Is there I light at the end of Tunnel for EC Grads? I think I see one.

KellyCCRN · Aug 21, 2008

Thanks for that....right now I need all the hope I can get. It is reassuring to know that maybe EC is fighting a battle for us although they may not be vocal about it.

changeofpaceRN · Aug 21, 2008

I'm from MD so that's nice to know! Don't think I would move back but I like that the BON's might be turning in the RIGHT direction!

serenity67 · Aug 21, 2008

]Great news! With MD being part of my tri-state area here in VA this news gives me a little bit more hope!

Editorial Team / Moderator · Aug 21, 2008

I second what Nikki said! Although I'm probably moving out west in a few years ... Colorado or Oregon. Colorado wants me to have 2,000 hours of experience as an RN, and Oregon says, "Come on in!" LOL!! :) I'm chipping away at those 2,000 hours now ... I wonder when that 2,000 hours starts? When I started working as an RN applicant, or when I passed my boards? Really, there is only 2 weeks of difference.

Thank you so much for posting this information, though ... this whole situation is giving me an ulcer. I mean, I chose this path, yes ... but I want to be able to be an RN wherever I decide to go! I realize I probably won't have a problem because I'm working as an RN now, but still. Worrying about the rest of you, coupled with feeling guilty that my Georgia and Virginia peeps are getting the shaft while I'm able to work as an RN ... it's making me nuts!!

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Aug 21, 2008

The only completely intransigent state has been CA.

FocusRN · Aug 21, 2008

The only completely intransigent state has been CA.

Well see, Ive been looking at that an actually I think there is a loophole for Cali, VA however in their wording makes it difficult. Cali law states:

"810 hours (in a variety of settings and various patients) of supervised clinical practice concurrent with theory to be eligible for examination and licensure as a California Registered Nurse."

Unlike, VA that says those clinical hours must be done in a pre-licensure program, Cali just says that the hours must be done concurrent with theory.

So, my theory is (and I am not a legal expert), that if you were to go on to a BSN, or MSN program (or both combined), and you got at least 810 supervised (by a preceptor) clinical hours, at the same time as your theory, in a variety of settings with various patients, Cali would have no choose but to license you based upon the wording of THEIR LAW. They would seemingly have no choice but to compromise, in this case.

Like I said it isn't a sure things, but I personally think that it is highly likely, based upon the current law.

Now, the question is who the hell gives you 810 supervised clinical hours in an RN-BSN program, or MSN. Now if you did the RN-BSN with a lot of hours, then find and MSN program to make up the rest you'd be all set.

Still, it seems like a lot to go through in an overpriced state, with smoggy air.

rh39 · Aug 21, 2008

This is indeed good news, I have been increasingly discouraged with the latest developments in some states over EC's program. Lets hope that EC continues this trend of hashing out the difficulties with the BON's so that this program will continue to be a viable option. I would really hate to see this program forced out by the narrowminded thinking that at times seems to pervade the nursing profession.

I cannot remember the nurse educators name that proposed that all nurses be college educated (remember NC7?), to "elevate the profession" or some such horsecrap. Nursing is a nitty gritty profession and college courses will only take you so far. The lessons I found the most necessary as a nurse I learned amidst urine, vomit, feces or blood. Classrooms don't help you talk to someone during the last few days of their life, or find the words for their grieving loved ones. Theory is of little value without the skill of practical application, which only happens on the job. Even as a student in clinicals this is very rarely taught, as most student are not encouraged or allowed to make decisions independently, you don't take a breath without clearing it with your instructor first.

I cannot understand how those that make decisions to govern our profession think there is a "magical line" whereby you pass your boards, and viola you are suddenly capable/competent to make these many decisions, what a load of crap. Clinicals aside, we all know it is only time on the job that actually hones the skills we use most as nurses, and gives meaning to all that theory we spent hours learning.

It is truly only my opinion, but I really feel that my years as an LPN gives me a real leg up on safe practice, and sound decisions based on practical application of the nursing process. 250 hours or 250 months of clinicals wouldn't do that for me.

I think I am seriously off topic now, and I will step off my soapbox, but thanks for letting me vent-- this whole issue has me seriously irritated.

Lisa

PS. No offense meant to those that come in as non LPN's, the same principle still applies, hours on the job make the difference, not necessarily our clinical hours.