LPN... what are my chances?

Nurses General Nursing

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I am a 21 year old male looking to become an LPN/LVN. My mother is an RN and after speaking with her i've come to understand this is a very competitive field. To make a long story short, I've taken college placement tests and my math is very poor... will this affect me trying to get into an lpn program? Basically this is where i'm at... i'm 21 with a GED, i have no prior work experiance in the healthcare field, I have no clue how to even begin the process of becoming an LPN (although my mother is an RN she is very little help). Am i just kidding myself? Should i just look into doing something else before i even get started? Is it even possible for someone in my position to become an lpn/lvn? All responses are greatly appreciated!

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Specializes in GERIATRICS,HOSPICE,MENTAL/PHYS DISABILED.

It will be very challenging, but you can do it. You need to brush up on your math skills. Are there any tutors/math refresher course you can take?

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Specializes in LTC currently.

It will be challenging but its feasible. In my neck of the woods, you have to complete pre-req courses in order to be a candidate for the licensed practical nursing program....brush up on your math and take all pre-req courses that are needed. Also, prepare for the teas exam(entrance exam into nursing school). Study in advance so you can score well, as a lot of schools work on a point system.....if there's a will, there's a way......good luck.

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Specializes in Government.

There is a ton of remedial math software out there. Basic concepts, drills, etc. I believe anyone can master the math concepts necessary for nursing. If you want it, you can certainly find the tools to make it happen.

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Specializes in LTC currently.

I agree with quickbeam......also look into taking a CNA course. It is very beneficial and you will learn skills that will help you become a better nurse, and since the job market is tight almost overall, having your foot in the door will help you land your first nursing gig.

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I agree about the CNA first. It will help you a lot, and you can get a feel if its the area you want to work in. Just we warned being a CNA is a lot different than and LVN, but at least you will be in the field and work with LVN's, and have the patient care part down. I was never great at math until I went into nursing. I found math a lot easier when I had something to apply it to and I was getting a result I can use. I would take math classes, at leat up until basic algebra. Dont ever think anything is out of reach, just go for it!

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Yes it can be done at community clleges they have prep-math for people who do not do well in the math part of the cpt, when you pass that you can move onto the other math classes that you need. Speak with an advisor and don't give up you can do it.

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Specializes in LTC, OB/GYN, Primary Care.

The LPN school I went to accepted everyone if they had a clear background check and could pass a entrance exam. You can get practice tests or attend tutoring sessions if you feel there are areas to work on. They made it pretty easy for you if you were willing to put the work in. Simple math was all there was on the test. Fractions decimals long division. The only math needed for the actual program is dosage calculations which is basically being able to set up and solve a proportion. I wouldnt let the math stop you. First I would shadow a LPN if you can and really get a idea if this is something you REALLY want to do because it will take some serious dedication and work just studying for nursing classes. If you are not used to studying hard for school it will be a big adjustment. But to answer your question.. YES! you can do it. It is very possible for someone in your position. I went to school with several guys, older men and women, ppl who have never worked in healthcare and they are all successfull nurses now.

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How far did you get in high school? Nursing is pretty challenging, so you will need to brush up on everything. Especially English and math. I am an adult who actually graduated from a high school LPN program. It was pretty easy. I then went to a Community College and got my RN, will graduate in dec with my BSN. I would also say try cna first to see how you like nursing, that way you don't waste your time and you can also get a job in the hospital as a patient care tech while you are in nursing school. Good luck.

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

Go to your local community college & take the placement tests and start with the course level your qualified for.

Do well on these, and you will be better prepared to succeed as well as have some good grades demonstrating you are capable.

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