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What Charges Can Stop You From Being a Nurse?

The purpose of becoming a nurse is to help people in need. Unfortunately, certain criminal charges can stop or otherwise complicate you from achieving that purpose. There are a variety of charges that can prevent someone from legally working as a nurse.

These charges range from misdemeanors to felonies and include drug-related crimes, violent crimes and serious financial crimes. Understanding these charges and the associated consequences is essential for anyone wanting to pursue a career in nursing.

Charges That Stop You From Being a Nurse

Drug-Related Charges

Drug-related charges can be an obstacle to entering into the nursing profession. A conviction for drug possession, drug distribution, or drug manufacturing can prevent someone from becoming a nurse.

In addition, any convictions for drug trafficking or drug conspiracy can also be problematic. These charges can be especially damaging when applying for a nursing license, as it raises concerns about a person’s character and suitability as a medical professional.

Not Attending An Approved, Accredited Institution

One of the charges that can stop someone from becoming a nurse is not attending an approved, accredited institution. In order to become a nurse, individuals must take and complete accredited courses through a qualifying institution.

If someone chooses to pursue nursing at an unaccredited institution, they will not be able to get the necessary education and qualifications needed to become a nurse.

Failing The NCLEX Examination

The NCLEX examination is the required exam for anyone wishing to become a licensed nurse. If someone fails this examination, they will not be able to become a nurse. People who have failed the examination can reapply, however they must get a passing score in order to obtain their nursing license.

Not Completing Continuing Education

Continuing education is a necessary requirement for all licensed nurses. In order to remain an active nurse, individuals must complete a certain number of continuing education credits each year. Failure to meet this requirement can result in a suspended or revoked nursing license.

Allowing Your License To Become Inactive

Nursing licenses must remain active in order to practice nursing. If someone allows their license to become inactive, their ability to practice nursing will be severely hindered. To become active, individuals must complete the necessary requirements (including continuing education) and filing a renewal with their local health department.

Not Following Federal And State Nursing Regulations

Nurses must follow all relevant federal and state regulations. If a nurse fails to follow these regulations, they can be subject to a variety of charges, including fines and suspension of their license. It is important for all nurses to familiarize themselves with the regulations in their state to ensure they are following all of the rules and regulations.

Harming Or Killing A Patient Through Negligence

Nurses must take all necessary measures to protect their patients and ensure their health and safety. If a nurse is found to have negligently harmed or killed a patient, they will face a variety of charges that can prevent them from practicing nursing. Depending on the severity of the offense, they may face license suspension, fines, and in some cases, criminal charges.

Working While Impaired

Nurses are expected to provide safe, quality care while on the job. Working while impairing, whether it be because of drug use or alcohol, is prohibited. This can result in charges such as license suspension or even criminal charges, depending on the severity of the offense.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor charges can also prevent someone from becoming a nurse. This includes convictions for assault and battery, theft, DUI, or domestic violence. Some employers have also been known to disqualify applicants for minor offenses such as shoplifting, disorderly conduct, or vandalism. People convicted of misdemeanors must also be aware that they may be required to disclose their charges when applying for additional medical licenses.

Felony Charges

Felony charges can also make it difficult to pursue a nursing career. Felony charges include but are not limited to charges of sexual assault, child abuse, embezzlement, and fraud.

These charges can be especially damaging, as they can result in long-term incarceration and can make it difficult to obtain a nursing license. In addition, many states consider certain felony charges to be irrevocable, meaning that someone convicted of a particular charge may never be able to practice nursing.

Financial Crimes

Financial crimes can also stop someone from becoming a nurse. This includes any charge related to stealing, misappropriating funds, forgery, and money laundering. These charges can result in substantial fines and jail time, so it’s important for anyone considering a career in nursing to be aware of the consequences of financial crime convictions.

FAQ

Q: Is it possible to become a nurse if I have been charged with a crime?

A: It is possible to become a nurse if you have been charged with a crime, however, the outcome will vary based on the specific charge. Drug-related charges, misdemeanors, felonies, and financial crimes can all affect your ability to become a nurse. It is important to be aware of the potential consequences of any charge prior to attempting to pursue a nursing career.

Q: What happens if I have been convicted of a charge?

A: Depending on the specifics of the charge, you may or may not be able to obtain licensing or be able to pursue a career in nursing. Depending on the charge, you may be able to obtain a restricted license or enter into a probationary program.

Conclusion

Hoping to pursue a career in nursing can be a rewarding experience. However, certain criminal charges can prevent someone from becoming a nurse. Drug-related charges, misdemeanors, felonies, and financial crimes can all have serious consequences for those attempting to enter into the nursing profession.

Anyone considering a career in nursing should be aware of the potential consequences of a charge prior to filing an application with their local health department or other licensing bodies.

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