What's the better route?

Jenn_RN · Mar 21, 2003

At my school, you have to have your CNA before entering the program.

As far as LPN vs RN, this is just my opinion, but why go one year when you can just go two and make twice as much money? I also think the lpn is a waste of time if you are planning on going on to your masters or bachelors. JUST MY OPINION. :)

If you seriously are interested in a masters, there are RN-MSN bridge programs, but they are fast track and very competitive. I am considering it, but only after I am deep in nursing school will I seriously entertain the thought b/c I have no idea how it'll be a year from now when I am in the nitty-gritty.

Good luck to you in what you deicde!!

BranRN · Mar 21, 2003

I would have to say that whatever you choose it has to be the right choice for you and not what others think you should do. I don't think that there is one "right" or "better" route. I chose to get my RN. I was able to go this route first because I was able to commit to the hours and schedule of my RN program. Many students that were in my class were already LPN's and were doing the LPN to RN program. They chose the LPN first because that was what was right for them at that particular point in their life, and now they are at a point now where they want to go on to get their RN. One of my professors told me in my next to last semester of nursing school that "if you do not have a job working in the hospital, you better go ahead an get one." Well I never worked in a hospital while in nursing school, I didn't even work in the medical field at all. It is true you get good experience and training, but I personally don't think it hurt me at all.

c.wicks · Mar 21, 2003

Reguardless of whether to choose to begin as an RN or LPN, you would gain alot of valuable knowledge and experience by working as a nurse tech or nursing assistant. Several nursing programs and affiliated hospitals offer summer Nurse Extern programs which can greatly enhance your clinical experience.

MishlB · Mar 21, 2003

There is no better way to become a nurse. Only the way that suits your situation best.

AmyLiz · Mar 21, 2003

Originally posted by MishlB
There is no better way to become a nurse. Only the way that suits your situation best.

Very well said! :)

GraceyB · Mar 21, 2003

I am taking the CNA, LPN , RN, BSN route because I need to work. Besides, if are career changing this will help you in deciding if nursing is really for you. But if you can afford it go straight for RN and then do the bridge program into the BSN and go whatever else you'd like.

GraceyB · Mar 21, 2003

Also, read the board and do searches. There a lot of threads about the decision making, nursing school, jitters and other things. Good Luck!

KimRN03 · Mar 21, 2003

I am a CNA right now and I love it! I get paid for learning. You can learn so much just through observation, and if the nursing staff knows you are in nursing school they often grab me when they are going to do a procedure so I can watch! I also learn how to prioritize my work. There's no better way to learn then by experience.