CNA or LPN?

Compassion_x · Sep 18, 2012

It depends on your program I think. Are you going straight for RN? Because if so, to be an LPN you need to take the NCLEX-PN, and if your program bypasses LPN/LVN straight to RN I wouldn't mess with that. However, depending how far you are into your program already, the first semester of classes usually includes a CNA class or something similar, so it wouldn't be a big deal to take the certification exam.

lizzyreg · Sep 18, 2012

Im currently attending Wayne State University for my RN degree. The nursing school there is very hard to get into and I want to do something extra to show that I am serious about my education. Ive been considering getting my CNA certification for some time now, but now Im wondering about a LPN certification because the job looks like something Id be happier with. Is it possible to do CNA to LPN to RN while still going to school for the RN program the entire time? Or should I skip the LPN to stick with the CNA and go all the way to RN?
Words of Wisdom wanted!

Hello there, I think there are certain thing you want to consider before making a decision btw the two choices, like, how much linger do you have left to become an RN, how far you have gone in your prereqs, is your GPA high enough to be considered for the main RN program. Also, how much time do you have to spare because an LPN program runs anywhere between 12-24 months depending on the school, or part time/ fulltime program. Meanwhile, a CNA program is usually about 2wks-3months depending on the school or program. When you consider this factors, then you should be able to make a conclusion. Also requirements for getting into some Lpn programs can be quite challenging, it all depends on the school, meanwhile, a CNA program is much more easier to get into. I started school myself at a local comm college with the intention to go straight into the RN program, unfortunately, I racked up too many "C" which really hurt my GPA and my husband managed to talk me into going into an Lpn program and I think it's the best decision I made, good luck to u.

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lizzyreg · Sep 18, 2012

Hello there, I think there are certain things you want to consider before making a decision btw the two choices, like, how much longer do you have left to become an RN, how far you have gone in your prereqs, is your GPA high enough to be considered for the main RN program. Also, how much time do you have to spare because an LPN program runs anywhere between 12-24 months depending on the school, or part time/ fulltime program. Meanwhile, a CNA program is usually about 2wks-3months depending on the school or program. When you consider this factors, then you should be able to make a conclusion. Also requirements for getting into some Lpn programs can be quite challenging, it all depends on the school, meanwhile, a CNA program is much more easier to get into. I started school myself at a local comm college with the intention to go straight into the RN program, unfortunately, I racked up too many "C" which really hurt my GPA and my husband managed to talk me into going into an Lpn program and I think it's the best decision I made, good luck to u.
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s.pizzino · Sep 18, 2012

This is awesome information so far. And I just started college! Im just a very determined 18 year old. haha. but I want to make all the right decisions before im to far down the road. It sounds like to me I should just stick with the cna and skip the lpn. And to the first question asked, yes. Im going straight for my BSN RN degree. I just need something to show the school when I do my interview with them down the road that I actually went out and did something extra, giving me that extra edge. Wayne State only excepts 48 students per year into the nursing program and I don't have time to waste.

lizzyreg · Sep 18, 2012

That's very good, proud of you, I think you have chosen well, this will also be a very good intro to healthcare for u. I wish u all the best.