lpn to RN or just go straight into the RN program?

allnurses Guide · Mar 27, 2012

So I've taken most of my pre-reqs for the RN program (I only have three classes left to take) But two friends of mine are already in the RN program and they are extremely smart and amazing with people and have loads of experience as a CNA, but they are both struggling to pass, always stressed, and one is probably going to drop in soon.
I have a lot going on and need to work and I'm not NEARLY as smart or as good with people as they are. So should I just go for the lpn program and if I get that, then do the lpn to rn online? or is the lpn just as difficult as the rn?

Both programs are hard but doable - you are studying to be a nurse in each one. If you want to be an RN, go for the RN program.

Having to work while in the program is tough - so is having children and a spouse to care for. Are you married? Do you have kids? If not, is there a way you could move back in with your parents or other family members and just be able to focus on school? How old are you?

Many men and women have completed the RN program with tough roads to walk. . . you can do it.

EverNurseRN · Mar 27, 2012

I would say if it works in with your personal life, then go straight through for your RN. I decided to do my LPN first and then 'go back' for my RN. I passed my LPN NCLEX in 2006, started working, and life got in the way. I had decided that I would do my LPN-RN online that way I could work and go to school, having high expectations that I could knock it out in a year...6 years later I finished LOL. I wish I would have just sucked it up and did the RN program from the get go! But, you gotta do what works best for you :) Good luck!!

allnurses Guide · Mar 28, 2012

If it is an option, skip the LVN and go right for your RN.

MyMystudentRN · Mar 28, 2012

i chose to do my LVN first and im glad i did made me realize how much i loved nursing and having this much experience under my belt is a huge plus now that im applyin to RN programs i feel like i have an advantage because of me having my license and actaully working with patients with a lot of different diseases and disorders and i can not wait! i am soo excited. im actually glad i went this route also because i heard RN programs are much harder than LVN programs and i thought my LVN program was hard but it also depends on how much effort you put into it we started out with 50 people and graduated with at least 30 (cant rememeber the exact #) and the people who were always coming to clinicals late, bragging about never studying (and barely passing a quiz), basically clowning the whole program didnt make it.

but i had to work while and school as well i didnt have much of a social life but my friends understood my mind was just focused on school and work and thats it just believe in yourself i know you can do it

LuvScience · Mar 28, 2012

I think that you will be much better off if you just go straight through the RN program. If you become an LPN and then want to go back for your RN you may have to jump through some hoops or pay much more money for online schools. Another benefit of going straight through is continuity. Different schools don't always cover the material the same way or in the same order as each other. Nursing school isn't easy either way but it also isn't the most difficulty thing in the world. You just have to commit to the idea and make school your fist priority. On another note, being a CNA is very different form being a nurse. CNA experience can be helpful in the beginning but it won't necessarily make you a successful nurse. Try not to be discouraged by your friends.

MyMystudentRN · Mar 28, 2012

yes i agree with luvscience luvscience a cna is def different than working as a nurse (i kno this for a fact because ive done strictly cna work and i am now an lvn...i can do way more than what a cna can do)