US nurses... what makes you do it??!! (rhetorical question alert!!!)

Double-Helix, BSN, RN · May 17, 2011

Thanks for the admiration. For some people, it is that tough. However, not all programs require pre-reqs first. There are many BSN programs at universities across the US that accept students directly into the nursing program as first year students. (Good high school grades and SAT scores are still very important in this decision.)Pre-reqs are completed the first few semesters along with basic nursing courses.

Also, the NCLEX is much better than it was 20-30 years ago. It used to be five tests spread out across two solid days. Now it is one test, minimum 75 questions and max 265.

While there is certainly no guarantee of a job, the same if true for almost every graduating profession, with the exception of a few.

Again, thanks for the appreciation! I just wanted to clarify that it isn't a torturous process for all of us!

purplesteth · May 17, 2011

Thanks for your reply - I appreciate it a lot! :) I'm always fascinated by the differences between different countries, different university and education systems, and different ways of doing things.

NPinWCH · May 17, 2011

Well this isn't going to answer your question, but maybe clarify. I went straight from high school to a 4 yr university with the intent to get my BSN. When I declared my major as nursing I was assigned to an advisor in the nursing program. She laid out my plan of study. Sure, there were things you'd call "prereqs", but really they were part of the program.

I had some leeway with what humanity and English class I wanted, but for the most part she handed me a list of classes and said, "You need to sign up for these classes this semester and these next semester. If you have trouble getting into a class let me know."

I knew exactly what classes I needed and a time line. The only way to not get into the "nursing program" which was officially jr and sr year, was to not have finished the classes or to not meet the grade requirements...nothing less than a B- in any core science class (micro, biochem, A&P) and nothing less than a C in any other class.

Once in the program you had to keep all grades C+ and above, and then yes, pass NCLEX and find a job, but there was no drama about school. I saw my advisor before each semester and followed the class plan she gave me.

BrookeeLou_RN · May 17, 2011

I did this a long time ago but found no drama with school, or finding a job or with passing NCLEX ( and I did the 2 day test, would not wish that on any one). The drama I find is now with 23 yrs experience and having to have taken some time off for family illness, I can not buy an interview let alone a job. I never noticed the other recessions but this one Big Time! Maybe it is my age, yet I am always encouraged to go get higher degree.. but then I will be even older and in debt and what if then no job either??????

gettingbsn2msn, MSN, RN · May 18, 2011

Brookee,

I do not think it is your age. I believe in the US at this time there are simply no jobs and that would include (sadly) nursing. I am in a masters program for NP and am questioning this as well. I am close to your age and I worry about all the debt that I am carrying. Yet, what else can one do? I also have a psych degree and a business degree (4 years). I do not even make enough to live on. I am digging through savings. I have not had a raise in 3 years and can no longer afford to keep putting gas in my vehicle. What can us older gals do? I still think it is the economy and not age.

BrookeeLou_RN · May 18, 2011

I really can not believe it is age alone as I have only been out like 9 mos, so age was never an issue before. I hear ya on the no money, no gas. It is also self defeating for my self esteem as well.

bsveillon · May 18, 2011

I really can not believe it is age alone as I have only been out like 9 mos, so age was never an issue before. I hear ya on the no money, no gas. It is also self defeating for my self esteem as well.

I tend to believe you would have a huge advantage getting a job in a "closer to normal" market- if for nothing else, you're experience.

I know when I'm in the hospital, I am very picky about the nurse, being I am one. I'm almost to the point of being rude. I want to know who is pushing meds through my veins! I rest easy when it's a nurse I can TELL is experienced.

Please, don't let it damper your self-esteem. The economy is bad. It also gives no favors to anyone- not even the best of workers.

bsveillon · May 18, 2011

I tend to believe you would have a huge advantage getting a job in a "closer to normal" market- if for nothing else, you're experience.
I know when I'm in the hospital, I am very picky about the nurse, being I am one. I'm almost to the point of being rude. I want to know who is pushing meds through my veins! I rest easy when it's a nurse I can TELL is experienced.
Please, don't let it damper your self-esteem. The economy is bad. It also gives no favors to anyone- not even the best of workers.

Although, here in south louisiana, any day of the week you'd be able to get a full-time nursing job. It all depends ont he region, unfortunately.

BrookeeLou_RN · May 18, 2011

Funny thing is when younger, I would have moved most anywhere for a good job, now I have settled and no work.

BOOYARN · May 18, 2011

i dont know why you think us US nurses have it tough???

dont we have like a much better salary here in the US.....

blondy2061h, MSN, RN · May 18, 2011

Does Italy not have a licensing exam? Cause that's kinda scary if that's the case. That's all NCLEX is- nothing special or particularly scary if you went to a program that prepared you well.

My pre-reqs were part of my BSN program. I started right out of high school.

Nursing employment rates, while maybe temporarily poor due to the economy, are still better than any other college major. I had a job lined up before graduating college. I know many people who are graduating this month who have had job offers.

I really don't think challenges people in the US going to nursing school face are unique to the US.