything were involved.

I am sooooooo upset with my husband, I can't even stand to look at him anymore. I don't want to think that I wasted a year in nursing school for nothing. I'm really thinking that if I can't get approved by the board to sit for the NCLEX my marriage will be over. I can't stand to think that the actions of another person ruined my dream, and a better future for me and my kids.

Please help! Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Another thing is do I have to send the $200 to Pearson before I receive an ATT from the MBON. I don't want to waste my money if the Maryland Board of Nursing decides that they won't issue me a liscense. Will the MBON send me an ATT or Pearson?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Jules A, MSN · Dec 10, 2006

Hi Tara,

First congratulations, it won't be long now! Second the best advice I can think of is to contact the BON and ask them. I'd think being up front is the best approach. Your situation is different of course but one thing that impressed me about Pat Noble who deals with addicted nurses at the BON is that she seems very committed to helping nurses keep their licenses if they are willing to do what needs to be done. I just didn't get the feeling that the BON wants to be unreasonable which is good. I can't imagine your situation is that unusual so hopefully it will be no big deal. Much luck to you and drop me a note to let me know how it works out. Jules

Tara04 · Dec 11, 2006

See that's the thing, I'm not addicted to any drug. I was put in a situation by my husband. And another thing is that I don't have a license yet, I'm trying to obtain one. Maybe she's willing to help nurses keep a license but what if a person doen't have one. Did you find out if MBON or Pearson sends the ATT?

Thanks

augigi, CNS · Dec 11, 2006

The BON sends eligibility info to Pearson, and then Pearson provide the ATT.

Call the BON about your problem, although they may not be able to provide advice on your personal situation until you actually apply for licensure. You don't need to pay the Pearson fee until the BON decides you are eligible for the exam though.

Jules A, MSN · Dec 12, 2006

Maybe she's willing to help nurses keep a license but what if a person doen't have one.

I guess what I was thinking is that I can't imagine if they are willing to work with people that have a drug problem then hopefully your situation won't be a big deal. I don't know where the ATT came from, I just signed up online at Pearson, paid the fee and in a couple of days they emailed me that I was ok to schedule. I was also wondering if you have the option of licensing in PA if MD isn't willing to work with you. Let me know how you make out. Sending good vibes your way, Jules

Tara04 · Dec 12, 2006

Thanks Jules, I have faith that the Lord didn't allow me to get this far to leave me know. I have to believe that or I will drive myself crazy. Ill keep ya posted on what happens.

12345678 · Dec 12, 2006

Hi Tara!

As Jules said, you can very well clarify with MBON upfront. They are the one to make a decision whether to allow you for NCLEX or not. Most probably, you will be admitted.

Regards,

Francis