Please, I need your insight.

[JS0108]

Hello, everyone! I'm here with some questions. I obtained my LPN licensure in February 2020. Shortly after receiving my license, I had to relocate due to my husband's military assignment, and I now find myself in El Paso, where Spanish is predominantly spoken over English. I made several attempts to apply to hospitals and clinics, but unfortunately, they declined my applications because I'm a military spouse and don't speak Spanish, (Plus, nobody wants to hire new grad nurse) which I completely understand. 

Given these circumstances, I've decided to prepare for an LPN to RN program that's available in the area where we'll be moving next year. However, I have concerns about my lack of experience. During my LPN studies, many of my classmates looked down on me because I didn't have any prior experience in the medical field. This has left me apprehensive about pursuing the LPN to RN program, as I fear that my lack of experience might hinder my progress. I'm doubting myself and wondering if I should continue my career as a nurse. It's been nearly three years without a job, and it's been incredibly disheartening. I'm feeling extremely stressed and like all my hard work has been in vain.

I apologize for venting at length, but I'm wondering if it's acceptable to embark on the LPN to RN program without any prior experience. Thank you all for your insights!

[londonflo]

JS0108 said:

During my LPN studies, many of my classmates looked down on me because I didn't have any prior experience in the medical field. This has left me apprehensive about pursuing the LPN to RN program, as I fear that my lack of experience might hinder my progress

I taught nursing for over 40 years and I can tell you this is a common occurrence. Some students will talk like they have run the hospital where they were CNAs or LPNs (and the place could not survive without them). It is just their anxiety showing. As an LPN, you also have your student experience.

Please don't stop from enrolling in an RN program. Work on your pre-requisites and go for it!  

[klone, MSN, RN]

On the other hand, MOST RN students are in their RN program without any nursing experience. So I don't see why it should stop you to do an LPN-RN program. Screw what the other students think. Think of it this way, you have an advantage over most RN students, as you've already sat for an NCLEX and know what to expect.

Also, try applying to things like SNFs and nursing homes, rather than clinics or hospitals.

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

In my RN program, LPNs started their bridge in the third semester. Every semester we had some new students, some were repeating the previous semester, some coming back after taking a leave for a semester. I didn't know who was coming from LPN or another situation, unless they talked about it. And then, everyone has the same clinical experience for the last two semesters of the program. So if you don't have any experience, you'll be at the same point as everyone else. 

As was already pointed out, you'll have some students that were CNAs. MAs, HUCs, EMTs or LPNs that portray themselves as Florence Nightingale the second because of their vast experience. In the end that doesn't really matter. You're just as likely to be successful as any of them. You have already proven that you can understand the material and pass the exams, everything else will come.

If you're able to work and go to school at the same time, as was already pointed out, long term care facilities are a good option for your LPN degree. You can gain valuable experience there, and you'll probably start picking up some spanish. 

Good luck!

[lifelearningrn, BSN, RN]

Lots of people have ZERO experience when they go to RN school. Don't worry about what others think. Do your RN program and ignore everyone else. 

[JS0108]

EVERYONE... I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of kind words and support from all of you. As I embark on my ongoing journey as a nurse, my goal is to continually improve and grow, not only for the benefit of our patients but also to be a source of support and assistance to our fellow nurses.

Yesterday, I took a significant step toward achieving this goal by visiting the bookstore and acquiring a HESI study guide. This resource will help me prepare for the exam required for entry into the RN program. The motivation and encouragement I've received from all of you have been truly inspiring, and I can't thank you enough for your unwavering support. ❤️

[JKL33]

Agreeing with the other good responses above.

JS0108 said:

During my LPN studies, many of my classmates looked down on me because I didn't have any prior experience in the medical field.

Behavior like theirs is related to their own insecurities (they are trying to make themselves feel adequate by telling themselves and others that they are better than someone else). Never let this kind of thing inform your own appraisal of your abilities/potential.

Go for it and good luck! ??

[Shimmer580]

?Keep going and don't look back.
 

I did an LPN to RN program too. Don't worry about what your peers will think, as stated before, many of your RN classmates will have zero experience themselves. Once you complete your program, and get licensed as an RN, you will not go 3 years without a job. We are short staffed everywhere. You will find a job. You may not like your options as a new grad but the options will be there. Having your RN will open up so many doors: hospitals, schools, home health, pharmaceutical, insurance companies, urgent cares, doctor's offices, med spas, etc. 

[Jurse, LPN]

Go for the LPN to RN program. Don't worry about your experience. That is not a determinant of success in the RN program. You will acquire experiences. Don't worry about it. We all started from zero. 

I'm with RN students. Many of them do not have medical experience. Others are MA and EMT. They are doing good. I'm (we are) about to start Med-Surg II. I didn't tell my classmates anything about me, and they figured it out. They saw me passing meds and hanging piggyback IVs while my preceptor took care of other things. One of the professors is a clinical director where I'm employed.

FYI, I always tell my classmates, those who want to tag with me, that I only have one year of experience so expect less from me. 

[Leader25, ASN, BSN, RN]

Pick up a course in Hospital/medical Spanish...it helps your workday in general to know something of any other language,I have used several or my Google translate,even ASL is good.Also stop following your husband until you get solid ground on your career,be dead serious about what you want to complete and do it ,let nothing stop you, you can do it.stop telling others whether you have this experience or that, ..not always well received info among some  co workers. Good luck.

[klone, MSN, RN]

Leader25 said:

Also stop following your husband until you get solid ground on your career,

LOL. I take it you've never been a female military spouse.

[kbrn2002, ADN, RN]

Being a military spouse does add a few complications when looking for employment. Go for that RN as it will open a few more doors for you when job hunting. 

I would imagine that employers in a community with a military base are familiar with the challenges of hiring employees that will likely not be there  super long term.