The questions and concerns I have with Walden University’s Nurse Practitioner are:

1. Despite the online orientation and previous online-class experience, I continue to find Walden University’s online program a little challenging. How can I make it easy and efficient? 

I obtained my Bachelor of Science of Nursing (BSN) online through a different University. It took me a while to get used to their online program, but it became easier down the road. I went over Walden’s online orientation module, but I still find it challenging to it. My concern with Walden’s online program is that it changes my font and alignment with Microsoft Word when I post a discussion. I also noticed that it is difficult to control the discussion posts when scrolling. I don’t see a notification when there is a reply to my post, or my assignment is graded. I am sure I will find my way and figure it out once I am used to the program, but I would like to know if anyone of you who have used this program before has any suggestion for me to make it efficient.

1. What if I have difficulty with time management with work and school?

I chose an online program, so it’s more convenient, flexible, and amenable to my schedule. “Time management is a big part of succeeding in online education” (Best Schools, 2020). I have struggled with time management in my professional life. My inability to use proper time management has been barriers to participating in professional development. I managed my work and study well when I did my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) online. I worry I might struggle with time management with the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) since it requires more dedication and effort. I have spoken with a few of my colleagues who graduated from an online MSN Program and got suggestions from them. I would like to get advice from Walden’s academic team as well.  

1. How do I find a clinical site and preceptor?

We need to find our clinical site and preceptor, which is challenging for me since I live in a small town. When I spoke with my advisor, she stated that we need to find a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) for a preceptor. She noted that the program does not accept a Physician Assistant (PA) or a physician as a preceptor. Is there anyone in the class who comes from small and has suggestions for finding a clinical site?

1. My other concern is, how do I get prepared for the board certification?

 I know it is a little early to think about the state examination, but I would like to get an idea beforehand so that I can get prepared. The final step in the progression from a registered nurse (RN) to Nurse Practitioner (NP) is to obtain NP board certification (Writers, 2020). Only those who pass the NP board certification exam in one’s specialty area can practice as NP (Writers, 2020). I want to get an idea from the professors and senior students who have taken the board examination on the preparation process.  

1. My final concern is my poor English reading and writing skills. What if I don’t meet the graduate level reading and writing expectations?

English is my third language. Due to the language barrier, I often struggle to read and write in English. I have found it challenging to convey my thoughts, feelings, and desires to others in the workplace because of the language barrier, which has hindered my professional development.

I have a fear that the lack of proper communication and language barriers would be a struggle for the MSN program. Those whose “English is the second language experience distinctive challenges that prove to be burdensome, such as academics, socioeconomic status, immigration status, parental involvement, and socio-emotional strains” (Perez & Morrison, 2016). I found significant improvement in my English and academic performance with the writing center’s help when I did an online BSN program. I am planning on using the writing center and a tutor to help my writing. I would also like to get help from professors with strategies and appropriate skills to succeed in the MSN program.

Reference:

Best_Schools. (2020, March 23). Online College and Time Management. Retrieved from https://thebestschools.org/magazine/online-college-time-management/

Perez, C. Morrison, S. (2016). Understanding the Challenges of English Language Learners and Increasing College-Going Culture: Suggestions for School Counselors. Retrieved from: https://www.counseling.org/docs/default-source/vistas/article_81_2016.pdf?sfvrsn=4

Writers, S. (2020, June 8). How Do I Prepare for My NP Board Certification Exam? Retrieved from https://www.nursepractitionerschools.com/faq/how-do-i-prepare-for-np-certification-exam/

Discussion: Strategies for Addressing Questions

In Module 1, you began building a foundation for your success by considering a network-individuals and teams who can help you to clarify and execute on the vision. A network is most helpful when you are comfortable asking questions. Chances are other members of your network have experienced similar questions and may have helped guide others toward resolutions that can now be helpful.

In this Discussion, focus on the questions you are ready to ask as your journey begins. Keep in mind that sharing questions is often a great way to help others who have similar questions even if they do not realize it!

To prepare:

• Reflect on questions or concerns you might have as you begin the MSN program.
• Consider the individuals, teams, and departments you previously considered in Module 1 as well as how they may provide support with addressing these questions and concerns.

By Day 3 of Week 2

Post any questions or concerns that you are willing to share with the group. The Discussion board represents an opportunity to network with your course colleagues, and others may have the same questions or concerns.

By Day 6 of Week 2

Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts by offering a possible resolution to their questions/concerns with supporting documentation, if possible, or expanding on their thinking and providing an example as support.