Why are students going into LPN programs?

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I'm sorry but I feel like it is a waste of time and money. In my area in NJ you cannot find LPN jobs. If they want the patient experience why not become a cna? I am a cna and a bsn student. I just want to pull them all aside and say dont waste your money or time!

I finished all my general ed classes and pre req. then was put on a waiting list, I was told I would probably be on for 3 years. I decided for me at my age 37 that I would go the LPN route(and I am loving the classes) and then bridge into the RN program. There are still alot of LPN positions where I live. I think anyone should be proud of their education and occupation. We as nurses should never put anyone down for their own choice weather you agree or not.

Everyone have a great day!!

As LPN turned RN, I can totally relate to this! (similar situation for me). Thanks for posting this! We are all valuable!

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Wow, I am not an LPN but am in the RN program. I do not understand what gives you the right to minimize anyones career! I can not believe you are going to be a RN with that kind of judgemental attitude, you are completely ignorant!

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Specializes in PD,Nxstage,hemo.
Not much of a salary difference ... few dollars.

HA! Pennies???? Do you call $26.47/hr pennies? If so I'm living pretty good on pennies.........

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Is this how you make yourself feel better?

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Specializes in LTC.
Not much of a salary difference ... few dollars.

LPN school was not a waste of time or money for me. I make way more money than a CNA and have a nursing license. I have gained valuable experience as a LPN and have never had a problem getting a job. I have worked in peds home health, LTC, sub acute, school nursing, and assisted living. I make more money than some new grad RN. I currently make 26/hr.

:smokin:

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Specializes in LTC.
I'm in NJ as well, and from everything I've heard, LPNs are being "phased out". There are currently no jobs for them in the major hospitals, and even LTC is shifting away from hiring them. The only place I really see them is at doctor's offices. In my school we have some LPNs and they have a lot of experience, and are confident and professional. I feel very fortunate to have these competent, experienced ladies in my clinical group :)

I wouldn't advise anyone around here to become an LPN... I do agree it'd be a better move to go for a CNA cert. then use that as your stepping stone to RN.

Once again I disagree. As a LPN I'm a REAL NURSE and not a nursing assistant. I get paid way more money than CNAs in my area does. I have a larger scope of practice. Honestly, being a LPN before pursing my RN has made RN school a heck of alot easier.

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I hope you have a new and clear perspective by now.

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Please, remember to debate the topic rather than go after the OP. A factual rebuttal is more effective than a scolding.

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Specializes in Public Health.

lurking :) I know a lot of LPNs and although its not for me in my current situation lpns are vital NURSES in my workplace

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Once again I disagree. As a LPN I'm a REAL NURSE and not a nursing assistant. I get paid way more money than CNAs in my area does. I have a larger scope of practice. Honestly, being a LPN before pursing my RN has made RN school a heck of alot easier.

You totally missed the point of my post.

No one is saying LPNs aren't REAL NURSES. Just that in this area, they have a very limited function as they are not employed in most settings where RNs are employed. For this area, if you want do to a non-academic program and have a desire to work in home care, private practices, or certain LTC or resident settings AND you have no desire to pursue a more advanced nursing certification, then LPN school would be the right move. There's nothing wrong with that and I have a lot of respect for LPNs. However, if you want a segue nursing cert to get your foot in the door while you pursue your RN, then CNA/PCT would be what I would recommend. It's cheaper, easier and faster to get through the program and they work alongside the RNs in the hospital. To give you an idea of how it is here, several of the LPNs who came into my nursing school had no idea how to use a dinamap. They had years of experience and could certainly take a blood pressure, but my point is that they just don't work in the same settings. Even nursing homes here are steering away from LPNs and going with CNAs/PCTs. The take home message, in case you missed it again, is that here in new jersey, there are limited opportunities for LPNs and it's definitely not the stepping stone to RN as it once was.

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Specializes in LTC, Psych, Hospice.

My LPN education has served me well. As a single mom, I was able to rear 4 kiddos on that alone. In my area, LPN's are used in LTC, rehab, hospitals, clinics, home health, etc. I have been employed as a hospice nurse for the past 12 years. A disipline I truly enjoy. I have never had any desire to work in a hospital. I'm presntly working to obtain my BSN degree, but it is mainly for my personal satisfaction.

BTW, I make $10 more than the CNA's and $5 less than the RN's. Just my :twocents:

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Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

I understand where you are coming from. Some people need to do this in stages and still be able to support themselves. For some, LPN school is less intimidating than RN school. Who knows. They do find work, earn a bit less but still earn - and for many that is the key. Not everyone has a full 2-4 years to take off and go to nursing school.

I do know the LVNs at my clinical setting right now are freaking AWESOME. They are fantastic teachers and great at skills. They are awesome nurses and it annoys me that I can't have one of them as my preceptor for transition.

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