A nurse’s job is not only one of the most gratifying professions, but you also have the opportunity to save lives. You desire to serve those in your community and be there for them when they need it most.
The only issue is that you’ve been convicted of a felony offence in the past. Is this something that will prevent you from becoming a nurse? In most circumstances, you’ll be able to work as a nurse despite having been convicted of a felony.
However, it is possible. It is determined by the circumstances of the conviction. A more in-depth discussion of this will be presented below.
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Is it possible to become a nurse with a felony conviction?
Although you may be anxious that your criminal record will impede your ability to become a nurse, this is often not the case. Many people with criminal records are still able to obtain their licenses and work as licensed nurses in their respective states.
However, before you can obtain a license, you’ll have to complete certain procedures. It is determined by your location and the length of time since your conviction.
For example, in Texas, you cannot get a nursing license until five years after finishing your sentence.
Can A Felon Become A Nurse?
In most states, felons may become nurses. However, it’s a good idea to double-check the regulations in your state since they vary from place to place.
You may obtain a nursing license even if you have a criminal record. Is it possible for a convicted felon to be a nurse? Yes, you can if you are willing to work harder than the average person.
If you have a felony, can you still become a nurse?
If you’re looking to become an LPN or RN and have a felony conviction on your record, you might be wondering if it will hinder your chances of obtaining employment.
Though this might not be the initial reaction, it is still possible to become a registered nurse after being convicted in a court of law. More than likely, all that will be required is waiting five years after completing your sentence to obtain your license.
If you were sentenced to parole, this will also be included in the waiting period. After you’ve completed the set time, you can get your license and start working.
Is It Possible To Have A Felony And Be A Nurse?
If you’re a nurse and get convicted of a felony, you will probably have to start serving your sentence right away.
Depending on the state you live in and the severity of your crime, you might not be able to get your nursing license back.
You also might not be able to ever work in healthcare again. This is a decision that’s made on a case-by-case basis, so it depends on your particular circumstances.
If you want to continue working as a nurse after being convicted of a felony, you might have to get your GED or degree in another field first.
Can You Be A Nurse If You Have A Felony?
You might be wondering if you can still work as a nurse even if you have a felony conviction. The answer is yes, but the process of presenting may vary slightly for somebody without a criminal record.
To acquire a license in any state, you must first check with your state’s Board of Nursing to discover what is required. You may have to wait a certain period before you can apply for a license or finish additional education.
Be prepared for the application process.
Whether you have a felony record or not, you must be prepared to apply. A nursing school application will be required.
You can use your criminal background check to show that you’re committed to overcoming your past mistakes and point out what steps you’ve taken to improve your life. This will make it clear that you’re a good candidate for the job, despite any hurts in your past.
Being honest on your application is key because the board will find out if you’re not.
You should tell the board about your expunged conviction, even though it may not appear on your record. Being truthful is always the best policy.
Try Background Checking Yourself
You’ll also want to find out what the board will discover about you. The most effective method to figure that out is to do a background check on yourself.
You’ll be able to see what’s going to show up on your background check once you’ve completed this step. For example, if your expunged conviction appears in any way, you may expect it to appear on the report.
After that, you can start working to convince them. Remember that they will be looking into your FBI background check.
To see what will show up on your criminal record, you should submit your fingerprints to the FBI.
Prepare Yourself for Upcoming Tasks
In addition to finishing the program, you will need to pass a nursing exam. Though it won’t be easy, with dedication you can achieve it. Afterwards, you will be able to start applying for open positions near you.
You’ll need to convince them that you’re a viable prospect yet again. When applying, stick to the facts. Prepare to discuss your history while completing the application. During the job interview, you’ll be expected to explain yourself as well.
FAQs about being a Nurse with a Felony
Question: Can I get my nursing license if I have a felony?
Answer: It depends on the state you live in and the severity of your crime. You might not be able to get your nursing license back or ever work in healthcare again. This is a decision that’s made on a case-by-case basis, so it depends on your particular circumstances.
Question: How long do I have to wait before I can apply for my nursing license after being convicted of a felony?
Answer: You will have to check with your state’s Board of Nursing to discover what is required. You may have to wait a certain period before you can apply for a license or finish additional education.
Question: What do I need to do to apply for my nursing license if I have a felony?
Answer: A nursing school application will be required. You can use your criminal background check to show that you’re committed to overcoming your past mistakes and point out what steps you’ve taken to improve your life. This will make it clear that you’re a good candidate for the job, despite any hurts in your past.
Question: I’ve been convicted of a felony, but my conviction was expunged. Do I need to tell the Board of Nursing about my conviction?
Answer: Yes, you should tell the board about your expunged conviction, even though it may not appear on your record. Being truthful is always the best policy.
Question: I want to work as a nurse, but I’m not sure if my criminal record will allow me to. How can I find out?
Answer: The most effective method to figure that out is to do a background check on yourself. You’ll be able to see what’s going to show up on your background check once you’ve completed this step.
Conclusion
Even if you have a felony on your record, you may still be able to become a nurse. It depends on the state you live in and the severity of your crime. You might have to wait a certain period before you can apply for a license or finish additional education. Once you’ve finished your sentence, it is important to remain out of trouble. Getting in more trouble will prevent you from becoming a nurse. Be truthful on your application and job interview, and explain your past. You can do it!
