LPN or RN

[Tolzc22]

Hello,

I am currently at a cross roads. I'm undecided on whether to become an LPN or RN. I currently working at a Filling Home and there LPN's start off at $17.85/ hour and RN's start off at $18.85. However other places for LPN's are significantly less. I was wondering if I should just go straight for RN. Would it be worth the extra tuition? What is the going rate for RN's else where?? Is this the going rate or would I be over/under paid? Other forums are outdated so thanks for the update. Money really isn't what I'm doing it for. But money is what makes world go around. Thank you for everyone's input! (:

[VGaulden]

i am working on the same-type crossroad - do i want the responsibility of a RN? or the lesser responsibility of LVN/LPN? i am currently a CNA/PCA/PCT at a major metro hospital. I really like what I do. But, I am very smart and feel I am meant for more. I want to help my patients/residents. I think the question really is, whom do I want to help. I see RNs at my hosp attached at the hip to what the dr says. They spend more time charting than helping the pt. Money isn't everything. :)

[jennycRN]

The LPN role has been squeezed out of the hospital where I work and my impression is that opportunities for LPNs are pretty limited. If you are thinking that you might want to eventually pursue RN anyways, I think you will save time and money in the long run by going straight for it.

[SE_BSN_RN, BSN]

I have been a LPN for 8 years, I did everything at a CC and paid out of pocket. Worked in LTC and HHC doing private duty nursing for a year. I just completed a LPN-BSN program and got a considerable pay increase, yes, even in home health care, HOWEVER....if I were to do home care visits, the amount I would get paid per visit an hour is less than I made as a LPN. So, it really depends on where you are and what the pay rate is. After another 5 months as a RN, my supervisor would like me to do case management.....I am not sure if there is a pay increase for that.

Many hospitals don't hire LPN's. The going rate in my state for a RN in a local hospital is around $25/hr, $30 if you do nights.