Nursing is one of Pennsylvania’s most heavily regulated professions, and the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing takes criminal conduct very seriously. If you hold an RN, LPN, or CRNP license and have been convicted of a crime, your license is at risk — even for offenses that happen outside of work.
What the PA Board of Nursing Can Do
The Pennsylvania Board of Nursing has authority to suspend, revoke, or place on probation the license of any nurse convicted of a crime — particularly crimes of moral turpitude, drug-related offenses, or crimes directly related to nursing practice. The Board can also suspend a license pending a hearing if it determines continued practice presents an immediate danger to public health and safety.
What Convictions Matter Most?
- Drug-related offenses — including controlled substance violations and prescription fraud
- Theft — especially from employers or patients
- Assault — including simple assault
- Crimes of moral turpitude
- Failure to report a conviction to the Board within the required period
Does the Conviction Have to Be Work-Related?
No. The Board can act on convictions that occur entirely outside of your nursing role. A DUI, domestic violence conviction, or drug possession charge — even if it had nothing to do with patient care — can still trigger Board action.
What Are the Possible Outcomes?
- Suspension with a defined minimum period
- Indefinite suspension pending rehabilitation or compliance with a prior board order
- Probation with conditions like monitoring through the Professional Health Monitoring Program
- Voluntary surrender of license
- Reinstatement to probationary status after compliance
PA Board of Nursing – Official Disciplinary Actions
PA Professional Health Monitoring Program
Related Articles
- Can a Criminal Conviction Cost Me My Professional License in PA?
- Can I Get My Professional License Reinstated After Suspension in PA?
- Can a DUI or Drug Charge Affect My Pharmacy or Medical License?
What Should You Do Next?
Pennsylvania law is complex and deadlines can be short. This article is general legal information — not legal advice specific to your situation.
- Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network – Find Free Help Near You
- PA Courts Self-Help Center
- Lawyer Referral – PA Bar Association
If you cannot afford an attorney, contact your local legal aid office. Time-sensitive legal matters require fast action.