BSN or LPN? soon to be mom

[peppapig123]

I'm a senior in high school, and also a soon to be mother (due in March). I really want to be a nurse, I'm just not sure which route I should take. I'd like to work as an STNA over the summer, and at least part time when I start school in the fall. My only problem is, the BSN program is full time. I don't want to depend on my mom for the next 4-5 years, and I'd like to work too. The first few semesters of the BSN program is only 4 or 5 courses...could that really be full time? I have no problem being an LPN...for now, and I'd be able to work also during the program. I just need some advice...I'm not sure what to do.

Ultimately though, I would like to get that Bachelors degree. But, I have to provide for my baby, and it seems as if maybe I should do the LPN program first. I don't know

[RNMom2010]

If your mom is willing and able to help you and your little one while you obtain your BSN, you are very lucky and would be silly to not take the assistance you have available. If you are working hard on being a mom (which always comes first!) and a nursing student then you are putting in 110% and are NOT mooching or taking advantage of your family. Nursing school is hard, but do-able. Being a mom is far more demanding. You will be able to give yourself and your child such a good life once you graduate and start working as a nurse!

[NurseToBe3]

Your story sounds so similar to mine! I had my son when I was 16. I knew I wanted to do something medical related, but I put school off. I started back to school to get my LPN and then after looking into it more I decided to get my BSN. It took me a long time to decided, but it all came down to the type of work they do. In my area LPN's are almost exclusively in LTC facilities. I really want to work in a hospital. It took me almost 5 years to start school after having my son. By then I had two children and found out I was pregnant with the third one the same week I started school. Believe me, if I can do it, so can you! It's not easy, but it will be so worth it in the end. My biggest regret is that I didn't start sooner. My kids are getting so big and I feel like by the time I'm done with school I will have missed most of their life at home. Set goals and go for it while your child is young. I know it seems like a HUGE sacrifice, but he won't remember it. I''m finally applying to all the local nursing programs this month and hopefully I will get into one. Good luck on your journey! I'm sure you will make a great nurse either way!

[INLPN93]

Do not go the LPN route.

I have nothing against LPNs, I have been one for 18 years.

My point is, I have kids two teens.

I planned to get the LPN and move up the ladder. Well, kids change your plans.

I love being a Mom. Love it even more since I was told I couldn't have kids.

But, 18 years is a long detour in your life.

Do the ADN, it is typically one additional semester.

Then if you choose to return for your BSN that won't be the long process I am looking at as a LPN.

Good Luck with school and the little on the way :) :)

[peppapig123]

It would be nice to go for my bsn, and I'm glad my mom offered to baby-sit while I am in school, but for personal reasons, staying in her house an extra four years just doesn't sound appealing to me..at all. I'm going to look more into the ADN programs. As I mentioned before, one is kind of far from my house, but then again its no more than a 40 minute drive. I'd be willing to go ahead and make the drive, if it means becoming a nurse. The lpn route also doesn't sound bad to me, even with everyone telling me don't do it. I honestly think I'd like working in LTC. I might do the lpn and bridge over to ADN. But if I can, I'll probably just go straight for the ADN. Then if I want to go for my bsn, there are plent of online programs offered from schools in my area (I'm in cleveland, oh by the way.) But thank you all for your opinions, I really appreciate it:)

I just want to be a nurse, and help people. No matter what program I pick, I'll be happy.