LPN as quick transition into nursing field...

Nurses LPN/LVN

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I have currently applied to the LPN program at La Guardia Community College. Due to financial responsibilities, I cannot take the time off to pursue a RN right now. Would pursuing an LPN be a good move to transition from one career into the nursingy field?

I think it's a great idea-I am doing it too. This is a career change for me, so I don't feel like I can waste time on wait lists. I got into a LPN program, and am going part time-it will take me 2 years (1) that's the only spot they had for me and 2) with a family and a long commute, it works fine. I will then get into an LPN-RN program at a neighboring college within 6 months of graduating the LPN. I've already done the prereqs. No wait list, no drama over getting in or not-it's fairly straightforward, and I'll be a RN. I plan on doing a BSN online, afterwards...

It is true that in my area (CO) LPNs are pretty much working in LTC. But it's decent pay, great experience, and they don't seem to have trouble moving on from that.

Specializes in student.
I think it's a great idea-I am doing it too. This is a career change for me, so I don't feel like I can waste time on wait lists. I got into a LPN program, and am going part time-it will take me 2 years (1) that's the only spot they had for me and 2) with a family and a long commute, it works fine. I will then get into an LPN-RN program at a neighboring college within 6 months of graduating the LPN. I've already done the prereqs. No wait list, no drama over getting in or not-it's fairly straightforward, and I'll be a RN. I plan on doing a BSN online, afterwards...

It is true that in my area (CO) LPNs are pretty much working in LTC. But it's decent pay, great experience, and they don't seem to have trouble moving on from that.

Sounds like this career pursuit is perfect for you and your family. I wish you nothing but continued success. May I ask you your class size and M/F ratio...

Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.
What is the difference between using the time to get your LPN and using it to get your RN?

Well for one thing I made $40,000 working as a LPN the year I was getting my RN which sure beats racking up the loans.

OP I am very happy with my choice to become a LPN first. It allowed me to kind of try out nursing without investing a ton of time or money. My LPN program provided an excellent education and prepared me to easily move forward. Good luck if you decide to try it!

.

Thanks again for all the responses. MAXCAT - Where is the part time LPN Program you attend? NY?

Specializes in student.
Well for one thing I made $40,000 working as a LPN the year I was getting my RN which sure beats racking up the loans.

OP I am very happy with my choice to become a LPN first. It allowed me to kind of try out nursing without investing a ton of time or money. My LPN program provided an excellent education and prepared me to easily move forward. Good luck if you decide to try it!

.

JULES, A question If I May.....

R u aware of the LPN prospects here in NJ? I have of course "heard".... in the recent past 2-4 yrs ago "health care health care". Then I see in the papers everyday within the last year layoffs, closings etc. I am not entering the LPN field just for the money. I want to 'contribute' but are there real jobs out there for us. I have read articles that many RN's cannot find work so they are taking less preferred jobs to work (and pay off loans) and facilities are hiring more CNA's due to costs. I actually contacted some (4) LTC facilities in my area and the HR depts admitingly say they are slow to hire new right now just because positions are filled and they actually have waiting lists.

I am going to be careful in saying this butttt. App 5 yrs ago construction trades was the place to be and schools promoted those careers and the costs astronomical. We see were those jobs have went. 8 yrs ago computers 1/2 those schools gone... now fewer good paying jobs and lay offs. Now health care schools are all over Unbeleivable costs they are full but I have recently again started to here fewer and fewer jobs. Is it really possible we are creating to many personel for positions available.

I see the 8yr RN nurses with many certs have a much better job outlook but LPN CNAS and new Gen RN's seem to be going (do I dare say) way of the dinosaur possibly because of specialization, the new health care reform and politics there of, the economy. If specialization is a course what type of specializations shall I loook for as a prospective LPN.

Thanks

Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.
JULES, A question If I May.....

R u aware of the LPN prospects here in NJ? I have of course "heard".... in the recent past 2-4 yrs ago "health care health care". Then I see in the papers everyday within the last year layoffs, closings etc. I am not entering the LPN field just for the money. I want to 'contribute' but are there real jobs out there for us. I have read articles that many RN's cannot find work so they are taking less preferred jobs to work (and pay off loans) and facilities are hiring more CNA's due to costs. I actually contacted some (4) LTC facilities in my area and the HR depts admitingly say they are slow to hire new right now just because positions are filled and they actually have waiting lists.

I am going to be careful in saying this butttt. App 5 yrs ago construction trades was the place to be and schools promoted those careers and the costs astronomical. We see were those jobs have went. 8 yrs ago computers 1/2 those schools gone... now fewer good paying jobs and lay offs. Now health care schools are all over Unbeleivable costs they are full but I have recently again started to here fewer and fewer jobs. Is it really possible we are creating to many personel for positions available.

I see the 8yr RN nurses with many certs have a much better job outlook but LPN CNAS and new Gen RN's seem to be going (do I dare say) way of the dinosaur possibly because of specialization, the new health care reform and politics there of, the economy. If specialization is a course what type of specializations shall I loook for as a prospective LPN.

Thanks

Hi, no clue as to job prospects in NJ, sorry. I'm working in the DC area now and jobs are not nearly as plentiful as years ago but still out there. My unit hired 3 new grad RNs but it seems to be important to apply before graduation and have something lined up for when the hospitals do their mass new grad orientation. If it is really difficult in your area a tech job might be the way to go as a segway into a position. It seems there is always a shortage of good techs. If you are hired and they get to know and love you if they hire LPNs you should be able to have a job waiting for you upon graduation. FWIW in my area LTC is always hiring all positions so although it might not be someone's first choice as a LPN it might be the best bet. Good luck.

Specializes in student.
Hi, no clue as to job prospects in NJ, sorry. I'm working in the DC area now and jobs are not nearly as plentiful as years ago but still out there. My unit hired 3 new grad RNs but it seems to be important to apply before graduation and have something lined up for when the hospitals do their mass new grad orientation. If it is really difficult in your area a tech job might be the way to go as a segway into a position. It seems there is always a shortage of good techs. If you are hired and they get to know and love you if they hire LPNs you should be able to have a job waiting for you upon graduation. FWIW in my area LTC is always hiring all positions so although it might not be someone's first choice as a LPN it might be the best bet. Good luck.

Thanks

Specializes in student.
Thanks

FWIW ?

Specializes in LTC, corrections.
FWIW ?

For What It's Worth

Specializes in student.

As soon as I sent ? i GOT IT THAMKS........... sorry THANKS eatin mellon

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