Struggling with research project in NP school--Need to vent

[Nurse_For_Wear, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

I am frustrated, tired, and every other day, I feel like giving up. Was any of this worth it? I'm at the end of my second year of an FNP program (attended part-time), and starting my clinical year in the fall. This last didactic course involves the creation of a research project and it feels pointless. I really like my topic (RN to NP role transition) and researching it for my study provided me awareness about its problems; however, I am struggling with this. Firstly, I am studying to be an NP, why does this program (like numerous other ones) insist on pushing this as a requirement? I need to get ready for clinical practice, to essentially practice medicine as a nurse--what does this have to do with anything? Secondly, the professor is just useless! No guidance whatsoever, and it doesn't help that the online class shell is disorganized with outdated information, dead links, and dates that don't help us when submitting items like IRB forms. And now, a class meeting was cancelled. This can't be what ends my graduate career.

[T__BSN_AGNP21, ADN, BSN, MSN, LPN]

I can understand your frustration. I am also starting my clincals in the fall, and taking a class this summer that doesn't top my list of favorites. Push through it and take what you can from it. Soon, it will be a distant memory ?

When I become frustrated with some of the projects, homework or lectures..I just tell myself-Keep my eye on the prize- AGNP!

[Kahalaukane, MSN, RN, NP]

I just think of it as jumping through hoops, keep going and eventually it will all be done!

[FullGlass, BSN, MSN, NP]

As an NP, you will need to be able to conduct medical research and also to understand the medical research papers you read. Should you decide to go on to pursue a PhD or DNP, this will become even more important.

The MSN is a graduate level program and pretty much every field requires research savvy at this level. NPs can and do write papers for publication. A program that does not prepare you to do this would not be fulfilling its mission.

I suggest you make an appointment with your professor to get guidance on your project and direct feedback. If necessary, make weekly appointments. You can also ask her for an exemplar, or good example of what she is looking for.