river1966

It does not matter if you get your RN degree on-line. Individuals who have negative comments to say are insecure about themselves. Don't let that stop you from completing your degree. You will be able to obtain a management position. I was in a traditional RN program and dropped out with only a semester left due to family problems. I will have just as much clinical skills (from my summer nurse externship and three semesters of clinicals in traditional school) as someone who received their degree from a traditional program. They are respected because they know you are working twice as hard for it. It takes discipline, desire, and a lot of practice. Again, any negativity toward an online degree is because of other individuals own insecurities and possible jealousy. Don't let them ruin your dreams.

You would first need to complete 50% of your clinical time in your RN program. I was a traditional student at my local community college in their RN program with no background in any healthcare field. The only clinical experience I had was through school two days a week for three semesters and a summer nurse externship position I picked up into my second year of traditional schooling. They let me in, so do not get discouraged and believe that you need extensive hands-on clinical skills. Also, when you graduate whether it be from a traditional program or a distant-learning program you will have extensive months of training at a hospital (if you plan to work in a hospital). Good luck. If you really want it, you can do it!

I was in a traditional RN program and dropped out due to various reasons. That was 1 1/2 years ago. By the time I take the CPNE I will be out of school 2 years. You will be able to pick your skills right back up after practice, practice, practice. There is a skills bag you can purchase through EC and there are many good fundamental skill nursing books you can purchase with step by step guidance. I am presently a CNA and I am only able to do very limited basic skills, which I will continue to use as an RN. My skills as far as trach suctioning, NG tubes, IV pushes, syringes, IVs, NG tube meds, wound dressings, etc. will always stay with me. A good example is after I left nursing school I was working at a hospital as a PtCA in the ER and was required to do many foleys. My first one, I took a deep breath and remembered everything I was taught in school and the hospital's PtCA class. After each time I inserted a foley, I became a lot more confident in doing this skill. This goes with any skill. Just keep practicing at home and review your texts. When you graduate you will be following an RN for a good while. You will not be put right out there and expected to start an IV. Again, if you want it you can do it. It takes determination, desire, and a lot of discipline. It is doable.

You will also be accepted into Excelcior's ADN program if you have completed at least 50% of a traditional RN program. Also, it is not a requirement for you to be working in the nursing field as you complete your Excelsior degree. I completed 50% of a traditional program (that includes all of my required general education courses) and was accepted into Excelsior. When I dropped out of the traditional program I was not able to get any credit at any LPN school for my RN credits. So, this is why I chose to complete my RN degree through Excelsior. Also, in our area there a numerous RN positions days, evenings, and nights in all areas of care in hospitals or LTC. There are no layoffs, but only a shortage. It is a challenging field, but many rewards.