What is the best way to start nursing school? Get LPN first or RN?
Asked by lizzabet1015
I have been accepted into Pre-health of a local community college, but there is no guarantee I will be able to get into the RN program there. Should I try for my LPN first and then transition into the RN? What seems to work the best nowadays? Thanks to the nurses who know.

Best Answer:
I often tell people, do what is best for you. First let me say, LPNs are nurses. Depending on where you live, the scope of practice for LPNs are different and many can work in most areas doing most work like an RN. Next, all nurses have done "scut" work, if I may. That is so unfair to suggest that is all LPNs do. Some LPN school are "hard" to get into, too. Please be educated enough to answer questions. Please do not mislead. People go for LPN first for many reasons. One being not sure nursing is for them, etc. There are some LPNs who only want to be LPNs and not an RN. It is hard to say what works best for the individual. Search the pros and cons in relations to your situation.

Go for the RN--LPN's are trapped doing scut work. Besides, if you're not "good" enough for an RN program now, LPN won't help. You have to take basic courses anyway. If you want to transition, go from RN to BSN.
Answered by odzookers

LPN is easier to get in , make $5 to 10/hr less than RN, but you can work at same time ( some hospital even reimburse your tuition to be RN)
Answered by TopGun

If you cant get into the RN program right away, I would suggest getting your LVN/LPN first. This will cut your RN program at least 1 year shorter. It is not a waste of time, and if you do decide to get your RN after getting your LVN, you can work while you go to school (with your LPN license), and make some pretty descent money, while working short hours...that leaves you plenty of study time!!! LPN school will also help to prep you for the RN program considering much of the info for your RN will be reviewed in the LPN program.
Answered by XOXOX

Generally, when you get into LPN with the intention of using your experience to spring into an RN program, you need to repeat a lot of your clinical hours and some classes. In the end, you spend just as much time attending classes (although depending what state you are in and the policies of the school, you may be able to test out of a class or two) and what you "know" from working as an LPN may not be accepted practice and could interfere with your clinical performance. Get into RN any way possible. It is worth the investment AND the only additional education that you will need are your continuing education credits to maintain your license. Good Luck and Merry Christmas
Answered by MHnurseC

RN If your going to go to school go for the best in this situation. RN much better than LPN
Answered by nugget