Moving forward after revocation of nursing license

[seekinghelp7]

I'm not sure who will be able to assist me, but I'm accepting any good advise.

So here's my story:

I live in Jamaica and in 2008, after working as an RN for 2 years my license was revoked. Charges were substance abuse and failure to follow procedure as it relates to handling of dangerous drugs ( narcotics). In 2013 I contacted the board and reapplied for my license. They sent back stating they were discussing the matter but I haven't heard anything since and I haven't checked back. I haven't used Demerol since 2008.

Since 2009 I have been working as a freelance writer and have even made it my fulltime job which has now converted into a small online content business with a successful blog. Its very convenient and as a Mom provides me with a lot of freedoms. Also in 2011 i studied phlebotomy and is now certified to do that, but i havent worked a day as a phlebotomist since getting the certification. Now I am migrating to Canada with the intentions of also going back to school. My biggest issue is what will I be able to study with my tarnished background? I wanted to study medicine but I'm not sure how that would work now with a license revocation under my belt. I also love chemistry and biotechnology and thought I could become a lecturer or a biochemist. I have also considered getting my masters in business administration since I already have a business and pursue that further. Or study computers and web development since in already doing that.

I honestly just want to forget about my nursing degree and nursing history and move on with a fresh outlook. And since I'm moving to a new country, I'm thinking this could be my new start.

These are my questions:

1. Would it be possible for me to still go to medical school if I revealed my previous license issues and explain how?

2. Could I go to medical school without disclosing the other issue and what problems could arise with this?

3. By some chance I get into medical school would it be difficult to get a job after completing my studies?

4. Can I just forget my first degree and move on never disclosing it to anyone whether for school or work?

Send me all your comments.

Thanks

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

I don't mean to be a wet blanket here, but having a license revocation on your record will make it very difficult, if not impossible, to receive any other type of professional license. And you can't lie about it because there is a question on applications asking if you've ever been suspended or revoked. If and when it's discovered, that 'sin of omission" would cost you that license as well.

Honestly, it would be best if you went back to school for a career that doesn't require licensure or certification.

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

If you still want to pursue nursing, I would keep pestering the BON about your application for reinstatement. Sometimes you need to light a fire under the BON's rear to get them moving.

Viejas is right: for most licensed healthcare professions you will have to disclose the revocation. And I should also warn you that if you think the pressures of being a nurse were bad, the pressures of being a doctor/PA are as bad if not worse--many doctors (and medical students) end up falling victim to addiction. I'm not saying you shouldn't do it, but you would have to determine if it would put your recovery at risk.

[canigraduate]

Honestly, if you are looking for advice about med school, go to a med school (and not nursing) forum. We only have conjecture. Also, call the schools you are thinking about applying to and the licensing board where you want to practice in the future and ask them. We have no way of knowing what they will do.

My advice would be to go another route altogether and don't go into a profession that requires frequent background checks or that has so many limitations and regulations when it comes to previous narc charges.

Good luck.

[seekinghelp7]

Thanks for all the help guys. Really appreciate it.