If you were in my shoes...

[WonderousIvy, BSN]

Consider the following:

1.)wife of an active duty soldier /moves every 3-4yrs

2.)one class away from completing AS

3.) current LVN in CA (moving in 6months to unknown location at this time)

4.) new mom to a 4month old

5.)uncomfortable with putting child in daycare,prefer having myself or husband watching her only

Goal: Work on base as a FNP

If you were in my shoes,how would you get there? There are several options available(some solely depend on what state we live in at the time). Those options depending on the state,includeonline LPN to RN bridges such as WGU,ISU,Excelsior (yikes) please share your thoughts

[Jules A, MSN]

I'd get your BSN and see what life brings.

[WonderousIvy, BSN]

That's what I'm asking...how would you do it? Going to a traditional program,an ADN program or online bridge etc

[MierKat]

That's what I'm asking...how would you do it? Going to a traditional program,an ADN program or online bridge etc

I'd see what state you end up in in 6 months. If the state allows WGU LVN-to-RN, I'd do that. (May not be able to be licensed in all states.) If not, then I'd do an ADN bridge if you can find one local (not online) to you. Excelsior IMO is more risk and I'd only do that or other online options if you exhaust other options. But really, at this point since you don't know where you'll be I'd just finish the AS and enjoy your baby while it's young.

[Jules A, MSN]

I did LPN to ADN because it was cheap, quick and with a community college education I got a good clinical education unlike many of the BSN new grads I've encountered. I liked being able to work as a RN for a significant raise over LPN wages when I was getting my BSN. As a ADN you might not have as many opportunities so that might be down side if you are particular about what area you work in. Good luck.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

My husband did 23 years in the Air Force and we moved every 2-3 years always overseas due to his job.

I did LPN, then ADN, then BSN, MSN, post MSN certificates and the reason was because of multiple PCS's.

It wasn't easy, my husband was deployed or TDY a lot of the time and we had two sons. However, I did it and don't regret my step by step trek to my goal.

[WonderousIvy, BSN]

Nice to hear from someone who understands! How long did it take you to get there? Did you have to put your kids in daycare?

[caffeinatednurse, BSN, RN]

I would get your RN via a bridge program from a local community college. Online LPN-RN programs can be iffy at best, depending on your location and the quality of the program. CC classes are probably cheaper and you get a good foundation, IMO. Then you can do your RN to BSN online through most state schools.

[WonderousIvy, BSN]

I'm pretty hesitant to go through any online school,sometime it seems like that's becoming my only option though:/

[Jules A, MSN]

I'm pretty hesitant to go through any online school,sometime it seems like that's becoming my only option though:/

My LPN to ADN was only 2 semesters plus a brief summer session so that should work within your time frame of being stationed in one location. Personally I don't think the choice of BSN is all that crucial although I'd avoid the well known stigmatized names and would recommend picking a reputable NP program. Who knows what NP education will look like when you are ready but I can only hope there are some major changes made.

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

I'd see what state you end up in in 6 months. If the state allows WGU LVN-to-RN, I'd do that. (May not be able to be licensed in all states.) If not, then I'd do an ADN bridge if you can find one local (not online) to you. Excelsior IMO is more risk and I'd only do that or other online options if you exhaust other options. But really, at this point since you don't know where you'll be I'd just finish the AS and enjoy your baby while it's young.

This is incorrect- WGU grads can be licensed in all 50 states without ANY problem. I think you have them mixed up with Excelsior- which DOES have restrictions on licensure in several states.

[TicTok411]

Online programs are your best option and not all online programs are created equally. Find a respectable program (not for profit) that actually has a B&M option and does not exist solely online. However, online requires a bit more discipline than B&M options and you will need to keep up on weekly projects/assignments.

I have known a few active duty nurses who completed their FNP on their own time and not attending USUHS. It was difficult but they got it done and could immediately apply for ISP and not have to meet payback requirements. There is always a way if you are willing to work hard for it.