New to Site, Looking for Information

[650ryder]

Hello Everyone,

I posted a couple of days ago, and it was suggested that I post here instead. So basically I have copied my original post and pasted it here. I would appreciate any insight and input anyone may have.

Here's my original post:

Hello all,

I just found this site while doing some research on the www. I am currently enrolled in an EMT-B course and was approached by the school about joining the nursing program. I had not thought about nursing before, but the counselor gave me alot to think about. I would have to go through the entire program which would consist of 2 months of CNA training and licensing and then 53 weeks of LVN training and licensing, and then on to RN school which is at a different school. I am seriously thinking about the program, it is free of charge to me, up through LVN training, and then I would pay for the RN training.

I am a 43 year old male and was wondering whether or not going through the CNA/LVN training is the best way to go about becoming an RN. Are there many males that are LVN's? Obviously the tuition is attractive to me, and l would think starting at the CNA level and working up would give me an Idea of what the field is like up to an RN.

I retired 3 years ago from the Real Estate business, and feel that I am too bored being retired. I have always been interested in medicine and thought becoming an EMT would be a good way to break in the field, so to speak. I scored very high on my entrance exam which is why the counselor asked me to consider the nursing program as I met the criteria and would not have to retest. So, 3 days ago this was brought up to me and I will have to make a decision soon, but I would like to pursue the best avenue possible and gain a quality education.

I guess in a long-winded way, I am asking is this route that most nurses go or do most jump right into an RN program? Since I have absolutely no experience, I would like to hear from those who have gone through training what their toughts are.

Thanks,

650Ryder

[650ryder]

Perhaps I posted in the wrong forum, if so some direction would be appreciated as to where I can post to get some feedback on my questions.

Thanks,

650Ryder

[NIGHTWOLF87]

i took my route to being an rn by taking my basics at my local community college, and then transfering to the nursing program at the 4 yr university that is here locally as well. my wife was a cna for a few years, before getting her current job as an mht (mental health technician) at the state psychiatric hospital here in town. she is going to start the lvn program this september (and she is going to be 43 as well this december). you are very lucky to have your tuition all paid; i would definitely go back to school and become a nurse. see if you like being an lvn. i know a few lvns who had the same thought as yours as becoming an rn later down the line, that just liked what they are doing and never went back to complete their rn. everyone is different. whatever you do decide to do, good luck!

[ZanatuBelmont]

I guess in a long-winded way, I am asking is this route that most nurses go or do most jump right into an RN program? Since I have absolutely no experience, I would like to hear from those who have gone through training what their toughts are.

Thanks,

650Ryder

I finish my LVN program in nine weeks. I went the LVN path because 1.) It was cheaper, and 2.) I would not invest a lot of money to know whether nursing is "for me" or not. I quickly found out how much I love nursing and got a job as a CNA after first semester, which helped to reinforce basic patient care I was taught during first semester. If you have the chance to go through the LVN program free of charge, what sweat is it off your back to give it a go? If you end up hating the field, at least you only invested one year of your life and for FREE!

I think your route of CNA-LVN-RN is an excellent choice for someone with your circumstances. As I said before, working as a CNA - even only once a week - is an excellent way to reinforce skills you learn in the program. I did not master my basic nursing skills until I became an aide, actually.

Good luck to you!

[650ryder]

I was kind of thinking along the same lines, if my education is going to be available to me at no cost, why not take advantage of it. It does not hurt being educated in a field tha seems to have a severe shortage, I have yet to look at he job openings and see where there has not been an ad looking for RN, LVN, or CNA's. I am supposed to meet with my counselor on Monday, and I think I will get signed up. I start my EMT-B class in 2 weeks and the prerequisites in June, so I should have a busy summer. I am thinking about taking a biology and psychology class before I start training as well. Thanks for the input.

650Ryder

[pharmgirl]

I also am taking the LPN route. I am currently in a "bridge program". First year is LPN and second year is RN. I chose this route for A) economics B) if God forbid, something happens during the second year at least I have my LPN to fall back on. Also, God willing I pass the NCLEX in a few weeks, I will be able to make some money and gain valuable experience while pursing my RN the second year.

If your tuition is paid for......why not? Aside from being time consuming (but looks like you've already commited to that), I can't think of any reason not to go for it. Good luck to you!!

oh and p.s. Biology and Psychology can't hurt. If you haven't worked in the medical field before, you might also think about a Medical Terminology class or medication aid class.

Good Luck again!!