Am I eligible to take the NCLEX-PN?

pagandeva2000, LPN · May 4, 2008

It depends on the school, and most importantly, your location. New York no longer had this option for RN students since June, 2007, I believe. They can only take it after graduation, which would probably be a moot point by then. Most schools, from what I have been reading and hearing wish for the student to be able to at least get to Maternal Health and Pediatrics, though, because we do get questions on that as well.

The thought here in New York is that RNs are not trained the same as LPNs, and also, taking it by the completion of OB and Peds has not allowed them to have had the full education (assuming they meant that you may still need some information from Med-Surg 2 as well). I have not seen this as a problem, and didn't think it made much sense because NCLEX is looking for minimal safety, and as an LPN, you would be working under the auspice of the RN, a physician, dentist or physician assistant. Many RN students were very angry to hear this, because most had plans to obtain their LPN license to gain nursing experience.

The best thing for you to do is to inquire with your school and the Board of Nursing of your state for an accurate answer. Good luck!

caliotter3 · May 7, 2008

As previously stated, you need to inquire with your Board and your school. Even in states where this is allowed, some schools do not participate and have set their programs up in such a manner as to support their stance. My opinion is that they want you to complete their program and collect your tuition as long as possible. Most students don't know about this option before applying for programs so they don't know to ask this question when looking for suitable programs.

cutecaramel · May 20, 2008

Hello Everyone!

What is the usual amount of time between graduating from an LPN program and taking the NCLEX-PN exam?

Thanks!:nuke: