RN to BSN doesn't feel right.

[Student2Registered]

So, tonight I started my RN to BSN classess and left feeling even more confused and lost than before. I have a husband and two young children who dealt with my going to nursing school. My kids and husband missed me while I went to class/studied/clinicals, etc. I promised them it would only be so long before "mommy could focus on them." Then I started my job at a top university hospital as a new grad. The first 6 months of that transition was probably 10 times worse than nursing school in so many ways. I didn't have to study but on my days off I was tired, depressed, unable to be "present" with my family. And then things seemed to get better...

Tonight sitting in the class that felt so much like a "formality" all I could think about is the confused look on my daughters face as I left for school. And how my husband had the dish towel on his shoulder and was picking up my slack once again.

I feel like I do a damn good job as a nurse considering the amount of experience I have. And I feel so pressured into the BSN thing. I can't shake the feeling that I am sacrificing my childrens' childhood for a formality!

Any insight? I'm looking for guidance from my fellow nurses. Thanks!

[BluegrassRN]

A lot of hospitals are pressuring associates prepared nurses to complete their BSNs. Some very formally (as in, you have 5 years to complete this if you want to retain your job) and some informally. My facility is currently informally pressuring us, telling us they want us to have BSNs, offering partial tuition assistance, etc, but not giving us a definite time frame. However, we have a clinical ladder that involves different points for various activities, certifications and degrees. If you have a certain amount of points in a year, you can get a bonus of $500-2000. As an associate's prepared nurse, it is IMPOSSIBLE for me to get the minimum number of points. I charge, I am the chair of our unit based council, I volunteer at certain hospital sponsored events, I attend every staff meeting, I precept new employees, I attended and continue to participate in our hospital's leadership classes, etc etc, but without the points for the BSN, I simply cannot get my yearly bonus. Our hospital has made it very clear, BSNs are preferred. It's only a matter of time before my facility requires it, is my guess.

[mustlovepoodles, RN]

Our hospital has made it very clear, BSNs are preferred. It's only a matter of time before my facility requires it, is my guess.

I'll believe it when I see it. Hospitals (and nursing organizations) have been saying it for at least 34 years that I know about. They also said that LPNs and CNAs would be phased out in favor of all BSN staffing. Yeah, I'd like to see the budget on that.

[caliotter3]

I would seriously consider an online program, especially since you consider this to be only a "formality". Your children and hubby can interrupt you as much as possible if you are sitting at the kitchen table with your laptop doing school work. At least you will physically be at home.

[Otessa, BSN, RN]

I'll believe it when I see it. Hospitals (and nursing organizations) have been saying it for at least 34 years that I know about. They also said that LPNs and CNAs would be phased out in favor of all BSN staffing. Yeah, I'd like to see the budget on that.

That actually happened (no LPNs hired and current LPNs to be RNs within a certain timeframe or become a CNA) at the hospital where I worked in 1994 and it hasn't changed.

[Otessa, BSN, RN]

I would seriously consider an online program, especially since you consider this to be only a "formality". Your children and hubby can interrupt you as much as possible if you are sitting at the kitchen table with your laptop doing school work. At least you will physically be at home.

That's what worked for me.

[GooeyRN, ADN, BSN, CNA, LPN, RN]

I totally understand. If it doesn't feel right, take a break or do it very slowly online. I have a 4 year old, a 2 year old, and am pregnant. I have been an RN since 2003. I do want to get the BSN someday. Right now is just not the time. Kids are only little once. It is hard enough having young kids and working (especially while breastfeeding!), without throwing in time for class and studying, too. When would you see them and be able to put your full attention on them? It is one thing if you have a really crappy paying job, and the family will greatly benefit if you go to school. It is another if it will mean just a small amount (or even no) increase in pay for a lot of time away from the family right now, and you are the only one that really benefits. I vote wait or do it super slow.

[fromtheseaRN, BSN, RN]

i agree that you should give yourself a break and let yourself and your family enjoy your accomplishment! if you must get your BSN now, switch to an all online program. i know many state universities offer the RN to BSN 100% online, i'm in az and i know that ASU does. hang in there!

[Altra, BSN, RN]

I agree that you might look at online options. It doesn't have to be an "online school" -- the same college/university where you are currently enrolled may very well have at least some classes offered online -- most do. You might also pare down your class load, or take a semester off.

However, the phrase in your post about hubby with the dish towel picking up your slack ... I promise he won't die from dishpan hands. I am confident that your marriage and your family life can benefit from your professional development.

[CBsMommy]

I know that confused look on a child's face. There is nothing sadder! When I would drop my son off at daycare he would look at me with that face and then he would start to cry. It broke my heart!!! I feel for you and also agree with an online option or waiting altogether! Give those kids a hug and plan a little time with just your family!!! Good luck!

[fromtheseaRN, BSN, RN]

another thing that helps me with the kids through school- we view me going as always a positive thing. when i leave my kids both give me high fives and tell me i'm doing a good job. they are old enough to understand that there is light at the end of the tunnel though. hthrow a positive spin on what you're doing and i guarantee everyone's feelings about it will shift.