Question? Need some info.

Nurses General Nursing

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Specializes in geriatrica.

This is my first post. Sorry if it's not in the right place. I'll figure it out. Is anyone here familiar with the random fingerprinting being done in Texas?or any State? I was "randomly" picked on the first go round of fingerprinting. Wasn't sure why I was asked,but did as was requested getting my fingerprints. I left a job last Spring and when I started back looking I found that with these prints access is had to any criminal activity in the past. Made some mistakes as a teenager(7 years prior to becoming licensed) which now have come back to haunt me. When I filled out paperwork for licensure I stated truthfully---No Felony Convictions. Anyone out there know if there is a way to fight this or am I just "up the creek without a paddle"? It's relly frustrating that things like this were not an issue 3 years ago,but now keep a changed man from working. Anybody here just getting started in Nursing--it's something to think about. Thanks

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In most states it depends on what the offense is. Many times you can send the board all the necessary paperwork showing that you did whatever was court ordered and they will make a final decision. There are however some offenses that wont normally work with you on like domestic violence, theft, and DUI. I think that those are the big ones but this may vary from state to state. I would suggest calling the board and talking to them. I would think that if it was a juvenile offense, they will give that some consideration.

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Specializes in SICU, EMS, Home Health, School Nursing.

I had to be fingerprinted before starting school and before I applied for a license. Some places will make you go through a background check before they will hire you. Be up front if someone asks if you have ever been convicted. Don't ever try to talk around the issue. Some background checks only go back 10 years, some only check for felony convictions, etc. Make sure you have good references that will back your character.

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Specializes in ICU, CCU,Wound Care,LTC, Hospice, MDS.

When I moved back to Arkansas last year, I was going to have to be fingerprinted to get my nursing license until they discovered I had had an Arkansas license before 9/11 under the same name. I think it's a Homeland Security issue in some states.

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Questions we seem to be encountering more and more often have to do with the effects of a criminal history on nursing licensure:

* Is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a criminal history?

* Is it possible to become licensed as a nurse if you have a MIP, DUI, or other related charges?

* What happens if you are charged or convicted of a crime after licensure?

* Can I go to nursing school and/or be licensed if my record has been sealed or expunged?

* Will I be able to go to nursing school with a criminal record?

* What can happen if I receive a MIP/DUI/DWI or other charge while still in school?

These are questions that the members of allnurses.com cannot answer. The only reliable source of information is your State Board of Nursing.

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