Hill College
Vocational Nursing
Application process
1. Completed and/or updated Hill College application for admissions.
2. Contact the Health Science program.
3. Complete the VN program application process:
a. Hillsboro Program – June – October for possible January entry.
b. Cleburne Program – February - May for possible August Entry.
4. ALL application documents must be mailed directly to program site of choice.
5. HESI A2 test - Required (minimum passing Reading: 70% Math: 60%
A&P: 60%)
a. HESI Critical Thinking test – recommended. Minimum passing: 800
6. Preparation Questionnaire (completed day of scheduled HESI A2 test).
7. Submit all college Transcripts.
8. Show completion with a “C” or higher with a cumulative 2.50 GPA of the
following 3 pre-requisites:
a. BIOL 2401 Anatomy and Physiology I
b. BIOL 2402 Anatomy and Physiology II
c. PSCY 2301 General Psychology
9. TSI status: The Vocational Nursing program is TSI liable. All Vocational
Nursing students will be required to be TSI complete before graduation from
the Vocational Nursing Program.
10. Three (3) Professional References must be on the approved Vocational
Nursing Reference form; (current/former employers, co-workers, supervisors,
academic instructor)
11. Criminal History background checks are mandatory. Please contact the
Health Science department regarding the completion of this requirement.
12. CPR – American Heart Association BLS/Health Care Provider. Must last
entire nursing school year.
13. Official High School Transcript or GED Scores (see TOEFL policy).
14. TOEFL Policy: Students must demonstrate English proficiency as an
admission requirement. This may be demonstrated by one of the following:
a. Attended four years of high school in one of the 50 United States and
receiving a diploma OR
b. Attended two years of high school in one of the 50 United States and
passed the GED OR
c. Acceptable GED scores from one of the 50 United States and
acceptable scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language Test
(TOEFL) within the two years of the posted deadline date of program
application. (TOEFL policy continued page 2)
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Health Science
Hill County Campus
Mailing address:
112 Lamar Drive
Hillsboro TX 76645
Physical Address:
1800 Corsicana Hwy
Hillsboro TX 76645
Phone: 254-659-7920
Fax: 254-582-7591
Johnson County
Campus
2112 Mayfield Parkway
Cleburne TX 76033
Phone: 817-760-5921
Fax: 817-760-5930
Testing Center
Hill County Campus
Phone: 254-659-7817
Johnson County
Campus
Phone: 817-760-5814
817-760-5815
General College
Information
Admission & Financial
Aid
Hill County Campus
112 Lamar Drive
Hillsboro TX 76645
Phone: 254-659-7600
Fax: 254-659-7591
Johnson County
Campus
2112 Mayfield Parkway
Cleburne TX 76033
Phone: 817-760-5600
Fax: 817-556-2142
Page 1
d. TOEFL Waiver: The student can request a TOEFL waiver form from
the Health Science department if they meet the following criteria:
completion with a “C” or better of 4 different college level English
courses and 1college level communication course; from an accredited
US college/university.
e. TOEFL minimum Internet score of 80 or a computer-based TOEFL
score of 250 or a paper/pencil test score of 600. Scores will not be
considered if they are more than two years old. TOEFL Test score
reports must be sent directly to the Health Science Department from
the testing center. Information about the TOEFL may be obtained from
the web site: www.ets.org/toefl or by calling 1-800-468-6335.
15. Documentation that immunizations are current and up-to-date.
a. 2 MMR’s,
b. 1 TdaP (within adult lifetime)
c. Tetanus (documentation of booster within the last 10 years),
d. Varicella vaccine x2
e. Seasonal Influenza vaccine
f. Hepatitis B series – at the point of selection the Hep B series needs to
be in progress or complete. Hepatitis B series will take 4-6 months to
complete.
Advising and Student
Success Center
Hill County Campus
112 Lamar Dr.
Hillsboro TX 76645
Phone: 254-659-7650
Johnson County
Campus
2112 Mayfield Parkway
Cleburne TX 76033
Phone 817-760-5650
Note: Negative TB and Physical form will be required if accepted to the
nursing program.
Note: Information listed is subject to change. Please contact the Health
Science office for current requirements
***Hill College is not responsible for lost or misdirected mail!!!***
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 2
Hill College
Vocational Nursing
Criminal Background/Drug Testing/Eligibility Issue
ANY candidate with eligibility issues related to criminal convictions seeking consideration for a Hill College Nursing
Program must be aware of the following:
 Applicants with an eligibility issue must provide to the Hill College Health Science program
documentation that they have completed the declaratory order process prior to the posted deadline date.
Applicants with pending declaratory orders at the posted deadline date will be considered at a lower
priority for selection.
 Failure to disclose an eligibility issue prior to admission into the nursing program WILL result in AUTOMATIC
DISMISSAL from the nursing program.
All candidates will be required to have a criminal background check and a drug test completed before he/she
can register for the Hill College Vocational Nursing Program.
213.28 - Licensure of Persons with Criminal Convictions
The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) may refuse to approve persons to take the licensure examination, may
refuse to issue or renew a license or certificate of registration, or may refuse to issue a temporary permit to
any individual that has been convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or engage in
conduct resulting in the revocation of probation imposed pursuant to such a conviction. The practice of
nursing involves clients, their families, significant others and the public in diverse settings. The registered
and vocational nurse practices in an autonomous role with individuals who are physically, emotionally and
financially vulnerable. The nurse has access to personal information about all aspects of a person’s life,
resources and relationships. Therefore, criminal behavior whether violent or non-violent, directed against
persons, property or public order and decency is considered by the Board as highly relevant to an
individual’s fitness to practice nursing.
Clinical facilities have the right to refuse any student to attend clinical rotations at their facility for any issue
related to an eligibility issue. If this occurs, the student will not be able to continue in the VN program.
Approved Declaratory Order is not a guarantee that the student will be able to attend any clinical rotation if the
facility refuses to allow the student access.
Failure to disclose a potential eligibility issue not found by the Hill College VN program will be considered
unethical behavior and will constitute dismissal from the program without cause.
Any candidate with an eligibility issue (see BON rules and regulations) must provide an approved declaratory
order prior to acceptance into the Vocational Nursing Program.
“Hill College policy prohibits the unlawful manufacture, possession, use, sale, transfer, or purchase of a
controlled substance or designer drug on campus. It is also a violation of College policy for anyone to
unlawfully possess, use, or be under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or controlled substance on
the campus or a College related activity off-campus”
If a candidate’s drug test comes back positive he/she will not be allowed to register for the Vocational Nursing
program. At any point within the year I may be required to do further drug testing and/or background checks
if the program director in consultation with the instructor(s) feel there is sufficient evidence to warrant further
investigation.
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 3
Explanation of the point system policy
In addition to the general admission requirements to Hill College, the Hill College Vocational Nursing Department
implemented (October 2000) a point system for possible acceptance in the Vocational Nursing Program.
Required:
1. HESI A2 Reading 70%, Math 60%, A&P 60%
2. Preparation questionnaire: Completed during pre-testing, you will answer the following questions.
A. Your strengths
B. Your Weaknesses
C. What preparations have you made?
D. Your goals
E. Why you are the best candidate
F. Why you are interested in nursing as a career.
3. Reference form
A. Professional (current/former supervisor, co-worker Or instructor/counselor only, not from friends or
family members)
B. No References no points will be given for references not received by deadline or received from
unacceptable source or method of delivery
4. Board of Nursing background check (initiated by the Health Science Department)
**NOTE** All references must be mailed. The Nursing Department will not accept faxed or hand delivered
references
**NOTE** You must show that you have completed the required pre-requisites: BIOL 2401 Anatomy &
Physiology I and BIOL 2402 Anatomy & Physiology II and General Psychology PRIOR to the deadline
date. Candidates enrolled in the pre-requisites may be considered for acceptance at a lower priority
than candidates who have completed the pre-requisites by the admission deadline date. If you need
further clarification on this requirement please call 254-659-7920.
.
**NOTE** To receive points for each of the following you must submit an official transcript showing you have
completed the course with a “C” or better. If employed as a CNA, CMA, etc. you must submit copy of
your state certificate along with a letter (must be on letterhead) from your current employer stating you
have worked > six months in your field of study.
The following are not required but may be considered:
1. To receive 1/2 of the points you must submit a student copy of your transcript showing you are
currently enrolled on a letter (on letterhead) from the institution you are attending detailing your
status as a student.
a. Nutrition w/ “C”
b. Pharmacology w/ “C”
c. Medical Terminology w/ ”C”
2. Pretesting English passing score 60%
3. Prior Medical Experience
(must show documentation that you are currently employed or received education in a patient
centered health related career.)
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 4
General Explanation HESI Assessment Test
The Math, Reading and A&P portions of the HESI A2 test will be used to determine the eligibility of the
student to be initially qualified for possible selection into the Vocational Nursing Program.
Reading Comprehension: 38-item exam- reading scenarios that are health related. The reading scenarios
pop up on the screen, such as identifying the main idea, supporting details, meanings of words, purpose
and tone, differentiating between fact and opinion, logical inferences and summarizing. Time allotment:
50 minutes.
Math: 50-item exam. Focus on math needed for calculation of drugs and solutions. Such as: basic math,
fractions/decibels, ratio/proportion, percentages, and basic algebraic equations. Time allotment: 50
minutes.
A&P (Science): 25-item exam. Quick assessment of the students’ knowledge of the various sciences
he/she will encounter in the course of their student nurse experience. Time allotment: 25 minutes.
Note: The English portion of the test will be used in the calculation points system for possible
selection.
English:
Grammar: 50-item exam. Contains basic grammar. Time allotment: 50 minutes
Vocabulary and General Knowledge: 50-item test. Contains basic vocabulary that is often used
in the health care fields. Time allotment: 50 minutes.
The HESI Critical Thinking portion of the test will assess the student’s ability to critically thinking.
HESI Critical Thinking (Optional)
The HESI Critical Thinking exam is a four-choice, multiple-choice test. All answers are correct.
However, each choice reflects a different degree of critical thinking skills.
Scores range from 0-1000. The higher your score is, the better your ability to think critically within the
discipline of nursing.
In addition to a total score on this exam you will receive scores on five sub-categories of critical thinking:

Problem Solving: These questions refer to the process of inquiry in which the nurse seeks
multiple facts to remove obstacles or resolve patient care problems.

Resolution Biases/Ethical Dilemma: These questions address ethical, legal, and moral
issues, as well as biases nurse may have about patients and others.

Argument Analysis: These questions refer to situations in which the nurse seeks to
resolve conflicts or disagreements by considering multiple points of view.

Analysis of Data: These questions address the need to interpret patient data correctly, and
decide if further nursing action is required.

Prioritization of Care
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 5
Thank you for your interest in the Hill College Vocational Nursing Program. The program is a one-year, 48
credit hour curriculum leading to a Certificate of Completion. The Vocational Nursing Program is
accredited by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) and is designed to provide the student with the skill and
knowledge required to pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination - Vocational Nursing).
Disabilities/ADA
In accordance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the regulations published by
the United States Department of Justice 28 C.F.R. 35.107(a), Hill College’s designated ADA coordinator, Melanie
Betz, Director of Academic Advising & Student Success, shall be responsible for coordinating the College’s efforts
to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under ADA. Students with disabilities requiring physical,
classroom, or testing accommodations should contact the Director of Academic Advising & Student Success,
Melanie Betz, at (254) 659-7651.
Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability
Federal law prohibits us from making preadmission inquiry about disabilities. Information regarding
disabilities, voluntarily given or inadvertently received, will not adversely affect any admission decision. If
you require special services because of disability, you may notify the Office of Student Development. This
voluntary self-identification allows Hill College to prepare appropriate support services to facilitate your
learning. This information will be kept in strict confidence and has no effect on your admission to the
college. Hill College has designated the Vice President of Student Development as the Section 504
Coordinator. Also Hill College complies with state regulations that allow no illegal drugs on Campus.
Students caught with such a drug may be suspended from the college for a specified period of time.
General Admission Requirements to the College
Applicants to the Vocational Nursing Program must meet the general admission requirements to the
college as outlined in the college catalog.
Admission Requirements for the Vocational Nursing Program
In addition to the general admission requirements to Hill College, effective October 2000, the Hill College
Nursing Program implemented a point system for possible acceptance in the Vocational Nursing Program
as follows:
1. Completion of the Pre-Requisites: Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and
physiology II and General Psychology with a “C” or better with a cumulative
2.50 GPA prior to enrollment in the VN program. (See Explanation of Points
Policy.)
2. Acceptable Reading Score 70% or higher
3. Acceptable Math Score 60% or higher
4. Acceptable A&P (Science) 60% or higher
5. Board of Nursing background check (initiated by the Health Science Department
6. Preparation questionnaire. Completed during pre-testing, the candidate will answer
the following questions:
A. Your strengths B. Your weakness C. What preparations have you made?
D. Your goals E. Why you are the best candidate F. Why you are interested in
nursing as a career
7. Reference form
a. Professional (current/former supervisor, co-workers Or instructor/counselor only,
not from friends and family members or received from an unacceptable source
and/or method of delivery)
b. No References – no points for references not received by the deadline or received
from an unacceptable source and or method of delivery)
Note: All references must be mailed. The Nursing Department will not accept faxed or hand delivered
references.
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 6
Explanation of the Test of English as a Foreign Language Test (TOEFL)
Health Science TOEFL Policy
TOEFL Policy: Students must demonstrate English proficiency as an admission requirement. This may be
demonstrated by one of the following:
1. Attended four years of high school in one of the 50 United States and receiving a diploma.
2. Attended two years of high school in one of the 50 United States and passed the GED.
3. Acceptable GED scores from one of the 50 United States and acceptable scores from the Test
of English as a Foreign Language Test (TOEFL) within the two years of the posted deadline
date of program application.
TOEFL minimum passing score: Internet score of 80 or a computer-based TOEFL score of 250 or a
paper/pencil test score of 600. Scores will not be considered if they are more than two years old.
TOEFL Test score reports must be sent directly to the Health Science Department from the testing
center. Information about the TOEFL may be obtained from the web site: www.ets.org/toefl or by
calling 1-800-468-6335.
TOEFL Waiver: The student can request a TOEFL waiver form from the Health Science department if they
meet the following criteria: completion with a “C” or better of 4 different college level English
courses and 1college level communication course; from an accredited US college/university.
Hill College Admission Policy/State Board Limits
Hill College maintains an open admission policy; however, the number of nursing students that can be
accepted is limited by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) and the availability of clinical instruction
facilities. Hill College will take the top candidates who receive the highest total points. ** In the event
of a tie the candidate with the highest points in the required areas will be given first priority (Reading
and Math scores, Preparation Questionnaire and Reference form). Hill College reserves the right to
refuse admission to the nursing program to any applicant whose application is deemed unsatisfactory.
Texas Board of Nursing (BON)
Criminal Conviction Policy 213.28
The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) may refuse to approve persons to take the licensure examination,
may refuse to issue or renew a license or certificate of registration, or may refuse to issue a temporary
permit to any individual that has been convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude
or engage in conduct resulting in the revocation of probation imposed pursuant to such a conviction.
The practice of nursing involves clients, their families, significant others and the public in diverse
settings. The nurse has access to personal information.
Note: The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) requires ALL students to have the BON background check
process completed prior to admission.
The Hill College Vocational Nursing Program requires any candidate with an eligibility issue (see BON rules
and regulations) to provide the Vocational Program Director an approved declaratory order prior to acceptance
into the Vocational Nursing Program.
General College Information
Hill College is an affirmative action/equal opportunity educator institution and employer. The College
does not discriminate on the Basis of Disability. Please refer to the Hill College Catalog for further
information on any of the following policies or general college information. 1. Affirmative
Action/Equal Opportunity
2. Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability
3. General Admission Requirements to the College;
4. Overdue Financial Obligations
5. Financial Aid
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 7
About the Hill College Vocational Nursing Program
Johnson County Campus – Cleburne
Hillsboro Campus- Hillsboro
The Hill College Vocational Nursing Program has 2 entry points
Hillsboro - class begins in January and will complete in December of same year of entry.
Cleburne – class begins in late August and will complete early August the following year
Semester I
Weeks 1-6 to 8: Class 8:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Weeks 6-8 to 16:
Class 8:00 - 5:00 p.m.
3 days per week
Clinical **varies by program** 2 or 3 days per week
Semester II and III
Classes 2 days per week 8:00 am - 5:00 p.m.
Clinical 2 or 3 days per week 7:30-5:00pm
We do clinical in several different areas, as far north as Fort Worth, as far south as Temple. BE PREPARED TO
TRAVEL. The travel and expenses to the class and clinical facilities is the responsibility of the STUDENT.
VOCATIONAL NURSING
Certificate of Completion
Completion of the requirements listed below leads to the Certificate of Completion and is designed to provide
the student with the skills and knowledge required to pass the licensure exam from the National Council of
State Board of Nursing (Texas-VN)
Prerequisites: Must be completed prior to entry in the Vocational Nursing Program
BIOL 2401 Anatomy & Physiology I ........... .................................................................................4
BIOL 2402 Anatomy & Physiology II .......... .................................................................................4
PSYC 2301 General Psychology ....................................................................................................3
Total hours
11
VN Curriculum
VNSG 1216 Nutrition or BIOL 1322 Diet & Nutrition ................................................................... 2/3
VNSG 1500 Nursing in Health & Illness I ...................................................................................... 5
VNSG 1509 Nursing in Health & Illness II ..................................................................................... 5
VNSG 1510 Nursing in Health & Illness III .................................................................................... 5
VSNG 1330 Maternal Neonatal Nurse ......................................................................................... 3
VNSG 1334 Pediatrics .................................................................................................................. 3
VSNG 1331 Pharmacology or RNSG 1301 Pharmacology ............................................................ 3
VNSG 1360 Clinical I Practical Nurse ............................................................................................ 3
VNSG 1461 Clinical II Practical Nurse........................................................................................... 4
+VSNG 1462 Clinical III Practical Nurse ........................................................................................ 4
Total Hours
37/38
Level II – TSI Liable
+ Capstone Experience
Hill College Nursing Department Classroom and Clinical Grading Policy
The grade of “C” is required to progress to the next semester. The nursing department grading system is as
follows:
A = 90-100
B = 80 - 89
C = 75 - 79
F = < 75
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 8
Academic Course Recommendations
For all locations BIOL 2401, BIOL 2402, and PSYC 2301 are required before admission to the VN
programs.
Important Please Read
Immunization requirements
All prospective students must show proof that they are current and up to date with all required
immunizations:
(2) MMR’s (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) or titer showing immunity
(1) Td (within the last 7 years).
(1) Tdap (within adult lifetime)
(2) Varicella (Chicken Pox) or titer showing immunity
Seasonal Influenza vaccine
Hepatitis B Series
(Hep B #1, then one month later Hep B #2, Hep B #3 [4 – 6 months after the first shot]) must be
completed or in progress (with proof of completion of the Hep B #1 and Hep B #2 of the
series)at the time of enrollment in the Vocational Nursing Program. **The student must
complete the Hepatitis B series prior to direct patient care. The student should expect to
experience direct patient .*
CPR Certification
(American Heart Association/Basic Life Support with hands on skills component) **NOTE: THIS
MUST BE IN FILE BY DEAD-LINE DATE!!!**
Required AFTER selection:
Negative TB (Tuberculosis) tine test (or chest x-ray if the prospective student shows a positive reaction
to the TB skin test.) This should be done after acceptance into the program.
**Health Screening form (Physical)
**The Pre-enrollment Health Screening form must be completed and turned in on the
first day of VN Pre-Orientation. **
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 9
Hill College
Vocational Nursing Program
REFERENCE FORM
Application Deadlines: November 1 for classes beginning in January
June 1 for classes beginning in August
APPLICANT INSTRUCTIONS:
Three (3) references are required to complete the application process for possible entrance into the Hill College
Vocational Nursing Program. The Hill College Vocational Nursing Program recommends you consider references from
individuals who have known you either in a working or classroom setting for more than 6 weeks and can comment on
your work/classroom ethics. The references must be from current/former employers, college/high school instructors or
education counselors. NOTE: The Hill College Vocational Nursing Program WILL NOT accept references from friends,
relatives, faxed or hand delivered. All Items marked by an * are required, if not completed will delay processing or
void this reference form.
Please complete the following information and furnish a copy of this form to your designated references. Provide a
stamped envelope to each reference addressed to the HILL COLLEGE Nursing Program you are choosing to attend:
Spring Entry Program
 Hillsboro Program: Hill College, Attention: Vocational Nursing, 112 Lamar Dr., Hillsboro, TX 76645
Fall Entry Program
 Cleburne Program: Hill College, Attention: Vocational Nursing, 2112 Mayfield Parkway, Cleburne, TX 76033
*Applicant (print or type):____________________________________________________________________ ___
Name
References written in confidence are often of greater value in assessing an applicant's qualifications. Please read the state ment
below and indicate your preference with regard to the confidentially of this evaluation.
In accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Acts of 1974 (Public Law 93-380), I understand that I have the right of
access to this reference but may choose to waive that right. My preference is noted below:
_____ I waive my right of access to this reference form. _____ I do not waive my right of access to this reference form.
*Applicant's signature: _________________________________________Date: _________________________
EVALUATOR INSTRUCTIONS:
Please complete Parts I, II of this reference form and return directly to the Hill College Vocational Nursing Program in
the stamped envelope provided by the applicant. Evaluator please sign the envelope on the back across the sealing
flap. All Items marked by an * are required, if not completed will delay processing or void this reference form.
PART I
*Evaluator Name: __________________________________________Occupation:___________________
*Business Name: __________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________________
Street
City
*Daytime Phone #: _________________________
State
Zip
Email address: ___________________________
*How long have you known the applicant? _______________________
*In what capacity? □ Employer
□Supervisor □Co-worker
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
□Student □ Other (specify): _________
Page 10
Applicant (print or type): ______________________________________________________________________
Name
PART II
Please indicate your evaluation of the applicant with a check mark.
Always
Usually
Sometimes
Rarely
Learns new procedures or skills quickly
Is dependable and trustworthy
Cooperates with others
Communicates well with others
Accepts suggestions and criticism gracefully
Asks for supervision or guidance when needed
Assumes responsibility in his/her position when needed
Is neat in dress and grooming habits
Is punctual and regular in attendance
Is punctual in response to deadlines and commitments
Summary Evaluation:
□ Recommend without reservation
□ Recommend
□ Recommend with reservation
□ Do not recommend
Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: _____________________________
Your candid evaluation of the applicant will be of significant value and is appreciated.
Additional comments:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Office use only
Date received: ___________________________Received by: ________________________
Acceptable
Yes _______________ No___________________
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 11
Texas Administrative Code
<<Prev Rule
TITLE 22
PART 11
CHAPTER 213
RULE §213.28
Next Rule>>
EXAMINING BOARDS
TEXAS BOARD OF NURSING
PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE
Licensure of Persons with Criminal Offenses
(a) This section sets out the considerations and criteria in determining the effect of criminal offenses on the
eligibility of a person to obtain a license and the consequences that criminal offenses may have on a person’s
ability to retain or renew a license as a registered nurse or licensed vocational nurse. The Board may refuse to
approve persons to take the licensure examination, may refuse to issue or renew a license or certificate of
registration, or may refuse to issue a temporary permit to any individual that has been convicted of or received
a deferred disposition for a felony, a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, or engaged in conduct resulting
in the revocation of probation.
(b) The practice of nursing involves clients, their families, significant others and the public in diverse settings.
The registered and vocational nurse practices in an autonomous role with individuals who are physically,
emotionally and financially vulnerable. The nurse has access to personal information about all aspects of a
person’s life, resources and relationships. Therefore, criminal behavior whether violent or non-violent, directed
against persons, property or public order and decency is considered by the Board as highly relevant to an
individual’s fitness to practice nursing. The Board considers the following categories of criminal conduct to
relate to and affect the practice of nursing:
(1) offenses against the person similar to those outlined in Title 5 of the Texas Penal Code.
(A) These offenses include, but are not limited to, the following crimes, as well as any crime that contains
substantially similar or equivalent elements under another state or federal law:
(i) Abandonment/Endangerment of a Child {TPC §22.041}
(ii) Agree to Abduct Child for Remuneration: Younger than Eighteen {TPC §25.031}
(iii) Aiding Suicide: Serious Bodily Injury/Death {TPC §22.08}
(iv) Assault, Aggravated {TPC §22.02}
(v) Capital Murder {TPC §19.03}
(vi) Child Pornography, Possession or Promotion {TPC §43.26(a), (e) (Texas Rules of Criminal Procedure Ch. 62)}
(vii) Indecency with a Child {TPC §21.11 (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(viii) Indecent exposure (2 or more counts and/or required to register as sex offender) {TPC §21.08 (TRCP Ch.
62)}
(ix) Injury to Child, Elderly, Disabled {TPC §22.04}
(x) Kidnapping {TPC §20.03, §20.04 (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(xi) Manslaughter {TPC §19.04}
(xii) Murder {TPC §19.02}
(xiii) Online Solicitation of a Minor {TPC §33.021(b), (c), (f); (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(xiv) Prostitution, Compelling {TPC §43.05 (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(xv) Protective Order, Violation {TPC §25.07, §25.071}
(xvi) Sale or Purchase of a Child {TPC §25.08}
(xvii) Sexual Assault {TPC §22.011 (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(xviii) Sexual Conduct, Prohibited {TPC §25.02 (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(xix) Sexual Assault, Aggravated {TPC §22.021 (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(xx) Sexual Performance by Child {TPC §43.24 (d), §43.25(b) (TRCP Ch. 62)}
(xxi) Unlawful Restraint {TPC §0.02}
(xxii) Assault {TPC §22.01(a)(1), (b), (c)}
(xxiii) Criminally negligent homicide {TPC §19.05}
(xxiv) Improper Relationship between Educator and Student {TPC §21.12}
(xxv) Improper photography {TPC §21.15}
(xxvi) Obscenity, Wholesale promotion {TPC §43.23(a), (h)}
General Admission Criteria Packet Revised February 2015
Page 12
(xxvii) Prostitution (3 or more counts) or Aggravated Promotion {TPC §43.02, §43.04}
(xxviii) Resisting Arrest, Use of Deadly Weapon {TPC §38.03(d)}
(xxix) Stalking {TPC §42.072(b)}
(xxx) Harassment {TPC §42.07}
(xxxi) Prostitution or Promotion of {TPC §43.02}
(xxxii) Protective Order, Violation {TPC §25.07, §38.112}
(xxxiii) Resisting Arrest {TPC §38.03(a)}
(xxxiv) Deadly conduct {TPC §22.05(a)}
(xxxv) Obscenity, Participates {TPC §43.23(c), (h)}
(xxxvi) Terroristic Threat {TPC §22.07}
(xxxvii)Criminal Attempt or Conspiracy {TPC §15.01, §15.02}
(B) These types of crimes relate to the practice of nursing because:
(i) nurses have access to persons who are vulnerable by virtue of illness or injury and are frequently in a
position to be exploited;
(ii) nurses have access to persons who are especially vulnerable including the elderly, children, the mentally ill,
sedated and anesthetized patients, those whose mental or cognitive ability is compromised and patients who
are disabled or immobilized and may be subject to harm by similar criminal behavior;
(iii) nurses are frequently in situations where they provide intimate care to patients or have contact with
partially clothed or fully undressed patients who are vulnerable to exploitation both physically and emotionally;
(iv) nurses are in the position to have access to privileged information and opportunity to exploit
patient vulnerability; and
(v) nurses who commit these crimes outside the workplace raise concern about the nurse’s propensity to
repeat that same misconduct in the workplace and raises concerns regarding the individual’s ability to provide
safe, competent care to patients.
(2) offenses against property, e.g., robbery, burglary and theft, etc.
(A) These offenses include, but are not limited to, the following crimes, as well as any crime that contains
substantially similar or equivalent elements under another state or federal law:
(i) Burglary (if punishable under Penal Code §30.02(d)) {TRCP Ch. 62 (§62.001(5)(D))}
(ii) Robbery {TPC §29.02}
(iii) Robbery, Aggravated {TPC §29.03}
(iv) Arson {TPC §28.02(d)}
(v) Burglary {TPC §30.02}
(vi) Criminal Mischief {TPC §28.03}
(vii) Money Laundering >= $1500 {TPC §34.02(e)(1) - (4)}
(viii) Theft >= $1500 {TPC §31.03(e)(4) - (7)}
(ix) Theft < 9 {TPC §31.03(e)(1) - (3)}
(x) Vehicle, Unauthorized Use {TPC §31.07}
(xi) Criminal Trespass {TPC §30.05(a),(d)}
(xii) Cruelty to Animals {TPC §42.091}
(xiii) Criminal Attempt or Conspiracy {TPC §15.01, §15.02}
(B) These types of crimes relate to the practice of nursing because:
(i) nurses have access to persons who are vulnerable by virtue of illness or injury and are frequently in a
position to be exploited;
(ii) nurses have access to persons who are especially vulnerable including the elderly, children, the mentally ill,
sedated and anesthetized patients, those whose mental or cognitive ability is compromised and patients who
are disabled or immobilized and may provide easy opportunity to be victimized;
(iii) nurses have access to persons who frequently bring valuable (medications, money, jewelry, items of
sentimental value, checkbook, or credit cards) with them to a health care facility with no security to prevent
theft or exploitation;
(iv) nurses frequently provide care in private homes and home-like settings where all of the patient’s property
and valuables are accessible to the nurse;
(v) nurses frequently provide care autonomously without direct supervision and may have access to and
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opportunity to misappropriate property; and
(vi) nurses who commit these crimes outside the workplace raise concern about the nurse’s propensity to
repeat that same misconduct in the workplace and, therefore, place patients’ property at risk.
(vii) certain crimes involving property, such as cruelty to animals and criminal trespass, may also concern the
safety of persons and, as such, raise concerns about the propensity of the nurse to repeat similar conduct in the
workplace, placing patients at risk.
(3) offenses involving fraud or deception.
(A) These offenses include, but are not limited to, the following crimes, as well as any crime that contains
substantially similar or equivalent elements under another state or federal law:
(i) Attempt, Conspiracy, or Solicitation of Ch. 62 offense {TRCP Ch. 62}
(ii) Tampering with a Government Record {TPC §37.10}
(iii) Insurance Fraud: Intent to Defraud {TPC §35.02(a-1), (d)}
(iv) Insurance Fraud: Claim > $500 {TPC §35.02(c)}
(v) Insurance Fraud: Claim < 0 {TPC §35.02 (c)(1) - (3)}
(vi) Medicaid Fraud > $1500 {TPC §35A.02(b)(4) - (7)}
(vii) Medicaid Fraud < $1500 {TPC §35A.02(b)(2) - (3)}
(viii) Criminal Attempt or Conspiracy {TPC §15.01, §15.02}
(B) These types of crime relate to the practice of nursing because:
(i) nurses have access to persons who are vulnerable by virtue of illness or injury and are frequently in a
position to be exploited;
(ii) nurses have access to persons who are especially vulnerable including the elderly, children, the mentally ill,
sedated and anesthetized patients, those whose mental or cognitive ability is compromised and patients who
are disabled or immobilized;
(iii) nurses are in the position to have access to privileged information and opportunity to exploit patient
vulnerability;
(iv) nurses are frequently in situations where they must report patient condition, record objective/subjective
information, provide patients with information, and report errors in the nurse’s own practice or conduct;
(v) the nurse-patient relationship is of a dependent nature; and
(vi) nurses who commit these crimes outside the workplace raise concern about the nurse’s propensity to
repeat that same misconduct in the workplace and, therefore, place patients at risk.
(4) offenses involving lying and falsification.
(A) These offenses include, but are not limited to, the following crimes, as well as any crime that contains
substantially similar or equivalent elements under another state or federal law:
(i) False Report or Statement {TPC §32.32, §42.06}
(ii) Forgery {TPC §32.21(c), (d), (e)}
(iii) Tampering with a Governmental Record {TPC §37.10}
(B) These crimes are related to nursing because:
(i) nurses have access to persons who are vulnerable by virtue of illness or injury;
(ii) nurses have access to persons who are especially vulnerable including the elderly, children, the mentally ill,
sedated and anesthetized patients, those whose mental or cognitive ability is compromised and patients who
are disabled or immobilized;
(iii) nurses are frequently in situations where they must report patient condition, record objective/subjective
information, provide patients with information, and report errors in the nurse’s own practice or conduct;
(iv) honesty, accuracy and integrity are personal traits valued by the nursing profession, and considered
imperative for the provision of safe and effective nursing care;
(v) falsification of documents regarding patient care, incomplete or inaccurate documentation of patient care,
failure to provide the care documented, or other acts of deception raise serious concerns whether the nurse
will continue such behavior and jeopardize the effectiveness of patient care in the future;
(vi) falsification of employment applications and failing to answer specific questions that would have affected
the decision to employ, certify, or otherwise utilize a nurse raises concerns about a nurse’s propensity to lie
and whether the nurse possesses the qualities of honesty and integrity;
(vii) falsification of documents or deception/lying outside of the workplace, including falsification of an
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application for licensure to the Board, raises concerns about the person’s propensity to lie, and the likelihood
that such conduct will continue in the practice of nursing; and
(viii) a crime of lying or falsification raises concerns about the nurse’s propensity to engage in similar conduct
while practicing nursing and place patients at risk.
(5) offenses involving the delivery, possession, manufacture, or use of, or dispensing or prescribing a controlled
substance, dangerous drug, or mood-altering substance.
(A) These offenses include, but are not limited to, the following crimes, as well as any crime that contains
substantially similar or equivalent elements under another state or federal law:
(i) Drug Violations under Health and Safety Code Chs. 481, 482, 483; or
(ii) Driving While Intoxicated (2 or more counts) {TPC §49.09}
(B) These crimes relate to the practice of nursing because:
(i) nurses have access to persons who are vulnerable by virtue of illness or injury;
(ii) nurses have access to persons who are especially vulnerable including the elderly, children, the mentally ill,
sedated and anesthetized patients, those whose mental or cognitive ability is compromised and patients who
are disabled or immobilized;
(iii) nurses provide care to critical care, geriatric, and pediatric patients who are particularly vulnerable given
the level of vigilance demanded under the circumstances of their health condition;
(iv) nurses are able to provide care in private homes and home-like setting without supervision;
(v) nurses who are chemically dependent or who abuse drugs or alcohol may have impaired judgment while
caring for patients and are at risk for harming patients; and
(vi) an offense regarding delivery, possession, manufacture, or use of, or dispensing , or prescribing a controlled
substance, dangerous drug or mood altering drug raises concern about the nurse’s propensity to repeat that
same misconduct in the workplace.
(vii) DWI offenses involve the use and/or abuse of mood altering drugs while performing a state licensed
activity affecting public safety; repeated violations suggest a willingness to continue in reckless and dangerous
conduct, or an unwillingness to take appropriate corrective measures, despite previous disciplinary action by
the state.
(c) In considering whether a criminal offense renders the individual ineligible for licensure or renewal of
licensure as a registered or vocational nurse, the Board shall consider:
(1) the knowing or intentional practice of nursing without a license issued under the NPA;
(2) any felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude;
(3) the nature and seriousness of the crime;
(4) the relationship of the crime to the purposes for requiring a license to engage in nursing practice;
(5) the extent to which a license might offer an opportunity to engage in further criminal activity of the same
type as that in which the person previously had been involved; and
(6) the relationship of the crime to the ability, capacity, or fitness required to perform the duties and discharge
the responsibilities of nursing practice;
(7) whether imprisonment followed a felony conviction, felony community supervision revocation, revocation
of parole or revocation of mandatory supervision; and
(8) conduct that results in the revocation of probation imposed because of conviction for a felony or for a
misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.
(d) Crimes listed under subsections (b)(1)(A)(i) - (xxi), (b)(2)(A)(i) - (iii), and (b)(3)(A)(i) of this section are
offenses identified under §301.4535 of the NPA. As such, these offenses require the board to suspend a nurse’s
license, revoke a license, or deny issuing a license to an applicant upon proof of initial conviction.
(e) In addition to the factors that may be considered under subsection (c) of this section, the Board, in
determining the present fitness of a person who has been convicted of or received a deferred order for a crime,
shall consider:
(1) the extent and nature of the person’s past criminal activity;
(2) the age of the person when the crime was committed;
(3) the amount of time that has elapsed since the person’s last criminal activity;
(4) the conduct and work activity of the person before and after the criminal activity;
(5) evidence of the person’s rehabilitation or rehabilitative effort while incarcerated or after release; and
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(6) other evidence of the person’s present fitness, including letters of recommendation from: prosecutors and
law enforcement and correctional officers who prosecuted, arrested, or had custodial responsibility for the
person; the sheriff or chief of police in the community where the person resides; and any other persons in
contact with the convicted person.
(f) It shall be the responsibility of the applicant, to the extent possible, to obtain and provide to the Board the
Recommendations of the prosecution, law enforcement, and correctional authorities as required under this
Act.
The applicant shall also furnish proof in such form as may be required by the Board that he or she has
maintained a record of steady employment and has supported his or her dependents and has otherwise
maintained a record of good conduct and has paid all outstanding court costs, supervision fees, fines, and
restitution as may have been ordered in all criminal cases in which he or she has been convicted or received a
deferred order.
(g) If requested by staff, it shall be the responsibility of the individual seeking licensure to ensure that staff is
provided with legible, certified copies of all court and law enforcement documentation from all jurisdictions
where the individual has resided or practiced as a licensed health care professional. Failure to provide
complete, legible and accurate documentation will result in delays prior to licensure or renewal of licensure
and possible grounds for ineligibility.
(h) The fact that a person has been arrested will not be used as grounds for disciplinary action. If, however,
evidence ascertained through the Board’s own investigation from information contained in the arrest record
regarding the underlying conduct suggests actions violating the Nursing Practice Act or rules of the Board, the
board may consider such evidence as a factor in its deliberations regarding any decision to grant a license,
restrict a license, or impose licensure discipline.
(i) Behavior that would otherwise bar or impede licensure may be deemed a “Youthful Indiscretion” as
determined by an analysis of the behavior using the factors set out in §213.27 of this title (relating to Good
Professional Character), subsections (a) - (f) of this section and at least the following criteria:
(1) age of 22 years or less at the time of the behavior;
(2) absence of criminal plan or premeditation;
(3) presence of peer pressure or other contributing influences;
(4) absence of adult supervision or guidance;
(5) evidence of immature thought process/judgment at the time of the activity;
(6) evidence of remorse;
(7) evidence of restitution to both victim and community;
(8) evidence of current maturity and personal accountability;
(9) absence of subsequent undesirable conduct;
(10) evidence of having learned from past mistakes;
(11) evidence of current support structures that will prevent future criminal activity; and
(12) evidence of current ability to practice nursing in accordance with the Nursing Practice Act, Board rules and
generally accepted standards of nursing.
(j) With respect to a request to obtain a license from a person who has a criminal history, the executive director
is
authorized to close an eligibility file when the applicant has failed to respond to a request for information or to
a proposal for denial of eligibility within 60 days thereof.
(k) The board shall revoke a license or authorization to practice as an advanced practice nurse upon the
imprisonment of the licensee following a felony conviction or deferred adjudication, or revocation of felony
community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.
(l) The board shall revoke or deny a license or authorization to practice as an advanced practice nurse for the
crimes listed in Texas Occupations Code §301.4535.
(m) The following disciplinary and eligibility sanction policies and guidelines shall be used by the Executive
Director, the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH), or the Board in evaluating the impact of criminal
conduct on nurse licensure in eligibility and disciplinary matters:
(1) Disciplinary Sanctions for Fraud, Theft and Deception approved by the Board and published on February 22,
2008 in the Texas Register
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(33 TexReg 1646) and available on the Board’s website at
http://www.bon.state.tx.us/disciplinaryaction/dsp.html.
(2) Disciplinary Sanctions for Lying and Falsification approved by the Board and published on February 22, 2008
in the
Texas Register
(33 TexReg 1647) and available on the Board’s website at
http://www.bon.state.tx.us/disciplinaryaction/dsp.html.
(3) Disciplinary Sanctions for Sexual Misconduct approved by the Board and published on February 22,2008 in
the
Texas Register
(33 TexReg 1649) and available on the Board’s website at
http://www.bon.state.tx.us/disciplinaryaction/dsp.html.
(4) Eligibility and Disciplinary Sanctions for Nurses with Substance Abuse, Misuse, Substance Dependency, or
other Substance Use Disorder and published on February 22, 2008 in the Texas Register
(33 TexReg 1651) and available on the Board’s website at
http://www.bon.state.tx.us/disciplinaryaction/dsp.html.
(5) Disciplinary Guidelines for Criminal Conduct approved by the Board and published on March 9, 2007 in the
Texas Register
(32 TexReg 1409) and available on the Board’s website at http://www.bon.state.tx.us/disciplinaryaction/discpguide.html.
The provisions of this §213.28 adopted to be effective September 1, 1998, 23 TexReg 6444; amended to be effective July 20, 1999 , 24
TexReg 5473; amended to be effective November 14, 2002, 27 TexReg 10594; amended to be effective May 17, 2004, 29 TexReg 4884;
amended to be effective March 14, 2007, 32 TexReg 1304; amended to be effective October 10, 2007, 32 TexReg 7058; amended to be
effective July 2, 2008, 33 TexReg 5007
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