Clarify why LPN to RN vs. Strait ADN Program diffs

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Specializes in Psych, Ortho, Stroke, and TBI.

This seemed to be the most appropriate forum for this question, but if it isn't I apologize.

From all of my readings, it sure seems as if it's a foregone conclusion that getting one's LPN cert is a "Waste of time". I've heard this in reference to folks that are going to then go on to get there RN in a LPN to RN bridge program. But why is that so?

Atleast here in CO, most of the RN programs are 2 years (ADN). Comparatively, most LPN programs are 1 year. Also, the LPN to RN programs are 1 year.

Thus, 1+1 = 2.

If the time is the same, but the waitlist for both the LPN and the LPN to RN prog's are MUCH less, why not go for the LPN program? Am I missing something? (just about every ADN prog has a 3 year waitlist)

Plus, you can (cough cough) work while waiting to get into your LPN/RN bridge program.

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Specializes in CWOCN.

I asked the same questions. I think it comes down to an individual's preferences and goals, personal circumstances and costs for education. I would think it can be compared to why some individuals get an Associate's degree and others get a PhD.

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac.

If the goal is to become an RN, going the LPN to RN route is a very good way of getting there and is not a waste time. If it gets you to your goal quicker how is it a waste of time?

I don't hear many people say going the LPN to RN route is a waste of time if there's long waiting lists. A few people with arrogant superiority complexes stick their noses up at LPNs. Don't listen to them.

You stated valid reasons for going LPN to RN: it's faster, and you can work in the field while getting your RN. Just don't get caught up in working, the stress of nursing, and making money and not go back. Otherwise you might find yourself 10 years from now regretting that you still haven't got your RN.

ADN's require more co-req courses than LPNs, so it's probably going to take a little more than two years, btw.

Do what's best for you! Good luck.

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Specializes in Trauma ICU, MICU/SICU.

You're doing exactly what my friend did. I got into the program at my school right before things got really tough. When I applied there were 400 applicants and 70 slots (I applied during a day & eve/wknd program year). She applied this year and there were 720 applicants for 35 slots (only a day program year) - no wait list - Just the top 70students. The class right after mine, minimum GPA was 3.8. I have know idea what the minimum is now, probably 4.0.

She's starting the LPN program and will then do the bridge. Getting into the program this way is much easier and in agreement with Tweety, it is not a waste of time.

Just know that as an LPN you will most likely be working in LTC. My hospital no longer hires LPN's. But, whatever gets you to your goal is totally worth it. When taking your LPN co-reqs, try to take the one's required of the ADN. For example, take A&P 1-2(ADN) vs. Human Biology (LPN).

Good luck in whatever route you take.

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Why?

1.money, 2. time, 3. family.

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Specializes in Psych, Med/Surg, LTC.
If the goal is to become an RN, going the LPN to RN route is a very good way of getting there and is not a waste time. If it gets you to your goal quicker how is it a waste of time?

I don't hear many people say going the LPN to RN route is a waste of time if there's long waiting lists. A few people with arrogant superiority complexes stick their noses up at LPNs. Don't listen to them.

You stated valid reasons for going LPN to RN: it's faster, and you can work in the field while getting your RN. Just don't get caught up in working, the stress of nursing, and making money and not go back. Otherwise you might find yourself 10 years from now regretting that you still haven't got your RN.

ADN's require more co-req courses than LPNs, so it's probably going to take a little more than two years, btw.

Do what's best for you! Good luck.

I couldn't have said it better!!!!!

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Specializes in Psych, Ortho, Stroke, and TBI.

Thank you much. I was just thinking that there was something I was missing. It's strange the overwhelming response that I've heard/received from RN's who think I'm making a mistake by going the LPN route, and then taking the bridge LPN to RN program.

Weird.

Tweety, you echoed the thoughts that were reverberating in my head. I thought logically I was right, but that there was something I was overlooking.

Thanks all for helping me with this!

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I start a LPN program in August. Once I finish I will do the bridge to RN. For me it is fastest way to get from point A to point B. Plus I can be working as a LPN getting valuable nursing experience while I finish up my RN. I think it is a great way to do it.

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Specializes in Psych, Ortho, Stroke, and TBI.
I start a LPN program in August. Once I finish I will do the bridge to RN. For me it is fastest way to get from point A to point B. Plus I can be working as a LPN getting valuable nursing experience while I finish up my RN. I think it is a great way to do it.
GREAT!! If the chips fall in my favor, my name should come up for this fall as well! It's close according to the student intake coordinator.

Good luck to you

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac.
Thank you much. I was just thinking that there was something I was missing. It's strange the overwhelming response that I've heard/received from RN's who think I'm making a mistake by going the LPN route, and then taking the bridge LPN to RN program.

Weird.

Tweety, you echoed the thoughts that were reverberating in my head. I thought logically I was right, but that there was something I was overlooking.

Thanks all for helping me with this!

Best of luck to you! Go for it and be proud of it!

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GREAT!! If the chips fall in my favor, my name should come up for this fall as well! It's close according to the student intake coordinator.

Good luck to you

Good luck to you too! I hope that you get in for this fall. Let us know.

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Specializes in Psych, Ortho, Stroke, and TBI.
Good luck to you too! I hope that you get in for this fall. Let us know.

Will do. Thanks for the kind words!

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