LPN or RN

[2bdr. indecisive]

Dear All

I got into the RN program at Gwinnett Technical College. But realized I cannot afford it. And I don't get financial aid because of a previous degree I have. I don't want to start the RN unless I can finish it, but I'm afraid I won't be able to finish it.

So, I was looking into LPN. But I am hearing mixed information about LPN.

From what I hear from those in the field and from most instructors is that they are not hiring LPN's in hospitals anymore, but are still hiring in nursing homes, hospices, etc....

Others have told me that you need massive amounts of experience to get a job as an LPN.

I don't know who to believe. Honestly I would like to just do 1-2 years of schooling in something and get a job because I'm getting tired of school. I am in Georgia and am afraid to make a choice now because of past decisions.

Is LPN a good option? Would I be able to find a job as an LPN? I'm scared to pass up the opportunity of RN, but if I must I must.

[napgiver]

Having completed my LPN and then my RN, I would highly advise against your LPN. It was a waste of time and money. I have been working full time as an RN for the past 8 years. The degree has opened so many doors and paid for itself tenfold.

[VANurse2010]

In my opinion, LPN is not a good option for a number of reasons. For example, in my area of the world, LPNs are mainly utilized in two manners: (1) clinic office workers with good M-F schedules but low pay, or (2) nursing home/SNF floor nurses who work very hard for slightly better pay but have little chance to advance either pay or position-wise. The best option for nurses, of course, is RN-BSN, but even if that is not a financial reality you will still have far more options as an associate's degree RN.

[sadiemae1123]

If you have no particular interest in nursing beyond getting a job then it may not be the best career choice for you. It can be a very emotionally and physically draining job, especially for someone who has no passion for the work.

If you are only interested in having a well paying job then your best bet would be to look around in the area you live in or want to live in to see what type of job opportunities are available. Then you can focus your education in that direction.