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krstxn I myself was a new grad this past December and took a position within an LTAC and honestly I'm very pleased with my decision. I've learned more than I could've ever imagined. I've worked both the Med-Surg and ICU side of the LTAC floor so at times we do have vent patients. It is a 6:1 ratio on the med surg side and 3:1 on ICU. It's hard to say how busy you'll be. Somedays will be more relaxed than others and some days you run like crazy but I think that's the case with any nursing position. As far as report goes, it is of course easier if you've had the patients before because they are there for such an extended time period. If not, then a quick history of why the pt is here and their history is given just to give you a general picture. It is a lot of work because these pts have so much going on but it is extremely rewarding at the same time. For instance, getting to hear a pt talk for the first time in months after finally having their trach capped. I've been lucky to have a great amount of support from the staff. Everyone has been very nice and willing to help out. And the level of teamwork on the floor is amazing. I'm not sure how I would make it through the day without the help from the rest of the staff. It is a feasible floor for a new grad to work on in my opinion. However, be willing to do a lot of work and put a lot of effort into learning. Good luck!!

Haha yeah the drive and traffic sucked but my sister lived in Baltimore so I was able to get by with free rent so it was worth it. As far as books and what not go I would wait. They will let you know what you need. You can actually preorder from the bookstore in the summer I think but they'll contact you and let you know about that. Same goes for the uniforms. They'll let you know when to order...which by the way I hate to break it to ya but they are god awful looking. Haha at least you only have to wear them once a week. For clinicals I think for the first semester you got to choose your site according to how quickly you sent in your acceptance deposit. So if you haven't already...send it in!! As for the other semesters, everyone's name is put into a lottery system and the order in which you pick is chosen randomly so everyone gets a fair chance and there will be a particular day and time that everyone comes in and signs up for the clinical according to the lottery number order. Unfortunately most of my clinicals weren't near the Baltimore area. One was at WHC in DC, 2 in Fairfax, 1 in Springfield, and 1 at Holy Cross. Honestly though it wasn't all that bad to have to travel there because you have to be there pretty early in the morning and leave before traffic in the afternoon. I actually relocated to South Carolina after graduation this past December. I got an interview shortly after moving here and was offered the job a week later. It's in a med-surg/ICU dept. Not my number one area of interest but I've learned A TON and I'm very happy to have a job as I hear jobs in this area are hard to come by for new grads because there are many nursing schools here. I do have some friends that I graduated with that stayed in the DC area and as far as I know they all have jobs now. It's not like it was 5 years ago where nurses had jobs lined up before they graduated but there are jobs available. You just might have to pass your boards before hospitals show interest in you. One thing that I think you have going for you already is that you'll be graduating in December as opposed to May like most traditional nursing students. This way there'll be less new grads applying at the same time as you in comparison to applying in May/June. Also, the state board of nursing won't be as bombarded with applications for licensure as they would be in May either so yours will get processed faster. Being a December grad myself it seemed like it was an advantage. You are quite welcome! I wish I had had someone to ask questions to prior to starting the program so I definitely know how you feel. If there's anything else I can help you with just let me know!

Overall I feel I got a really good nursing education in the program. I have yet to hear of someone from our class that failed the NCLEX so they definitely prepare you for that. There were some communication issues as some faculty members were new to the program. But from what I hear in comparison to other programs in other area schools it could've been a LOT worse. It seems like a lot to take at first when you start the program because it is a lot of material condensed into a small time period but you just have to take things day by day and remember it is possible. I actually commuted from Baltimore so your commute is feasible for sure, especially since you'll be using the metro. There is a metro stop just down the road from campus and the university provides a free shuttle regularly from the metro stop to main campus. I'm glad I could help you!! You are definitely doing the right thing in choosing an accelerated program. It may be overwhelming but it definitely pays off. I've been working as an RN for about a month now and I feel like I got a good base of knowledge to start my job. Of course you don't really start learning until you get into the hospital and start working but it certainly helps to have a solid base to go from. If I can help you with anything else please just let me know! :)

nicki 2516 If you start in fall 2010 you will graduate december 2011. I don't see how it would at all be possible to complete the program in 3 semesters. There are too many classes, labs, and clinicals. Your first semester alone I think you have 18 credits and for me that was the toughest semester so I can't imagine adding more to that. In addition, many of the classes you take are required courses to complete for those you will be taking the next semester. So you are pretty much required to complete the courses in the order in which they are set out in the schedule.

I realize it is difficult to distinguish the truth from lies in this situation. Regardless of who's telling the truth, bottom line is you can lose your license in any state at any time for any inappropriate behavior. SC is not unique in that respect. This is what makes being careful and meticulous about your job so important. Simply do your job and do it correctly and you'll have no problem!

I was a lucky new grad that just moved to the area after graduating in December and got a job. I know MANY new grads here in the Upstate area that are desperate for jobs. I'm not sure if that's the same for experienced nurses though. New grads at my hospital are starting at $21. Again, not sure what experienced nurses start at. Good luck!

I've never heard of the program not going through the summer. Some people inidivdually elect to not take class during the summer but as far as I know the program has always been 16 months. I started in Fall 2008 and had class that fall, spring, summer, and fall 2009. I graduated this past December. You may want to call the main office of health professions or one of the deans or coordinators of the program. They will be able to clear this up for you more than likely but I highly doubt you would not have classes through the summer. Hope this helps!

My GPA actually got higher after graduating from an accelerated program this past December. I had a 3.1 with my first undergrad degree. I graduated from nursing school with a 3.67. I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that I was much more interested in studying nursing than what I had with my prior degree. Many of my other friends in the program graduated with above a 3.5 as well. It all depends on how willing you are to study hard and do the work. My program was 16 months so not quite as accelerated as Drexel but again very fast paced and stressful. But I don't regret it at all. 16 months is a short time compared to 2 years or 4 years as would be for a normal BSN. I'm sure that the 13 month or shorter programs are very intensive but again I'm sure they're not impossible if they are still operating with the same cirriculum. Obviously students are able to be successful throughout their time in the program if they're still in existence. So yes, not only will you be able to complete the program, but you'll complete it with an AWESOME GPA. It's not impossible and you definitely won't regret it.

soon2bnurstudent congratulations on starting the program! It will definitely have you prepared for the NCLEX. I actually already took the exam about 2 weeks ago and passed! Several of my classmates have taken it as well and so far I haven't heard of anyone not passing. I was lucky enough to get the first job I interviewed for. I moved to South Carolina. Now some of my former classmates are still in the DC area and having a tougher time. Most of them have jobs, there are still a few that don't. The program is a LOT of work and studying but it is worth it. The first semester was the toughest because you have med-surg, patho, and 231 all in the same semester. What I always did to study was reinforced what was covered in class with the info in the book. At times it seemed useless to read entire chapters in the book because there was a lot of material and not all of it was on the exams. Definitely make sure you know and understand the information on ppt slides. If you understand it rather than memorizing it it makes the test questions/case studies a lot easier. As for words of wisdom, remember to breathe and take each day one day at a time. You are going to be bombarded with projects and tests over the next 16 months and think it's impossible to get done. But you WILL get through it. It is not worth constantly stressing yourself over and making yourself sick. Don't forget to take a lil "me" time too. You can't make school your life or you will go nuts! Thanks for the congrats! You are going to be a nurse in 16 months!! WOO HOO!!

bohoduex, I actually just graduated from MU accelerated this past december so I figured I might be able to help you a little. When I applied (for fall 2008) I believe I sent in 2 recommendations. I didn't apply to any other programs in the area. However, I know George Mason is a good program but it is faster than MU. On that note, I'm not sure I would've liked it because 16 months was difficult enough for the amount and depth of information they throw at you. Unfortunately second-degree accelerated students don't get any aid (as far as I know of ) from the school. All of my tuition was funded through loans unfortunately. However, I think it was well worth it considering I got a 4 year degree in a matter of 16 months. Don't be nervous. I think I found out in April that I was accepted. I forget how many were accepted in my class. I beleive we graduated as a class of 60 and that includes those people who had failed a class and dropped a semester behind. Just get your application in as soon as you can and keep your fingers crossed. Good luck!!

it does work!!! i just found out i passed!!! CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE!!!

I took the NCLEX yesterday morning and am pretty sure I'm going insane right now. I got shut off at 75 as well and had a TON of questions I had no idea about (meds, prioritization, etc.) I only had one med math question and a TON of select all that apply. Also, I had audio questions. I had never heard of that before going into it. Did anyone else get those?

I just graduated in December and relocated to Greenville, SC about 3 weeks ago. I absolutely love it here! I'm originally from Pittsburgh so the weather is definitely an improvement as I'm sure it will be for you over Boston weather too. I was just offered a position at a hospital as well so I'm very pleased. Greenville isn't an expensive city and is more middle class. It is just a gorgeous place to live. One downfall right now at least is job difficulty. There are quite a few nursing schools in Greenville so there are many new grads and RNs and few jobs, especially in this economy. I was lucky to get a job with one interview before I even take the NCLEX. I'm not sure if it's like that around the rest of the state though. I lived in the Baltimore/DC area during nursing school which was extremely expensive so this is truly a nice breath of fresh air. Rent, groceries, gas, etc. are all a TON cheaper. My starting salary is around $22 like you said but again it compensates for the low cost of living. Good luck with your decision!! You're going to LOVE it here! :redpinkhe

Thank you for all of your helpful responses!

First I just want to make it clear that in no way am I bragging in this post because I've seen so many posts on here about new grads that are struggling to get a job and my heart goes out to everyone in that position. :redbeathe I just graduated Dec. 19th with my BSN and relocated to a new area after graduation. I had been in contact with several nurse recruiters for months and shadowed at two hospitals here in August to at least get my name and face out there. I interviewed at one of the hospitals last week and was offered a position there yesterday! :yeah:Of course I took it and am thrilled to begin in February. The other hospital had stated that they weren't interested in interviewing until I passed the NCLEX. However, the nurse recruiter (extremely nice) has been in contact with me since and has recently been asking if I received my ATT and scheduled a testing date. My question is what is the best way of telling the nurse recruiter that I have accepted another position without offending her? I might be taking this too personally but she has been extremely helpful through this process and I don't want hard feelings to arise because of this. Thanks!

Graduating from a BSN accelerated second degree program in Virginia! WOO HOO!!! CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE!!! WE DID IT!!!

My mom just had her second knee done in October, had her first one in May. She gets as frustrated as the rest of you because she's still stiff and swollen, especially when she's up and moving around all day. Hang in there because I remember her saying how much better she felt after the first one. Each person is different in how they recover so don't compare yourself to someone who's doing better or recovering faster. My mom did that at first as well and got herself so depressed because she knew someone who went to their son's baseball game the day they were discharged. Keep up with the exercises and PT. They are definitely the key in getting back to normal. Also, if you can don't push yourself into going back to work right away. My mom works in a hospital lab where she's on her feet all day and she went back too soon in my opinion. She was in excruitiating pain when she came home each day and could barely walk at work. This is very important not to rush yourself, especially as a nurse. Best of luck with the rest of your recovery! :heartbeat

shaemykl09 I just took the ATI comp last Saturday and passed with an 84.7% I had actually started studying for it back in September and I went through each of the ATI subject books. I thought that was really helpful. I also took practice comp tests on the ATI website. This then printed out focus areas at the end of the tests and those were helpful for me to narrow down specific areas I needed to work on. Good luck!

I will be graduating from nursing school in December and while I can't say it has been the most pleasant duty during clinicals I certainly haven't objected. At this point in my education I am actually very excited at the prospect of cleaning someone's bottom because it means that they will be my patient, not my preceptors, and I will be caring for them as a nurse, no longer as a nursing student. I am truly disgusted by your attitude. Not only is your lack of wanting to care for your patients disappointing, your disrespect for other nurses (and future nurses) is very disheartening as well. I know it's been asked before in this thread but again...why are you in nursing?! If the only reason you are in nursing school is because it is a last resort since pharmacy school did not work out then you are here for the WRONG reason. Please find another career that will make you happier and let someone else with the heart and desire to be a nurse have your position.

I'm currently in my LAST semester of an accelerated BSN program and it certainly hasn't been a breeze but I've been proud of my accomplishments during the past 3 semesters. I graduate in December and I cannot wait to start my nursing career When I look back now I truly have learned so much in the short year I've been a student nurse. Of course I still feel like I have a long way to go but my nursing education is just beginning and I know I'll continue to learn more each day as an RN. I am still terrified to think that in just 3 months I'll be out on my own but I've been told several times that nursing school is there to teach you the fundamentals and most of the learning comes from your practice as an RN. But yes I feel very confident that my accelerated BSN program has given me the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the NCLEX and to help me become a good nurse. I would definitely recommend the accelerated BSN programs to anyone interested in becoming a nurse and who fulfills the requirements for the various programs.

Hi junior 11! I'm responding because I at one point was in your situation. And I went for the pre-pharmacy route. I had conditional acceptance to pharmacy school at the University of Pittsburgh. Their program does 2 years of general pre-reqs (like bio 1 and 2, chem 1 and 2, and organic 1 and 2). Then the next 4 years are the pharmacy courses. I worked at a pharmacy one summer and was completely bored. I'm the kind of person that wants patient contact and interaction and I realized that this may not be the profession for me (although there are areas of pharmacy that are different from retail and you work with patients). At this point I was a sophomore in college and it was too late to switch to nursing cause I'd be 2 years behind. So I graduated with a biology degree and the following August enrolled in a second-degree accelerated BSN program (I'm graduating in December..WOO HOO!!!). Truly, it depends on what you want and what you expect from your career. My boyfriend is a retail pharmacist and loves what he does. That just wasn't for me. And yet he says he'd never be able to do the things that a nurse does but yet I've loved being in the hospital during my clinicals and am very excited to become an RN. Everyone is different. I did take the PCAT. It's tough. It's A LOT of science and you have to know your stuff. I'm a little confused though because I know most pharmacy programs require that you have some sort of college coursework in progress or completed so that alone would require you to take the SAT in order to get accepted into a college. Then once you have the certain pre-reqs done you apply to pharmacy programs and take the PCAT for that. Or even if you do follow the 1-6 pharmacy programs like mentioned before they will still be done at a college that will more than likely require the SAT or ACT. I agree with geekgolightly. Contact your local hospitals and see if they would permit you to shadow. I know many hospitals that would be willing to let you shadow a nurse. When I was in high school I even shadowed a hospital pharmacist to get a better idea of that field so this might even be an option for you. Hopefully this will give you a better idea as to where you want to be. Good luck with the rest of your high school career!

I'm a second-degree accelerated BSN student so my orientation might have been different than what you will or have experienced. But the biggest piece of advice I have for you and I cannot stress this enough is to remember that it is NOT as bad as they will make it out to be on orientation day. I remember walking out of the room and just wanting to burst into tears. I thought "How am I ever going to be able to make it through this program?" Two semesters in (and two semesters on the dean's list) I look back now and think about that day and laugh. All of the program coordinators got up and talked about everything we would have to do by graduation and it was SO overwhelming. But you have to take it day by day and realize that it is not impossible, or else we wouldn't have any nurses today! If I have made it this far (and I'm 7 months away from graduation!!! ) then you can do it do. Just remember to breathe. Good luck!!

I cannot even begin to tell you how much I can relate to this. I'm a second-degree accelerated student so I've already had the college experience once. While this is great for most people in my class as we all know how to handle the work and school in general, to others it makes them feel like they are priviledged. For example, one girl in our class attended a no-name school in Maryland and feels the need to make sure all of our professors/clinical instructors know that she double-majored there. It literally makes me want to pull my hair out. Then there's another girl that is so lazy that she asked another girl in our clinical group to do our vitals and one time yelled out of her patient's room to me (while I was busy checking labs for my patient) that she needed me to get her a new set of ECG leads. Then another girl is just so blantantly rude to our professors/clinical instructors that my mouth literally drops open. I've just never met the likes of such people that think they're so entitled to such things. I think it's just the attitude of the area here (I'm not going to say where I go to school cause I don't want to offend anyone or possibly give the identities of these girls away) and being raised elsewhere I guess it's just an acceptable fact here. I had to have clinical with these girls for the past 2 semesters and I'm happy to say I'm finally free this semester! The best advice I can give you is to ignore them like the other posts have said. And by all means do not let them see that they are getting to you. To them that is what they want and if you show them they are getting to you then they think they've won and it'll just continue. I've never said anything to them about how rude/ignorant/annoying they've been but I had the last laugh for the past 2 semesters...my name appears on the dean's list and theirs is missing

thanks antonella. well first, I have a period of about 3 weeks between my summer semester and fall semester and am interested in trying to get either a short externship or shadowing experience at Greenville Memorial. Do you happen to know if anything like that might be available? Second, when would be a good idea for me to start contacting Greenville hospitals about any possible externships or shadowing and when should I start contacting them about a job (I graduate next December)? Do any hospitals in the Greenville area offer sign on bonuses for new nurses? And how are the hospitals in general structured there? Thanks so much. I really appreciate it.

pawashrn I was browsing through this forum and came across your message and felt the need to respond. I as well am from Pgh (well actually Washington, PA) and have plans to move to Greenville in a year when I graduate! I'm currently finishing up my first semester of nursing school in a second degree accelerated program in Arlington, VA. Would you mind me asking you some questions about the hospital or facility you work at and about Greenville in general?