Chicago RN wannabe "Where do I start?"

suzanne4, RN · Jul 28, 2005

Now that I know where you are, you could look at a direct entry MSN program that will give you the RN as well as the MSN. You already have your BA so you would qualify for some of these programs. You would just need to get a few pre-reqs out of the way. And you get it done in about the same time that it would take you for either the ADN or BSN.

Your pre-reqs are going to be fewer, also........ :)

Hope that this helps.

suzanne4, RN · Jul 28, 2005

LPN is licensed practical nurse.

RN is a registered nurse, who has graduated from an approved school of nursing with either a Diploma in Nursing, an ADN is the Associate degree (2 yrs), and the BSN is a four yr degree. All three types of training allow you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

MSN that I mentioned in my earlier post is Master of Science in Nursing.

audionaut · Jul 28, 2005

Thanks for the help, Suzanne4.

I spent some time at the NCSBN website last night and that cleared up a few things as well with regard to licensing & boards. I never thought of going directly for my MSN. Does that put me any closer to becoming an RNP? Would employers rather hire a ADN or BSN with experience or an MSN that doesn't have any? My biggest concern with that plan is the length of time before I actually start working ($$$). I'm assuming that it will take me at least a year to get all of my prereqs out of the way as well.

Any Chicago locals have a school to recommend? I've been looking at Rush.

justavolunteer · Jul 28, 2005

If you are con sidering becoming a nurse: Have you ever set foot in a hospital, nursing home, etc.? Do you have any idea what such jobs entail?

Not trying to discourage you, but rather suggest this: consider volunteering on a patient unit at a hospital, nursing home, or similar place. They can usually do something to fit your schedule. It is usually 3-4 hours per week. I'm not a nurse, 'justavolunteer'. All I know is, boy, do the nurses ever appreciate the help.

If you are otherwise decided, go for it & good luck! I always figure the world is a better place because of a lot of caring nurses who are in it.

suzanne4, RN · Jul 28, 2005

Thanks for the help, Suzanne4.
I spent some time at the NCSBN website last night and that cleared up a few things as well with regard to licensing & boards. I never thought of going directly for my MSN. Does that put me any closer to becoming an RNP? Would employers rather hire a ADN or BSN with experience or an MSN that doesn't have any? My biggest concern with that plan is the length of time before I actually start working ($$$). I'm assuming that it will take me at least a year to get all of my prereqs out of the way as well.
Any Chicago locals have a school to recommend? I've been looking at Rush.

It can put you much closer.................during the program, you will have time to work and gain experience. It is just something to consider since you already have your BA. It will also depend on what is available in your area.

kahumai, RN · Jul 29, 2005

You can also take a certified nursing assistant course (CNA) at a local hospital or community college. Classes are usually one semester long and would allow you to go directly to work. You'll learn really quick whether nursing is for you because I believe that the nursing assistants are the backbone of the patient care. I work as a nursing assistant right now while I get my BSN. The BSN program itself is considered a 4-year program, but when I looked into an ADN program a few years ago, with all the classes they require to start, despite the fact that it's considered 2-years, the length of time totaled about the same as a BSN.

misschelei · Jul 29, 2005

Illinois requires CNA certification prior to entrance in a nursing program.