Completing training and navigating the requirements that comes with getting your nursing license takes time and effort. Once you get your license, you do not want to put it in jeopardy. Each state has its own requirements and it is important to know how your state handles these matters. New York requires applicants demonstrate good moral character and graduate from an approved program as well as submit passing NCLEX scores while New Jersey will only consider those who attended a school with an NCLEX passing rate of 75% or higher.
One way to help reduce the risk of issues is to know some of the more common causes of licensing issues. When it comes to nursing, these can include:
- Substance abuse. Serious issues can arise when use of alcohol or medications impairs one’s ability to practice their profession. Depending on the severity, this could lead to the state board revoking a nurse’s professional license.
- Criminal conviction. Drunk driving, fraud, or other allegations of criminal wrongdoing can also put your license at risk.
- False statements on an application. An official investigation by the state board can occur if a hospital or practice that is looking to hire or already hired a nurse believes that the nurse was not honest on their application.
These causes are often connected to allegations that the nurse failed to meet the state’s requirements for good moral character. When practicing in New York, the Office of the Professions will ask questions to determine the applicant’s moral character at the initial licensure stage as well as during renewal. This means the risk is present throughout one’s nursing career, not just at the initial licensing stage of the process.
What if the state board questions my moral character?
A failure to meet the state’s moral character requirements does not necessarily mean the board will deny or revoke a nursing license. The group decides these matters on a case-by-case basis.
It is important to note that a nurse does not need to go through this process alone. You can have legal counsel on your side helping to advocate on your behalf. This can better ensure your interests are protected throughout the process.
Attorney John Rivas is responsible for this communication
