LVN first?

amjowens · Sep 4, 2009

As long as you are certain that you will continue on and get your RN, then doing the LPN first makes a lot of sense. I know of (and you can look here on allnurses) a lot of new grad RNs who are desperate for work. They have a lot of classroom/clinical experience, but don't have work experience. LPNs are paid less, often work in nursing homes, and don't do all that an RN can do, but DO gain great experience doing MOST of what RNs do, and ARE Nurses.

I graduated from my LPN program in Dec 08 and started a regular RN program in Jan 09 (not a bridge, so didn't have to wait to sit for NCLEX, etc.) Now, I'm working full-time passing meds, assessing patients, managing nurse aides, doing dressings, etc. as an LPN. I'm also full-time LEARNING these same things in clinical/class. It's kind of weird, but I love it because it's like I'm getting more in-depth with what I DO know from LPN, plus tons of refresher, and, earning a lot more than what I'd be earning as an aide. LPNs in the bigger pic don't get the respect they deserve or the pay, so that's why I say make sure and set yourself up for your RN if you do decide to get LPN first. Me, I'd do what I did over in a second. I love my job, gaining great experience, learning lots, plus enjoying RN studies. I'm crazy-busy, but very happy.

OC_An Khe · Sep 4, 2009

The RN first route is the best in the long run ( with BSN preferred if you can afford it). I have seen many take the LPN with the intention of transistioning to RN and never complete the RN. Thus limiting their career options and earning power. Life does throw us unexpected road blocks.

student005 · Sep 4, 2009

you might want to look for a school with a program like mine. the first year (summer i - spring) you go through the lvn program. at the end of the year, after passing boards, you automatically start into the second year of the program (summer i - spring) which is rn training. you're not required to go directly into the rn program. if you wanted to stop at the lvn level, you could.

some students practice as an lvn while they are in their rn year. this means they have nursing experience and are rn's upon graduation...and it only takes 2 years! this program is in the north texas area and has a very high success rate on the nclex at both the lvn and rn level. if you aren't able to move to attend a school with a program like this, you might go ahead and pursue rn and try to get an "externship" with a hospital. they'll work around your school schedule and allow you to get experience. the only draw-back with this option is that you'll be contractually obligated to work for the hospital for a period of time upon graduation.

good luck to you!

:redbeathe

NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN · Sep 4, 2009

RN is best for the run at the same time you need to evaluate your life and do what's best for you. I chose becoming a LPN first for several reasons and don't regret it. I'm currently in school for my RN so it's not hard as long to get back. Especially when you really want it.

peeseful1 · Sep 4, 2009

Student005 where is your program? I'm in North TX as well.

Thank you all the advice!

Rabid Response · Sep 5, 2009

You should get the RN. It will only take you a little more time. In CA where I live hospitals are not even hiring LPNs anymore. They can only find work in LTC facilities and prisons, and that sort of experience does not give you any edge in finding hospital work once you get your RN.

Also (like someone else mentioned) lots of nurses get their LPN intending to bridge to RN but never do so due to the time constraints of holding down a job and taking care of family etc... Better to head straight for your ultimate goal IMHO.

Rook · Sep 5, 2009

Get a RN. LPNs are being phased out/eliminated at many hospitals. The only places that I know that hire new LPNs regularly are hospices/RN homes and doctor offices. Plus LPNs make about $10 less an hour for pretty much doing the same work.

jdethman · Sep 5, 2009

RN RN RN RN RN RN:D any thing else is madness. As another poster said BSN if you can so you dont have to mess with later.

RNBelle · Sep 5, 2009

If your goal in the end is to be an RN, then just go all the way the first time. I promise school will be over before you know it.

NC29mom, ASN, LPN, RN · Sep 5, 2009

I got my LPN license first because I couldn't AFFORD to stay in school for 2 yrs, I needed to be able to get a license in a year and make some money (I am a single mother). I am currently back in school to obtain my RN license.

Let me tell you, it is SO much better to get your LPN first!!!!! When you get out of nursing school, you will learn SO much more through experience than you did in class. I learned MORE my first yr working than I ever did in school. Then when you go back to get your RN, it will be a breeze.

Not only that, but just think if you make it all the way to the last one or two semesters in the RN program - and you don't pass. You have lost a lot of time. I know the girls in my class that started in the RN class all wish they would have got their LPN license first. They ALL say that!

And that is bull crap about LPN's making $10 less than RN's. Where I work (LTC) there is a $6 difference. And as a LPN, I make $19/h as opposed to the RN's working in the local hospital for $12/h. So, it all depends where you work, and where you live. The hospitals still hire LPN's. You can work a lot of places as a LPN.

Don't get discouraged. I wouldn't do it any other way - Got my LPN license, worked 3 yrs and now getting my RN license.

Good luck to you!!

Jules A, MSN · Sep 5, 2009

I also did my LPN first and was happy with the choice. It allowed me to work for a decent wage while continuing on with the RN program. I definitely would suggest getting your ADN before a BSN because I can't imagine being willing to give up those extra two years worth of RN income! It is only taking me two years to do the RN to BSN program while working full time. Good luck.