Frustrated with FNP program :(

Specialties NP

Published

I'm currently in the FNP program (distance-learning) at Ball State University. The most stressful and frustrating parts of the program are finding preceptors and clinical faculty for each course, and BSU is so picky about the qualifications for preceptors and clinical faculty. I've had no luck with this for my Fall class. NPs are either too busy in their own practice, they're going back to school (DNP), they're too specialized, or they're not interested. I would try and switch programs, but I'd lose a bunch of credits.

I'm thinking of completing my MSN with a Leadership (management) track instead...then pursue a post-master's certificate through a different school.

Any advice?

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Do you mind posting the general area you live in?

We reach a prretty wide audience and maybe someone would step up.

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I'm in the Indianapolis, IN area...

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Specializes in CVICU, Education Dept., FNP Student.

Does the University have a list of NPs/MDs that have precepted in the past- That may make it easier for you (Although that may be how you obtained the contacts). I know you are frustrated, but it would seem that getting a Master's in another tract, just to have to reapply and go through the process again would be spending a lot of time and money. I do not live in your area, but there are many online schools that are excellent (I attend one). How far along are you in the program?

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Specializes in OR, ICU, Home Health.

I am attending RODP through ETSU for the FNP we too have to locate our own preceptors. They provide us with a list of those who already have a contract, but I have called everyone on the list and have been getting the same response either they are too busy or they do not precept FNP students. I live in the Knoxville, TN area which should be easy to find a physician or a FNP to precept but I have had no luck. Wish you well in your search. :)

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TerryBSN: I feel your pain...I live just outside of Indianapolis, and you'd think I'd have no problems in a big city! I think it has a lot to do with NPs going back for their DNP or the competitive schools in the area.

ALCCRN: I'd be interested in learning about the programs you are talking about. I've applied to University of South Alabama in the past...with no luck :(

It seems like other students in my course are not sharing any information about their preceptors and clinical faculty...which I understand since they don't want to lose them to another student. My school has not been very helpful despite my difficulties, and they are very strict about their qualifications. For example, the clinical faculty member (a non-specialized NP in Family, Women's, or Peds...depending on which course) and the preceptor can not work in the same practice.

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Forgot to mention I'm half-way in the program...supposed to start clinicals in Fall.

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Check out military bases and Native American reservations.

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Specializes in General.
Check out military bases and Native American reservations.

Hi Zenman my experience in trying to get a military facility was difficult they want you to start doing the paperwork 1 year in advance and because of all the red tape it was impossible, best bet is to net work ask your checkout person at the grocery store who their md is and just keep asking, calling it is frustrating but it can be done good luck

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Hi Zenman my experience in trying to get a military facility was difficult they want you to start doing the paperwork 1 year in advance and because of all the red tape it was impossible, best bet is to net work ask your checkout person at the grocery store who their md is and just keep asking, calling it is frustrating but it can be done good luck

I wrote a nice letter to a hospital commander, after checking him out on google, and sent him a letter with my mother-in-laws address as she lived in his home state. Since we also had both lived in Hawaii, I had to mention something about that also. Shortly thereafter, I received an email from an NP at the base hospital who said they were going to be my preceptor. They seem to be doing all they can to get me in. I start next month and it's been about a 3 month process. And this is an overseas base.

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Also check out community health centers, free clinics etc.

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Specializes in General.

wow congrats on that I never thought about that too late now I graduated but in case I go back for a FNP this will come in handy

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