[bella2131]

I just joined this website and have enjoyed reading the exchanges and information. I am looking to begin my nursing career at 44! I was wondering if I should begin with the LPN and work at that level while pursuing my RN or should I just start the RN program now. (I need to complete my associates first.)

[Jules A]

Welcome! I went to LPN school at 40 and wasn't the oldest one in class, lol. If you are sure you want to be a nurse and can afford to work at whatever you are doing now while in school I would go for the RN. If not then the LPN is a great option in the meantime. Best to you, Jules

[lmm1019]

Hi there!! Welcome to the board!! Lot's of great people and support here and a lot of great information! Glad you are here!!

[RNsRWe]

Welcome

You might do best to look into the hiring practices in your area, in the facilities you are most interested in working in.

For instance, locally, the trade school churns out LPNs every 10 months, but the hospitals just aren't hiring them. They go to the nursing homes and MD offices. If that's your area of interest, you'd be set. If not, you could be disappointed. For RNs, the fields are wide open, but of course it takes alot longer to get that license. Mostly depends on your community needs and whether they match your own goals.

Best of luck to you!

[stpauligirl]

Originally Posted by bella2131

I just joined this website and have enjoyed reading the exchanges and information. I am looking to begin my nursing career at 44! I was wondering if I should begin with the LPN and work at that level while pursuing my RN or should I just start the RN program now. (I need to complete my associates first.)

I am 47 and currently working on my prereques for nursing school. I am trying to get into RN school but if I don't get in I will also apply to an LVN program and am willing to take the detour
Start taking your classes and good luck since most schools are extremely competitive.

[bella2131]

Good luck to you too! It's never too late....and nursing has so many opportunities and venues. Are you going into any area of specialty? I would like to go into forensic nursing....but keeping the options open.