Nursing student in nursing school trying to get my LPN while in nursing school

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My med-surg professor told me its possible for me to take the lpn exam after I complete med-surg one in Pennsylvania. I live in virginia and attend nursing school on Washington, D.C. Can anyone let me know if they get any information on this. Is it possible? Thanks

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through your state board of nursing

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Not in PA. As per PA Board of Nursing:

"I am entering my senior year of a RN (baccalaureate, associate, diploma) nursing program, am I eligible to sit for the practical nurse exam now?

Answer: The answer is NO. In Pennsylvania, to be eligible to sit for the practical nursing licensure exam you must have completed an approved practical nursing program." source: State Board of Nursing

In the few states that permit this, only certain schools are authorized and the school must sign off that you completed the required elements of med surg, pediatrics, geriatrics, obstetrics and mental health. Completing only med-surg I is not sufficient to pass the NCLEX-PN nor is it sufficient to safely practice as a practical nurse. You can try for challenging a CNA certification.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
My med-surg professor told me its possible for me to take the lpn exam after I complete med-surg one in Pennsylvania. I live in virginia and attend nursing school on Washington, D.C. Can anyone let me know if they get any information on this. Is it possible? Thanks
Your best option is to earn CNA certification, then attempt to challenge the board to become an LPN. Virginia is one of only two states that allows CNAs to challenge the board to earn licensure as an LPN.
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Thanks for the information guys.

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