I need some advice!

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Hello everyone!

Okay, I'm having an extremely hard time deciding what educational nusing path to take. I will be starting a CNA class at the beginning of May and work as a CNA through the summer-and my original plan was to start an LVN program in the fall while working as a CNA. The LVN program is 9 months long. On the other hand, I've only got 6 prerequisite classes I need to take before I could apply to a BSN program. So my question is---should I go to LVN school, start working, then get my BSN later? Or should I work as a CNA while finishing up the prerequisites for the BSN and go directly into the BSN program? Income is a huge factor for my family right now. My husband is having a hard time financially-supporting myself and our 2 small children. I'm just wondering what would be the smartest but quickest way for me to start earning a decent salary. I'm so confused! Also, how "easy" is it to work while in nursing school? I have this vision that I will work and go to school full time--but am I being naive? Is it too difficult?

Sorry for rambling, but I need HELP! I'm driving my family crazy because I can't make up my mind.:banghead:

Jen

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Specializes in critical access, including ER.

GO FOR YOUR RN!!!!!!!! Whether it be ADN or BSN....I have been an LPN now for 14 years and wish each and everyday that I had just gone on for my RN...which I will be starting in August...at the "tender age" of 38!!!

;) ;) ;) ;)

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Specializes in Rural Health.

My suggestion is always....get the highest amount of education that is feasibly possible for yourself and your family right now. You will not regret it. It's very easy to fall into the trap of "I'll go back later" and then you never do.

As far as working during NS - that depends on you and your school. I worked all thru NS just fine. Others struggled.

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Specializes in PSW - Long-term and community care..

I agree with the others! I'm in a similar position as you. Working part-time as a PSW (CNA) and taking pre-reqs for BScN admission. I thought about going for the two-year RPN course (equivalent to US ADN, perhaps?) for financial reasons (and, frankly, impatience) but recently found out that while studing for the BScN, you are entitled to work as an RPN or pharmacy tech! Bonus! Not sure how it works in the States, but I'd like to think the same sort of thing applies, especially with the shortage and all. Either way, I think getting the CNA experience first is a great idea! Get a feel for the work, get your foot in the admissions door, and when you are a nurse, you'll probably have a whole different kind of respect for CNAs if you've already been there. Good luck with your goals!

:D

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Specializes in a variety.

Hi,

Go the LPN route to obtain quicker financial assets. Then contine your education tthrough obtaining your BSN.

Praise RN

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I myself was in a similar situation 2 yrs. ago. I went the LPN route , now I am making a decent salary while working 3 days a week and now have time to go back for my RN, which I am thinking about starting soon. good is luck to you.

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Go for the BSN. I am in a BSN program now. At my school, you can get your CNA and LVN as you go through the RN program. So you can work as a CNA, then LVN while you are going through the program to get your RN. Try to apply for financial aid to help out while you're in school. Even if you only qualify to take out loans, you know you will be able to pay them off once you graduate and make the salary of an RN.

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

Go for BSN. The timte/money spent will more than be made up by extra pay over a very short time. LVN's in our area earn about half what RN's earn

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