Step up from CNA to LPN...help!

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Jul 22, 2014

Here in the Phoenix area there is a program at the Maricopa Skills Center that starts with CNA training and then takes you immediately into LPN training. So it would seem your assertion that these programs don't exist is false, Commuter. There seem to be at least a couple from this thread.

Virtually all LPN programs start with fundamentals training that will render the student eligible to attain certification as a CNA. However, this educational setup is not considered a CNA-to-LPN bridge program.

A true bridge program will enable students to receive significant en bloc transfer credit for their CNA training and experience.

RNsRWe, ASN, RN · Jul 22, 2014

At my school there is a cna-to-lpn and there is a cna-to-adn and I live in Charleston sc

Well, logically speaking, we can also speak of a Kindergarten-to-College program; it's called Primary School :)

Whatever you might be thinking in terms of cna-to-LPN programming, it isn't a shortening of the process in becoming an LPN because one has a CNA certificate. Neither is the ADN college program shortened by having a CNA certificate.

The 'real' bridge program involves taking someone who already has a nursing license (say, LPN) and moving them more quickly through the process of becoming an RN. Or someone who has an Associates nursing degree and "bridging" them into a Bachelor's program (shorter than for someone without a license already).

The elements of CNA work is covered in the fundamentals class of any nursing program, so *sometimes* a little credit is given for having that certificate already. But most often....not. It's just part of Fundamentals, and those who have CNA certs already will just have an easier time of Nursing 101 :)

Hope this clarifies.