What does Background Check show?

[nursetobe111]

I was curious what the background check entails since it seems to be more indepth than most background checks. Would they be able to find out if I have been in counselling or on medications? I experience depression in my lifetime, as many have, and because of this want to pursue mental health nursing since I know exactly what mental health patients are through. Will this hinder me? Thank you for your time!

[RKpianoman, APRN]

For my nursing school and hospital, it's just been a "Criminal Background Check". However, we also had to complete a health evaluation form that was a complete physical and history of major illness/surgeries. I don't think a mental diagnosis would hinder you at all, as long as it's well controlled.

[szeles23]

Yeah mostly the background checks are to see what convictions you have ever had. Even if they were to try and delve into your mental health history, I think that would be a violation of dr-pt confidentiality/hipaa, unless you released your mental health medical record to them.

[mangopeach]

As others have said. Its a criminal background check. However @ my school, on the health evaluation form - It does ask about mental illness. It should not be a problem as long as your depression is being managed. On our form, your doctor would have to sign that your illness does not hinder you from completing the program.

[nursetobe111]

Thank you so much everyone!! I feel a lot better and really appreciate your input!