Questions

Editorial Team / Admin · Aug 3, 2017

Moved, hoping you will get some helpful responses. :)

/username, BSN, RN · Aug 4, 2017

Hello my name is Kayla and i am currently in LPN school and am graduating in 20 days. I'm really scared I won't be able to take boards! I have a retail theft (summary offense) from a couple years ago and a couple charges that were expunged! I made some really stupid decisions and I am paying for them now! I just had a beautiful baby girl and am on the right path in life! I have wanted to be a nurse since I was a child! Can I take boards with retail theft? Do I need to enclose expunged charges? Do expunged charges even matter? Please help so stressed! I am in PA

There are a couple questions in there. First, it sounds like you're on the right track, as you've been able to get the conviction expunged. :) Also, congrats on your baby girl!

I would say that whether or not you can take your boards and get your license will rest on what the BON says. You absolutely need to disclose expunged charges, as the BON background check will show everything, and is much more stringent than one done for employment. Likely it will mean writing a statement for the board, and quite possibly appearing before the board to argue your case. It will be extremely helpful for you get a lawyer who is familiar with these issues.

Career Columnist / Author · Aug 6, 2017

Hello my name is Kayla and i am currently in LPN school and am graduating in 20 days. I'm really scared I won't be able to take boards! I have a retail theft (summary offense) from a couple years ago and a couple charges that were expunged! I made some really stupid decisions and I am paying for them now! I just had a beautiful baby girl and am on the right path in life! I have wanted to be a nurse since I was a child! Can I take boards with retail theft? Do I need to enclose expunged charges? Do expunged charges even matter? Please help so stressed! I am in PA

Each case is reviewed on a case by case basis related to the qualifications, functions or duties of a registered nurse.

The BON considers the nature, severity, and recency of the offense, as well as rehabilitation and other factors.

It's very likely they will ask you to write a Letter of Explanation for Criminal Infraction Best wishes! everyone deserves a second chance.

twinsmom788 · Aug 11, 2017

Each case is reviewed on a case by case basis related to the qualifications, functions or duties of a registered nurse.
The BON considers the nature, severity, and recency of the offense, as well as rehabilitation and other factors.
It's very likely they will ask you to write a Letter of Explanation for Criminal Infraction Best wishes! everyone deserves a second chance.

I agree with this answer. However, the OP will need to answer in detail exactly what a "couple of charges" are. Also, please don't blame anyone else for your actions. The fact that your charges were expunged does not mean that you will not be required to disclose them. Just be up front, and take responsibility for your actions. Integrity and honesty goes a long way in dealings with the Board.