Lpn vs Rn

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Okay I will be starting my basic classes this summer so I have plenty of time but I can't make up my mind if I should do lpn then RN or straight to RN as of right now my ultimate goal is to be an RN , I know I could start RN school then test out half way through. I don't know I'm just torn so I'm trying to make a pros and cons list any advice is greatly appreciated.

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Specializes in PICU, Sedation/Radiology, PACU.

If you want to be an RN, enter an RN program off the bat. Ideally, a BSN program that combines your prerequisites with your nursing courses. You'll spend just as much money going from LPN to RN to BSN and take more time to get there. There are some situations where becoming an LPN first makes more sense, but the majority of the time it's easiest to go straight for RN.

And by the way, you cannot test out” of nursing school. You may be able to test out of some prerequisite courses by achieving good scores in Advanced Placement classes, but that will depend on the college you attend. Nor can you complete part of an RN program and then test out” to become an LPN. You will need to complete all the classes in the nursing program with no option to test out or skip ahead.

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You actually can do half of the RN program then sit for your lpn state board aleast in Alabama

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
Nor can you complete part of an RN program and then test out” to become an LPN.

Some states do allow RN students to stop out and take the NCLEX-PN at a certain point.

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Specializes in LTC and Pediatrics.

Some schools also have a ladder approach. The first two semesters are the same for ADN and LPN. If you want to get an LPN license, your 3rd semester is specific for LPN. The third, fourth and fifth semester are the ADN specific classes. Where I went to school, the third semester may line up in the summer session (and not a full semester) when there is not an ADN class. Many going for the ADN would take that LPN class and get their LPN license.

Not sure if any schools in your state does that, but it is a though.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Here is my stair-step pattern of schooling:

1. LVN program - 10/2004 to 10/2005

2. LPN to ASN bridge program - 1/2009 to 3/2010

3. Online RN to BSN program - 5/2014 to 3/2015

My schooling spans 11+ years because I worked full-time and took breaks in between. Generally, it is faster to pursue the RN license directly if that is your goal.

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Financially I am be doing the LPN (1year) 1st and then RN. My school only accepts LPN students that graduates from our school to the bridge program. Then I will do a BSN online. Good Luck!

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