Archive for the ‘RN Articles’ Category

What Is Credit by Examination?

Tuesday, January 10th, 2012 by RNBP Admin

paramedic-to-rn-bridgeCredit by Examination award students credits that go toward earning an associate’s college degree, bachelor’s degree or college and vocational certification. Students take the examinations needed in their chosen field of study, which tests their knowledge in the subject. Testing sites throughout the US sponsor The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Advanced Placement (AP) exams at various times during the year. Most colleges consider the credits earned by the Credit by Examination program as transfer credits, so the college policies determine the earned credits for the degree.

The American Council on Education (ACE), approves other examinations recognized for college credit, such as the Excelsior College Exams and Dantes Subject Standardized tests, among others.

Top Benefits for Adult College Students
Most adult students have experience in the workforce that can go toward a degree program, saving them the time it takes to receive a four-year degree. Many adult students earn up to 40 credits toward a degree program through testing.

Another advantage of the Credit by Examination program is the money saved on college tuition. Most adult college student have families to provide for and spending under 100 dollars for an exam, saves thousands of dollars for college courses.

These examinations also help adult students who have already earned a degree but have been in the workplace for a number of years. They can earn continuing education credits for a graduate degree, using their work experience and specialized skills.

Preparing for Credit by Examination
Many adult students lack the confidence to take these exams because they are out of practice with testing and studying. This is especially true of those seeking medical careers, such as nursing because of the technical and medical facts needed to pass the exams.

Programs are available to help prepare for the exams in specific college fields if independent study is difficult or students feel intimidated by text book learning. One of these study programs is RNBridgeprogram.com, an LPN to RN bridge program that provides all the study skills needed to pass the nursing exams and earn credit for a nursing degree. This program allows students to study according to their own schedule using videos, webinars, practice tests and live support.

Programs like RNBridgeprogram.com help adult students remember what they study, boosting the self-esteem they need to pass the Credit by Examination exams. The program actually helps students pass all exams and courses needed to earn an ASN-RN, studying from home.

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RNBP News: Reform for Busy Learners

Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 by RNBP Admin

lpn-to-rn-bridge-programs

RNBP is in the news: The U.S. Nursing Shortage Leads to Training Reform for Busy Learners

With a national vacancy rate for registered nurses at more than 4 percent, the demand for nursing education programs to support the nursing profession, like RNBP , are critical. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, "the U.S. will require 1.2 million new RNs by 2014 to meet the nursing needs of the country, 500,000 to replace those leaving practice and an additional 700,000 new RNs to meet growing demands for nursing services."

Read the full news release about (RNBP) RN Bridge Program .

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Studying for the NCLEX-RN?

Thursday, October 27th, 2011 by RNBP Admin

The NCLEX is the most important exam that you’ll need to take in your career as a nurse. Need to prepare for the NCLEX review? Follow these tips to ensure that you are getting the most from your NCLEX Review.

  1. Know the exam. Become familiar with topics, format, and types of questions covered on the exam so you know how to focus your preparation efforts.
  2. Study area. Have a dedicated study space where you can keep your study aids and focus on regular basis.
  3. Practice schedule. Set up a reasonable practice schedule that you can complete each day.
  4. Concentrate. Studying with short, scheduled breaks will keep you focused and improve your ability to be sharp on test day.
  5. Study partners. If you can find some study partners, not only can you motivate one another, but you can collaborate on study techniques.
  6. Flashcards. Make or buy a set of flashcards and keep them with you so you always have the opportunity to get in a little extra studying.

As you study for the NCLEX keep in mind that most people are visual learners and can retain more information this way. As an RNBP member you understand how powerful video based learning can be. Our brains are wired to recall information a lot easier when we’ve first heard it using multiple senses. Video-based learning is the fastest way to learn, retain and apply useful information in a way that makes sense.

Thenclexreview.com is also a video based study program designed to feed you the right information in the best way so that you can learn both efficiently and effectively. It teaches you what you need to know to pass this important test. It lets the video be your guide as you test your knowledge through the practice exams. Thenclexreview.com will revolutionize how people prepare for the NCLEX.

Check out more information on the NCLEX Review.

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Your First Job After Nursing School

Monday, September 26th, 2011 by RNBP Admin

LPN to RN JobsWhen you transition from a nursing student to a working nurse, it’s important for the process to be as seamless as possible. Consider the following tips before beginning your first nursing job.

Ask About First-Year Nurse Turnover Rates

High turnovers are an indication of how the employer treats first year nurses. Generally you want to work at a facility that has less than a 20 percent turnover rate.

Find Out About Orientation and Preceptor Programs

A preceptor is a trainer or coach who assists nurses with becoming more acclimated with a facility’s routines, procedures and people. New nurses are more likely to stay if they have an experienced guide to inform and nurture their progress. A great question to ask would be “Will a preceptor be available on my shift after the orientation to answer questions and help with clinical decision making?” If the answer is now, then follow up with a question the facility’s orientation process. You want to make sure that you have enough support as a first year nurse to lessen frustrations and uncertainties.

Ask the nurse manager about the level of clinical, social and emotional support available for first year nurses. This support should include having experienced nurses on hand who are willing to help debrief a new nurse when they need help or extra support

Observe the Unit

A walk through of the unit won’t give you a realistic idea of how people work together. It takes a while for people to let their guard down and be their true selves when someone is watching. Therefore, make sure you observe for a few hours so you get a clearer picture of the unit’s interpersonal dynamics. You may even want to come back the next day and observe more. Try to picture yourself operating in the environment. If you’re having difficulty doing so, then this may be a red flag.

Consider Working on a Specialty Unit First

It’s easier for many new nurses to start on a specialty unit, such as labor and delivery or a highly staffed pediatrics unit, because the patients on those units are more standardized than those on a medical/surgical unit where there are a broad range of cases. There environments in these units are more controlled and the circumstances are more consistent.

Get Your Feet Wet

After getting the proper credentials, assessing potential job environments and doing your research, it’s important to just begin working. You’ll find that most of your learning will come from actually performing your nursing duties. The more experience you get under your belt, the better you’ll feel and the more confidence you’ll have.

Ready for a new career as an RN?  Check out our LPN to RN Bridge Program.

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Career Fields for the Registered Nurse

Thursday, May 5th, 2011 by RNBP Admin

lpn-to-rn-nurseIf you are thinking of making the transition from LPN to RN you will find this article informative and motivating. Registered nurses make up 60% of the medical field because they work in every area of medicine.

The most familiar role of the registered nurse is the nurse who works in a hospital, a clinic or a doctor’s office. The basic duties of a registered nurse are:

  • Treat patients according to instructions by a physician
  • Educate patients, their caregivers and the public about illnesses and conditions
  • Provide emotional support to families
  • Keep records of medical histories
  • Perform diagnostic tests
  • Administer medications
  • Write up management plans for home use
  • Instruct patients in diet, nutrition and exercise
  • And many other duties

However, there are many more career paths a registered nursing degree can take you. A few of those career paths are:

  • The perioperative nurse works in the operating room assisting surgeons.
  • Perianesthesia nurses take care of patients before and after surgery or other procedures
  • Transport nurses are emergency nurses who monitor patients while they are being transported by helicopter or plane to a hospital.
  • Nephrology nurses specialize in working with patients with kidney disease.
  • Some nurses combine two specialties such as pediatric oncology nurses who work with children who have cancer.

These are just five of the 62 different areas of nursing that are available to a registered nurse. Some nursing positions are more stressful than others. For instance, nursing positions in hospitals, especially in the emergency room, tend to be more stressful than positions in private practice.  Some of the specialties also require certification by a certifying board but the first step to take is to get an ASN degree in nursing from an accredited college institution.

Nurses’ salaries depend on the specialty and what city the position is located. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook registered nurses can look forward to making from $43,410 to $92,240 per year. Job growth is 22% between 2008 and 2018 which is much faster than average for all occupations. You could not go wrong investing a few years in becoming a registered nurse.

If you’re ready to make the transition from LPN to RN the RNBP video learning system can help make it happen faster and easier!

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Effects of Healthcare Reform on Nursing

Sunday, March 6th, 2011 by RNBP Admin

rnbp-healthOne of the most crucial provisions in the healthcare reform act that is important to the careers of nurses is Obama’s promise to increase funding for the education of nurses. Nursing organizations have been carefully monitoring the status of healthcare reform to gauge its impact on the shortage of nurses in the healthcare industry. Many people who oppose healthcare reform believe that the cost to instrument the plan is exceedingly expensive. In general, nurses believe people can have access to quality medical care without any increase in the cost. Some nurses believe that healthcare reform is really more about reforming health insurance. Nurses would prefer that the passing of the healthcare reform act will cause more money to go towards funding patient care, as oppose to lining the pockets of insurance companies.

Healthcare reform cannot solve the critical shortage of nurse alone. It will take additional help from the state and federal government, and donations from private investors to provide money for nurses to attend school. The American Nurses Association supports healthcare reform legislation, because it will provide increase funding for the education of nurses. The Public Health Service Act has initiated programs which are the primary source of federal funds stipulated for research and the education of nurses. These provisions were put into place to make sure there will not be a shortage of nurse in the future.

Nursing organizations across the Unites States appreciate the fact that healthcare reform has made registered nurses and nurse practitioners an integral part of the healthcare team by given them more leadership responsibilities. Some doctors fear that with registered nurses and nurses practitioners assuming more responsibility, the quality of patient care will deteriorate, and their salaries will decrease. Under the healthcare reform act, federal funding will be provided to Nurse-Managed Clinics, so that nurse practitioners can provide primary and preventive health care in areas that has a shortage of doctors.

Despite strong opposition to the healthcare reform act, many nurses believe that health care reform is needed to improve the overall quality and cost of patient care. Nursing organizations has work closely with the Obama administration to make changes to the healthcare reform bill that will have a positive impact on nurses and patient care in the medical field. Healthcare reform legislation mandates that all Americans must have healthcare insurance. This law will make it necessary to employ more nurses in the future. Nurses will play a vital role in implementing the provisions of healthcare reform, and they will continue to advocate for changes in the healthcare reform laws when needed.

Ready to go from LPN to RN?

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Nursing in the Top 50 Careers of 2011

Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011 by RNBP Admin

rnbp-nurseAlthough the current recession has resulted in tremendous downsizing and job losses across the country, at least one career path has flourished. Registered nursing continued to add jobs and saw salary increases at the same time many other industries or contracting. There are currently more than 2 1/2 million active registered nurses now working in the United States.

Registered nursing has once again emerged as one of the top 50 careers for 2011. By its nature, nursing can encompass a wide variety of roles within the health care industry. And as our society continues to age, the need for health care providers continues to grow. That has driven the need for more nurses particularly as the last influx of highly trained nurses has begun to hit retirement age and is now leaving the workforce.

The role of registered nurses can range from working in delivery rooms to hospice care at the end of life. And as more medical facilities are trying to see more and more patients, the need for highly trained reliable registered nurses is also on the rise.

According to workplace experts, growth opportunities for nursing will rise faster than average compared to other occupations. The US Department of Labor predicts the country is expected to add just under 600,000 new registered nurses job by the year 2018. Most of that hiring will take place to fill positions in private physicians offices.

Nursing salaries have continued to increase as well. In the middle of the great recession the median salary for a typical nurse was around $64,000. The highest earners in nursing were making nearly $100,000 in 2009.

The nursing field has also remained attractive because of its chances for advancement. As incentives to attract top nursing candidates, many medical facilities are offering fast track career paths. In addition to signing bonuses, these facilities may pay for education which can lead to faster career advancement and higher pay. That has allowed many nurses to obtain masters degrees which can allow them to enter into more advanced practices such as becoming a nurse practitioner.

In order to obtain an entry-level job in nursing, employees must first have a bachelor of science or Associates degree in nursing. Associates degrees can be completed in two years which can get a nurse on the job more quickly. However those who have already obtained a four year bachelor of science degree can start at a higher pay level. For that reason many employees with an associate degree try to quickly obtain a bachelor’s degree soon after being hired.

As the economy shrunk the past three years the need for highly-skilled health care workers did not. That especially has created a need for more people to fill nursing positions. With a predicted 22% growth rate in hiring, the future for careers in nursing remains bright even if the economy remains bleak.

Are you ready to make the leap from LPN to RN?

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New RNBP Progress Reward Program!

Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011 by RNBP Admin

RNBP Reward ProgramWe are so blown away with the progress our members are making (and how quickly they are making it) so we decided to start rewarding all the hard work by giving our members $20 off a month of their membership for every passing exam they fax to us!

So not only is www.RNBridgeprogram.com already up to 67% cheaper than any other way to prepare for your nursing exams but it just got even more affordable!

Here’s what Robert had to say after passing his exam using the RNBP video learning system,

“Just passed Health Differences with  ”A”. RNBP really help me get it done.. I watched all the videos and did the practice test over and over till I got it down.  The practice test questions are written in the same style and format as the real test questions which really helped. There are a lot of study options out there. You have to choose smart.  As far as I am concerned RNBP is a great Bang for you Buck…. Thank you RNBP. My Grade of  ”A” says is all….”- Robert Omstad MICP,CPHT

Are you ready to get your RN degree in as little as 7 months by studying just 5 hours of video per week?  Make 2011 the year that you finally do it.

If you are already a member and want to start taking advantage of the RNBP Progress Reward Program fax your passing exam grade (passed on February 1, 2011 or later) to 1877-322-2911 and receive $20 off of your membership fee for the following month.  If you pass multiple exams in one month, which frequently happens, you will receive a $20 credit for the following months equal to the number of exams you passed using RNBP.

Getting your RN degree just got easier, faster and even MORE AFFORDABLE!

Go from LPN to RN today!

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Registered Nurses Portrayed on T.V.

Sunday, November 21st, 2010 by RNBP Admin

registered-nurse-portrayals3Prime-time television shows seldom present occupations accurately and the nursing profession is no exception. Shows like “Nurse Jackie” and “Grey’s Anatomy” create popular portrayals of nurses as dramatic, emotional, and somehow seemingly being able to avoid the many hours of paperwork and charting that real-life Registered Nurses do on a daily basis.

Nurses outside of the cameras have very different jobs than they do on screen. Perhaps the most inaccurate portrayal of nursing on even well-meaning shows like “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Angels in America” leave out the foundation of communication between nursing and the other medial specialties. Charting, whether by handwritten records or the newer computerized charting systems, puts onto paper all pertinent information concerning a patient. Every treatment, examination, dispersal of medicine, contact, bath, and instruction is recorded in the records. This written communication assists other health care professionals as they diagnose and treat patients. Television nurses may dramatically interact with medical personnel and patients on an ongoing basis but never lift a pen. Nothing could be more inaccurate a portrayal of a day in the life of a Registered Nurse.

A second inaccuracy that television shows present on a regular basis is that nurses are able to concentrate almost exclusively on one, two, or a small number of patients. Reality is significantly different. The average nurse is actively responsible for as many as 30 to 40 patients. Hospitals try to keep these numbers down to manageable levels but the cost of patient care often dictates a less advantageous nurse-to-patient ratio. In specialized care hospital units it’s possible to have nurses caring for just a handful of people but these are critically ill or injured patients and not in the general hospital population.

Time management difficulties are part of the daily routine. There’s seldom time to “get it all done” in real life. TV nursing personalities have time to relate freely to anyone they want without their duties getting in the way.
There are similarities between real-life Registered Nurses and the television show version of health care providers.

Nurses in both situations are generally caring and passionate about their jobs. They’re in nursing because they’re caring people. They want to facilitate healing and work in rewarding and people-oriented careers that help others. Nurses do cry sometimes. A jaded attitude tends to develop over tender hearts but is usually only onion-skin thin. Health care providers become attached to patients with whom they have a natural affinity or who they get to know over a period of time. Do nurses love their jobs? The answer is yes.

Actresses, actors, and nurses share a flair for the dramatic in some situations. TV over-presents this distinctly human trait and highlights conflict, passion, and romance. Nurses experience the highs and lows of life and it does spill over into work at times. There are both inaccurate representations of nursing and fairly accurate portrayals of this helping profession on the popular TV shows. Just ask a real Registered Nurse.

Ready to bridge to your RN?

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Becoming a Successful RN Entrepreneur

Monday, November 1st, 2010 by RNBP Admin

Many nurses have forn-businessund themselves in the position where they are ready to make the transition from working for hospitals and clinics to becoming a successful and in-demand registered nurse entrepreneur. LPN’s and RN’s both have found that hospital jobs have hectic and demanding scheduling, strict policies and procedures to follow, therefore increasing stress and taking away from a quality family life. Often mandatory overtime and rigid guidelines of being employed by a hospital, nursing home, or clinic have left many nurses feeling underappreciated, overworked, and drained.

Self-employment as a registered nurse allows nurses to have the freedom and opportunity to explore the diverse and challenging avenues of entrepreneurship. With an RN degree in hand, the doors of career options unfold, offering more choices in travel, companies to work for, creativity options, and setting their own schedules. For those considering using their current college credits to pursue a further education in nursing, many LPN to RN bridge programs are available. These programs will not only take an LPN out of a lower pay scale but will also open key career paths to becoming self-employed once completed. Advancing education in nursing to obtain a successful career as an RN entrepreneur has transformed many nurses from being unhappy and burdened in the medical field to feeling excited about going to work daily.

Professional entrepreneur opportunities existing for RNs include private medical consultants to businesses and healthcare industries, traveling RN, private healthcare RN for families and corporations, school screenings, and more. Nurses who have advanced through using LPN to RN bridge programs have enjoyed the array of choices made available by determining which medical entrepreneur path works best for them. Often averaging at $125.00 an hour, these professionals have enjoyed a greater scale of pay as well as the flexibility to setting their own schedules. RNs can freelance their services as needed and maintain quality time at home with family activities.

An unending sea of occupational selection awaits the entrepreneur RN or those furthering their medical education. Healthcare, one of the most in-demand careers, has a wide array of self-employment possibilities and many people are choosing to become their own boss and leave the demanding hassle of working for a hospital or clinic. Whether an RN wishes to teach, hold seminars, become a private consultant, or meet the medical needs of corporations, these nurses are finding the advantages of being their own boss much outweighs clocking in everyday. Small overhead allows RNs to start up business with ease and a minimum of equipment. Working from home with their current computers and printers provides an efficient and affordable way for entrepreneurs just starting out to quickly become self-employed. This transition has changed the attitude and outlook of their medical careers for thousands of RNs who found themselves unhappy trapped in a cycle of twelve hour shifts and harsh guidelines. With an RN degree and a home computer and telephone, an exciting new career of self-employment is just a step away.

Are you ready to earn your RN degree?

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