LPN or RN??

[kbean04]

Hi, I'm a freshman at PPCC going for my nursing degree. I've been getting most of my pre-reqs out of the way so I can get on the waiting list for nursing school. Right now I'm in A&P 1 and not doing so hot! Originally I planned on becoming a RN, but since this class I've started to look at all my options. Right now I'm leaning towards LPN - what's your view on that? I'm afraid I'm going to fail or not pass with a C in my A&P class. I've been advised that if I feel that way that I should withdraw. If I do withdraw I'm thinking about taking the basic A&P class which is required for LPN. Once I have that class done I would be put on the list. Since there is a waiting list, (since I have to be a full time student - for insurance) I would then fill my time up with CNA classes and retaking the A&P classes. Would taking that basic Anatomy help me in taking A&P the second time? I'm not sure if this is the right thing to do. It seems somewhat logical to me, except I know LPN's are not hired as much as an RN - in hospitals especially, which is what I want to work in. I did Learning Link - a program for seniors in high school at Memorial hospital last year. From that experience I discovered a true passion for working in the neonatal unit. While doing a rotation I talked to a nurse who told me about the CNA program and how if I worked for them they would guarantee me a job out of nursing school. With that in mind - if I did pursue the LPN program and after becoming a CNA would I still have that job at Memorial? I do also understand that LPN's are a step under RN's so they can't be in charge like an RN would, but honestly I'm not concerned about that. I just want to be able to give the bedside care and procedures in a hospital. Please give me any advise! Thanks

[NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN]

I was sort of in your shoes in a way. Due to family circumstances, I ended up going for my LVN when all I had left was 2 prereq's for my RN. It worked out for me. I just got my first job as a nurse making 17.50/hr (the first place I went in and applied hired me that day). Now I have a stable career that allows me to support myself while I get my RN. There's also if you do decide to go back and get your RN, you save yourself a year of school usually (not to mention, a lot of places that hire, will help you pay for school)

And the basic A & P does help with the more advanced A& P. Anatomy and physiology is hard. With challenging science classes, it's best to listen to other students and find out which teacher is the best. I held out looking for a good teacher and got a B+. Good luck in your decision