What action may the Board take in response to a student lying on their application regarding past legal issues?

The Board holds the authority to ensure the integrity and honesty of the application process for respiratory care practitioners. When a student lies on their application regarding past legal issues, it represents a serious ethical breach that undermines the trust necessary for professional licensure. This action can lead to potential harm to patients and the profession as a whole.

Refusing to issue or revoking the certificate is a decisive action that underscores the importance of transparency and honesty in the application process. It serves as a deterrent against dishonesty among applicants and helps maintain the high standards expected of practitioners in the field. The integrity of the licensing process is critical to upholding public health and safety.

Other options such as merely monitoring future applications or requiring additional documentation do not adequately address the severity of the misconduct. Similarly, issuing a reprimand, while a form of disciplinary action, does not sufficiently respond to the implications of dishonesty in an application context, particularly when it pertains to past legal issues. The Board’s decision to refuse or revoke certification ensures that only those with an honest and clear background are permitted to practice, protecting both the public and the profession.