Nursing is one of the most rewarding jobs one can choose. However, before individuals can begin the work, they must go through an extensive background check process. A background check for a nursing license can be a complex procedure, so it is vital to understand it.
In nursing, professionals work with vulnerable individuals; therefore, trust is of the highest priority. While there is no federal law that requires a background check for nursing, all states require them, and most require enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) background checks, which are in-depth and include fingerprint-based criminal background checks.
What Is Included in a Background Check for Nursing License?
Background checks for nursing licenses are usually more involved than most other jobs. There are multiple elements that come into consideration when determining nursing license approval. A few of these include:
Criminal Record
Convictions at both the state and federal levels are usually investigated. Additionally, applicants may be denied based on outstanding warrants. It is important to note that an applicant may be denied based on a conviction in another state, not just the one to which they are applying.
Sex Offender Registry
State and national sex offender registries are also screened as a part of background checks for nursing licenses.
Professional License Background Check
Besides a regular background check, nursing license boards also screen an applicant’s past professional licenses to ensure that the applicant does not have adverse marks against them. This can include suspended or revoked licenses, as well as disciplinary action taken against the applicant.
Healthcare Sanctions
Healthcare-related background checks are also mandatory for most employers, even when they are not a part of the licensing process. The Office of Inspector General’s List of Excluded Individuals/Entities and the System for Award Management’s database can be accessed to check for individuals who are prohibited from working in healthcare settings.
Education and Employment Verification
Healthcare organizations conduct checks to ensure that an applicant has all the required degrees, experience, and training to be eligible for the position, as false claims are a known issue in the field.
What Can Prevent an Applicant From Passing a Background Check for a Nurse License?
A common concern for most applicants is what prevents them from passing a background check. While this depends on the state to which they are applying, there are offenses that most states consider strong risks for failing, such as violent crimes, sexual offenses, drug-related offenses, or felony convictions involving children or vulnerable adults.
For eNLC license applicants who hold a multistate license, there are also some automatic reasons for failure. These include a history of state or federal felony convictions and misdemeanors related to nursing.
It should also be noted that it is illegal to try to hide a conviction. Nursing boards value honesty and integrity, and any attempt to cover up a criminal record will result in an automatic failure of the background check for a nursing license.
Running a Background Check for Nursing License Personally
One of the most useful things a nursing license applicant can do is to run a background check on themselves before applying. This enables them to be aware of the information that could be used against them and take appropriate action. Many people find it helpful to use a reputable background check website to pull up public records.
However, background checks for nursing licenses are not a one-time affair, as renewal applications may ask about any offenses since the last renewal. Some nursing boards also receive continuous updates from the Department of Justice about any arrests made, which means that they can update a professional’s record even if the individual does not report it.
Final Thoughts on Running a Background Check for Nursing License
Background checks for nursing licenses are an essential part of nursing practice. In order to make it as smooth and stress free as possible, it’s best to be prepared. By conducting a background check on yourself, you can identify any errors and correct them before the licensing.
If you have made a mistake in the past, don’t fear. In many cases, the nursing board will consider the type and severity of a past offense before determining whether a nursing license applicant is acceptable.
