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!
Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.
kbrn2002 said:
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.
Yes. We hire with eyes wide open, and if we can get 2 years out of them before they move on, we consider ourselves lucky.
I'm curious, did you apply to the VA as an LPN? I know that many VA's employ VA's, as I was one myself for 10 years. As for your concerns about lack of experience, it's OK to keep that in the back of your mind because there are instances where some experience could sit well with RN school. But don't look at it as a deficiency, but an opportunity. And here's the kicker...as a long time clinical nursing instructor I have watched LPN's come into RN school and flounder about, trying to reconcile the realities of an LPN working with the requirements of NCLEX. Too many times over the years I have seen LPN's fail because they cannot turn off that portion of their brain that keeps telling them, "Well, this is the way we do it in real life!" You'll be fine and thank your spouse for their service! Go Navy!
klone, MSN, RN
14,857 Posts
Yes. We hire with eyes wide open, and if we can get 2 years out of them before they move on, we consider ourselves lucky.