Reprimand on license...need advice...

[lunglover]

I initially posted this in the nursing massage therapist forum, but do not seem to be getting a lot of hits. I thought I would take a broader approach:

I am currently a licensed massage therapist in the state of Florida. Recently, I was contacted about an ongoing investigation concerning the advertising of my business. It appears that I may have broken the law regarding some advertising issues (concerning a massage establishment license number), which is technically a felony. The investigator from the department of health told me that he truly believes I made an honest mistake and is not going to pursue criminal charges (thank god!!), but that I will have to deal with reprimand from the board of massage directors. This can range from a simple fine to revocation of my massage therapy license. And, it could take months to completely resolve this issue.

This pertains to nursing because I am about to begin applying to nursing school. I am wondering if I should even bother now. I am wondering how this matter could potentially affect my future nursing application. I realize that every single situation is different and that no one on this board can give me a clear cut answer, but I am wanting advice nonetheless. Assuming I walk away with just a reprimand on my license and a few thousand dollars' worth of fines, should I still plan on attending nursing school? And what about if -god forbid- my massage therapy license is revoked? Would that make it impossible to be granted an RN license?

This matter is causing me great stress - I have never even received a speeding ticket! I am generally the kind of person that pays bills before they're due, stops completely at stop signs...you get the idea. Any input anyone reading this can give me, or an idea of someone to talk to will be HUGELY appreciated!

[Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN]

I would talk to a lawyer since they may not allow you to sit for the nursing boards. Better to be upfront and honest then go to school and be denied a license.

Best of Luck.

[Batman24]

A lawyer or calling the BON in your state would prob be your best bets.

Do you have a lawyer representing you on your current case?! You should if you don't already. Pls call one at once if need be. I'm sorry you are going through all of this. Hope it works out.

[ohmeowzer RN, RN]

yes i agree with the above posters

[Princess_M83]

I agree that you should talk to the BON in your state. Not quite sure if I would talk to a lawyer, if they are not pressing charges it would be a waste of money to hire a lawyer.

[lunglover]

I'm leaning towards not getting one at this point. If the DOH schedules a hearing, I will go, but there is a possibility that they will just make a ruling based on my written statement.

I have been extremely depressed this week. My college classes start this Monday and I don't even have the drive to go anymore. I'm thinking about getting a shrink. Between this stress and the economy, I just feel really, really sad. Thanks to anyone who replies to this thread.

[Princess_M83]

I would continue in class right now, it may help you get your mind off it a bit.

If you feel that depressed I would most certainly talk to someone, but like you said it was something that you did inadvertently so don't be too hard on yourself. It does not sound like you set out to break that particular law. *Hug*

[amjowens]

I know that in most states, as long as the felony doesn't fall under obviously "serious" offenses, each is looked at on a case by case situation. Since I wrote a bad check years ago-and it actually was a one time thing, and one where I thought I'd have the money-I have this on my record. Of course, I was crazy over this, as the company owed went right to authorities...but I ended up coming up with the money and handed it to the court. Still on record, though, and that concept just bothers me. I've contacted everyone from state BONs, state police, and anyone with any info. While all say, well, still on record...what information I've been given is that it depends on the severity, the amount of time passed, the number of times occurred, the result in court, your intention (not a good thing if tried to deny, not pay, etc.). On my record, it clearly says my case is dismissed by the court, and I think that's because I was honest and paid right away. Virtually everyone who's given me advice says to write a letter to BON when I apply, and explain the situation when applying, so to be proactive. I have no other record, it's been years, and some of the people I've dealt with have looked at me like, "why are you so upset, everyone has written a bad check...", but to me (and anyone in nursing), it's all about what's on paper. So, do ALL the right things, take care of the matter, and use the power of the "paper" to write your circumstance. Just be honest, and don't be so hard on yourself. It's the people who care about mistakes they've made, those who make it right as well as they can, and who learn from the situation who are likely not the repeat offenders or menaces of society that the BON is trying to keep out of nursing. No matter what, though, if you are an otherwise good person, that one bad moment really hurts. Sorry.

[shelly304]

Contact the Florida BON. Explain the situation. I always have "a need to know" and once I get my questions answered I always feel better. So many nurses have had previous felonies etc. and still made it through school and obtained licensure. I believe your goal to become a nurse is not without merit! Go for it.

Make an appointment with a mental health professional. This a very trying time for you. Having someone to bounce things off of and help sort out your current state of being sounds right on target. The fact that you recognize you need this is awesome...do not put this off. Take care of you, first. The rest will follow in good time. Many blessings to you.

[morte, LPN, LVN]

make sure that the call was legit, research the law and perhaps contact an atty for that purpose....then, get back to class!! and good luck