Older STNA has ? regarding LPN training

Nurses General Nursing

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I'm 51 and have been an STNA for 12 years. I have an excellent working relationship with the nurses I work under and very good evaluations. I love my job but let's face it....my body is hurting so much from all of the lifting, transferring, etc....I'm not going to be able to do this for many years. By the way, did I mention I'm 4'7 on top of that...lol. I really want to stay in the medical field because I truly love my job. I'm considering going for my LPN but I have some concerns. I don't want to get in over my head as far as the curriculum goes and that is quite a bit of money to invest to find out 1/4 of the way that it's just way too much. My brain isn't as good at 51 as it was when I was 20. I have transferred to night shift (12 hrs/7p-7a) and I will still have to work. There is a bit more down time at nights vs no down time on the 7a-7p shift. I work 3 days a week at the 12 hours. I was even looking into Medical Assistant if the LPN was just too much. Any input would really be appreciated.

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Specializes in home health, dialysis, others.

Don't belittle yourself - - I became a travel agent at 48, and had to learn a whole new language! If you read regularly and keep your brain active, you can do this.

Best wishes!

BTW, I went back to nursing after 3 years.

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Don't waste your time or money on MA. Since you are concerned about the academic side of things, you are better going for the LPN program instead of straight for the RN program. Look for a program that has a strong support system for the students. That is going to be the difficult project. If at all possible, go to a program at a Regional Occupational Center or local adult school. Better programs. Try to stay away from the expensive proprietary schools. They are the ones that are more likely to be poor quality. Good luck.

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To jhenson16,

At 51 you are better able to concentrate, you have that desire which is based on a need to do something less strenuous with your career. With that combination all you have to do is say yes I Can become an LPN! Much success to you!

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Specializes in LTC Family Practice.

I agree, go for your LPN and at 51 your still a spring chicken:D. I'll be 60 this year and I'm waiting to hear if I'm approved by the GA LPN BON to take a refresher course to get my license activated. I've been taking online CE's and reactivated my Ohio license and you'll find you'll get into a rhythm of how to study and what works best for you.

Go for it and good luck!

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I find that at around 40, my memory isn't what it used to be...but my ability to organize my time and my studies added to my solid self confidence means that I am a much better student now. Also, you have all that experience as an aide, which will help you immensely.

Go for the LPN, it is so much more versatile than the MA.

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