mc_lpn

I realize this is a few months probably too late, but the other school, Great Plains, it is very competitive. BUT it is the best option to go with. They prepare you to pass your NCLEX and help you to be prepared to start working after passing. I do not know much about PLATT except that many do not pass the NCLEX. I would skip out on a huge money pit loan that will cost you more than getting your RN. If you go to Vo-tech they will help you get the points you need to get accepted. We had one girl right out of high school in our program.

I started in July on night shift as a new grad. I would definitely ask to do orientation during the day time, unless the facility has experienced LPN's to mentor you on the night shift. My hospital does not have the staffing to provide an adequate orientation during the night shift. As far as nights, they really aren't terrible. I like to work my 3 shifts in a row to get it over with. It is also nice to not have to work around PT, OT, dietary etc. Most pts. are sleeping and get annoyed with being woke up, but once you get a routine you don't wake them often.