Takimg the NCLEX with a criminal record.

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I am currently wrapping up the last few science classes before I can enroll in a nursing program, and am very excited to begin this new journey, but there is one problem. Between 1999-2001, I had a few run ins with the law. Misdemeanor drug charges (marijuana), paraphernelia, petty theft, and insufficient funds check charges. It's been 15 years and since then I haven't had more than a speeding ticket. I have worked as an EMT for Kansas City Fire for seven years, taught Sunday School, and also adopted my wife's oldest daughter, and had no problems. Has anyone else had a problem similar to this? I could use some advice before I invest lots of money, time, and effort for nothing. Please help!! Thank you!

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Specializes in Critical care.

I'm sorry I can't offer you any advice on this situation, but I did want to congratulate you on turning everything around. I certainly hope it won't be held against you as you have made so many drastic and positive changes. Good luck!

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

If I were you, I would consult your state's Board of Nursing and/or a legal consultant familiar with BON issues. You need answers that are 100% factual, not "well, my sister's husband's uncle did X and then Y and he got his license."

I would never trust an online forum for such an important matter.

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I agree. I contacted the BON today and they offered no help at all. They keep telling me that "it's a case by case basis". I told them I understand that they may not be able to give me a definitive answer, but if they could just give me an educated guess, and they told me no. Words can't explain how defeating it would be to put in all this work for nothing. It seems crazy to me that I can't offer up my background info and have it assessed before I go through with this. I was just hoping for a consensus from this forum to give me at least an idea of what could happen.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

Spend the money to consult with an experienced attorney. Experienced in legal nursing issues, that is.

Anything else will be a total gamble. It may be 15 years after the fact but your issues span a few years and a "few" different types of illegalities. Boards of Nursing are not typically known for their logic or consistency.

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

Welcome to allnurses.com

Thread moved to another for replies from those with similar issues.

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