LVN wanting to continue education

[mrslisamorris]

I've been an LVN in Texas for 1 year. I have planned on going through the proper channels to obtain my NP. Now, I am second-guessing that decision. I still want to further my education, but am instead thinking of simply LVN to RN [ADN] (no offense to RN's, I just feel like I would be settling considering my previous goals), possibly CRNA or a different type of APN. The thing is, my change of heart is because of my two small children (I don't want to take a LONG time to get my next degree).

Can anyone identify? Offer advice?

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Hon, you can't get to CNRA or any other APN level without going through the RN door first. Admission to most ANP educational programs have a minimal practice requirement. These positions come with very heavy clinical responsibility & liability; superb clinical knowledge and competency is a minimal requirement. Even if you found a 'fast track' to APN, you would not be able to get a job because employers require clear evidence of experience/competency for these positions.

Go ahead and get yourself started down the path. There are quite a few relatively inexpensive bridge programs in TX. The time will pass whether or not you take any action. Five years from now, do you want to be still in the same place or would you rather be looking at the finish line?

[caliotter3]

I would take it in small chunks and concentrate on enjoying the children while they are young. The higher education will always be there but your children's childhood will not. LVN to RN, either ADN or BSN, is a good start. When you have a BSN, you can evaluate whether you want to continue at that time or set other goals. JMHO