Advice on what to do next

[Christenb]

Hi! I am new to this website but I've come across it while trying to look for some answers. So my background story is that I went to school for nursing. Went through all 4 semesters of nursing school passed all my exams and clinical but at the end didn't pass the HESI exit exam so the head of nursing failed me. It really took a toll on me and kind of put me in a funk. I am trying to find out what the best way to get my RN is. I have taken my LPN test twice but have not been successful. I am wondering if I should keep trying for my LPN license or should go back to school? If anyone has any suggestions please feel free to give them to me! I am trying to find the best option to help me be successful and continue with my nursing career. Thanks!!

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

What kind of school did you attend? Community college or a for-profit nursing program? It sounds like you may have attended a for-profit program that lets almost all the students pass each semester so that they can continue to collect your money. Then, they set a high final passing requirement (like the HESI), which keeps their NCLEX pass rates higher. Failing the exit HESI and the NCLEX-PN twice suggests that you either have difficulty answering NCLEX-style questions, or you lack understanding of the content. Which do you think is the problem? I would recommend you take an NCLEX review course to refresh yourself on the content and practice as many NCLEX-style questions as you can. The quickest way to get your RN would be to obtain your LPN license and then enroll in an LPN-to-RN bridge. Returning to another nursing program is also an option, though I highly suggest you choose an accredited program.

[Christenb]

I attended a 2 year program at Allegany College of Maryland. I had to take the hesi at the end of each semester and passed those. I think I have a problem answering the questions. I also have some test anxiety. I did do the Kaplan self paced program before I took the test for the second time. I am considering doing this ATI virtual program. Have you heard anything about that? Do you need to have your lpn license to do a LPN-RN program?

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

I haven't heard about the ATI virtual program, but I haven't taken an ATI in over 6 years. And yes, you are not actually an LPN until you have become licensed, and thus not eligible for a bridge program.