Torn between LPN and RN

Double post

I just finished the first semester of Gateway's program. Please don't pay more than you have to, and know that Gateway's program is universally respected. I only waited a semester after applying, as did most people in my cohort. Can you get tuition assistance from your employer? I'm using my employer's assistance and my LPN education is costing me zero out of pocket. I chose LPN because I came to nursing later in life after all my kids were school age, and from a non-nursing background. I have no prereqs done, and Gateway's program only required me to be a CNA. It makes the most sense for me to start here.

I was just offered a position through Banner health, working front office. Which yes I did take. I know they offer tuition reimbursement but I'll be working with staffing which is like temporary.

I do not have my CNA, and was looking into it

It. I don't even know where to begin. I'm just confused.

If you're not already certified and don't want/plan to work as a CNA, you can just take Gateway's CNA course which is a semester long. That fulfills the requirement and you don't have to take the cert exam unless you want to.

When I called the other day, the lady told me they were not offering it this semester. How do you like the program so far? Gateway is looking like the way to go. I will just have to get my CNA, course and see if I can get in. How does the clinical experience work?

They call it "fast track LPN" and they're not kidding. Sometimes the volume of information was overwhelming. It starts with a few weeks of lab days where you review CNA skills and start learning about head to toe assessment. Then you start having theory lectures twice a week and clinicals once a week. First semester was LTC and I liked my experience there. It's challenging but I managed to work full time (3 NOC 12s a week) and still pass comfortably.

I took my CNA training about 4 years ago at AMTI in Mesa, because it was fast, reasonably priced, and had the highest 1st time pass rate on the cert exam in the state. It has options for day, evening, and weekend classes. As far as I know it's still just as good.

I have looked at that school and it so far the best with passing rates. Most likely I would have to the weekend program. Due to me having to work. I am just wanting to provide a better life for me and my son and I know I can do it with sacrifices and giving 100% . Being nervous is apart of the process. I would love to be able to work and take the program hopefully I can get in by next January or fall.

Where are you working at that pays for you to become an LPN? That would be awesome if I could do that

As someone who spent 15 years as an LPN, I wish I had just gone to an RN program in the first place. Why? I could have accomplished more, been taken more seriously, had more influence to change things I didn't like, made more money, gotten better shifts, etc. You cannot count on getting credit for your LPN courses, as they are not equivalent to RN ones, so you will waste time and $$ when you go back. Even if there is a wait list for RN programs, use the time to get as many courses done as possible to make your life easier when you get to clinical.

There is no such thing as an easier route--LPN is also challenging. Just buckle down and learn how to work hard and succeed. Don't let fear of challenges hold you back.

Also be sure to do a Google search of the name of any program you are considering + the words scam or complaints. Go to the State board of nursing website and check their NCLEX pass rate as well. If they are at or below 80% for several quarters in a row, the program may be suspended by the time you get there.

Good morning, I get what you are saying and yes I would love to for rn, but at this point financially and time wise I will have to do the nursing pathway.

I do not want to stop at lpn, but yesterday I was told that I do not have enough financial aid to cover a bachelor's degree due to going to school for a medical assistant, and taking some college credits. I am looking into some scholarships. But I need to fund a place of employment that will help pay for my schooling so if I do tap out of funding there will be funds to cover the tuition.

I just graduated RN school and I was a LPN for 4 years before going back to school. I advise you to do what works best for yourself. As a LPN you will mainly work in nursing homes and doctors offices. Finding work will not be hard to find as a LPN at all. I'd use it as a stepping stone to getting my RN if you're willing to go back to school again. Also you can enroll in LPN to RN program and get your RN in a year and it's easier to get accepted this way vs going straight thru the RN program as a newbie which is 2 years. But if you don't want to go back to school then go for your RN but I'll let you know it can be very competitive depending on your location. If you have any questions let me know. Good luck!