CNA to LVN

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Hi everyone! I am working on my application for LVN licensure, but not sure if I qualify. I worked as a CNA 10 years ago, with less than 51 months of paid bedside nursing experience. I took a Pharmacology course just recently (to go for Pharmacy Technician.. and graduated with 100 % grade and got an A). I learned about the Method #3 from my school, and would really want to give it a try.. but I don't know if I stand a chance. Is it too late? Am i automatically disqualified? lol What do i do to pursue back my career in nursing? I'm 39 yrs. old and don't think it's a good idea for me to go back to LVN school and start all over.. when I already have the knowledge, skills and experience. The reason I stopped is that I had to raise a family, and be with my 2 small children. Please advise! :(

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Specializes in Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.

You can't just skip nursing school or test out. You would need to attend an accredited LVN school. Also, nursing is more than passing a pharm course. I doubt you'd be able to pass the NCLEX without attending nursing school even with your experience as a CNA years ago. But you realize that being a CNA is only a very small part of nursing?

It's not too late to go to school. There is a woman in her 50s in my class and a bunch in their 40s. And LVN school is usually only a year in most places.

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Specializes in OB.

I'm 42 and about to start the nursing program for a BSN in May (I'll be 43 then), working PT nights. and with 3 boys. It's never too late!

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Specializes in Forensic Psych.

It's not too late to go back to school! If you don't have the minimum experience, you don't qualify.

Limited experience 10 years ago doesn't give you the knowledge and experience you need, and really, it seems like you'd be severely limiting your hire-ability. Plus, you had to have worked in med-surg, peds, AND maternity/Geri. I wouldn't waste my time. It could be better spent getting yourself into an LVN program.

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Go back to school, it's not too late.

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My mom is 45 and just finished her BSN and graduated last wed. I graduated from nursing school August 16th of this year and I had a 50 y/o and 63 y/o in my class who graduated right along with me. Believe me it is not too late.

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What is method #3?

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I have often felt the same way as I've decided to go for Nursing after being a Pharm Tech for 10 yrs. I am currently 35 and starting some of my pre-reqs at my local CC.. Married with 2 boys, 12 & 17. And still doubt myself if I'll be able to do it..

Everyone is right though, it's never too late!

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