CPNE + NCLEX = RN degree?

[nurse1717]

I feel dumb asking this as I've come this far...but, can someone enlighten me. I need to clarify the requirements for my ADN rn degree. I understood that I need to pass both the CPNE & NCLEX to officially work as an RN (in California). I have enrolled prior to Dec. '03. Some places hire their LVNs inhouse once they passed the CPNE(Excelsior). Enter your ideas below pls! Thx.

[suzanne4, RN]

Completion of the required courses is required for the degree. The CPNE satisfies the clinical testing component, and the NCLEX-RN is required for licensure as an RN in any state. The NCLEX-RN has nothing to do with the actual degree.

[nurse1717]

Can I rephrase:

NC1-7 and the CPNE provides the RN Degree and

the NCLEX-RN provides licensure to practice in a State?

RN hiring follows passing the NCLEX and not before?

[suzanne4, RN]

Can I rephrase:

NC1-7 and the CPNE provides the RN Degree and

the NCLEX-RN provides licensure to practice in a State?

RN hiring follows passing the NCLEX and not before?

You are not a Registered Nurse until you pass the exam, you are a GN before (graduate nurse).

Most hospitals want to see that you passed the NCLEX-RN before they will offer you a job. It is also much better to get it out of the way before starting a new job. It has become harder and harder to get a job in CA with an Interim Permit in a hospital. You will find it easier to get hired once you have passed.

[nurse1717]

thanks suzanne4!

[luvdancink]

Most of my friends in traditional RN programs have been hired on as GN's with the assumption that they cant keep working if they dont pass the boards. I was hired on as a GPN (graduate practical nursE) and worked for months before passing my LPN boards. You may find someone willing to hire you as a GN, but being from excelsior (of which I'm enrolled so dont take this the wrong way) you might have a tougher time.

~Kristy

[nurse1717]

I think you're right Kristy. As we all know, Excelsior is anything but traditional. I have heard somewhere that the NCLEX pass rate for EC students is quite high. At this point, I just assume take the NCLEX a few months following my CPNE. (easier said that done?!)

My feeling is that my current employer won't hire me as an RN until I pass the NCLEX-a minor drawback. Excelsior is still such a great program for those of us who need to continue working but want that degree without a huge loan to payoff afterwards. Thanks for the entry.