Help Me!!!

[rgrgray]

okay here is my problem, I have just finished all my pre reqs for the adn program the school that I want to attend usally has 800 applicants for 180 slots. so my chances of getting in are really slim. So I thought I might just apply for the lvn program do that and then do the lvn to rn transition since it is sooo much easier to get in that way. Im just torn because I have worked so hard to finish my classes to do the rn and I feel like doing the lvn program is a step down. I hope I dont offend anyone by saying that. What does a lvn do that is so different than a rn. how much money do they make? have any of you had to do this. my dream is to work in labor and delivery. PLEASE give me your words of wisdom i need it!!!!!!! HELP

[LoriAlabamaRN]

I hate to say this, but although an LVN works at LEAST as hard as an RN, an RN will typically make about 60% more than an LVN, sometimes twice as much. I'm an RN, and at my facility I started at 80% more than the LVNs here. I know it doesn't seem fair, but it's true. This is true even in facilities where both RNs and LVNs are floor nurses and do pretty much the same duties.

[RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN]

Don't be afraid to apply to both, if you feel it is a step-down then don't do it. Apply to as many RN programs as you can. I think that if you can get into an LVN program it is a great back-up plan. Especially if you can get into the field and work towards your RN at the same time.

Good luck