Hey guys, a couple of questions

allnurses Guide · Apr 3, 2009

Im currently an LPN and im looking to join a military branch, i've heard that they would start me at E5 and pay me salary plus pay for school at a civilian RN school if i wanted, is this true? What options do i have as an LPN entering the military? I def. need to get my RN as soon as possible, and BSN. Also, which branch is in the most need for nurses/medical personnel? Thanks for your time!

As far I know the Army is the only one that offers LPNs any kind of deal for enlisting. The branch that is probably the shortest on medical personel is also the Army, but you should consider why they are the most in need....

jeckrn, BSN, RN · Apr 3, 2009

Talk with the recruiters from the different services. They all have different things they can do depending on what you want- active or reserves. I know at one time the Navy would bring you in at a higher rank with training and experince.

Cursed Irishman · Apr 3, 2009

Its called the Civilian Acquired Skills Program; they'll bring you in the Army as an LPN, provided its in your contract, after you graduate BCT/AIT. LPN's are NCO slotted spots, so rank would either be granted or fast tracked for you. As an LPN, you can further cut down your time in the AIT environment by getting your EMT-B first.

As far as getting your RN while on status, it'll depend alot on your chain of command/where your stationed. Your chain of command may be all supporting, but if your in Korea, it won't help much.

Not to stir the pot (ok, maybe a little), but if your still working on your RN, why does your profile say you have a BSN?

just_cause, BSN, RN · Apr 4, 2009

.. my 2cents... if you want to be an RN.. go to school and then join the army.. or get in school and start your BSN and join into the Army's nurse cadet program.

Planning on attending school to get your BSN while active duty.... is a slim shot. You could have a goal of getting the enlisted to nurse program - but is not a sure shot compared to getting into school first and then joining the Army.

If you want to be an LPN or don't have the means to do college on your own at this time.. then cursed Irishman's advice for the LPN-Army route is pretty solid.. but if you can get yourself into an RN program now - you have many more options and better earning power.

lifeafter40 · Apr 4, 2009

I am not sure how old you are, but you might look into ROTC at the school you want to attend (I am too old myself) you could get a free ride through college, and get some great training experience for a "boost up' when you commission. And like just_cause mentioned, the Nurse Candidate Program is great too, but you must do your first two years of your BSN on your own.

LA40