Is LPN program worth it?

EvinsAngel · Jun 18, 2005

I definitely know where you're coming from. I applied to several ADN programs with EXTREMELY long waiting lists. I too have a Bachelor's Degree. Ultimately what I decided to do was enroll in an LPN program because I wanted to at least enter the field. Currently, I'm attending the LPN program and I plan to begin work once I get my license and pursue my RN immediately after. It's definitely a little more time consuming but when you think about having to wait to get into the ADN program it kind of balances out. At least you'll be a step closer to your ultimate goal.

Hoozdo, ADN · Jun 18, 2005

But do you guys and gals out there think having a backup plan to enroll in a LPN program is good?

The schools in my area have the bridge program where you can go from LPN to RN (ADN)

thanks

That's how I am doing it. First went to LPN program at a local skill center then bridged right into RN program without a problem. Here in the Phx area the problem is with the waiting lists to initially get in the nursing program. There was no problem with a waiting list entering the program for the RN level. I even saved a semester doing it this way. The LPN program also had a waiting list longer than a year but I used that time to do prerequisites.

One more semester till RN!:rotfl:

Lu Ann

cocoa33 · Jun 18, 2005

If placement in the ADN program isn't available I would suggest the LPN program that way you are still getting your nursing experience and some programs even give you credit for being a LPN/LVN.

Good Luck with your endeavors.

NurseFife · Jun 20, 2005

It is worth taking one step at a time. It work for some. SOme of my classmate doing well as LPN and taking time to get RN. The experiece gain as a nurse is valuable. The bottom line we all are important to the field of nursing.

Trauma Columnist · Jun 20, 2005

Even 15 years ago when I started school, there were waiting lists. That is one reason I did the LPN and the ADN route - just quicker.

rebel_red · Jun 22, 2005

I went the looongg way...took a job as a CNA to insure I could provide basic care without issue....Did my LPN. For me it is fabulous because I make decent money and can set my own hours while finishing my RN. I hold a Bachelors in Social Work..but because of the time frame I have to do sciences over..sigh.....

lpndana · Jun 22, 2005

I would say yes and no. It depends on how easy it is to find a job as a new LPN in your area. I actually wanted to gain experience as an LPN first and continue school to become an RN. In my area it is pretty difficult to find a job as an LPN, even in nursing homes, they want 1 year of experience. So in my case, the answer is definately - no! As for RNs, it doesn't matter if you're a new grad, many employers hire you while you're still in school, or they give you a bonus on top - at least in the D.C. area. Find out if employers hire new LPNs in your area, also consider where you want to work, in my case it is almost impossible to find a job in a hospital, they all hire RNs. I hope this was helpful.

Dana

Boston-RN, RN · Jun 22, 2005

I would say yes and no. It depends on how easy it is to find a job as a new LPN in your area. I actually wanted to gain experience as an LPN first and continue school to become an RN. In my area it is pretty difficult to find a job as an LPN, even in nursing homes, they want 1 year of experience. So in my case, the answer is definately - no! As for RNs, it doesn't matter if you're a new grad, many employers hire you while you're still in school, or they give you a bonus on top - at least in the D.C. area. Find out if employers hire new LPNs in your area, also consider where you want to work, in my case it is almost impossible to find a job in a hospital, they all hire RNs. I hope this was helpful.
Dana

I'm doing the LPN program first as well. No waiting list, no pre-req and there's no waiting list for the bridge program either. There are pleny of jobs for LPN's in my area.

Good luck w/ your decision.