LPN to BSN?

[KMEDR]

Hi all - I am a newly graduated LPN in Connecticut with the intentions of going for my RN. I would like to obtain my BSN so I can advance to my masters and become a CRNA.

Does anyone know of any LPN to BSN programs or recommend the best route to take? LPN to RN (A.S.) vs. admission to a BSN program? Accelerated programs? Which would be faster? Any suggestions would be great. Looking to get my career movin!!

[nolanurse88]

Check out their BON website, it list all of the RN programs throughout Connecticut.

http://www.ct.gov/dph/cwp/view.asp?a=3143&q=388918

[hopefull1n30188]

Hi. I'm not sure how bridging works in CT, but from my research in just about every state, it may actually be quicker, and cheaper to enroll at a community college and bridge. This all depends on a few things though.

1st and foremost, do you have any pre-requisites completed? That will be your biggest obstacle. I, for instance, have all my pre-requisites completed with the exception of Microbiology and Chemistry/Biology, if required by a school. The 2nd thing to look at is application deadlines. Finally, you must consider how soon you want to begin working as a RN.

You and I have the same goal of becoming a CRNA. That being said, you want to start working as a RN ASAP. ALL CRNA programs require a MINIMUM of one year experience as a RN in a critical care unit prior to application. Most want at least two years. For me, I am choosing to bridge at a small school in a small town. This allows a better chance of me getting a job at the local hospital prior to bridging. The reason that is important is si that when I complete the 1 year LPN - RN (Associates) program, I can easily transition into the roll of RN, and after a year with the hospital, I can most likely go directly into CC.

Most community colleges now offer RN-BSN programs now. So, phase 2 involves staying at the school and hospital while I obtain my BSN. This is usually a year long transition as well. After completing the RN-BSN program, I will already have a year of experience in CC and can apply directly to my CRNA program.

In other words, it would take about 2 years to transition from LPN - BSN the traditional way. If you don't want to do it that way, there are LPN - BSN program. The most well known one is Indiana State University. They offer a completely online bridge. Phase 1 is all gen eds. Phase 2 Is comoletion of the 4 nursing course challenge exams. Both of these phases are completely self paced. The final phase is the actual nursing core which involves you setting up your own clinical. Once in the final phase, it will take about 2 years.