recently graduated w/Accel. BSN, and worried/disappointed about not enough practice

[MiaNJ]

I recently completed an Accelerated 2nd degree BSN program, and studying for NCLEX. I was in a conversation with some nurses/students who said that diploma or ADN nurses have the most clinical experience when they graduate, and are better prepared to work in the hospital.

I think this may be true, unfortunately, after having talked to alot of people experienced with this, and doing some reading.

Although I think I got a very good education and did have very good clinical experiences, I feel kind of discouraged that maybe I was sort of 'jipped' by doing this accelerated program, in terms of enough clinical hrs. We did have plenty but a friend who completed a diploma program used to spend 10-12 hrs on the floor during her clinicals, and my program didn't have as many hrs.

I know that maybe I have more theory knowledge than she does, but did most of the clinical skills required, but I still think that the More practice, the BETTER when it comes to nursing. I mean, I did a few foleys, but was nervous in most of them, and feel like I needed to do ALOT more to get more practice. I also suctioned, but not enough, to be completely comfortable. I still feel like I will be too nervous when I do it on my own for the first time, w/o my instructor.

I wonder if it's easy to start a job when a person didn't get as much clinical time as some other programs. I know there are preceptors, but you can't rely that they will be that good or very supportive of new hires.

Is it possible to do an externship after graduating from nursing, before getting a job? I just feel like I need to have much more clinical practice, and I think some school programs may be better than others in this aspect.

I actually think diploma nursing programs, although diminishing in the U.S., tend to be the best in terms of providing actual clinical practice.