LPN or RN

i am working on the same-type crossroad - do i want the responsibility of a RN? or the lesser responsibility of LVN/LPN? i am currently a CNA/PCA/PCT at a major metro hospital. I really like what I do. But, I am very smart and feel I am meant for more. I want to help my patients/residents. I think the question really is, whom do I want to help. I see RNs at my hosp attached at the hip to what the dr says. They spend more time charting than helping the pt. Money isn't everything. :)

The LPN role has been squeezed out of the hospital where I work and my impression is that opportunities for LPNs are pretty limited. If you are thinking that you might want to eventually pursue RN anyways, I think you will save time and money in the long run by going straight for it.

I have been a LPN for 8 years, I did everything at a CC and paid out of pocket. Worked in LTC and HHC doing private duty nursing for a year. I just completed a LPN-BSN program and got a considerable pay increase, yes, even in home health care, HOWEVER....if I were to do home care visits, the amount I would get paid per visit an hour is less than I made as a LPN. So, it really depends on where you are and what the pay rate is. After another 5 months as a RN, my supervisor would like me to do case management.....I am not sure if there is a pay increase for that.

Many hospitals don't hire LPN's. The going rate in my state for a RN in a local hospital is around $25/hr, $30 if you do nights.