Dilemma - LPN to RN program

chunnice · Aug 7, 2005

Hi all,
I recently graduated from a LPN vocational school. I did not like it at all. I felt the instructors were at times downright rude/disrespectful & the program head was indifferent to the complaints. I have decided to continue my education and I am considering going back there for my RN. The RN program has different instructors and the head of the program is also different, so I am considering going there. The price for the program is high, but fortunately my employer will pay for almost all of it.
All in all, I do feel the program prepared me well for the NCLEX & working as an LPN, but I'm unsure if I want to take the chance of having to deal with all the crap again. Any advice?

If your employer will pay for most of it go. I have been an LPN for ten years. I love my job. But, I have worked at this 55 bed facility for over 6 years. I have a wonderful DON and she rewards hard work. I have recently been promoted to Nursing Supervisor. So whats the problem? The problem is I would never be able to find these opportunities outside this place. Its very difficult as an LPN to get opportunities..I'm proof they exist but they are few. My DON changed my title..from Supervisor to Nurse Manager so she won't get crap from the State that I'm not an RN.(The previous Supervisor was also an LPN and it was something that was mentioned on Survey) My DON was an LPN first and has been very supportive to all the LPN's here.

We have our MDS Coordinator retiring in the fall and my DON would like me to take over. She says I have excellant assessment skills and would have no problem signing my MDS'. Again..A wonderful complement. But, I have finaly realized that it is time to get my RN. I want to be able to sign my own paperwork. I want the opportunities I know that I'm more than qualified for but can't get them because I have one too many letters behind my title.

Too many years of hearing you can't get promoted to that job cause your not an RN has made my decision. I'm lucky I work in a facility that works around the fact I'm an LPN..but, I'm also a realist..no job lasts forever. When My DON retires..my future depends on the opinion of the new DON.

So...go for it..I wish I had been able to go ten years ago. I felt just like you then ...I never want to go through that hell again..LPN school was like bootcamp..I thought they were all mean and petty instructors..whose only goal was to see how many they could get to cry and quit on a daily basis...I realize they did me the biggest favor ever...they prepared me so well for real nursing. The stress that is felt by Nurses on a daily basis is 1000 times higher than what I went through in school. We have a high responsibility as Nurses. Peoples lives. I thank my instructors everyday..and have in person too..when I see them...They make you the best without you even knowing it until later...

You made it through LPN School...you can and should get your RN..Don't wait Ten years..

Laura LPN, RN student

fireflyLPN · Aug 8, 2005

Thank you Laura for such a thoughtful response. I have thought it over and I'm going back! If I get in for the next open session, I'll start in four months - egads!! I'm already nervous!

Thanks again and best of luck to you with your RN pursuit!

chunnice · Aug 8, 2005

Thank you Laura for such a thoughtful response. I have thought it over and I'm going back! If I get in for the next open session, I'll start in four months - egads!! I'm already nervous!
Thanks again and best of luck to you with your RN pursuit!

Oh Good For You!

Keep me posted!

Laura

susiq · Aug 10, 2005

I think you need to take the opportunity while it's there.I also have been an LPN for 10 years and have had many options the job I'm at, but I would never be able to have tose opportunities some where else nor will I be able to make as much money if I donn't expand my career.I wish I would have done it 10 years ago when I was still fresh. Good luck in whatever you decide.