I'm Stuck. SHould I get my LPN or go straight for my RN

[cjones89]

I have a one-year-old, I'm finishing up my Bachelors in Political science this summer and want to get into nursing. I dont know if I should do my LPN and Bridge into an RN program, or go straight fo my RN.

I would do my LPN first just to have experience to have on my resume when I am a new RN grad. and I think it may be easier to find a job if they see i'm already an LPN. the LPN program is 12 month and the RN program is about 12 months too. If I do the LPN, I would be able to work while in my RN and make a living for my daughter. LPN is cheaper also.

But RN is my final destination other than getting an MSN in the future. I just don't want to become and RN and have a hard time getting a job due to lack of experience.

I also have my Phlebotomy Certificate now and working on Challenging the CNA boards.

Which route would you take?

[CT Pixie, BSN, RN]

I would do my LPN first just to have experience to have on my resume when I am a new RN grad. and I think it may be easier to find a job if they see i'm already an LPN. the LPN program is 12 month and the RN program is about 12 months too. If I do the LPN, I would be able to work while in my RN and make a living for my daughter. LPN is cheaper also.

But RN is my final destination other than getting an MSN in the future. I just don't want to become and RN and have a hard time getting a job due to lack of experience.

The job market is tough for new grads be they LPN or RN. I don't think it will be any easier getting an LPN job as a brand new grad than it will being a brand new RN grad. In this economy employers can be very picky and selective. So they opt for the experienced nurse (LPN or RN). Actually, depending on what state you live, you might be able to find an RN position easier than an LPN position. In my area the LPN market is drying up. Less and less job postings and the ones that are there want experienced LPN's.

Some, not all, employers will give 'credit' as experience if you are an LPN. For example for every X years experience as an LPN gives you 'credit' as 1 year RN experience. While you might have a leg up if you have LPN experience prior to becoming an RN it isn't a given.

If I had been able to get right into an RN program I would have done that. I wouldn't have done the LPN to RN deal. If you are able to get right into the RN program, I'd say just do that and forego the LPN schooling.