LVN to RN bridge program. Has anyone here done it?

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Aug 7, 2010

I first attained licensure as an LVN in early 2006. I enrolled in an LPN-to-RN associates degree bridge program in early 2009, graduated this past March, and passed the NCLEX-RN in May. Overall, the program was not very difficult or challenging. Of course, I'm describing my own personal experiences, and everyone is going to have a different experience.

The RN program tended to go more in-depth with the disease processes and psychosocial factors so that we could supposedly see the "big picture." Otherwise, I would opine that the RN program that I attended was actually easier than the LVN program that I completed.

Hospice Nurse LPN, BSN, RN · Aug 7, 2010

I'm currently in an LPN/BSN bridge program. No! It isn't a breeze because you aren't just re-learning. We have to test out of Fundamentals, Med Surge, and pass a med dosage test (with 100%). First semester is a transition class (thinking as an RN) it was online and I spent an average of 10 hours/week on that class. There was an average of 3 papers a week. We also took patho-pharm 1. These classes were over summer semester. Next week we return for fall semester and have patho-pharm 2, research, and community nursing (lecture and lab). We start clinicals in the spring. My biggest challenge is to think like a student RN instead of an LPN with experience. The classes are challenging, but I'm enjoying them. Good luck to you!

EmergencyNrse · Aug 7, 2010

I'm an Army LPN that bridged.

You can't lump your expectations on other people's experience. Programs are different, instructor requirements vary, yours will not be the same.

Go for it! You'll make more money for basically the same thing. The Joint Commission and Press Ganey has taken away all the "critical thinking" that use to define us as an RN. It's all about appeasement now. WHATEVER to make the "clients" not patients happy. Might as well get paid!

Good luck. You can do it.

kcochrane · Aug 7, 2010

I started on my RN about 6 months after becoming a LPN. I was able to test out of fundamentals and that was it. So it took me 5 years of working full time nights and going to school part time to get my RN. For me it was definately worth it.

I found some parts easier because I did have knowledge from working as a nurse, but at times it was more difficult. Like the poster above, it took me awhile to go from thinking as a LPN to thinking as a RN. It bit my butt on a few tests.

mr.hustle · Aug 7, 2010

I guess its different for everyone. Well i'm planning to start my "10" prerequisites that are required very soon. But since im working full-time right now it will only be part-time. I'm only 22 years old so I guess 5 years aint that bad, at least I wont be wasting any time just doing nothing.

guest2210 · Aug 7, 2010

There are some bridge programs that incorporate the pre-reqs into the curriculum so you don't have to take them separately. The 2 programs I have found are 15 month programs from start to finish and only open to LPNs. They also have night and weekend classes if you can't do the traditional weekday classes. Check in your area if schools like this are available. Good luck... :smokin:

NurseRobbi · Aug 7, 2010

I became an LVN in 2003, spent a year taking prereq's while working full time night shift, then spent a year in a 30 unit option LVN to RN upgrade program that is available here in California. I completed that program and passed boards in 2005. I went back to school online for my BSN and completed that this past April and now I am starting a masters/FNP program in October. My point is is this- the sky is the limit, whatever you dream you can achieve. I worked full time through every phase of my education and will continue to work full time. I think most nurses tend to underestimate the quality education that most LVN's (LPN's) receive, that upgrade education (LVN to RN) is really just more of the same and is always building on your already learned knowledge base. Good luck to you!

IndiKast · Aug 8, 2010

I'm at the tail end of my bridge with Excelsior. It is all test based and aimed at those in the field who just need to prove most of their knowledge in order to qualify for their RN. I found it very easy and since I studied when I wanted to and tested as often as I pleased I got through it in a year. Your last test is a one on one skills test called the CPNE. If you're an active LVN I suggest looking into it.

Indi

mr.hustle · Aug 8, 2010

@NURSEROBBI

I live in CA also, I was looking into doing the 30 unit program also.

I dont plan on moving out of california ever. Can you tell me more of your experience as a 30 unit option RN?

NurseRobbi · Aug 8, 2010

my experience with the 30 unit option has been mostly positive. It didn't require as many of the redundant prereq's and I was able to complete it quickly. Many of the 30 units I was able to test out of so I didn't have to take the actual classes. On the bad side of things however, I was not able to be licensed in Oregon (which is why I went ahead and got my BSN. Oregon will license you as long as you have the BSN) and the program that I took at one of California State University's (I won't mention which one) was horribly disorganized and poorly run. The nursing education that I recieved as an LVN at a community college, in my opinion, was far superior to the education I got during my upgrade. With all that said, I think you should look into it. After all, the real education begins AFTER you get your license.

mr.hustle · Aug 8, 2010

When you say that you tested out of most of the classes, does that mean like you took a test to challenge some nursing classes to where you didnt have to take the actual class? That sounds interesting. I hope the community college in my area offers this option although it doesnt state it anywhere on theyre website, i have emailed the program director and im waiting back on a reply.