Please help. Applying for RN Licensure in NYS

[studentnurse324]

Hello everyone,

I'm brand new to this site. I recently made an account here because I need advice. I am graduating from my nursing school with my ADN in 20 days! I am so excited, it has been a long two years and I've worked hard.

I'm preparing to submit my application for RN licensure in NYS. The first worry that I have with this application is the part that asks "have you been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor." Well, yes, I was convicted of a misdemeanor 5 years ago when I was struggling with a drug addiction. The charge was Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. I wrote a long letter detailing this charge, as required, and I made it clear that I've been rehabilitated and have remained clean and sober for five years now. However, I'm still worried that it may affect me becoming licensed as an RN by the state of NY.

The other worry I have, is the application also asks "have you ever been terminated from a hospital or licensed facility." Well, yes, I was terminated from an assisted living home where I worked as an home health aide four years ago. The reason for termination was insubordination, I butted heads with the woman from HR and she fired me for that reason. It wasn't for patient neglect or anything like that. But I need to disclose this on my application as well, along with a letter explaining why I was terminated.

Because I have to answer "yes" to two of these questions, I am so concerned that they will deny me licensure for this. It's bad enough to have to answer "yes" to one of these questions, but to two of them?! Though both were years ago, I feel that both will paint me in a negative light and the BON will think that not only was I a drug addict, but I was also disrespectful to staff! I'm scared that my past will make the BON think that I don't live up to the "good moral character" requirement of being an RN. I just don't know what to think. Does anyone have any advice or has been in a similar situation?