Should I go for my LPN or RN?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear LPN vs RN,

If you've been out of school for over 20 years and are deciding between LPN/LVN or RN, there are several things to consider. 

Academically, an LPN/LVN  program is not necessarily going to be that much easier than an RN program. I say this from experience. For example, in both LPN/LVN and RN programs, you will study Medical Terminology and Pharmacology, among other courses. For many, this is the first exposure to both subjects. That means there is not previous learning to build on-it's new. Learning Medical Terminology in an LPN/LVN program is no easier than learning Medical Terminology in an RN program.

What is easier in an LPN/LVN program are the pre-reqs. Typically Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology are required pre-reqs to RN programs. Start to finish, it is faster to get through an LPN/LVN program than an RN program. This is a consideration if you need to start earning an income sooner rather than later. Another option is to complete your LPN/LVN  and then bridge into an RN program.

As far as a disability, study options depend on the nature of your disability. Colleges do make accommodations for students with disabilities. Contact the National Organization of Nurses with Disabilities to learn about available resources.

Remember to think long-term. There are major differences between the LPN and RN roles that should factor into your decision. As an LPN you have fewer opportunities for jobs away from the bedside. Bedside nursing can be very physical and there comes a point where your body begins to wear out. At that point, you need a contingency plan. There are more options for RNs than LPN/LVNs at that time in their careers.

Best wishes with your decision,

Nurse Beth

[T-Bird78]

I’m an LPN going on 15 years and if I’d known then what I know now, I never would have stopped. If you do choose LPN, check into a bridge program so you can get some work experience.  LPN’s are vastly overlooked and our opportunities are much fewer than any other position. And don’t worry about how long you’ve been out of school. When I did my LPN program, I was 30 and the second-youngest in my class. Good luck with school!

[papsipaps]

I would recommend going with RN straight without LPN. With LPN, the career trajectory is really limited, and little space for grow. 

[JR12toRN24, ASN, RN]

I just applied to an LPN to RN bridge program, hesitantly. I like nursing. I don’t love it but I need more opportunities to make better money and I would like to work on the administrative side of things eventually. 

[Guest1198722]

With the current, and past, environment, there is no legitimate reason to get an LPN. The majority of hospitals require RN and a BSN. Getting an LPN and then bridging to RN is a waste of time for the most part. You can get an RN in 16 months, so why do "double time" with LPN then RN?

Disabilities? Physical, mental???? No matter which tack you pursue, these will matter most once you finish school and pass NCLEX. One of my classmates was a high-functioning autistic and knew bedside nursing was not for her.

Go RN at a school with a high NCLEX pass rate and a fast track for RN.