Trying to figure out what program to do

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I'm trying to find out what program to do. Currently an EMT was I'm trying to decide whether to go to LPN course at my CC or a paramedic course. THIS IS NOT A WHO IS BETTER THREAD.

My overall goal is to be a nurse but I've heard a lot of negative stuff about LPN like getting phased out but they do make more money than paramedic (I have a kid to provide for)

I'm having trouble decide what to do if anyone could shed some light. Sorry if this isn't in the right section

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

Why aren't you even considering an RN program? If that is what you want in the long run, wouldn't it be better in the long run to head straight toward that goal.

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Forgive me, as I am just beginning my nursing classes now so I don't have a ton of input, but from reading your post I just wanted to make a quick comment.

I don't think anyone can tell you what would work best for your situation, only you can say that. I just kinda feel like if your only hang up is being worried about LPN's being faded out, that this shouldn't be a huge concern, so go for your goal! As of right now, as far as I know there are still plenty of jobs for LPN's. (Don't know about your specific area) You can always check out job listings and see what kind of opportunities for LPN's are in your area right now. That could give you some idea what you will be looking at come job hunting time if you got your LPN license.

I am personally going for RN, and starting this fall as I have mentioned with my nursing courses. The reason I want my RN is because I wish to work in a hospital, which mostly hires RN's. However, you can always bridge to RN once you have your LPN anyway if you end up wanting to look for more opportunities down the road. This is why nursing is great, because you can easily switch it up if you so choose.

So I guess the real answer to your question would be to do whatever you want. So many say don't get into nursing just for the money, but you haven't mentioned your goals as to why you want nursing besides it would make more money than a paramedic. There is no shame in either choice, but I think you should choose what fits your goals and situation best.

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I was writing my post fast because I had a call. It is under consideration. I have a very busy life style with my daughter so time matters a lot our associates in nursing is about 2 years vs the about one year program for the paramedic and LPN. By all means if I can manage in nursing school for 2 years and have a decent income for my daughter don't mind it. I'm just trying to figure out my options.

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My advisor once said to me that many choose to do LPN first to get in the workforce quickly. After a more stable income is established, you can always consider bridging to RN or even just being happy where you are. That is the sweet part about nursing, so many options! But I suppose it comes down to which job you would rather be doing for possibly the rest of your life. I wish you the best of luck with your choice, whichever it may be, I do get being busy with kids thought! I have two boys:)

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I don't think LPNs are necessarily getting phased out. It's just doesn't have the prestige in college that an RN program has. Every possible place to work is different. Some don't want any LPNs, and some an LPN staffed to a unit is the greatest thing ever to have. And there's still kind of that niche role for long-term care. Do a search for LPN jobs in your area to get an idea of your market. Call your local hospital HR departments and ask.

Places need nurses, usually for more jobs than available nurses. There's always going to be a spot for an LPN somewhere.

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