Anyone over 50 wanting to be a nurse?

[omw2nurse]

Hi, is there anyone 50 years of age and over that has enrolled at Georgia Piedmont College for LPN? I am looking at starting a career in nursing but still need to complete AP 1 and 2 as well as Microbiology. I am looking at GPC but not sure what direction to take after completing these courses. Should I go for their Practical Nursing Diploma program? If so will I be able to become a RN with this program or should obtain my BS.

Can someone tell me the difference between a PN and a RN and how many more courses are needed to become a RN or can I take the NCLEX and become a licensed nurse?

Thank you

[RainbowSprinkles]

I'm a pre nursing student but I will take a shot at your questions. A lpn is a license practical nurse with a certificate , programs are normally a year.

A rn is a registered nurse, you could have obtain an associate degree and/or a bachelor degree to hold this title. Every state has a nursing practice act that defines what roles lpn or rn can legally take in a medical setting. Also typically rn's will make more money than lpn's. If you decide to take the lpn route, you will be just that a licensed lpn after taking the nclex. If you decide to become an rn after, you can enroll in a bridge program lpn-rn. This bridge program can be done at a 2 year college or 4 year college.

What direction is better for you? That depends on your time, finances, and personal choice. Community colleges tend to be cheaper than 4 year schools. GPC, tuition cost for the year is quite fabulous, it is not a bad route to go. Also GPC pre reqs are AP1 and AP2, not microbiology. They only offer a lpn program, so if you want to become a rn you will have to go to another school after completion. You should request to speak to an advisor to help you create a blueprint.

Whatever you do decide, its important to take your time and do your research.

[omw2nurse]

Thank you turtleki. I will definitely make an appointment with an advisor.