Continue with LPN or try for RN?

Blue Cat · Mar 3, 2013

I would find out if the school near you has an LPN-to-RN bridge program before you drop out of the LPN program. In fact, talk to that school now and see if anything would transfer and count toward your pre-req's for the ADN program. In my opinion, if you want to become an RN, you should not waste time becoming an LPN first unless you plan to work as an LPN while doing a bridge program. Devote your time and energy toward your goal of getting your ADN (or better yet, your BSN since that's what you'll need anyway). I just graduated in December from an ADN program and the majority of job postings want BSN prepared nurses, so I am getting right back into school and going for my BSN completion. I knew this going in, but needed to get out of school and get working asap because I am a single mom. But back to the LPN vs. ADN program - I really think your first step is to find out what you'll need to get into the ADN program and then weigh your options. If there is a waitlist or it's difficult to get into the ADN program, finishing your LPN program and getting your license so you can work as an LPN until you get your ADN might be the best option. Figure out how soon you could start and how long it will take for the ADN program (may be more than 2 yrs depending on pre-reqs). In the program I graduated from, after the first year we could sit for our LPN boards. Only a handful of us got jobs as LPN's, so didn't really use the license before graduating with our ADN.

Good luck! I hope you get some good information from the school that makes your decision easy.

Blue

bamaguy1989 · Mar 4, 2013

Do your research before making any decisions. We had some BSN students transfer to our program(an ADN program) and some of their stuff transferred so surely your LPN classes could transfer as well. I know the school I went to, the LPN and ADN programs had the same classes the first 2 semesters

kms23 · Mar 4, 2013

I was in an ADN program then moved out of state and had to start over. I chose to get my LPN because it was quicker and I could work at a higher pay while finishing my RN online. Im finding that while working is giving me great experiences, its also distracting me from studying, but I am able to work at my pace. Before I moved out of state, I had contacted several schools that said I could transfer into their ADN programs where I had left off. However once I moved, the state changed their policies and were no longer accepting out of state transfers...I had to start over and I knew I couldnt be in school 2 years and not be able to work. So I chose my path.

I hope things work out for you!!

my crazy world · Mar 4, 2013

I dont know what your situation is, but if you are working on the LPN program I would not drop it. With your LPN you could work at least part time as an LPN while you are getting your RN. Plus when you take your NCLEX-PN you will have that experience so when it comes time to take your NCLEX- RN you will know a bit of what to expect which can help with the nerves. Once you make it to the RN program you will have a great basics to have in your tool box while everyone is learning everything from the beginning. Hello you would be my best friend and study partner in school... yup you would have your self a lil puppy dog following you around lol. Maybe there is a program to do your LPN to RN at your school or some where closer? Worth checking in to I think.

I to have a commute everyday of 35 miles each way to and from school. Hello study time that is not interrupted from the family. On my way home I listen to the recordings of the lectures in class. I know that the sooner to go over and review what the lecture was talked about, the stronger and the more it is going to be stuck in my noodle. In the mornings on the way to school especially test days or close to tests, I listen to recordings of my self going over the things that are fuzzy to me, or I record my self doing quiz questions so I get the practice. I know when I am at home I want to give as much time to my dogs and life responsibilities as possible, and time is not a nursing students best friend. I know right now time away from the babies is rough and I wish there is something that I could say that would make it easier, but being honest which you deserve, there is nothing that is going to make it better no matter how long you are aport from them. And going through the RN program you are going to have to be apart from them with all the studies you'll have. You just have to make it through because it is all just a temporary inconvenience to the big picture. Once you have completed your education you will have all the time and better finances to make the life you deserve for you and your family. I know its all so hard but it will be all done soon enough friend. It

RunnerMom2 · Mar 5, 2013

Thanks everyone.

There is an LPN to RN transition at school by me but you have to work a year as an LPN before you can apply. I have not checked to see if my LPN courses would be accepted in the ADN program here.

I wish we could record lectures but they frown upon that at my school. I have tried recording myself making notes but I just feel like a ding dong. I live in FL and the market is not really strong for LPN's here. I just get nervous sometimes.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Mar 5, 2013

doubtful you would be repeating courses because they are generally taught at a different level in RN school vs. LVN.

IF you are accepted to RN school you would have less driving, more time with family and will earn lots more with that degree and license. The disadvantage is ---------- whoops, can't think of one. I believe this is a family-oriented decision, so let hubby get in on the act.

Kimynurse · Mar 5, 2013

Tape your lectures listen while you drive, you have kids so you can do anything for 9 months, which I think you have left.

It's tough, I drive almost an hour and I have to do it for 2 years.

Good luck

Kimynurse · Mar 5, 2013

Oops just read you can't tape