Is doing the LVN program even worth it? or just go for the RN?

akantner · Oct 5, 2008

I just completed a LPN course. It is different for everyone. It worked out great for me because I don't have the money to attend a full-time, all day program for two years. This way I can get my LPN and start work while I take an online bridge program. If you aren't in the same situation I would say "go for it"...you won't have any time obstacles getting in your way of finishing.

Good luck!

softstorms · Oct 6, 2008

If your choice is to go for your R.N. do it now. If you want to look forward to a future that will allow you to choose your path. Do your R.N. now!!!! This is what I have found. LPN's can do many things, and get more certifications, and hold many positions, but!!!! The title will open more doors. Those positions will hold more responsibility and often times much more work LOL. But as an R.N. you will have more choices. And it is easier to do that now than go back and do it.

AngelaLPN08 · Oct 6, 2008

If you are able to go for the RN program then GO!

The LPN is a great way for somebody who can't take the 2 years for the RN and still be a nurse and gain experience. I love that I went and did my LPN the program was easy to get into and now in 1 year I am working at the VA and will have my loans for my LPN paid for and they will also pay for me to become an RN!

In the end it is what works best for you in your situation, but if you can get in and do the RN i would go for it! Not because there is anything wrong with being a LPN but if your goal is to be an LPN and you are already accepted and have the time for the program why not!

Good Luck

luvbug · Oct 6, 2008

I am still and LPN and have been for 8 years. But, I still would advise to go for LPN first--if your state hires them anywhere. My reasoning for this is that you get all that "hands-on" experience while going to school for the RN. Sometimes it is easier to relate to things that are being taught/reviewed when you already have some first-hand knowledge... :twocents:

shalamar · Oct 9, 2008

I live in southern california and after reading a lot of these threads is it even worth going after the lvn-rn bridge? I wanted to do this and thought it would be good to work as a LVN while working on getting into the RN program.
should i just spend time doing RN pre-reqs and keep appling to the RN program over and over?
I wanted to do the LVN 3 semester program then try and bridge to the RN while working as a LVN, but it seems like there is no jobs for LVNs in southern california. Also the way it sounds it is impossible to even get into a bridge program as a LVN.
So maybe i should give up on the bridge progam and just focus on RN prereqs, anyone have any advice on what is best to do?

PLEASE GO FOR THE RN IF YOU CAN IT IS THE WISER CHOICE!!!!!!!!!!

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Oct 9, 2008

In CA i would definitely do directly for RN. It is really hard to bridge in that state except for full time or via an ISU BSN.

RS0302 · Oct 9, 2008

If I had to do it all over again, I would just go for RN. It depends where you want to work though. If you want to work in LTC you could find a job as an LVN. I knew I wanted to work in a hospital from the start, which is where I am working and do almost the same work as an RN for a lot less money.

samsam22, CNA · Oct 10, 2008

thanks everyone, i dont want to work LTC becuase i already work in a hospital as a CNA and i wanna stick with it! LTC is fine but hospital is what im used to and i dont think they even hire LVNS

so i think ill just go straight for RN