bsveillon11111

New instructor here: Yes, I have noticed this is a completely different dynamic than when I was in school. Not the whole, of course, but a definite segment of the class (probably 10%-15%) isn't interested in learning, but want the degree. "Is this on the test?" "Why are we doing this?" While I do welcome questions, I wonder if they even want an answer? They seem disgusted with nursing before their third semester????

I've combed through articles on the site and found a few addressing this topic, so forgive me if this is redundant. The most recent comments I've found on those threads are several years old, so I'm just curious as to if much has changed since then, at least in the way of my colleagues' opinions or insight. I am looking to finally pursue my MSN for NP. I'm looking at all of the programs available and trying to make a decision. In the threads I've seen from a few years ago (most recently in 2017), the general consensus was to stick with the traditional programs vs. the for-profit/online programs like Herzing or Chamberlain, for credibility's sake. The points were well taken; a traditional program with live skills check-offs, especially for Acute Gerontology NP programs just makes sense. However, things seem a bit different now than they did back then. All of the traditional programs where I live in South Louisiana are virtually online, just like the for-profits. In fact, the public universities have a consortium going where they all teach the same curriculum. The coursework is all online, in-person checkoffs for critical skills, and you find your own preceptor. These are the public universities. Chamberlain does the same thing, even with skills checkoffs to be done at a satellite campus either in New Orleans or in Houston. So, what is the general opinion about the for-profit's credibility at this point? Both Chamberlain and Herzing degrees are accepted by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, so licensure won't be an issue. In your experience, how much weight does the school play in employment opportunities? I know that there are other cons to the private colleges, like the cost, etc. To be honest, I've really been wanting to do the program at the University of South Alabama (which is also accepted by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing), as their check-offs are in Mobile, about the same distance as New Orleans. The only one thing that has me considering Chamberlain, is the curriculum bridge from ASN to MSN in one, 3 year step instead of getting a BSN first and then applying to an MSN program, which seems like it can probably take more time vs. getting a BSN and MSN out of one program. Long post over. What are your thoughts? Thanks.

The messaging from my hospital is to get some type of degree! LOL LPN, RN, they are not picky. It all depends on your situation. I was an LPN first, just because I couldn't afford to wait 2-4 years to start working as a nurse. I was an LPN in 16 months and went straight back to RN school the following semester after I graduated. In my facility, LPNs start with an avg. of 22/hr. and RNs start with an avg. of 42/hr. in med/surg. By the time I got my RN license, I had most of the bugs works out of my routine and it was an easy transition. HOWEVER, it would have been much easier on me in many ways to start as an RN, and not have to worry about juggling school while starting my first nursing job. I do not regret it though, because the clinical experience was much better in LPN school than in RN school. It all depends on the situation.

This is insanity. I cannot speak to your state's board or even begin to predict what they will do. I would definitely retain an attorney before you provide ANY contact with the nursing board. I wouldn't even return a phone call from them. Fortunately, in my state, this would be a big joke. Unfortunately still, it apparently is a serious matter in some states!

To put it one way, this is the highest paid job I've ever had.