Getting charged with DUI is a serious matter DUIs remain on your record for up to 7 years, but if you are a nurse it can be especially life-changing. Nurses must display a high level of professionalism both on and off the job and consider public safety in every facet of their professional activities. For these reasons, it’s crucial to work with an experienced DUI lawyer to ensure your best interests are protected and you can avoid the negative consequences of a DUI.
Nursing is a profession that depends on the trust of society’s most vulnerable people, so any arrest or conviction related to alcohol or drugs can be very damaging. The state boards of nursing take these issues very seriously and may discipline or even revoke the licenses of nurses with drunk driving offenses on their records. Additionally, the hospitals and healthcare facilities where nurses work often have strict policies against hiring anyone with a criminal record.
Staying on the Right Side of the Law: Preventing DUIs for Nurses
Many nursing schools and colleges require students to pass background checks as part of the application process, so it’s important for future nurses to carefully examine each institution’s criminal conviction policies before applying. It’s also a good idea for nurses to understand their state nursing board regulations regarding reporting DUIs and to work with an attorney to make sure they are properly reported.
For many nursing professionals, the worst consequence of a DUI is losing their jobs or having trouble finding new employment. This can be financially devastating, especially since many nurses rely on private scholarships to fund their education. It can also have psychological, emotional, and family impacts as well.