LPN class

[LilRedRN1973]

Our ADN program offers an LPN class next semester that I can take with my regular RN classes. Then I can take the exam and be a licensed LPN and possibly work per diem for extra money during the summer and possibly next Fall to help out with finances. I'm wondering if anyone else has done something like this and whether it worked out for them. I have all my corequisites done already, with the exception of Microbiology. But they offer a 3 week Micro class in the summer that I will be taking so I don't have to take but 2 nursing classes next semester. I do know that the exam runs around $400 total for application fee and exam fee. I don't want to be wasting money if it's not going to be worth it. But I figure working as an LPN can only help me in my RN program, right? I mean, it's mostly clinical time, I believe....the class, that is. I know that near where I live (Barton Memorial in South Lake Tahoe), LPN's start at $19.00 but unfortunately, that particular hospital will not be running LPN's on the floor anymore after Jan. of 2004, so that's out of the question. Here in NV, they start out around $12-13 an hour I think. So even though it's not as much as Barton, it's still more than what I make now ($0!!!). If anyone has any advice for me, I would appreciate it. I do not plan on stopping at LPN...I will continue on with my RN...this would just be as a way to make a decent paycheck while going to school.

[PSA, RN]

The RN program I went through gave us the option to become certified NA's after our first semester. So you might want to check with your instructors and see if they also do that for the LPN certification.

[LilRedRN1973]

Right..that's what I was saying. Our program gives us the option of taking a 3 credit LPN class next semester. I'm definitely considering it, but was wondering if anyone else had done this and what was their experience. Also, I'm wondering how easy it will be to find a job soon after passing my exam.