A drug conviction can raise concerns for an Indiana nurse’s license. It does not automatically mean the nurse will lose or be denied a license. Indiana nursing rules list certain drug offenses as convictions of concern. The State Board of Nursing must review the circumstances before deciding whether a conviction affects licensure.
When can a drug offense affect licensure?
Indiana law limits how a licensing board can use a conviction when reviewing an applicant’s criminal history. The crime must be directly related to the duties of the profession. The law also says a board cannot consider an arrest that did not result in a conviction under these licensing requirements. This makes the outcome of a criminal case important to the licensing review.
Which drug offenses can concern the nursing board?
Indiana’s nursing rules identify specific drug-related offenses as convictions of concern. These include:
- Controlled substance possession
- Cocaine or narcotic drug possession
- Methamphetamine possession
- Marijuana, hash oil, hashish or salvia possession
- Drug paraphernalia possession
- Certain drug precursor possession or sale
A listed offense does not automatically require the Board to deny a nursing license. The Board must apply the factors set out in Indiana law before making that decision.
What factors does the Board consider?
The Board considers the seriousness of the crime, how much time has passed and how the offense relates to nursing duties. It can also consider evidence of rehabilitation or treatment. These factors allow the Board to review the circumstances of each case.
What about a multistate nursing license?
Different rules apply to an Indiana Nurse Licensure Compact multistate license. The Nurse Licensure Compact identifies certain felony convictions as disqualifying for a multistate license. The specific offenses that trigger this restriction are defined under compact rules and may differ from the standards that apply to a single-state Indiana license. This applies to the compact license and does not mean every felony conviction automatically ends an Indiana single-state nursing license.
What should a nurse do after a drug conviction?
A nurse with a drug conviction should review the exact offense and court disposition. The time since the offense, its connection to nursing duties and any rehabilitation or treatment may affect the licensing review. Indiana law also allows a person with a conviction of concern to petition the licensing board for a decision on whether the conviction will disqualify them. Reviewing these issues early can help clarify the potential impact on a nursing license.