Advice needed-New here

[degreenolicense]

I completed my Bachelor's degree in 1994. When I graduated, my school wouldn't release my transcript until I finished paying them what I owed them. I had to get a job-anything in order to pay them off. It took 6 months before I could come up with the money. It then took another 3 months to get my authorization to test and then finally take the boards. I failed.

At the same time, I became the sole caregiver of my mother who was fighting cancer. Also, since my mother was unable to care for herself, she was also incapable of caring for my handicapped brother (MRCP, hydrocephalus-2 vp shunts). Aside from my Bookkeeping job, I now had two full time nursing jobs at home.

To make a long story short, In February 1998 my mother took a turn for the worse. On top of that, my brother (9 at the time) had a stroke leaving him in a coma for several months. My mom died in May of 98. I ended up adopting my brother so that he could be covered by my insurance. He is now 15 and more disabled then he had been before. He is totally dependent on me for everything. He just had his 29th shunt revision in August but is doing quite well. He can't speak but he can smile and hug which makes it all worthwhile.

I am now in a place in my life that I want to persue my nursing career. Any suggestions??

I want to work in the field but since I don't have my license what are my options?? Of course studying and passing the boards would be the best option, but I have to pay the bills in the meantime.

Sorry this is so long. I would appreciate any input.

[sjoe]

1) Check with your state's BON about your possibilities. Simply tell them you took it in 94 or 95 and didn't pass and ask how to sign up for it now.

2) Sign up to take it.

3) Buy and use one of the many study guides for that exam.

4) Take one of the "cram" courses, if you learn well that way.

5) Take the test.

[SmilingBluEyes]

what sjoe said; I just wanted to extend you best wishes and good luck!!! we NEED you!

[rn-jane]

i really commend you on your dedication to your loved ones. I don't know many people who would have put their lives on hold, like you have,god bless you.

good luck in your endeavors!

I know in my community there are ways a graduate nurse can work as a certified nursing assistant until they pass their boards.

Also contact your nursing school and other schools in your area, i know some instructors will tutor to prepare students who have difficulty on their boards.

Good luck to you and let us know of your progress!!!!

[IamRN]

You may also want to consider looking into the RN refresher courses. They are usually offered by nursing schools. You will have to ask them about their efficacy towards preparing you for the NCLEX (they are targeted towards RN's that have been away from the field for a number of years), but I can't imagine those courses along w/other prep classes not being useful!

Best wishes!

[memphispanda, RN]

Check your states Board of Nursing also. Here in TN, if it has been more than 10 years since you graduated they will consider letting you become licensed on a "case by case" basis. So if you were here, you'd be getting close to that limit! Anyway, I'd see if there is a time limit first, and go from there.