yes-LPN and LVN are one and the same. After becoming a LPN you can go on to become a RN. Alot of nursing programs have a bridge program from LPN to RN.

You can become a CNA, a phlebotomist (some places train you on the job, some don't), an EKG technictian (again, some train you on the job, some don't), or an EMT (some ED's use EMT's as techs, some use CNAs and give them extra training). This kind of job experience, in some areas, can give you an edge when applying for a nursing program, whether LPN or RN.

There's nothing wrong with going the LPN route, especially if you need to start working. It's about a 1 year program, and pre-requisite courses are usually fewer (many can be taken while in the program). I do recommend that LPNs brdige to RN as soon as possible. More money, better opportunities in the long run, more options.

Most states don't allow you to sit for LPN boards when halfway through an ADN program anymore. Primarily, this is because of scope of practice issues. Keeping people who flunk out of an ADN program from sneaking into the profession through a back door is probably another reason.

Personally, I would want an LPN who graduated from her program and was prepared for the NCLEX-PN. For the same reason, I disagree with states who allow paramedics to take the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN. There is a big, big difference between the two professions, and they do NOT cross over.

If it wasn't for the LPN Program many of us RN's would not be able to take care of our families. The LPN program is a practical and necessary introduction to nursing. I hope it will not be done away with.

There is an Associates in Nursing (ADN) wich would make you a RN and then there is the Bachelors program (BSN). Either way you are a RN. With a BSN you are able to be in a managerial position and some other things but from what I understand that is really the only difference. I have also read from some of these wonderful people that even with the Associates they are still managers but I am sure that is because of the amount of time they put in.

Once you do the LPN program you are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN, which is for LPN's. I'm enrolled in the ADN program at my local community college. In May, I graduate with my Diploma for LPN and then I can take the NCLEX-PN if I want to, which I am. I am still going on to get my RN though. I know there are a few in my class who aren't going to bother with taking the NCLEX-PN but I want to work part-time as an LPN during my RN year to get more experience. Is all of this about as clear as mud!!

I actually am in the 2 year RN program. I didn't even realize that I would have a graduation in May. It's pretty cool, though, because I get to graduate twice!!! When we sign up for the LPN program we are automatically reserved a seat in the RN program for the next year. But you never know what might happen so I am going to take my LPN boards, just in case!

The more I learn about the responsibilites ( such as being responsbile for the people under you) an RN has the more scared I get. I've come this far though and I'm determined to finish. In my neck of the woods there aren't many jobs for LPN's. Pretty sad but that's the way it is. I really want to be a surgical nurse and in order to do that I need my RN, so I'll just keep on keepin' on!

Ok well thanks everyone. I finally get all of it now. I wish they had a dip-loma program here... that sounds like it would be the best way to go. Oh well....

Try contacting your local community college to see what kind of programs they offer. You can get your ADN (Associates Degree) RN in two years after you finish your prerequisites and get in the nursing program. I don't know what state you are in but if the two year program gives you an LPN diploma after one year then you can sit for the NCLEX-PN boards and start working as an LPN while you are in your second year of the program to get your RN. You do not have to get your BSN (Bachelor's Degree) to be an RN unless you want to. Some people work as an RN for awhile and then go on to get their BSN. However, if you want to go further, such as nurse practioner, certified registered nurse anestheticist (sp?), or nurse educator you will need to go on for your BSN and in some cases your masters.

Just wondering if you have never went to college. is there a way to become lpn\ma with going to college???

CHHAMOM4 says ...

sorry without going to college???

yes u can go to trade school or look into your community colleges continuing education programs for lpn/lvn!