Would you become an RN?

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A few years ago, I decided that I needed a career change and actively pursued getting my RN. I finished all the pre-reqs, but when

it came time to do the actual nursing classes, my family could not afford for me to give up my full time job to go to school full time.

So, instead of letting my dream die, I found an evening part-time LPN program that worked around my job and family and I became

an LPN earlier this year. I have been working per diem in LTC since May. Since my original goal was RN, I applied to an LPN-RN program back in August and never dreamed that I would be accepted. Well, I was and the program starts next month.

Seems everything is falling in place, right?

I have found myself enjoying the job of LPN and now I am not sure that I want the added responsibilities that come with the RN title.

I like working at bedside. I know that the RN will open more doors for me, but I am still a new nurse and the idea of becoming an RN is a little frightening. The program is once again full time, but being an LPN will give me hours to work around school, so money is not the issue this time.

I know that nobody can decide for me, but if the choice was yours, what would you do?

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

I already did it. :D It is a little overwhelming to think of the added responsibility but I think you will find that it really isn't all that much different than what you do as a LPN. I hated school and wouldn't have ever gone back but the amount of extra money for doing nearly an identical job as well as the opportunities I've had since I got my RN have made a huge difference in my quality of life. I'd highly recommend that you do it!

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

I was an LPN from 92-94 and don't for a single moment regret getting my RN. As an RN, many more doors are open.

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.

Since you already applied, at least start by taking classes. Maybe seeing it in increments such as "Well, one semester at a time..." sort of thinking can take you through it. Life is a chance no matter how you slice it and think of it this way...you were already planning to become one, anyhow, so, at least taking more steps towards it can't be a bad thing.

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I would still go for the RN even if it means taking a class per semester. Getting the RN degree opens up more option to you.

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Thank you so much for your quick replies and words of encouragement. My gut tells me to try the spring semester and then take it from there. I hate the thoughts of going back to school, but as a fairly new LPN, I am still not quite comfortable with my skills and I am hoping going back to school will help build my confidence, while I also to continue to work as an LPN.

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jensmom...i know how you feel.....i graduated for the LPN program in june of 08,had a job right after and got my lic in aug.....while i was in PN school i looked into pre reqs for the RN program.....i need chem and college algegra.....that did it for me....no way was i going on.......i took the first job offered,it is a good paying state job,but recently have had strong feelings about going on.....i think i am ready......at least for the pre reqs....plus i am 47.....that was another reason i thought i didnt want to go on.....but hey.....it is just a number......

good luck....it sure does sound like everything is falling into place for you.....

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
jensmom...i know how you feel.....i graduated for the LPN program in june of 08,had a job right after and got my lic in aug.....while i was in PN school i looked into pre reqs for the RN program.....i need chem and college algegra.....that did it for me....no way was i going on.......i took the first job offered,it is a good paying state job,but recently have had strong feelings about going on.....i think i am ready......at least for the pre reqs....plus i am 47.....that was another reason i thought i didnt want to go on.....but hey.....it is just a number......

good luck....it sure does sound like everything is falling into place for you.....

One of the best gifts we have is the ability to assess ourselves and know when it is time to move on. Heck, take the pre-requisites if this is what you want. Sometimes, overcoming the challenges encourages people to go further. Best of luck to everyone in their scholastic endeavors!

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Specializes in LTC Family Practice.

I'm 59 and a re-entry LPN, highly unlikely I would return to get my RN. If I was 10 years younger or more I might. I could work or I could go to school but not both, I have chronic EBV and can manage it quite well but trying to do both would be a tipping point for me and I could end up on bed rest for months.

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dogwmm.....my sister is 62 and doing the LPN program and she plans on doing some weekend(f,s,s)study for her RN.....she graduates from LPN at the end of Jan.....she has 2 semesters of RN schooling from 40 yrs ago.....she ended up getting married and having a baby......she always wanted to go back at some point......guess this is the time for her.....

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Specializes in LTC Family Practice.

Congrats to your sister momtojosh

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
I know that nobody can decide for me, but if the choice was yours, what would you do?
In a slumping economy like the one we are currently experiencing in the U.S., more education is sometimes merrier. I would pursue the RN licensure due to the enhanced opportunities and increased pay, but this is my personal choice. I know of people who are perfectly happy and feel secure with their careers as LPNs, and have no desire to complete an RN program.

If all goes well, I will be finished with an LPN-to-RN transition ADN program in March 2010, which is just around the corner.

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