can i apply for lpn and rn exam at the same time?

[domenicbartolome]

Hi

I'm a graduate of BSN and a registered nurse in the Philippines and currently living in Seattle Washington,. I would like to ask if it is possible to apply for an nclex-pn first before taking my nclex-rn or do both at the same time?

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Why would you want to? Two different educational paths, two different scopes of practice, two different licenses, two different exams. LPN is not a consolation prize. Edited to add: you will be paying twice. Two cgfns assessments, two application fees, two $200 NCLEX test fees

You need to inquire at WA BoN. All applicants are required of have a valid social security number

I presume you worked hard for your BSN and RN license why not just apply for an RN license by examination?

[domenicbartolome]

Thanks for the advice justbeachynurse

I figured if I do the lpn first I would gained experience in the field and work my way up to the RN.. the reason is that the clinical setting in the US and in the Philippines are different,.

I already check the requirements for lpn here in WA and it doesn't require any cgfns assessment. And I have a social security no. too

I don't know if my reasons are right but I would just like to ask if I am in the right path,.

Thank you.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

You'll likely have a hard time gaining employment once you reveal you were trained as an RN/BSN as employers will wonder why you didn't just apply to the license that meets your educational background. There is no nursing shortage so employers can be choosy. Work experience as an LPN doesn't necessarily increase opportunities once licensed as an RN as scope and training is different. Many employers do not give credit for previous LPN work when applying as an RN so you would be starting as a newly licensed inexperienced RN competing with fresh new grads for the same jobs.

I looked at WABoN and an assessment is required for iens when I looked at the application and regulations.

[caliotter3]

Many employers require RN experience before they will consider one for an RN position, no matter how many years that person has been working for the employer in the LPN capacity. Best to put your efforts toward the RN license.