LVN or RN and more

[Brandi8]

I am enrolling in the Fall to take my pre courses for RN. I have to go slow because I have 2 young kids. Anyhow I have been thinking about the LVN since its faster. I have also heard its harder though and more intense because they cram it all in.

The RN will take me longer then 2 yrs because of the pre courses though. So really not looking forward to how long it will take.

What are the pros and cons of each? How much do LVN's normally make compared to RN's?

I am just not real sure about which one to go for. I really want to work in Labor and Delivery or mother baby unit. I have heard that is where everyone wants to work though so its hard to get in those units. Is this true?

Thanks for the help. Any tips or info would help.

Brandi

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

For LVN's in other parts of the country - who legally is responsible for the initial assessment? LVN's are not licenced to do that here in CA. Only RN's can do that.

In Texas, I am allowed to do the initial assessment just as long as it is not in the hospital setting. In addition, no RN is needed to sign off on my initial assessments. In a JHACO-accredited hospital, the RN must do the initial assessment.

[Spidey's mom, ADN, BSN, RN]

In Texas, I am allowed to do the initial assessment just as long as it is not in the hospital setting. In addition, no RN is needed to sign off on my initial assessments. In a JHACO-accredited hospital, the RN must do the initial assessment.

Thanks - I actually was only thinking about the assessments while working in a hospital.

steph