Published Sep 9, 2006
godsend213
18 Posts
Hey,
I am 21 years old and well I was so sure that I wanted to do the 2 yr RN program...Then I started thinkin about the LPN program...I know a school when I can complete the course in 1 yr and be an LPN. I thought I could do that and work as one for a few years and then take the 18 month LPN to RN program. Im thinkin I should do this to get me some kind of experience before I just jump into the 2 yr RN program. Does this make sense and is it a good idea or should I just stick with going for the RN program??
RN1263
476 Posts
sounds like you need to do something in the medical field (even if it's voluteering in a hospital on a medical/ surgical floor) before you decide.
don't make the leap into either program until you've tested the waters at least "alittle" (just my opinion), because each program is very difficult.
taylor21
14 Posts
it really sounds like you should check into the programs and see if there is anyway they offer an accelerated 2 yr program after you already have you LPN. Also you may want to look into what an LPN can do in your state, I looked into it in my state, and then decided to go for the 2 yr program because they are basicly glorified CNA's
Leopardspots85
21 Posts
Most LPN's where I live make nothing.i am going to school with quite a few older LPN's that have come back to school because they got fed up with the workload with little pay.
KungFuFtr
297 Posts
That's a good idea. I tried to get into the LPN program; however, I was placed as an alternate. Turns out I have a better chance of getting into the RN program. Never-the-less...You might want to see if your city's hospital(s) use LPNs. There is only 1 hospital in my area that uses LPNs, the rest have upgraded their CNA into PCTs; and have phased out the LPNs. Then again, theres always long term care.
l_wheat
71 Posts
Check the prereqs for both the LPN and ADN, ADN will obviously have more prereqs but it will benefit you more in the long run if you just try to go for RN. As far as experience, try getting a CNA job , you'll learn alot and the patient care experience will be invaluable plus you can see exactly what a nurse does and if it is truely something you want to do. But prereqs is a major consideration before you do anything. hope that helps. cya
Hey, I am 21 years old and well I was so sure that I wanted to do the 2 yr RN program...Then I started thinkin about the LPN program...I know a school when I can complete the course in 1 yr and be an LPN. I thought I could do that and work as one for a few years and then take the 18 month LPN to RN program. Im thinkin I should do this to get me some kind of experience before I just jump into the 2 yr RN program. Does this make sense and is it a good idea or should I just stick with going for the RN program??
fifi2323
33 Posts
Godsend,
I can totally relate to your post! I have chosen to go the LPN route for a few reasons one,the program I am entering in to doesn't require pre-reqs which always messed me up. Secondly its accelerated,so I can be working in 10 months,third because I'm trying to get my feet wet in the health field. And lastly, I'm not really interested in working in a hospital setting anyway,so for me the LPN program is ideal.I guess its an issue of how much time you're willing to put forth and where you want to work. And,as you said you can always bridge over if you think nursing is really for you. Good luck :)
You're 21
If you live with your parents...
Go to RN school full time. Stay at home, live with them, be a parasite and take advantage of the situation.
RNGrad2006
450 Posts
KungFuFtr,
I did the LPN route and then the RN and in retrospect would not recommend it. I had to do a transition course which is helpful but I think that the year in the PN was not as preparatory for the RN 2nd year because in a PN program they teach you how to care for the elderly as a focus whereas an RN program would be a different approach with different roles taught. Most LPN's get jobs in doctors offices or nursing homes so you are also somewhat limited that way (unless that is what you want to do). Besides I think it takes longer when I combine taking the PN program, transition classes, RN 2nd year and the waiting in between. Working a few years and then going to school is helpful in some ways but a lot of people say that it is harder to get back into the school setting once you take a break from it, besides the fact that some of your pre-reqs like A&P outdate after 5 years and you may need to repeat them.
JaxiaKiley
1,782 Posts
Personally, I don't think you need exp before you start a RN program, unless you are not sure if you want to go into the medical field. If that is the case, then you need experience before you start any type of program. Try doing some volunteer work or shadowing to make sure you are in the right field.
If you know you want to be an RN eventually, then I say just go for it. I think it is hard to be a student, work for awhile, and then try to be a student again. For me, it would be hard to get back into the studying mode.
Whatever you decide, I wish you the best!