What is a bridge?

Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

Bridge programs are typically for people who are LPNs, going back to school to be an RN. This might mean that some classes don't have to be taken again, because they might have already had the classes in LPN school. Usually a brisge program includes an LPN transition class.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

I am looking into LPN and RN. What is a bridge from LPN to RN?

An LPN-to-RN bridge program is for LPNs who are going back to school to obtain RN licensure. Instead of starting as a generic RN student, an LPN bridge student often is permitted to bypass the first year of the RN program.

Do you have to go to school for LPN before going to school for RN?

Most nurses go to school directly for their RN license and bypass the LPN program. You do not need to obtain an LPN license before attending RN school.

I am an LVN, the equivalent of an LPN. I was recently asked by a generic RN student, "Why did you go to LVN school instead of going straight for your RN?"

My response was, "I needed to get my schooling over and finished in approximately one year since I had a mortgage and other bills to pay. I did not have the time to take the RN prerequisites." If you have the time, patience and diligence to dive straight into the RN program, I suggest you go for it. If your time and resources are limited, then an LPN program might be a decent fit for you since you can always return to do an LPN-to-RN bridge program.