BACKGROUND:

The number of RN-to-baccalaureate nursing (BSN) programs is increasing; however, nurses continue to voluntarily withdraw at higher rates than expected.

METHOD:

A Heideggerian hermeneutic approach was used to interpret the meaning of the experience of RNs, who voluntarily withdraw from their baccalaureate nursing programs. The research aims were to generate a comprehensive understanding of (a) the experiences of RN-to-BSN noncompleters, (b) the meaning noncompleters ascribe to the experience of dropping out, and (c) the interplay between factors that influence dropout decisions.

RESULTS:

Two overarching patterns of understanding emerged: Withdrawing as Revisiting Failure, and Withdrawing as Impasse: On One Side of the Divide. The factors that influence whether an RN finishes a baccalaureate nursing program are many, but the effect on dignity and well-being are immeasurable.

CONCLUSION:

Voluntary withdrawal from an RN-to-BSN program leaves nurses professionally place-bound, affecting not only the individual nurse but also the profession.