Can nurses in Florida practice if they have a pending criminal charge?

In Florida, nurses with a pending criminal charge must disclose the charges, and their ability to continue practicing is subject to evaluation by the Board of Nursing. This process is important because the Board assesses the potential impact of the criminal charges on the nurse's fitness to practice safely and competently. The evaluation considers the nature of the charge, its relevance to nursing practice, and any possible risks to patients. This requirement ensures public safety and maintains the integrity of the nursing profession.

Remaining options do not align with Florida legislature and nursing regulations. Nurses cannot practice without restrictions if there are pending charges, as this would potentially jeopardize patient safety. Immediate suspension is not an automatic response; it depends on the specific circumstances of the case, and it is not acceptable to ignore the charge altogether, as it is the nurse's responsibility to address legal issues appropriately.