NurseinOR

Hi! Well I advise going for your RN... I'm not sure why it would take you 4 years though. I did mine in 3 years- full time, my first year was prereq's (I live in NY). In NY you can go to school for your RN and then after your first year test out as an LPN, and also continue for your RN. I would look into your local nursing program and see if they offer this option. You could also work part time, if you have the time, as a CRN (certified registered nurse). I did this my last year in the ER... they're more likely to hire you if they know you're in school. Also look into what your hospitals will pay for, as far as tuition buy back and continuing education. My hospital is paying off my 15,000 in student loans and is now paying for my bachelors... I signed a 2 year contract for the tuition buy back, but my bachelors is just a benefit. Nothing wrong with being an LPN, but alot of hospitals here in NY are starting to hire more RN's vs LPN's... also you mentioned wanting to work in L&D... need to check and see if you can as an LPN at your hospital - here you have to be an RN (at the hospital I work at), same for the OR (where I work) - we only hire RN's. Sorry to ramble on... Jamie