I would like to ask that Virginia State Board of Nursing reconsider limiting licensure eligibility for graduates from Excelsior College Associate Nursing Program. Excelsior is approved by the National League of Nursing (NLN) and is one of 15 NLN Centers of Excellence nationwide .Not to mention, Excelsior's NCLEX pass rate has always been at or above the national average (including clinical based programs).  Due to nursing shortage crisis, it is quite apparent that we need to facilitate in getting more qualified competent Nurses into the profession. As a nurse, and a realist, I know that some LPN's can run circles around a new graduate fresh out of school with zero nursing experience. I don't feel like this decision was made thoughtfully or with any type of objective data. I think for an LPN, RT, or Paramedic this type of program gives them the most reasonable opportunity to obtain their RN, while meeting the needs of prior responsibilities. For some, it may be the only possibility.  I feel that nursing, as a profession in a shortage, will have more qualified competent nurses produced because of the vast number of adult learners Excelsior appeals to.

Until someone can give me hard data that supports the current regulation, I think we are further hindering our profession. With the baby boomers aging, this crisis will only get worse. My hope is that the Board will thoughtfully reconsider and closely monitor the outcomes if the change is made. As a nurse, WE all know that the best practice is evidence based practice.

Thank you for considering,

Sarah Benson RN, BSN