Need maternal-newborn theory and practicum.

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

Hi nurses:

I am a Canadian RN that graduated in 2008, from McMaster University Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. I worked for a couple years in acute care in Ontario. Now, I am trying to gain licensure by way of examination in California. The BRN has stated that my education is insufficient, in that I did not do a maternal-newborn placement. They are stating that I need to find a program within California that offers a course with theory and concurrent practical experience in maternal-newborn for registered nurses. Well, let me just say that this is quite a difficult thing to do. I have contacted several schools, who have been unable to help me. I have gone through the list of Board approved schools and considering I also live in the middle of no-where, there aren't many that are practical for me to attend. I would love to do the theory online and the practicum near where I live. Why is this so hard to arrange? No one seems to offer maternal-newborn theory classes online.

Has anyone else experienced this kind of response from the California Board of Nursing? I was surprised my education was considered deficient, as I graduated with honors, and the program I completed is highly accredited. I may not have done a maternal placement, but we definitely covered the theory behind it. Also, I have been working full-time for two years. It seems crazy they are forcing me to go back to school to do a subject that, quite frankly, is not my favorite. I don't know what to do. I feel really dragged down by this. Even if I write the NCLEX in anther state, I will not be able to get a permanent license in California unless I complete this educational requirement.

Anyways, I would greatly appreciate any input or suggestions from anyone that is familiar with this sort of situation or has any ideas on how I can do this? Thanks so much.

*Frustrated in Cali*:confused::eek:;)

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It's not just CA -- the entire US educates and licenses RNs as generalists, and every state requires that applicants have completed (some specified number of) hours of classroom/theory and clinical in adult med-surg, peds, OB, and psych. You would probably get the same response if you applied in another state.

I hope that you're able to find a school that can accommodate you. Best wishes!

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

Thank you Elkpark. This is reassuring to find out :)

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Specializes in ICU.

hi missmiamoore.i am also going thru the same situation as you are. i completed nursing from India.After doing my credentials eval, Vermont BON states tat i hav less hours in Maternal Nursing subject, so my NCLEX RN app have been denied. i need to take classes for that now.i read your thread, so i want to know where did you take your classes.

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Hi missmiamore. I too am a Canadian and is in the same situation as yours... Have you had any luck with attaining

the deficiencies? I held a license in WA state and worked there for 9 yrs and yet got denied by CA BON. If you have any

updates on your school search or outcomes of your schooling, anything would help.. Thanks!

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