LPN or RN?

RN34TX · Oct 23, 2005

Try RN first and just see if you get in. Get loans if you need to.

If the RN program is backed up, then try LPN, but you might as well see if you even get in before deciding to go the LPN route if you really want to be an RN.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Oct 23, 2005

I very recently graduated from a vocational nursing program, and here are my thoughts on this issue.

I took the LVN route first for a variety of reasons. First of all, I was an adult student in my early-twenties with a mortgage and other financial responsibilities, so I could not be out of work more than one year without some major monetary suffering. Next, I had none of the RN prerequisites completed since I had been in the workforce since age 16. Finally, I figured that I could work part-time or full-time as an LVN while bridging to the RN program eventually.

The choice is ultimately up to you. I, though, would suggest that you eventually earn your RN. Even if you do decide to take the LPN first, you should continue your education and expose yourself to a wealth of options by eventually earning your RN. LPNs are being phased out of certain positions in specific regions in America, so continuing your education will only help. I'll end this by stating that both the LVN and RN are important figures in the healthcare team.

Kelly_the_Great · Oct 24, 2005

I'm an LVN (LPN) working on my BSN.

Con: you probably won't qualify for any financial aid after you get your LPN, you'll still have the same bills (or maybe even more) afterwards and school is hard period (escp. if you're also having to work - even if it's just part time).

Pro: the classes have been a little easier for me (in the BSN) program than many of my peers because you've already been exposed to the basics, everything has been easier from prereqs like patho to my nursing classes with care plans because I was already exposed to nursing dx., etc.

However, I'm not sure if it balances out with the commute, job, lack of family time, dirty house, bills, clinicals, yada, yada, yada...lol

Weigh your options carefully and goodluck...:)

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Oct 24, 2005

I'm an LVN (LPN) working on my BSN.

In what part of Texas are you? I was just curious, as I am moving to Fort Worth in a few weeks.

1BlessedRN · Oct 24, 2005

Hi I took the LPN route to make sure nursing was what I wanted to do being middled aged- with kids before I invested time and money....here our program is 12mths....also I didn't have any of the prereqs. that are required for the ADN (RN) program where I am LPN's are in a big demand as in RN's also you will get chosen faster whether you bridge over or go the 2yr route due to your grades and you will find it alot easier due to the exposure as an LPN...and you can work.. this route is only good if you are undecided about nursing..if you have the time and can afford it go for your RN...:wink2:

Now I am a RN soon to be RN/BSN and then who knows...I don't regret the path I chose to take... good luck with your decision...

Corvette Guy · Oct 24, 2005

Hi, I'm trying to decide if I want to go the LPN route first or go straight for the RN. I truly want to be an RN someday but thought it might be easier for me to get accepted in an RN program if I were LPN first. I also want to work while I"m in school b/c of finances. Should I go LPN first or just go straight RN and take out student loans to cover finances? ANy advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Only you can decide, ultimately.

However, since you asked :specs: I'd say apply first for an RN [btw, ADN, or BSN?] program. If the wait is long, or you don't have all the prereqs, then check into an LVN program. I'd think having experience as an LVN would make RN program easier. I worked as a CST while in ADN program, and I found the clinicals easier the first semester, than my peers. I'd urge you to sooner or later go for your BSN; CST '95, ADN '98, and RN-BSN '04.

suebird3 · Oct 24, 2005

Hi I took the LPN route to make sure nursing was what I wanted to do being middled aged- with kids before I invested time and money....here our program is 12mths....also I didn't have any of the prereqs. that are required for the ADN (RN) program where I am LPN's are in a big demand as in RN's also you will get chosen faster whether you bridge over or go the 2yr route due to your grades and you will find it alot easier due to the exposure as an LPN...and you can work.. this route is only good if you are undecided about nursing..if you have the time and can afford it go for your RN...:wink2:
Now I am a RN soon to be RN/BSN and then who knows...I don't regret the path I chose to take... good luck with your decision...

I agree with alot of lisadlpn's comments.

I did the LPN to RN route, also. I had a few pre-req's, and could have skipped outta the first semester of a year long program.

Though it took me 16 years to get my RN, would I change a thing? Nah....had alotta fun along the way.

Whatever you decide is best for you.

sconoli · Oct 25, 2005

Thanks to everyone who replied. I truly want an RN degree, I'm looking into an ADN program b/c I already have some pre-reqs out of the way, actually 5, the only thing I need is chemistry. I think I'll retake Bio and Math b/c I think a higher grade in those would help my G.P.A and I'm desperately wanting into the ADN program. I'm so afraid I won't get in and all I want is to be a nurse! If I can't get into the ADN, I'll go the LPN route and go on to get an RN degree, if money permits.

Kelly_the_Great · Oct 26, 2005

In what part of Texas are you? I was just curious, as I am moving to Fort Worth in a few weeks.

Hi Commuter,

I'm in East Texas. Have you posted in the Texas Nurse Forum? Everyone there seems real helpful in sharing info. about different areas, etc.

Good luck in your move and welcome to Texas! :)