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I just finished my CNA program and will be taking my state test later this week! I want to work as a CNA while going for my LPN. After I'm an LPN I wanted to work while doing a "bridge/pathway" for my RN. Everyone keeps telling me how STUPID I am for wanting to do this and that I should go straight for my RN. What are the pro's and con's of both paths? Any help is appreciated!

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Pro: You'll have a greater appreciation for the lpn and cna personnel once you're an RN

Con: It's a longer path to reach the same point.

just my opinion

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Specializes in Clinical Partner and CNA.

I struggled with this question for a long time. I got my cna and knew eventually I wanted to be an RN, but I thought if I got my LPN it would easier transition. I asked everyone what they suggested, friends, family, LPN's, RN's, anyone in the medical field and everyone gave me a different answer. So I think it just depends on YOU and what you want to do.

I have two small children and although I could be finished with school faster #1 I wouldn't make much more money than I did as a payroll clerk (which is what I was doing at the time) and #2 I would eventually have to start school again. Now I'm sure there are people thinking if you are going into nursing for the money you are wrong, but I have to be able to support my children and money is not the only reason I want to be a nurse. Also, my school says that you have to have 3 yrs of experience before you can apply for the LPN to RN transition. This may not have helped any, but maybe if you write a pro/con list for each. Good Luck in whatever you choose :)

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Thank you for the replies!

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Specializes in Med/Surg/Pedi/Tele.

I would say just go for the RN. Most hospitals now are phasing out LPN positions so you might have a harder time finding a job with just an LPN license if that is where you would like to work.

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Specializes in Trauma ICU, Peds ICU.

The question your post raises for me is, if you know that your goal is to ultimately become an RN, then why would you delay achieving that goal for any reason? After working for several years as a firefighter/EMT, I realized I wanted to be an RN. I didn't go to paramedic school first, and then do a paramedic-to-RN bridge. Why? Because I knew I wanted to be an RN.

I guess it just doesn't make any sense to me... unless there is some other factor in your life that would make completing an RN program difficult at this point (can't imagine what that would be though having seen people who were broke, pregnant, parents, or working full time through my BSN program).

Also, I disagree with other posters who suggest that being an LPN in between will somehow add to your respect for CNAs and LPNs. You're already a CNA, I'm sure you get it by now if you didn't already.

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Specializes in Nothing yet - Interested in the O.R..

Congrats on becoming a CNA!!! In my personal opinion, the best and quickest option would just be to go straight through to an RN. I have a friend who is an LPN trying to get back into school, and it is really difficult for her. She has to re-take some courses, and it will still take her 18 months before she is an RN. Also, keep in mind the cost of tuition (which is steadily increasing every year) and the fact that not too many places are looking for LPNs. My advice: find a job as a CNA (make sure you ask about tuition reimbursement), and go back to school to get your RN. Good luck.:specs:

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For what it's worth, I'm in school working on my pre-reqs for the ADN/RN program. Our school has a very selective process for accepting students into the nursing program. I won't even be able to apply until Mar 1, 2010 when I've met their criteria. Best case scenario would be getting into the Aug 2010 session. Being unemployed and a single parent/no CS, I don't have the ability to not work for an extensive period of time. So, I'm planning on getting my CNA - just as you are, so that I can work and gain experience in the medical field. Going to LPN would be at least 1 year. The LPN bridge to RN is 18 months long (assuming there are no other criteria that had to be met). Added time. Added money/tuition. Added stress on you and your family. Go straight to RN. You won't regret it - I'm told. And yes, many places offer tuition reimbursement and/or financial assistance in return for a work commitment after grad/NCLEX.

Good luck!

Sharon

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theres an LPN in my AP1 Class, I hve learned a lot from her...

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