LPN vs RN

cracklingkraken, ASN, RN · Jul 24, 2014

Do you mean that you've already graduated with a Bachelor's? If you're goal is to eventually become an RN, I would advise that you go ahead and do an RN program. You can look into an accelerated BSN program, if you have already obtained a Bachelor's in a different field. If cost is an issue, look into local programs at community colleges. There are many CCs offer ADN programs, depending on your location.

SWM2009 · Jul 24, 2014

Sure. In my part of the country you can wait 3+ years on the local CC waiting list to get into the ADN program...or you can get your LPN in 12-18 months and get into that same ADN program without waiting. Alternatively you can get into an accelerated BSN program but they are very expensive.

cayenne06, MSN, CNM · Jul 24, 2014

I would go straight for your RN if possible. Especially if you already have a bachelor's. It is hard to get a job, let along make decent money, as an LPN.

shan409, ASN, BSN, LPN, RN · Jul 24, 2014

I've personally have waited for 2+ years on an ADN list (one a community college/one for a tech school). I was just accepted to an LPN program and will be bridging through (LPN-RN, RN-BSN, etc...). It is the best way for me to follow my passion of becoming a nurse. Most people are sitting on waiting lists for more than 1 year for community college RN programs, so this was a great way for me to start my journey in my nursing education.

SU2013 · Jul 24, 2014

Thanks everyone... I have finish my degree in Substance Abuse Counseling and plan to become a Certified Addiction Register nurse. I guess I wanted to actually gain nursing experience and earn an income in the field ASAP. ...because RN school acceptance rate.are so very competitive. I don't know I guess I will weigh.my options. As for Accelerated programs ... I do better at when not rush.

SWM2009 · Jul 26, 2014

I would go straight for your RN if possible. Especially if you already have a bachelor's. It is hard to get a job, let along make decent money, as an LPN.

This has not been my experience at all as a recent LPN graduate (December). I am making a very decent living and I found a job within weeks of passing NCLEX.

I'm not knocking anyone going for RN right away, if you can do it of course. I myself am planning to start RN courses within the next year. It just bugs me to see the LPN route given a bad rap. My LPN pay helps me pay the mortgage, feed my family, and save for retirement. It will also will help me pay for my RN and I will graduate debt free.

OP, only you know your circumstances and which of the two RN or LPN will work best for you. Good luck.

SU2013 · Jul 26, 2014

I agree I do know quite a few LPNs that are doing well for themselves and I never hear of one not finding a job....but it is a situation where one would have to weigh their options. Thanks

duskyjewel · Jul 26, 2014

I have a bachelor's degree in political science that I earned 17 years ago, and am currently waiting for acceptance into a LPN program. I have a family and too much debt already, and am working as a CNA for a company that both offers tuition assistance and hires LPNs, so I feel comfortable taking my nursing education in small bites. I will most likely work as a LPN for a couple years while finishing up RN prereqs and then bridge. One cool thing a nurse I work with told me is that since I already have a bachelor's, I may be able to go directly from RN to MSN if I decide I want to go further. :)

SU2013 and SWM2009, do you ever get the feeling people who claim LPNs can't find jobs or make a decent living never were LPNs and don't know any? It's like this urban legend they just repeat.....

SWM2009 · Jul 26, 2014

SU2013 and SWM2009, do you ever get the feeling people who claim LPNs can't find jobs or make a decent living never were LPNs and don't know any? It's like this urban legend they just repeat.....

All the time.....my own extended family did the same. "You'll never find a job, why not be a RN?" I was determined to get into the job market sooner. I too have a previous bachelors and could have gone the accelerated BSN route but I was not willing to take on any debt for school. Plus, as mentioned previously, my local CC has a 3+ year long waiting list. I have no regrets about starting with becoming a LPN.

LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN · Jul 26, 2014

Thanks everyone... I have finish my degree in Substance Abuse Counseling and plan to become a Certified Addiction Register nurse. I guess I wanted to actually gain nursing experience and earn an income in the field ASAP. ...because RN school acceptance rate.are so very competitive. I don't know I guess I will weigh.my options. As for Accelerated programs ... I do better at when not rush.

Just FYI, PN programs are a little over a year-18 months, which is very accelerated as well for the amount of content that one must learn to be an entry level LPN; however, it is a great foundation of education when you do go back for your ADN or BSN as well as a wonderful career.

I was a LPN for 5 years before I was accepted into a BSN program; during that time as a LPN, I finished up my Associates and all of my classes transferred into my BSN program.

I thoroughly enjoyed my years as an LPN, and worked in many specialties; the only caveat was I couldn't become certified in my specialties; that prompted me to go back to school and become an RN; I am happy to say I hope to become certified within a few years in the specialty of my choosing. :yes:

SU2013 · Jul 26, 2014

@duskyjewel, I have no idea what some people are talking about as I said before every LPN I know are employed. Especially if you want to work traditional hours most doctors office will not hire RNs. I think most people may not intend any harm but they just assume if you already have a BA then go straight for RN without considering your own personal situation that may prevent this.