What is the difference between the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN?

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I am doing pre reqs for the lpn program. I plan to become a RN afterwards. Many programs say RN to BSN, like York College. None of them say LPN to BSN! You take the NCLEX-PN to become a lpn right...? Isnt the NCLEX-RN taken at the end of the bsn program? So why are these programs saying rn to bsn!? I would appreciate it if someone can clear things up for me :)

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

There are non-BSN programs in the US, granting either an ADN (most common) or a diploma (becoming rarer and rarer), that prepare the graduate for NCLEX-RN. RN-to-BSN programs allow graduates of those programs to complete the requirements to earn a BSN without having to start a program from scratch.

As an LPN, look into LPN-to-RN programs. Some may be ADN, some may be BSN.

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The difference is you are tested according to your scope of practice. The scopes of practice for an LPN vary from state to state. You do not take NCLEX near the end of any program. It is taken after you complete the program and are granted your Authorization To Test by the BON in your state.

You must graduate from eachprogram in order to test. From an accredited program in your state. It must be approved by your state's BON.

In my state, LPN's cannot perform assessments or work with central lines. They also cannot push narcotics or titrate drips. Very few hospitals hire LPNs anymore in this area. They mostly work in LTC and rehab facilities.

Thoroughly research the differences in your state.

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Thanks for the response! So does that mean I can take the nclex-rn after completing an associate degree program? Also, if I take the rn exam, I do not need to take the pn exam right?

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

What exam you are eligible to take depends on the type of program you complete. If you complete an LPN program, you will be eligible to take NCLEX-PN. If you complete an RN program, you will be eligible to take NCLEX-RN. In order to complete an LPN-to-RN program, you will be required to hold an LPN license.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
I can take the nclex-rn after completing an associate degree program?
Yes. Completion of an associate degree nursing program qualifies an individual to take the NCLEX-RN. If he/she passes NCLEX, an RN license is granted.

Also, if I take the rn exam, I do not need to take the pn exam right?
If you do not attend a practical nursing (LPN) program, you do not need to take NCLEX-PN.

In my case, I completed an LVN program, took and passed NCLEX-PN, and obtained my LVN license. I then graduated from an LPN-to-ASN bridge program, obtained my RN license, then completed an online RN-to-BSN program.

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Specializes in M/S, LTC, Corrections, PDN & drug rehab.

RN to BSN is for someone who graduated from an associate's degree/diploma program & wants to get a BSN. You do not need to take the NCLEX-RN again after going through an RN to BSN program. But if you attend a traditional BSN program, after you graduate you will need to take the NCLEX-RN.

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