Switching my career field (Advise needed)

Nurses LPN/LVN

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Helo folks,

My name is Sonny (M/32) and I just joining this forum. I live in Inland Empire (SoCal) for about 10 months now. I was from East Coast before. My background is in Financial/Mortgage. I made $20.00 an hour back when I was working in New Jersey.

In November I moved to California and January of 2005 I met my current girlfriend. She is an RN. The fact that (as you all know) she's making a lot more then me and I saw that a lot of good opportunities in the medical field in this area made me think to switching my career. So I went to local Community College and registered for full time LVN course. The class will start January 2006.

Now.. for those people who's been in this kind situation, where the new field is totally a new learning experience, what will be your best advise for me so I can hang in there.

I'm very determine to go through this (switching career) because I know working as an LVN they make more than compare to data entry job. And also there is a possibility (?) to continoue to RN with bridge program.

My post probably to general but I will be glad to give you more detail if needed in order for you guys to give me best advise. Also.. any idea how much the paying rate for fresh LVN in California (Inland Empire) area?

Regards, Sonny

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Specializes in PeriOp, ICU, PICU, NICU.

Hello Sonny. I think that aside from the pay difference you need to consider if you would actually like/love being a nurse. Lots of people enter the field or attempt it atleast following the money and enter a path of deception when they realize they don't like the career they chose.

You have not once mentioned you "passion" or desire for helping ppl etc. I am sure you are, but just wanted to mention that you need to decide and know what you will be getting into. There are many who enter the field "for the money" and end up loving it as well. While the money may be great compared to your current job as well as the job outlook.......make sure this is something you will enjoy doing. :p

Having said that, I wish you the best of luck in your studies. Have fun in school and much success to you. :)

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Sonny:

Welcome to the West Coast...other than deciding if this is really for you, have you considered going the direct route and getting your RN/BSN? If I had the time and money, I would have done it in a heartbeat. I love being an LVN (I work in the ER of a trauma center) but feel frustrated at the difference in scope. I'm almost done with my pre-reqs and am looking forward to getting my RN and then becoming an MICN.

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Sonny:

Welcome to the West Coast...other than deciding if this is really for you, have you considered going the direct route and getting your RN/BSN? If I had the time and money, I would have done it in a heartbeat. I love being an LVN (I work in the ER of a trauma center) but feel frustrated at the difference in scope. I'm almost done with my pre-reqs and am looking forward to getting my RN and then becoming an MICN.

Thanks for your reply. I'm thinking about going to RN route as well. My concern is the house that I bought about three months ago. I'm not sure if I can pay my mortgage bill if I will be in the school for straight two years.

If I take the LVN program (since it less cost) I can get a part time job and be able to pay my mortgage. Work maybe for a year after graduated and then start the RN (bridge) program. Yet I have some money for the RN program expenses since I worked as LVN and I also can use my equity.

Anyway.. if you don't mine telling me.. what is the starting pay rate for fresh LVN in SoCal area. Especially Inland Empire. Thanks for the info!

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Thanks for your reply. I'm thinking about going to RN route as well. My concern is the house that I bought about three months ago. I'm not sure if I can pay my mortgage bill if I will be in the school for straight two years.

If I take the LVN program (since it less cost) I can get a part time job and be able to pay my mortgage. Work maybe for a year after graduated and then start the RN (bridge) program. Yet I have some money for the RN program expenses since I worked as LVN and I also can use my equity.

Anyway.. if you don't mine telling me.. what is the starting pay rate for fresh LVN in SoCal area. Especially Inland Empire. Thanks for the info!

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There are some schools where you can get your LPN first and then go on to get your RN. I really recommend getting your RN...more opportunities for advancement. Have you thought about becoming a CNA at a hospital or LTC. This can be a real eye opener doing hands on care. BTW, I wish you the best. Nursing is rewarding.

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