Need direction,physically unable to complete CPNE.

[tabbybear68]

I was severely injured years ago and have since been working on the Excelsior ADN program. Though I have been unable to work I have maintained my LPN. I have been convincing myself that I could rehabilitate to the point of being able to do the CPNE. I have completed all the pre-reqs and nursing exams and am now CPNE eligible. It has taken years to get to this point and in that time instead of improving physically I have declined from the injury and ensuing surgeries as well as receiving several other diagnosis. I find myself having to admit defeat in that I am not physically able to complete the CPNE. I talked with an adviser who told me that I have 31 credit hours and therefore qualify for their bachelors program thereby by passing the CPNE. It would require nearly 60 more credit hours and quite a bit more money. She also said that I am pretty close to an associate degree in liberal arts which I don't think would really get me anywhere. I am at a loss. I have worked so hard and long and I don't want to give up entirely but I have to be realistic. Anyone have any thoughts or advise. I appreciate any in put. Thank you.

[NICU Guy, BSN, RN]

Are you wanting to do this just so that you can say you have a degree? If you can't physically take the CPNE, how do you expect working as an RN?

[tabbybear68]

Around where I live anyway there are a lot of less physical RN jobs more desk type positions. My brain is still valuable and I can still do some limited physical.

[NotMyProblem MSN, ASN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN]

Are you able to walk? Or is standing the issue? The CPNE didn't require any physical exertions when I took it. There was no lifting at all; however, there is the possibility of having to assist someone from a sitting to a standing position, which would require you to be able to firmly hold your position long enough to assist your patient. You will only be dealing with one patient for 2 1/2 hours tops, and that includes actually being done with the actual patient involvement and completing your care plan, before taking a break and moving on to the next scenario. It's not like three full days. The more in-tune you are to the critical elements, the quicker you are away from the patient and sitting down, working on the care plan.

I don't know what your actual limitations are but it would be such a shame to have completed all of that coursework, only to have to turn around and walk away. The BSN option could land you a desk job provided the opportunities are available in your area. Lots are new grads are being faced with the issue of paid nursing experience in the position to which they are applying, though....just so you know. I hope it works out for you.