by backtothefuture

I graduated may 04 and I have taken the nclex rn 5 times. On july 22 will be my 6th and hopefully final time....this past year I worked as an LPN with a permit and I absolutely loved it, unfortunately my permit ran out before I was able to take the test so now I am unemployed. Godwilling I will past this time but if not what do I do for money.....I would love to work in the medical field until I pass but without proper licensing there is nothing out there unless I just don't know....can you help me out??? And I may not even need this advice but just in case..............

Re: money in between time.....

It's been 4 years since nursing school? Can you look for a refresher course? That may help you with the NCLEX since it's been so long.

Re: money in between time.....

Since you will be taking your boards in just a few days I would focus on last minute studying and making sure you're prepared for the exam rather than worrying about finding a job if you fail. You're probably so stressed out right now with the nclex coming up and the last thing you need is to have an additional stress of worrying about finding a job!
However, if you do fail you could work as a nurses aide. I understand that you need to work and bills need to be paid but I think it's more important for the time being to try and find a job that is flexible with your studying schedule, regardless of what field it's in. For example, if you can pick up a couple hours babysitting here and there from your neighbor do that.
Good luck!

Re: money in between time.....

Unfortunately, refresher courses actually require a nursing license; you cannot take one if you did not pass the exam.

There is no nursing job that you can do without having a license or a temporary work permit. Did you in fact write the NCLEX-PN exam? In order to get the IP for that, you need to meet the requirements for licensure.

The only thing that you can work as in health care is as a CNA at this time, but I would be focusing on preparing for the exam. Next question is what have you been doing to prepare for the exam in the past and what have you been doing for this exam?

Re: money in between time.....

The Feuer nursing review course was kind of like a "refresher course". It is really a review course but they focus on the content. Then you can go home after the week of classes and review what you learned and do tons of their practice questions. I really thought it was helpful. Just a thought in case you have to test again. Good luck!!!!

Re: money in between time.....

hi backtothefuture,
im in the same predicament as you. this will be my fourth time testing. i graduated in 05. i can't get a job even as a CNA b/c im not certified as a nursing assistant. its like i have to start all over and go to school again. i cant take refresher course b/c you need license. i don't get it. what is left for people in positions such as ourselves. i spend every dime i get taking care of my bills, kids, and paying for nclex and preparation. i so exhausted and stressed out but being an RN is all I dream of. i just pray to God that this fourth time around will be my time. Im going to use Suzanne's plan and leave the negativity behind me and believe in myself. i know i can do it all i have to do is remove the distractors and focus on my weakness. May God bless you and I will pray for you.