Can You be a Nurse with a Felony in Ohio?
As a prospective nurse in Ohio, you may be wondering if you can still pursue your career dreams despite having a felony conviction on your record. The answer is not a straightforward yes or no, as it depends on several factors. In this article, we’ll delve into the regulations and guidelines that govern nursing in Ohio and explore the possibilities for individuals with a felony conviction.
Felony Convictions and Licensure
In Ohio, the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN) is responsible for issuing and renewing nursing licenses. The OBN has strict guidelines in place for applicants with felony convictions. According to the OBN’s policy, a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify an individual from obtaining a nursing license. However, the board will review the circumstances surrounding the conviction to determine whether it is related to the practice of nursing or poses a risk to public safety.
Factors Considered by the OBN
When reviewing a felony conviction, the OBN considers the following factors:
• Type of crime: The OBN differentiates between crimes that are directly related to the practice of nursing and those that are not. For example, a conviction for Medicaid fraud may be considered more relevant to nursing than a conviction for a non-violent drug offense.
• Circumstances of the crime: The OBN examines the circumstances surrounding the crime, including whether it was a one-time mistake or a pattern of behavior.
• Rehabilitation and reformation: The board assesses whether the individual has taken steps to rehabilitate and reform themselves, such as completing treatment programs or serving their sentence.
• Length of time since conviction: The OBN may consider the length of time since the conviction, as it may indicate that the individual has reformed and is no longer a risk to public safety.
Requirements for Licensure
If you have a felony conviction and are applying for a nursing license in Ohio, you will need to meet the following requirements:
• Disclosure: You must disclose your felony conviction on your application and provide documentation from the court or corrections agency.
• Application process: You will need to complete the standard application process, which includes passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and providing proof of completion of a nursing education program.
• Background check: You will need to undergo a background check through the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
Outcomes for Licensure
The OBN’s decision regarding licensure is based on a case-by-case review of the individual’s application. Here are some possible outcomes:
• Approved: If the OBN determines that the felony conviction does not pose a risk to public safety, you may be granted a nursing license.
• Denied: If the OBN determines that the felony conviction does pose a risk to public safety, your application may be denied.
• Conditional licensure: In some cases, the OBN may grant a conditional license, which requires you to complete additional requirements, such as continuing education or professional supervision.
Reinstatement of Licensure
If your nursing license is revoked or suspended due to a felony conviction, you may be eligible for reinstatement after completing a rehabilitation program and meeting certain requirements. The OBN will review your application on a case-by-case basis and may require additional documentation or a hearing.
Conclusion
In Ohio, it is possible to become a nurse with a felony conviction, but it is not a guarantee. The Ohio Board of Nursing will review your application and circumstances surrounding your conviction to determine whether you pose a risk to public safety. If you have a felony conviction and are interested in pursuing a nursing career, it is essential to consult with the OBN and seek guidance from a licensed attorney or professional organization.
Additional Resources
• Ohio Board of Nursing: www.nursing.ohio.gov
• Ohio Revised Code: www.legislature.ohio.gov
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing: www.ncsbn.org
Table: Felony Conviction Considerations
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of crime | Directly related to nursing practice or public safety |
| Circumstances of the crime | One-time mistake or pattern of behavior |
| Rehabilitation and reformation | Completed treatment programs or served sentence |
| Length of time since conviction | Time elapsed since conviction |
Table: Licensure Outcomes
| Outcome | Description |
|---|---|
| Approved | Felony conviction does not pose risk to public safety |
| Denied | Felony conviction poses risk to public safety |
| Conditional licensure | Additional requirements, such as continuing education or supervision |
Bullets List: Requirements for Licensure
• Disclosure of felony conviction on application
• Completion of standard application process
• Passing NCLEX-RN exam
• Proof of completion of nursing education program
• Background check through Ohio BCI
