Reasons an LPN should go on for RN

AngelicDarkness · Jun 13, 2011

I swear I just answered this post 5 mins ago... deja vu on my part I think. Or I'm getting old. haha, sorry to get off topic.

The only way to answer this is, do YOU want to go back? That should be the only way to answer this. If you have the strive to go back and continue. I'm currently an RPN, and my goal is to get my RN and my masters in the future, but I'm in no rush.

New grads not getting jobs or struggling to find jobs is the same as the "nursing shortage" theories. It depends on the area. If you're in an area where it is harder to find work, are you willing to relocate? If not, you can still remain an RPN and work while getting your RN or having your RN (just have to pay for each license).

School can be chaotic, but if you want this. Then I think you should give into what you want. If you don't want to become an RN right away, there are many opportunities for RPNs to specialize like our sister/brother RNs. Emerg RPNs, pysch RPNs, OR RPNs, Dialysis RPNs, etc etc. Check out some of the schools in your area online academic programs. I'm currently working on my phlebotomy course as an RPN.

jenmarissa · Aug 16, 2011

where are you taking the phlebotomy course for rpn? and how long is it taking you?

heathert_kc · Aug 17, 2011

More money, better/more oportunities, ability to specialize, extended scope of practice, personal satisfaction (esp. if RN was your original goal), feeling of accomplishment (having a degree rather than just a certificate), opportunities to move up the ladder (i.e. management, if desired), respect, and so on.... there are lots of reasons, these are some that came to mind and ring true for me personally. God willing I will be finishing my RN program this semester (fall 2011) after nearly 3 years as an LPN. RN new grad market not so hot where i live but I am not too worried. I am currently working in a position that I am happy with, though I have had to cut back on hours while in school, I have spoken with my DON who is really supportive and understanding and said there will be a full time spot for me when I finish if I want it. Sure I might want experience in a field other than long term care, but so long as I have a check coming in I can work on that in time. Keeping a job even if it is PRN or Part time as an LPN can be helpful in transitioning into your RN role. In many working environments the roles of LPN and RN is not much different, such as LTC, homehealth, corrections, and doctor's offices. So they wouldn't be as hesitant to trust you, as say a new RN fresh out of school with no experience, as they know you and your work.

Ultimately it has to be something that you want to do. As I am sure you remember nursing school is tough so if you are not focused and determined it is really hard to be successful.

DavidFR, BSN, MSN, RN · Aug 17, 2011

I would say the question you need to ask is does the LPN have a future?

I don't know the US, but I ask because the same situation used to exist in the UK between RNs and ENs (Enrolled Nurses). The EN qualification was phased out and ENs found themselves either having to do their RN mighty quickly, fighting for places etc. or found themselves blocked where they were and more and more marginalized. Many never foresaw the end of EN training, yet it happened. Could the LPN role eventually be under threat? If so, do your RN ASAP before you're forced to.

Karl Farmer · Aug 19, 2011

LPN for 25 years, in AZ now. New grad RN's are now making less $ than I was as an LPN, due to downward wage pressure. Sure LPNs are at risk. But as costs continue to escalate, LPNs will again regain more status, due to money. Already, in some states an LPN has to be IV certified, which historically was the difference between RN and LPN. So, in some areas RNs are making less than LPNs used to, so taking on debt to become an RN is a risk. At the same time, the responsibilities of LPNs has far over-reached the educational program. My guess is that LPNs and other less trained folks will have more jobs available, simply due to a collapsing economy. Then again, in 1978 I became an LPN, and was told then to go for RN, since LPNs were soon to be eliminated. Tough call if you need to take on a huge debt for nursing school. Roll the dice?

NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN · Aug 19, 2011

More money, better/more oportunities, ability to specialize, extended scope of practice, personal satisfaction (esp. if RN was your original goal), feeling of accomplishment (having a degree rather than just a certificate), opportunities to move up the ladder (i.e. management, if desired), respect, and so on.... there are lots of reasons, these are some that came to mind and ring true for me personally. God willing I will be finishing my RN program this semester (fall 2011) after nearly 3 years as an LPN. RN new grad market not so hot where i live but I am not too worried. I am currently working in a position that I am happy with, though I have had to cut back on hours while in school, I have spoken with my DON who is really supportive and understanding and said there will be a full time spot for me when I finish if I want it. Sure I might want experience in a field other than long term care, but so long as I have a check coming in I can work on that in time. Keeping a job even if it is PRN or Part time as an LPN can be helpful in transitioning into your RN role. In many working environments the roles of LPN and RN is not much different, such as LTC, homehealth, corrections, and doctor's offices. So they wouldn't be as hesitant to trust you, as say a new RN fresh out of school with no experience, as they know you and your work.
Ultimately it has to be something that you want to do. As I am sure you remember nursing school is tough so if you are not focused and determined it is really hard to be successful.

ditto, ditto, ditto !!! We are like twins... I'm also 22, been an lpn for 2 years ,and hoping to graduate in dec. as RN. I agree with your whole post and those are the reasons I'm pursing my degree. :nurse:

NoAverageLPN · Aug 19, 2011

I know it is a personal decision and it doesn't mean any nurse is LESS of a nurse if he/she is an LPN.
I have an itching to further my education and pay, and am seriously thinking about heading back to RN school.
What bothers me is that I read on here again that there are few jobs for new grad RN's. Makes me think maybe I am better off staying an LPN.

I was always afraid if I went back for my RN I would lose all my good nursing sense! JK!! :lol2:

Seriously tho, I have worked with excellent RNs and not so excellent RNs, same with LPNs. The credentials don't make the nurse! I am so frustrated with the limitations that are imposed upon me that I couldn't take it anymore. I too am nervous about the NG RN job market, but we are not just NEW GRADs my friend...I have five solid years of nursing expierence behind me as opposed to the NG RN who has NO nursing expierence. Were I the one in position of hiring, I would definately be hiring the RN who was an LPN. Keep your chin up girl and GO FOR IT!!! The work will be there and you will probably get paid a little more! :yeah:

applewhitern, BSN, RN · Aug 20, 2011

In my area, hardly any hospitals hire LPNs anymore. Most of the LPNs here work in nursing homes. My hospital has said that they will not terminate any LPNs, but as they quit or move on, those positions will be filled with RNs only. Of course, nothing seems to be stable in nursing these days, so that could change, too. I do notice hospitals here want a minimum BSN with certification in your area of practise. I would just do whatever you personally want to do, and whatever you can do financially.

sherri12 · Aug 20, 2011

I know a few LPN's that are going back for thier RN's because already there are 3 hospitals in my area that will not hire new LPN's anymore and are trying to phase out the one's that are already there.

I think it would be good job security to go back for your RN. True that some are paying RN's not much more than an LPN at the moment because RN's want a job and are willing to take it. So if this is what's happening, why hire an LPN if an RN is willing to take the same money to get in?

That's what's going on around here anyway.