[mrsdylan]

I do not think I am able to do a BSN program because of location, etc. I'd have to drive really far and I can't afford that. There is an RN program at a community college nearby I can apply for. Will a 2 year Associates program prepare me well enough for the NCLEX-RN? Also I am concerned about getting a job later as an RN at a hospital. Will they hire someone who doesn't have a BSN?

[2bNurseNik]

I am not a nurse yet but I know plenty of nurses with an associates who have no problem getting a job or passing the NCLEX. The BSN prepares you for management type positions and if you plan to become a NP, CRNA, etc.

[Tweety]

Don't worry about NCLEX. Both ADNs and BSNs have similar pass rates, as they take the same exam and get essentially the same prepration for that exam.

There are only a few hospitals around that will not hire ADNs as entry level bedside nurses, so don't waste a minute's worry on that. You will get a good job as a Registered Nurse and you will pass NCLEX.

Good luck to you!

[CDNORRN]

I went to the US of A in 1999 as a new Canadian grad. At the time there was a reciprocal agreement with NC. After 5 years (or so) I decided I wanted to travel but was determined to have the NCLEX complete so I would be accepted in all states. Well, low and behold, 9-11 happened and soon it became mandatory to have NCLEX. Some of my Canadian colleagues are considering going state side now and worry about the NCLEX. If I could do it successfully as after 5 years and literally no clinic/bedside experience then a new grad will have no problem, ADN or BSN. When I was working in NC I spent a lot of time and gave much support to a friend who was in the ADN program and he too was worried. Relax, you know the basics. It's all in reading and responding to the question asked. Kaplans has an excellent resource book. Also, if really concerned there is and excellent refresher, I took this one, it is a week long. F & S Review provides it. Very intense, but helped to confirm what I already knew. Huge confidence builder. I know that it does not eliminate the worry factor though. My screen shut off after about 20 minutes (70 questions) I thought I was going to throw up. The first thing I did when I got back into my vehicle was check my calendar to see when the next date to test would be. Three days later I received confirmation of the pass. Yahoo! You can do it too!