Of course there will be weak minded persons who somehow squeeze through and attain the higher credentials, but because I have worked in different ICUs for years, I likely knew some of the elite. My Nurse friends are mostly terrific. I could listen to them rounding or giving Report and I would find myself in awe of them. They understand the medications and the issues, intimately of their Patients.
It was never the sort of work for me. I like the Pulmonary stuff. I run ventilators and other things. I had my heart set on being a Physician when I was very young. That never worked out for me due to family problems.
I am OK with that now, but I have no doubt whatsoever that I might have made myself a capable Doctor.
I can relate to that. Even some RNs who were sort of "grandfathered" LPNs back when that was done can't really find much work commensurate with their experience and ability.
Today's environment is all about credentialing, and the PTB will have their way or squish you like a bug.