A question to the LPN's....

Funny story. Well, I think so. I was at work today, and I received a phone call from the local tech. school. The woman on the other end told me I was accepted into the LPN program. I thought it was a prank call, because I didn't remember applying (we had to apply last September, and I forgot all about it). When I realized it wasn't a prank, I told her I would call back tomorrow with an answer. I am a pretty practical person, which is why I think being an LPN would be ideal for me. It's funny, because I really never thought i'd want to be a nurse. I work as an aide in a hospital, as well as a home-health aide, one part-time and the other full-time. I love my work as an aide. A friend of mine who is an LPN said that is the reason she never really wanted to advance in nursing, because the LPN's spend more time with the patients and still do some of the same work as a CNA. Is this true? I am just looking for an opinion.

Also, what's school like? I haven't been to school in 6 years, so i'm a little nervous to go back..... Thanks so much for your help! It is much appreciated.

I would go for it. At least inquire about tuition, how long the program is, etc... I have the same take on practical nursing. I just wanted to know, do and be responsible for the essential things in nursing, not all of the fluff, because it doesn't mean anything to me. It is basically true, that the LPN is the bedside nurse, spending more time with the patients. However, because of high nurse:patient ratios, it is difficult to provide adequate, complete care. But, as an LPN, you can still do home care, hospital work (strongly depending on what area you live because some hospitals don't use LPNs anymore) doctor's offices, prisons, hospice and other things. I can't say for certain that you would be doing nursing assistant work as often, or with the same capacity, because now, that license will require a great deal more of responsibility. It all depends on where you work. I am not saying to ignore a patient in need...if they need a bedpan, and you are close, by all means, give the bedpan. But, you will have additional responsibilities which would require the delegation of the CNAs and other staff to do. Go for it!

Thank you so much!! :nuke: