LPN, ADN, or BSN? Going back to school with a child.

[jaymay13]

Hello! I know I have read several other topics along this line, but I am still so confused on which to do. I originally went to college for business administration then got married and now we have a baby. I am currently just working part time and staying at home with him and I really enjoy doing that. I just got my CNA and now I am looking at going back to school for nursing. I just am so confused on which to do. My options are an LPN program which is only thirty minutes away or and ADN program which would be 45 minutes away. My long term goal would be to most likely try to get my BSN since that seems to be what most employers are looking for. So what I would like to know is what have other ladies done. I am planning on staying home with our son and future kids as much as possible and only working part time at whatever I decide on and then once they are in school hopefully then going for my BSN. Sorry this is so long! Like I said, I just am so confused! Thank you!

[AJJKRN]

This is so much of an individual choice that really plays on your own personal goals and your specific job market. I personally did my ADN and then did an RN to BSN while working. My community college had an excellent LPN program but it did not offer a bridge to an ADN or BSN so I personally opted for my ADN first, then built up experience while working and also getting the benefit of tuition assistance and discounts from my job for my BSN. My ADN school also has a very good relationship with the areas hospitals, including the Level 1 Trauma center, Magnet Status, Teaching Hospital, Top 100 Hospital, etc, etc, place that I work so they are "BSN" preferred but still continue to hire ADN's from the local community college.

My suggestion would be to get work with your CNA first, and use the experience to put your ear to the ground in health care in YOUR area, and listen and learn what opportunities are available to you before investing any significant amount of money or time into your nursing education path.

Good Luck and Happy Holidays!!!