where should I start?

If you want to work in the NICU, start working towards RN. LVNs don't work in the NICU from what I understand.

Thanks. I realize that, but I was thinking at least I would be working in the field quicker while I continued school - bad idea?

I thought about that too, but...

The LVN program had a waiting list that was longer than it took to complete my RN pre requisites! I also thought it would be very difficult to work at a new job, in a new field AND attend nursing school. I can't even manage to work more than 2-4 days a month at the job I currently have and I know that job inside and out!

LVNs also have very limited opportunities in some areas. You're more likely to find a job in long term care than in an NICU as an LVN. Soooo, if NICU is what you're hoping for, it might just be better to go all the way. If you can find a good ADN program, becoming an RN won't take too much longer than becoming an LVN. You can go back to school and work on your BSN or MSN after you settle in to your new RN role.

Go the RN route. In the end it will be shorter.

The RN route imho. You might want to get a cna in the meantime and see if you can get your foot into a nicu. If not a cna in a critical care or pediatric setting. It can get you experience to put on your resume.

You might check your school's program and see if you can take the LPN boards halfway through. My ADN was like that, after quarter 4 you could take LPN boards but classes continued on through an RN degree.

Getting your LPN could be beneficial in that you might find other areas of interest if NICU doesn't appeal to you.

Hope this helps,

Pat