I read in article published in 2008 in the Journal of Nursing Law that some vocational counselors suggest nursing (either RN or LPN) for individuals with a criminal history and criminal convictions for a variety of reasons. One reason I am assuming would be the ability to attend school for one year (LPN or LVN) or two (RN with a diploma or ASN)and make a decent living.
I told you about a corrections nurse who approached me last year and asked me what should she tell the female inmates. This nurse works with incarcerated female inmates in vocational groups and counseling sessions and the women are interested in being a nurse.
Nothing surprises me anymore as a licensure defense attorney.
More State Nursing Boards are conducting criminal background checks for licensure. Although there are still a handful of states that do not require a criminal background check but still inquire about criminal convictions on the licensure application. For example, Indiana. Which only makes me wonder, how many are failing to disclose criminal convictions becausea criminal background check isn't being performed and the Board relies on self-disclosure.
See this chart from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
https://www.ncsbn.org/CBC_SxS.pdf
With criminal convictions, being admitted to nursing school and clinical sites is Hurdle One; this is the easiest hurdle.
Hurdle Two is suitability for licensure depending on the State Nursing Board where you apply for a licensure.
Hurdle Three is employability. Employability is an issue and I am seeing more and more newly licensed nurses who have a license, most of the time with restrictions and probation, who are having trouble finding and securing employment as a nurse. Even if you have an unencumbered and restricted nursing license (clear), employability may still be an issue in some states if not most because of criminal background checks in healthcare and some healthcare organizations will not and some cannot hire you with certain felony and/or misdemeanor convictions.
Having a "S" on your chest and being able to leap easily over Hurdle One and Two is meaningless if you hit a wall at Hurdle Three. Do your due diligence before you apply to nursing school if you have criminal convictions. Don't assume you will be able to find a job because "there is such a demand for nurses."
Don't waste your money. You are an adult and you should do your own due diligence and research before pursue a certain educational course. If you have criminal convictions, a career as a licensed healthcare professional may not be your best option.
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