LPN failed out of RN program 2x, advice?

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Dear Nurse Beth,

Failed out of RN program twice, what should be my next path?

I am an LPN of almost 3 years, and I got into RN school almost immediately after started working in my nursing home. I failed second semester of RN school, then passed it, and then failed the final semester. I had such a tough time with some topics, even though I went to tutoring every week, and studied in groups.

I am trying to accept this, and possibly work for awhile in outpatient doctor's office before going back for the RN again.

I just have this preconceived notion that I can't "stop" at my LPN. I know it's not true, but a lot of people look down upon LPNs and that I need to get my RN as fast as possible.

Do you think more experience in outpatient and the nursing home would help me? I would appreciate some words of wisdom. Can I even apply for another job? Any job?

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4 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Trying to Accept,

Many people will say that everyone can pass nursing school and the NCLEX, and to keep trying, but we all have different aptitudes, abilities and strengths. I believe nursing school is not for everyone.

The key is knowing yourself. Maybe you have already given it your best shot, and maybe you need to give it another go, I don't know.

More working experience is good, but may not directly help you in your studies as experience and how you do things in the real world are not always reflected in the NCLEX world of test-taking.

Do not let anyone make you feel "less than" as an LPN. You don't have to read very far on this site to know that RNs hold LPNs/LVNs in high regard.

But there are always some who see nurses as less important than providers, or CNAs as less important than nurses.

Teach others how to view you rather than allowing others to dictate your self-worth.

When I was a new nurse, I worked with a woman who was one of the most professional healthcare workers I've ever worked with. She was older than me, and had a grace and dignity about her that I admired. It was an orthopedic floor, and she taught me how to turn total hip patients safely and get them up for every meal.

Once she approached me privately about leaving blood on the turn sheet after I started an IV. Rather than talk behind my back or go to our manager, she explained that it caused extra work for her and to please use a Chux to protect the bedding.

She was a CNA.

Best wishes in your career,

Nurse Beth

Specializes in Geriatrics, Dialysis.

Go back to school when you feel ready for it. It's hard juggling school, work and life so make sure you have the time to dedicate to your schooling to succeed. That may require cutting down in hours at work some, which of course cuts down in wages so budgeting can be an issue. Look into tuition assistance, maybe your job offers that? Many do and if you are able to take advantage your job is more likely to work around around a school schedule since they are helping fund it.  I know you didn't mention finances as a barrier but school is expensive.

As far as waiting to gain some nursing experience before trying again, I honestly don't think that would be as helpful as you imagine. Unfortunately real world nursing doesn't have as much in common with NCLEX world nursing and school as you would think.

Your best option as an LPN is finding an LPN to RN bridge program. They are designed to take advantage of your knowledge and skills as an already licensed nurse and build upon them.  It's also less of a time commitment than starting from scratch in a traditional program.

I love your answer Nurse Beth. Perfect. 

LPN of 18 years by choice!

Specializes in LTC & Rehab Supervision.

Thank you so much, Nurse Beth. I'm gonna take another shot after awhile, when I feel ready. ? It's hard to accept where you are in life, but I guess that's simply a life lesson!

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