Single Mom struggle: LPN or RN

RunBabyRN · Feb 22, 2014

It would be smart to do a search of job postings, or even contact HR departments in your area and see what the hiring trends are. I know that here, LVNs generally work at SNFs, and most are pursuing their RN because they are otherwise stuck at SNFs where they're way overworked. I've seen one LVN out of all of the units we've been in for clinicals. The rest were RNs. In general, you'll have better job prospects and better income as a RN.

rachelcourtemanche · Feb 22, 2014

I also live in Massachusetts and am a single mom of an 8 month old and am pregnant with my 2nd! I am going to a BSN program in the fall. The thing is, there are not a lot of job opportunities for LPNs. LPNs in Massachusetts are NOT allowed to work in hospitals. This means they can only work in places like psych wards and nursing homes, which is not a bad thing, it's just not for everyone. I personally want to be a trauma nurse, so for me I need to get my BSN and be an RN. Good luck! And good for you for getting a further education while being a single mom!!! :)

007Bonita · Feb 22, 2014

I know that as RN I have more jobs opportunities than as LPN, I also know that RNs make more. I really want to get my associate and maybe my bachelor I would like to work for public school. My problem here is the money the fact that I have to work full time and go to school. Also I have to confess that I'm a little nervous, English is my 2nd language and I know that to be accept in the RN program you need to have good grades, I'm a good student but my English gives me another reason to worry.

RunBabyRN · Feb 22, 2014

Have you thought about taking more English classes, even if they're not required? It will really help you in nursing school if you're confident with your language skills. There will be a lot of papers, and you'll want to be well prepared!

CNC_1989 · Feb 22, 2014

I'm a single mom and I've also had that same dilemma.Do what's best for you at this point in your life, a lpn course wouldn't be a waste because you'll get an education and be able to make more money though it won't be as much as a RN. I'm only going for my ADN because I have enough support and even then I'll still have to work a prn job during school,so if lpn is the best option then go for it and bridge over when you can. I hope this helps :up: .

NurseGirl525, ASN, RN · Feb 22, 2014

I would get your LPN and the transition to RN. Maybe you would make more money as a LPN and could work part time while pursuing your RN. I am also a single mom but am fortunate that I don't have to work and can go to school full time. But I know who do and are going for their LPN first. You could probably get a job at a SNF and maybe work nights and go to school during the day. I know several LPNs that are doing that now. It's very hard and they are very tired but it is what they want. Just a couple options to consider.

RNsRWe, ASN, RN · Feb 22, 2014

Spend some time improving your English skills; they will be absolutely crucial to your success in nursing. LPN first and then RN is a worthwhile pathway if you wish to be able to earn $$ while going to school in an RN program. However, realize that you will be working in a limited capacity in MA, as has been mentioned in this thread: LPNs typically work in nursing homes ("psych wards", as someone mentioned, have no use for LPNs; perhaps "long term psych facilities" is what was meant).

Further, if you do want to eventually become a public school nurse, you will need to be an RN, and yes a BSN (bachelor's degree). The trends in nursing have made it so that those who were school nurses as LPNs have been slowly replaced with RNs much of the time, and then RNs with higher degrees. School nursing isn't giving out Tylenol and calming sick tummies, bandaids. It's peg tubes, respiratory treatments, brittle diabetic management, etc etc.

Once you process all of that, you'll more clearly see what it is you need to do now, and where you set your plans in motion toward.

Best of luck! :)

mskranky · Feb 23, 2014

English is my second language as well, or fourth to be exact. I have finished all my preres with 4.0 GPA, so I know my English is sufficient for school. First thing first, English is number one priority. Take some Eng classes, most of the school has it as a prerequisite any way. Most of those classes are offered at night so you don't have to leave your job. It might take you a year or two to finish all the prerequisite and in the mean time I would apply for any support you can get for working mothers who is going to school.

007Bonita · Mar 4, 2014

I graduated from ESL at the same college that I want to go for RN or LPN. I'm also going to take some English classes and my prerequisites before applying for the program.

My problem right now is that I don't have any idea of how I'm going to manage my work schedule with school. I work 8 to 4 and the classes are usually in the morning. I would like to get a part-time job, but as single mom I have bills to pay.