Failed NCLEX but have BSN

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Nurse Beth,

I graduated from a BSN program January 2017. I have taken the NCLEX exam twice and unfortunately did not pass either time. I decided then to take a break from examine to study more, allow my wife to finish school, and raise my son. I recently just took the exam for the 3rd time and have yet to receive my results.

As for work during this hiatus, I did pro-gaming which has been somewhat successful. However I feel that my true calling is to provide health care to those in need of it. My question to you is in all even that I did not pass this time around (on the NCLEX that is); what jobs are available to me as a holder of a BSN? Thank you for your time.

Dear Did Not Pass NCLEX,

I hope you pass this time. You are not alone in not passing. Have you considered taking a refresher course or an NCLEX prep course?

Without an RN license, a BSN does not really qualify you for any specific healthcare related job anymore than a non-nursing Bachelor's degree.

If you want to provide health care, it's recommended that focus on passing the NCLEX. You have already put in so much time and resources.

In the meantime, you could work as a patient care technician (PCT), or a certified nursing assistant (CNA). Some hospitals will waive the certification for applicants who have completed 1-2 semesters of nursing school.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!