LPN to RN or PTA?

Nurses New Nurse

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Hi,

I have been a nurse (LPN) since 2006. Working on either subacute floor or sometimes long term care floor. I'm feeling a bit burnt out. I have been taking the pre-requisites towards my RN. I'm at the point where I can begin applying to RN programs but recently I have found that I have an interest in becoming PTA (physical Therapy Assistant). I understand that it would be more of a lateral move then an upperwards move. I feel like I would be happier having more one on one time with patients verses rushing around trying to tend to 21+ or sometimes 30+ pt's- making sure all meds, tx, paper work etc is done and it would be a different type of stress. The PTA's that I work with, seem really happy in there job etc. I would have no weekends, holidays and my hours would be more flexible during the day. I'm sick of waiting for my replacemtent to stroll in LATE or not show up etc.

I guess I don't want to feel like I am making a mistake. or going backwards. Pay wise, would I be going backwards? Is this a bad career choice at the age of 35? or since I have worked so hard to get my LPN - should I just go for the RN, since I will have more choices in jobs with that? what to do, what to do.....

Thanks - sorry if this post doesnt make much sense, had another very hard stressful day at work.

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