Criminal Background Checks in Nursing: Safeguarding the Public?

The intent of criminal background checks (CBCs) is to provide a safeguard for the public by ensuring the good moral character of nurses. As the public demands more scrutiny, hospitals and schools of nursing are joining regulatory boards in requiring CBCs of nurse practitioners and students, citing their responsibility to protect public health and safety. Although this screening practice has been implemented across the nation, research is limited that addresses the best practices for screening in nursing licensure, education, and employment. Enhanced standards could mean that APRNs would not have to repeat CBCs for school, nursing licenses, and employers.