I Need Your Opinion...both Lpn

TazziRN, RN · Apr 2, 2008

I went for RN, going the ADN route.

Agnus · Apr 2, 2008

Sounds like your unltimate goal is RN. I do not hear any obsticals to doing that now so go for RN.

As for me. I enrolled in an RN program with the intent to complete it. By coincidence if you enrolled in that particular program and if at the end of your first year you took an additional course you would (with the additional course) be able to sit for the LPN board right then and there. I took this option with the idea that it was an insurance policy in case something happened before I completed the entire RN program at least I would have that.

If your LPN program is entirely seperate program from the RN it is unlikely you would have such a seamless progression to the RN program.

Many LPN programs have different versions of courses. In other words you may not be able to transfer all your courses. Anatomy and physiology may not transfer it this was a course for LPNs and not for RNs.

There is likely that you will have to take a "bridge" class or two before you can get into the actual RN program from a seperate LPN program.

If RN is your goal and you have no logistical issues holding you back do the RN program from the start.

Perpetual Student · Apr 2, 2008

Do whichever you can get into in a reasonable amount of time in a location convenient to you, assuming you've got decent LPN-to-RN options in your area. I completed an LPN program with the ultimate goal of becoming an RN (well, actually NP eventually) due to the facts that I got in, it was close to home (I actually walked a couple of times on nice days), it was fairly inexpensive, and it was where I completed my A.A. degree. I'm now anxiously awaiting to hear if I get into an LPN-RN program, which I'm fairly confident that I will. There was a MUCH lower applicant to available seat ration for the LPN-RN program than there was for the direct entry ADN program.

If you've got a good paying job, it might be worth waiting until you can get into an RN program. I never held a job prior to becoming an LPN and wouldn't have been able to secure decent employment to get into extremely competitive direct entry RN programs around here. By working as an LPN I was able to make very good money (for a single dude living with family and going to college, anyway) while completing my last couple of pre-reqs for the LPN to RN program.

Almost all of the students in my LPN program had the intention of returning to school later on to become RNs. If you do go the LPN route, be sure to keep plugging along on your education. I work with some LPNs that intended to go back to school many years ago. At least one took all of the pre-reqs and then didn't bother actually completing an LPN-RN program and is sorely disappointed that he did not considering that several of his pre-reqs are now too old for most programs.

Thankful RN,BSN · Apr 2, 2008

I was also torn between which to do. I ended up bypassing the lpn program and went straight for rn. I'm so glad that i did.

UnclearFuture, ADN, BSN · Apr 2, 2008

I really appreciate all of your fast replys.

My first instinct was to go for the LPN because I fear failure, and I am not afraid to admit it...:stone

Then, after meeting with an academic advisor today, it seems as if there are not many LPN to RN transitional schools in my area. Many schools you would have to go straight for the LPN and then apply to another school in order to further your knowledge and achieve a degree. After all is said and done, the LPN programs would take up to 3 years to achieve a degree. ORRR, you can go straight for the RN program and complete the program all in one shot at one school. That would take around 3-4 yrs.

So after being faced with this, why waste time achieving something much less in around the same amount of time it would take to achieve my ultimate goal? The pay is higher...job opportunities are more prominent...tasks are just a bit more than an LPN...

I just get very nervous with a decision this big...this is the rest of my life! :uhoh21:

ohmeowzer RN, RN · Apr 2, 2008

well it's up to you , both are good jobs . i am a RN . it's really what you want out of a job... sometimes people start with LPN to see if they like nursing at all ... there is more a job selection being a RN , many more avenues open to you. the pay is better . i think we will hear from LPN's that maybe could give your more insight. either way keep us updated on your schooling

Apollorn · Apr 2, 2008

I'm an RN student that challenged, and successfuly, passed my LPN exam. We have the opportunity to challenge the LPN exam after our second year of the BSN, which is kind of nice to gain some experience and much needed money.

I find myself using all of my BSN assessments and skills (without the odd psychomotor skills LPNs are not permitted to do) as I work as an LPN. I enjoy learning a lot more and therefore I chose to complete a BSN. In BC, Canada, it's hard to differentiate who's the LPN and RN in a hospital. They're both full scope. RNs, however, work in the speciality areas and act in the resource role.

So, if you don't want to read all that, basically here it's like: LPN have the assessments and psychomotor skills. RN have the in-depth assessments, more complicated psychomotor skills, and the ability to work in specialties.

pagandeva2000, LPN · Apr 2, 2008

I think that there are many things that come into play when making this decision. Are there LPN and RN programs in your area? How comfortable are you with your current skills? I ask this because if you feel that you have weaknesses in reading, math and science, these issues may have to be addressed first, because they can both be very competitive programs (especially RN). You may need to start with taking continuing education and remedial courses to brush up on old skills, or at least purchase a GED book (if you are a self starter) and review, because most schools have entrance exams.

Most LPN courses are given by vocational schools and community colleges, and many of them are geared towards adult learning, especially for those who have not been in school for many years (but, don't be fooled...they are very fast paced). The minus side of them can be that students who are really not taking this seriously will be in class amongest your side. But, it may be an introduction to nursing on a fundamental level, especially if you have not previously worked in the medical field as a CNA or tech position. You can make a decent living as an LPN while continuing with your RN if you choose, and because you have the 'practical' side with you, it can build on your RN knowledge base.

If the RN program does have a long waiting list, or you are patient, you can take your time taking the pre-requisites. You have to decide what is best for your lifestyle, current needs, finances and time. Good luck. I don't see either as a mistake.

UnclearFuture, ADN, BSN · Apr 2, 2008

My only partial weakness out of my skills would be math. I have successfully excelled in all other areas. I am much more focused then I was in my past educational experiences; and therefore, feel as if I will even excel in my weakness. Having a good head on my shoulders at an older age, more so then the ripe 18yrs old, I feel that I can successfully conquer any task at hand and am more determined to achieve my goals..especially since I know what I would like to do with my life.

My boyfriends sister is an RN. Unfortunately, she lives in Maryland and heads a particular department, so it is very hard to get a hold of her. But, I will be able to reach out to her this weekend. I will see from her experiences what she suggests..hopefully this will help me and not confuse me in the long run! :roll

Okay, time for some sleep so I can get up for my painfully boring job! I CAN'T WAIT TO LEAVE IT TO START A NEW LIFE!!!:w00t:

lvnandmomx3 · Apr 2, 2008

I am an LVN now, really did not have much of a choice in the matter as far as LVN 1st vs straight for RN. My LVN schooling was paid for as part of a retraining program when I was part of a mass layoff. RN was not an option cause the school had to be less than 1yr. I am now pursueing (sp) RN BSN degree. Had I went into nursing when I was younger I probably would have gone straight for the RN but who knows, everything happens for a reason. You will know what option is right for you.

KaroSnowQueen, RN · Apr 2, 2008

go for the rn.

i am an lpn, and trying to go for your rn is not a seamless bridge, it is a real pain in the tushie, and it has been such a circus, (that credits too old, not enough credits in that particular class, not recognizing any of my lpn school credits), that at this point in time, i sincerely doubt i will finish my rn. i may get a degree, but i doubt it will be in nursing.

(and before you ask why they won't take any of my lpn credits, they are now 24+ years old.)