Please help, don't know what to do about school

deeDawntee, RN · Sep 10, 2007

Wow, that seems like an extremely unprofessional Director of that program!! Yuk!! I can completely understand your desire to go to a school that (probably) is better run. No one should be treated with such blatant disrespect. It is certainly a completely legitimate route to get your LPN first, especially if it causes you less stress. Do you think you would then go for a LPN to RN program? I just would hate for you to lose credit for all the courses you have already taken for your RN. Are there other schools in your area that you could attend for that purpose? Do you have any sense that the program itself is well taught and that your instructors are worthy of your time? Perhaps getting through these first few bumps would be worth it if the rest of the program is a good one. Do you know any 2nd year students or recent grads you could talk to before you decide? It really comes down to what you can tolerate. I don't think I would recommend much as far as reporting her to her superiors if you plan to stick it out. On the other hand, if you do leave, I would highly recommend a well-written letter about why you are leaving and how you and the other students are treated. She is, at the very least, being an extremely poor example of professional responsibility and behavior for her nursing students. Shame on her!!

Only you can decide what is best for you. Good luck!!;)

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Sep 10, 2007

I am going to be very blunt with you, so I dearly hope that you take no offense.

I'll readily admit that your RN program is filled with politics and unsavory practices. With that being said, if you cannot deal with the backhanded politics of your current RN program, then you might have an extremely difficult time grappling with the real world of nursing.

RNs have a politically difficult job. LPNs have a politically difficult job. If you are choosing to enter a career field that is known for being politically difficult, then you might as well earn more money in the process. Nine times out of ten, the RN licensure will enable you to earn more money for doing a job that is very similar to that of the LPN counterpart. In other words, earn your RN license.

Many hospitals and healthcare facilities are permeated with politics and underhanded practices that are far worse than what you are relaying to us. At my workplace, changes occur at the last minute without notice. Nurse managers make horrible errors, yet they are unwilling to admit that they're wrong. Nurses' schedules are rearranged at the last minute without any regard for their personal lives. Shifts are cancelled 15 minutes before the employee arrives to work. If you work at an "at will" facility, your manager can terminate your employment at any time, and for any reason.

Your current situation at your school's RN program is representative of what you might be dealing with as a fully fledged licensed nurse. Take heed, pay attention, and decide if you are willing to maneuver the politics during the course of your future career.

Good luck!

SAHMU4IA · Sep 10, 2007

You should not accept this kind of poor communication and lack of planning at your school or at a job/hospital. I do not think quitting the program is the solution. Go to the dean. Now. Either by yourself or with a group. If we can't advocate for ourselves, we wont be able to advocate for our patients.

Good luck with this!!!:angryfire

rizza · Sep 10, 2007

i say try to stick it out because out in california we wait on list for 2 years to get in to a rn program. the commuter is right in saying that politics are everywhere. in school and on the unit there was always something going on. nobody is perfect and even the don's of nursing school make poor choices sometimes. if you really want to be a rn go for it and focus on yourself and achieve all that you can. once you get passed the intial chaos it will calm down a little and you will be better adjusted to the day to day life as a student & be able to cope with everyday life. take care and good luck

sunnyjohn · Sep 10, 2007

Your school does sound disorganized and you Program Director unprofessional.

HOWEVER- stick it out.

Every nurse on this board can tell you stories about the drama that unfolded during their time in school. If you have examined the school NCLEX pass rates, talked to former students/future employers and the feedback was positive, stay with it.

Changing class schedules/clincial times and politics are just a few of the things we deal with to reach our ultimate goal.

Wrap yourself in your goals. Use it as your 'second- thicker skin"

Perhaps your entire class should have a polite talk with the Program Director so all parties can lay out expectations/standards of professionalism and communication. You guys ARE footing the bill.

I pray for the day nursing students are treated as the adult they are and not abused as students.

pagandeva2000, LPN · Sep 10, 2007

This is a prelude of what is to come, whether you become an LPN or an RN; believe me. And, I also had an LPN program director, who was rumored to be really caring, empathetic and organized, until I got into her program. I was in for a RIDE; she was so horrible.

Let me tell you, a new nurse is a new nurse, no matter what certification or degree she has acquired. Any new person would be afraid in a new profession, especially when there are lives involved. If your desire is really to become an RN, then, I say to remain in the program. You mentioned that you already earned your CNA, so, that is one hurdle off of your back. Believe me, there will be more to come later. If this is what you want, running and making waves will make it much harder. And, I am not sure if approaching the Dean is a wise idea, IMHO. If you completed that hurdle, then, focus on classes. Just an opinion based on personal experience. Good luck with whatever you choose!

Jules A, MSN · Sep 10, 2007

Your current situation at your school's RN program is representative of what you might be dealing with as a fully fledged licensed nurse. Take heed, pay attention, and decide if you are willing to maneuver the politics during the course of your future career.Good luck!

I agree 100%.

Fortunately the shock has worn off now and I just trudge along and take whatever they are dishing out. Schedules are a joke so get used to it. I've gotten to the point where if they tell me to show up at midnight tonight wearing nothing but my Grandma's bloomers, I'll be there at 11:55pm.

You mentioned feeling a bit overwhelmed and I hope that you don't let that inflate the "normal" nursing school bs. If you want to do this, be thankful that you are in a program and just stick it out. Best to you, Jules

ohmeowzer RN, RN · Sep 11, 2007

stick with that program. your in and you have the oppunity to finish. you can do this.