In some cases, getting a DUI will not affect your career at all. However, in other situations, you could face termination of your job. Or, you could face a suspension if you are convicted of driving under the influence. If you are a nurse who has received a DUI, you could face work-related consequences. While not all DUI cases are the same, the DUI impact on nurses can be severe. As a nurse who recently received a DUI, you will most likely have a run-in with the Board of Registered Nursing as a result. However, it is important to keep in mind that you will not be punished unless it is proven that your DUI is directly related to your job performance. Understanding the DUI process and how it will affect your job can help to make this difficult time less stressful.
DUI and Current Nursing Career
If you are already a nurse, you probably will not get fired as a result of a DUI. However, getting a DUI might cause problems for your job. Because driving records are public information, your boss will be able to see if you have been convicted of any driving related crimes. A DUI will go on your permanent driving record, meaning that current or future employers can look this information up. However, in most cases, you will not lose your nursing license as a result of a DUI. The only instance in which getting a DUI will result in a revocation of your nursing license is if it is proven that the DUI is directly linked to your qualifications and your ability to perform your job.
If you receive a DUI and you are a nurse, there is a chance that the Board of Registered Nursing will investigate your DUI. They might ask to interview you about what happened. If you have an interview with the board of registered nursing, you should explain to them how you plan to fix your mistakes and use better decision-making skills in the future. You should take this evaluation seriously because it will probably carry some weight when it comes to deciding your competency as a nurse. The Board might decide that you need counseling or treatment. If they feel that you are unfit to continue your job as a nurse, they could suspend your nursing license. However, the chances of terminating your job or your license as a result of a DUI are slim.
Protecting Your Rights
If you are a nurse and you are facing a DUI charge, try not to panic. In most cases, your nursing license will not be taken away from you. Still, you might face some consequences for the DUI. In many cases, you will have to explain your DUI to the Board of Registered Nursing. Be sure to address the board clearly and respectfully. If you do this, you will probably be able to keep your job.
