Re criminal background: From someone who has been thru it

Published Sep 4, 2008

131 Posts

Specializes in Med Surg, Nursing Administration for SNF.

Hey - just saw these threads and they are all closed - but i think it is important people know the facts from someone who has been through it regarding past convictions and board licensure. I live in Florida and was convicted on criminal charges (armed robbery in conjunction with a drug addiction) over 20 years ago. By the time I had reached nsg school I had turned my life around and on my way to becoming a nurse. I disclosed the information to the school and asked them directly if there would be an issue later when I went to take the boards; I was told no, since it was so long ago. When I went to take the boards I was in for a rude awakening. I was told that I would need to go before the Fla Board of Nursing at thier next hearing in two months. I waited for the appointment and even brought in an attorney just in case. I felt confident that since I had turned my life around that it would not be a problem. Wrong. I was told in no uncertain terms that I would need to get my civil rights restored before I was allowed to take the exam. That process took TWO YEARS. When it was over I took the exam and passed. Because I never really addressed my drug problem with anything but abstinence it reared its' ugly head within a year of my practicing. I was intervened upon and went through five years of IPN. Best thing that ever happened actually. I am now back in recovery utilizing my new and improved coping skills and just celebrated seven years of recovery. I also have an IPN group of my own. My advice - if your past involves drugs or alcohol, go ahead and call IPN now. Dont wait. Also, call your board of nursing and dont listen to anyone else but them. They are the ones who ultimately call the shots and your failure to do so could cost you lots of wasted time. Good luck and God bless. :)