Almost an LPN...then what?!

llg, PhD, RN · Jan 13, 2015

I think that Step 1 should be getting a job and "settling down" in it for a couple of months. It will help your RN studies, your finances, and your life in general to not have too much stress from too many new things going on at the same time. Make that transition from student to LPN first ... and when you feel comfortable with that, then move on to the next step of your education. In addition, you might be able to get some financial help from your employer that will keep your costs down.

As for which school ... That's another reason not to move too quickly. You will want to explore all your options rather than "just picking one." It may seem easiest to go to your current tech school, but if it's program is not fully accredited, I would definitely NOT go there. You'll need to investigate the quality and costs of all the schools in your area in order to make an informed decision. You'll also need to assess your community's job market. Are nurses with ADN's able to find the types of jobs that interest you in your area? In some places, they are very limited in their choices and in others, they are not. What type of nursing are your interested in? What specialties? What local employers? Research what those employers are wanting in their new hires before assuming that you will be able to work there after graduation. If your favored employers prefer BSN's, that's what you'll have to do to work there. If not, then maybe you can start your RN studies with an ADN program at your local community college.

You have a lot of research to do before you will be ready to make a decision. That's why I urge you not to rush it. Graduate from your current program and get that LPN license. Once you get settled in a good LPN job, then begin moving to the next step.

Good luck!

AJJKRN · Jan 14, 2015

I agree with getting a job first but I myself started an ASN/ADN to BSN program within about six months after graduation. I'm glad I did because it was done and over with and I didn't give myself any of the many reasons that I would have otherwise to take time off of school and maybe not go back. I was also still able to continue to get/use financial aid because of this. I personally think a better deal for you would be the LPN to BSN track but you should be looking for bridge programs regardless. Either LPN to BSN or LPN to ADN to BSN or even MSN. Look around your area and find out what options you have which will probably become clearer after you start working because you'll have peers to ask as well. Good luck in your journey!

Kristin. · Jan 21, 2015

Thank you both for your comments!! You've given me some great new things to consider!! :)

Kristin. · Jan 21, 2015

WOW! You have given me so much to think about! Thank you so much for your comments and advice! I really appreciate it!

Jules A, MSN · Jan 22, 2015

Many congrats on your upcoming graduation! I also started as a LPN. I agree with the suggestion to take a few months, get your first nursing job and then start back at school. I applied to LPN-ADN programs and a LPN-BSN program in hopes of taking whatever was offered. I got into both types and decided to do my ADN first. I have kind of a short attention span and knowing that I would have something in my hand after a year comforted me as well as providing a nice income in the meantime. I continued working nearly full time through LPN, ADN, BSN, NP.