LPN or RN- Need Advise Please!!!

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I have applied to 2 RN programs for Fall 2013. So far, I have been rejected from one of the two. I am starting to think about going the LPN route if the 2nd school rejects me too. I already have all my science and math classes for the RN degree done, so all I really need now is the Nursing classes. BUT my predicament is that I have a big family and we all live off my husband's income, which hasn't increased in 4 years. I only have about $10,000 left of federal loans before I've reached my maximum because I have a 4 yr degree, which is pretty much useless in this economy. I am starting to panic about the future because I feel that my family is in a position where I really need to get out there and get to work, but on the other hand in the back of my mind I keep hearing myself say that doing an LPN program will be a waste of time and money for me, since I've come this far already. Any suggestions, advice please?!?!??

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Specializes in Med/Surg, LTACH, LTC, Home Health.

Stretch the 10 grand by buying every used book or even renting the books that you can and shoot for the RN. You should be able to rent a lot of the textbooks for under $50. The market for new grad nurses can be unforgiving but you stand a better chance as an RN...depending on your area, of course. There is no need going after the LPN, only to find yourself back in school even when that's done. Im not knocking LPN because I was an LPN for more than 20 years when I got my RN 3 years ago due to the economy forcing me into higher education. I was working a hospital job when I noticed I was being booted out of hours. Even with my many years of med/surg experience, no one was hiring LPNs, experienced or otherwise. So, I hesitantly got back in school. With 10 grand remaining, you really must make very dime count. Good luck!

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I agree with LYNDAA. If you go the LPN route, you're probably going to end up wanting the RN and going back to school. If it is at all possible, I would get the RN now. It's going to set you up better for jobs and advancement.

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Thanks for the advice. I've decided to wait it out and go for the RN. I might have to wait longer to get into a school, but it will be more worth it in the end. I don't want to go through LPN training just to find out that I won't have many employment prospects.

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I was in two hospitals 4 years ago as patient :(

Every shift there was always an RN and LPN.

Went back again 2 years ago. Same place had either just RN or RN and tech, or RN and floating tech depending what area I was in.

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It's too bad that LPN's are being phased out of the hospitals. I think it's because hospitals can hire techs for less money and they don't have to deal w/unions, but it's a shame :(

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