Published Sep 9, 2014
Alexisanne293
8 Posts
Im 21 and finally figured out what I want to do with my career, Nursing obviously. Im attending Concorde Career college in jax At the end of this month to become a LPN. Once im a LPN I plan to become a RN . While in school I have to work a part time serving job. How many hours a week should I study ? Im nervous because I know there is going to be a lot to learn . I really would like to work in the Hospital but it seems like everyone says its harder for a lpn to find a job in a hospital. Do you think it will look better and it will help me if im a lpn in a bride program to become a RN ? I really really really want to work in the ER. I feel like I would get a ton of experience there and eventually I would love to work in pediatrics .
What do you think I should do ? Plus is it just in my local hospital that the nurses seem rude/ stuck up to the patients and visitors or is that everywhere
Thanks so much
victorias1
31 Posts
I'm doing the same thing. I'm 27. I've enrolled into LPN program at Sumner college but eventually plan to get my RN, and hopefully BSN. I think i would become a better RN if i work as LPN first. Plus while working as LPN you can already make decent money while getting all the experience.
I think it's all about personal preference. It's often that LPNs get looked down on but who cares! I know many LPNs who transitioned to RN later and said that RN school was much easier and enjoyable since they already have experience. Bottom line don't get anyone to bring you down because everyone has their own path. It is true that most hospitals don't hire LPNs anymore, and actually by 2018 require all nurses to have BSN. You are only 21. You still have time! The main thing you have to figure out if you'll be able to transfer Concorde credits to a different school. So later on you have no obstacles getting your BSN as well. Does Concorde offer RN program as well? and how much is your program at concorde?
No Concorde doesn't transfer credits. It's a Career institute kinda like a hybrid program. You don't need pre reqs . They do offer a RN program that's only 18 months and now I'm wishing I would of registered for that program instead but it's to late to turn back now. So I'm going to do the LPN and it will be good so I can gain experiance. And I didn't know that about nurses having to have their BSN by 2018 that's good to know !
Did you ask them if you'll be able to transition to RN later on? Since your goal is to one day work as ER nurse you will need RN and BSN. I have many friends who already have their RN license working at the hospital, and now are asked to get their BSN. I know why you are nervous because i am as well..( on top of school being pretty pricey) but im sure you'll be able to get a great job as an LPN in your area. Before i applied i called around and researched which facilities and hospitals hire LPNs in my area.
LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN
8,429 Posts
Depending on your area, jobs for LPNs are outside of the hospital; including Pediatric home care; it's something to think about if you want to enter in Pediatrics.
In my area, I worked as an LPN in a Rehab hospital as well as Pediatric Private Duty home care, as well as a Medical Daycare, and landed a position in a Children's Hospital. I work in a Post-Acute facility now, and because of my experience I am considered for leadership positions; as well as other Pedi hospital opportunities.
Check you area, research what you need to do, make a plan; be open to opportunities and be in charge of your career.
Best wishes.
Yes layer on I will be able to attend their Rn progran, but more that likely I'll try to go to school online while working full time as a lpn ! I've done my research on some online school and I am impressed on how it can work easily with my schedule. Condordes Rn program is expensive as well as all of their other prgrams.
I hear you. Private schools are expensive but many places offer loan repayment plans when you get hired, so that would something great to look into later on.
Yea. There are some online school that will accept private school credits. So i plan on doing that as well. If you can work full time and go to school full time than more power to you! I don't know how people do it. Have you started you program already? how do you like it?
In lucky so far no children or pets haha and my fiance has a good job working for the railroad. I don't know if I will be able to do both full time yet but we will see alot can happen between now and then. I start September 29th I'm super excited beyond ready .