can someone offer me advice?

Katnip, RN · Dec 5, 2003

First, I'm really sorry you had to go through this. You sound like a strong person, and you're already working on getting it together.

As far as LPN to BSN, it sounds like a good plan to me, especially if you need to jump right into work soon. Don't they require biology and A&P also? Or are they part of the protram? I've never looked into those programs, but it's a good way to start. You'll have a real feel for what nursing is when you get through your BSN.

purplemania, BSN, RN · Dec 5, 2003

Sounds like a plan. Just be sure the courses taken in LPN course apply to RN program. Some may not, of course, because BSN goes more in depth. Our local university offers LVN-RN program whereby LVN's are fast-tracked through and able to graduate a little sooner than if they started as generic BSN student. Check that out too.

Good luck. Your son is lucky to have a Mom with goals and positive attitude for the future.

bagladyrn, RN · Dec 5, 2003

Just want to chime in here to assure you that it definitely is a workable plan. I did just that 20+ years ago: CNA to LPN to RN as a divorced mom of a two year old. Now the son is 25, raised him and 4 foster sons, and am having a great time as a travel nurse. It's not always easy by any stretch, but your son will be proud of his mom and grow up with a respect for working women. Hang in there!

n8isgr8 · Dec 5, 2003

Thanks. Wow, what an inspiration!!!You made it through!!You must feel so blessed and proud!

Trauma Columnist · Dec 5, 2003

Just wanted to wish you the best. I echo the above sentiments your son is lucky to have such a dedicated mom! Would getting a CNA at least allow you to work right away? Have you considered medical transcription? That is what I did when I was in the LPN program. That way, I was quite familiar with medical terminology. Good luck...

BBFRN, BSN, PhD · Dec 5, 2003

I was in a similar situation as you. I went ahead and got my LPN (was a single Mom), and it was the best thing I could have done for my family at the time. I got a job in a good hospital who was willing to cover the expenses of my RN education (I signed a contract for every $6,000 they spent on me, I would stay there for a year after I got my RN. Not a bad deal, since I had planned on staying there, anyway). I am now almost done with my RN (I'll be ready to sit for the state boards in January- yay!!!). After you get your LPN, and work for 1,000 hours, you should be eligible for an LPN-RN bridge program, or you could do distance learning and get your RN that way. Just be aware that while you're in nursing school, you will not be able to work very many hours, if any. The programs are pretty time consuming, and you'll probably be in school 8 hours a day, five days a week. The weekends might be used up with studying time. Also, in my LPN program, A&P I&II were part of the curriculum- not a pre-requisite. I made it through, as did many others here. It's only a year out of your life, and it will fly by. As for your son, one thing I did when my oldest was 4, was to play an A&P matching game. It helped me to study, and we got to spend quality time together. She's 12 now, and still knows a lot about human anatomy...lol.

colleen10 · Dec 5, 2003

Hi N8,

I just wanted to write you and wish you the very best on your future endeavors. You sound like a very strong willed person and if that is the case, you will be just fine.

You should come here a lot for advice and encouragement. There are many nurses on this board who have gone through or are currently going throug situations like yours.

I also wanted to let you know that there are a multitude of ways you can become an RN and BSN. It just depends on what is offered where you live and what works best for your particular situation.

You can do CNA to LPN to RN to BSN or any combination of those ie. LPN to RN or BSN.

Most schools that I have looked at have A&P in the curriculum for LPN school, where as it is a pre-req. for ASN and BSN. Where I live you can do LPN in 1 year then fast track to RN for one more year then fast track again BSN for a third year.

I encourage you to contact and meet with all the nursing programs in your area, ie. College, Hospitals, University, Community College and Tech Schools. You will be very surprised at how many different types of programs there are, the time commitment and cost of tuition. Just do a lot of investigating so that you find a program that best suits your needs. Then come back here with whatever questions you might have.

Best Regards and luck,

Col

ceecel.dee, MSN, RN · Dec 5, 2003

Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or some kind of scholarship program for employees. At my former hospital, they offer this...one gal started with us as a CNA, and in 6 months qualified for the scholarship program that is an LPN program and when that is done, piggybacks right into the LPN to RN program. She must work a minimum number of hours while in school, but she gets good experience at the hospital too.

Maybe one of the hospitals in your area offer something similar?

Best of luck to you!