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Discussion

Please offer me some advice!

Hello everyone! So a little bit on my story...

I've spent years completing courses for the BSN program & there have been times where I have taken breaks due to personal issues that I experienced in my life. Last year, I finally taken the HESI pass it on my first try & received high scores (89% cumulative). I had applied to two ADN programs (Alvin & San Jac) but I was denied because I don't have a CNA license & my scores weren't good enough to them. I'm currently taking College Algebra & retaking my Microbiology for a better grade (my other sciences are B's). One ABSN program I was looking into won't need chemistry as a prereq (I have taken Intro to Chemistry just not the lab only the lecture portion). I honestly don't know much about ABSN other than the program is fast pace but how I am dealing with Micro & College Algebra at the same time has me over the edge during this semester. I do in the future want to become a Nurse Practitioner so I'm not sure what route for program I should take. Not that age plays a part in anything but I'm 31 yrs old & I just do feel I'm racing against the clock at times. ?

The questions I have are : Should I keep going for the BSN route? Should I retake the HESI again & try for ADN once again? Should I get a CNA license? 

Thank you for those that respond in advance. ?

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    • ALLNURSES Writers

    Congratulations on your journey so far! It's inspiring that you've persevered through challenges and achieved high scores on the HESI. Let's reflect on your options: 

    ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing):

    • ABSN programs are designed for students who already have a bachelor's degree in another field. These programs are intense and fast-paced, typically taking 11-18 months to complete.
    • Prerequisites are required, but you'll be prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN after completion.
    • After passing the NCLEX-RN, you can work as an RN, gaining valuable bedside experience. Later, you can pursue a master's degree to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP).
    • ABSN programs might be a good fit if you're looking for a quicker path to becoming an RN and want to gain experience sooner.

    ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing):

    • ADN programs result in RN licensure and are offered at community and vocational colleges.
    • They take about the same time as ABSN programs and offer more flexibility.
    • However, most employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses, and ADN-RNs may earn less money.
    • If you choose this route, consider later completing an RN-BSN program to further your education.

    CNA License:

    • Having a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license can be beneficial. It provides hands-on experience in healthcare settings and helps you understand patient care.
    • Some ADN programs require CNA certification, so obtaining it could open up more options for you.
    • Additionally, working as a CNA can give you insights into the nursing profession and help you decide if it's the right path for you.

    Considerations:

    • Reflect on your goals: Becoming a Nurse Practitioner requires a master's degree. Many times, you would require a Bachelors in order to get into the program.
    • Evaluate your timeline: ABSN programs are faster, but they can be intense. Consider your ability to manage coursework and clinical rotations.
    • Research program requirements.
    • Seek advice: Talk to nursing advisors and former students at the schools you are applying for to see what your options are and how to stand out compared to other prospective students. 

    Remember that age is just a number, and many people pursue nursing careers at various stages of life. Take your time to weigh your options and choose the path that aligns with your aspirations and circumstances. Best of luck on your journey! ?

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    Should I keep going for the BSN route? Do what you feel is best for you. There are pros and cons of BSN vs ADN. If you already have a Bachelor's or enough prereqs finished, a BSN and an ADN would take the same time length. If you already have a Bachelor's, there are "Direct-Entry" MSN programs that you could apply to. I have a friend with a bachelor's who's in a program for a Direct-Entry MSN. His program is an 18-month accelerated pre-licensure.  Should I retake the HESI again & try for ADN once again? Depends if you want to go through an ADN program. If you have a Bachelor's, you have other options (ABSN, BSN, MSN Direct-Entry). If not, then I would suggest an ADN as an option. Should I get a CNA license? Depends on your track. It would help more than hurt. You would have a nursing foundation that would help you in school and NCLEX. I went through a Paramedic to RN program, I had lots of medical skills but lacked "nursing" foundational skills. Another thing to consider is that nursing is competitive, so having a CNA cert would give you more points. Many programs don't make it a requirement, but it's up to the program you want to apply to. 

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