LinZ_956

92-100= A 89-91= B+ 83-88= B 75-82= C Below that, it doesn't matter, because we have to have at least a C to pass. Ok, getting on soapbox--I don't see how the different grading scale helps that much...if anything, it's a pain in the butt, because the rest of our college is on the 90-100= A; 97-89= B+; 80-86= B, etc...I would rather see tougher admission standards, that way we wouldn't be weeding out people halfway through the semester. I don't see how the one point difference between a 74 and a 75 can make a person that much more capable of being a nurse, but hey, what do I know. BTW, this comes from someone with an extremely high GPA...I just hate seeing people that would make intelligent, well-rounded nurses "weeded out" because of a point. If the curriculum is appropriately challenging, I don't see why there needs to be a tougher grading scale to accompany it.

Hi, I'm in a BSN program and plan on becoming an NP. I was looking at Vanderbilt's website, and in their ACNP program they offer different specializations...one of which is cardiothoracic surgery. Has anyone been through Vanderbilt's MSN program, and what do you think the specialization in cardiothoracic surgery would entail (scope of practice, etc.)? Just looking for some feedback from those who may have been there/done that. Thanks!

Thanks for your post. I've struggled with the same issues myself (I have the grades and interest), but what you said reiterated my feelings on the issue. ESPECIALLY the part about being able to switch specialties without having to deal with the residency issue.

Hi there, I've kind of gone back and forth between the MD/Nurse thing, so I can associate with what you're going through. The information I've received from most pre-med advisors and health care professionals is to do one or the other. There's nothing wrong with getting a BSN first, but if the ultimate goal is med school, most BSN degrees won't give you the prereqs you need. General and Organic Chem, Physics, and General Bio (and the labs) are preferred at most of the med schools I've looked at...and another thing I had to consider-- the MCAT would be basically impossible to pass without those classes. A BSN is hard enough without adding those classes in. For me, I think the best option is becoming an NP in a specialized field, then go for DNP. I like the nursing aspect of healthcare, and that's where I think I'll be the happiest. Good luck with whatever you decide to do-- I know a doctor who became an EMT, RN, then an MD, so it can be done!

Why Kentucky? That's where I'd most likely practice. Now I'm concerned. :uhoh21:

Great question. I'm considering Pediatric Oncology as well, and I'd really like to get some feedback from those actually working in the field. Thanks for bringing up the topic DUPioneerGal!

Great ideas. Thanks!

Hi everyone, First of all, I just wanted to say that this is one of the best websites I've ever come into contact with regarding nursing. As a BSN student, the information I've found here has been invaluable, so thanks to all of the experienced nurses and student nurses for continually sharing your knowledge! :) Anyway, here is my situation: I'm writing a paper in which I have to make 2 arguments for and 1 argument against a topic, which is "Spouses of patients who test positive for HIV should be informed with or without the consent of the patient." The paper is to be written in APA format with at least 2 sources cited. This is a 100 level class, and we will go through a submitting/resubmitting process before the final paper is handed in. My problem is finding good sources and just getting started. I need to find a couple of good, respectable sources that will support my point, and at least one that will refute it. Any help and/or advice will be much appreciated. Thanks!

Thanks for the replies! I found a basic Micro book that looks like it will be a good help (and it didn't cost an arm and leg), and those websites look really useful. I always wait until the end of lab to leave, and most of the time I leave with extra bits of info that many instructors share with those who stay 'til the end. Again, thanks for the websites and information! :)

Hi, Next fall I'll be taking Medical Microbiology and a health assessment course (both with labs). Can you all recommend any good books on either subject? I received a Barnes & Noble gift card for Christmas, and I'm trying to find a good use for it that will help me out in the long run!:) I'd like to know the basics of both subjects before I'm hit upside the head next fall.:chuckle Also, if there is a book that you feel helped you in the early years of your nursing career, please feel free to post the title.