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Is it better to become a RN or LVN?

In my medical terminology I became aware of an LVN which had me interested which could be better an RN or LVN. #medicine #nursing #nurse #healthcare #registered-nurses #hospital-and-health-care

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Elaine’s Answer

With greater education, training and skills, RNs will enjoy greater salary, responsibilities and opportunities for professional growth. Many choose to pursue a career as an LVN because the programs are shorter and therefore they can begin working sooner. In addition, generally speaking, the programs are easier to get into.

Elaine recommends the following next steps:

Investigate which colleges offer RN and LVN/LPN programs and look at required prerequisites for application.
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Betsy’s Answer

Nyah, Although I am not a nurse I have worked in many areas of healthcare. LPN's are slowly being replaced in most areas of nursing by RN's and in many areas RN's are being replaced by only those with a BSN. I work for Johns Hopkins. Many of our nurses are hired as RN's but are mandated to become BSN's within 3 years of hiring. Go for the bachelors if you can., This gives you the upper hand in your job search and allows you to further your career much faster if necessary. Good Luck!
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Willy’s Answer

Hi Aczel! RN and LVN are both nurses working in a hospital or facility. But they differ in such as way that you need a bachelors degree to be an RN but you need an associate degree for an LVN. RN needs 4 years of study while LVN needs a 2 year study. They both work as a nurse but there are some procedure and skills that an LVN cannot do but the RNs can do. I am not either an RN or LVN but they differ in some ways. I hope this helps you decide which career you would like to pursue.

Thank you comment icon Unfortunately, that is not quite correct. RN's can complete school in two years and do not receive a bachelors unless they are in a Bachelors of Science program. The BSN program is four years unless you have another degree. Then you can take an accelerated course and finish with a BSN in 18months. This is a very intensive program however and most do not allow people to work during it. Betsy Kurtz-Nunn, LGSW
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Deb’s Answer

An RN will give you a degree and more opportunities. RN's take responsibility for LVN/LPN's who are no longer able to do assessments and care planning for patients. RN's normally earn more than LPNs. Often LPNs get to spend more time at a patient's bedside. Guess it just depends on what you want. You could become an LVN and begin working and then do an LPN TO RN program. Good Luck!
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Nyah’s Answer

In the long term it would be more beneficial becoming a RN solely because many hospitals (and other areas of healthcare) aren’t hiring LPNs/LVNs anymore. Also, there is a lot LPNs can’t do (skills wise) that RNs can because of the additional education acquired.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Aczel,

Absolutely, you can embark on your nursing school journey right after your high school graduation. But it's critical to grasp that entering a nursing program usually entails fulfilling certain criteria and finishing prerequisites prior to application. Here's a comprehensive guide on the steps you need to undertake:

High School Studies: Concentrate on subjects like biology, chemistry, mathematics, and English, which lay the groundwork for nursing education. Keeping a high GPA is vital, as it's a key consideration during the nursing school application process.

Practical Experience: Acquiring firsthand experience in healthcare environments can validate your nursing interest and boost your application. Volunteer in healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes, and shadow registered nurses (RNs) to get a feel for their daily tasks and work atmosphere.

Standardized Examinations: A number of nursing schools mandate standardized exams, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Examination (NLN PAX). Study and practice for these tests, as they can greatly influence your chances of securing a spot in a nursing program.

Prerequisite Classes: You'll need to finish certain prerequisite classes before applying to a nursing school. These may encompass anatomy and physiology, microbiology, psychology, and nutrition. These classes are typically available at community colleges or four-year universities.

Application Submission: After fulfilling the necessary prerequisites, you can begin applying to nursing schools. The application process generally includes providing your high school transcript, standardized test results, prerequisite course grades, recommendation letters, a personal essay or statement, and possibly an interview.

Nursing Program Choices: There are various nursing programs to consider, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or a Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. ADN programs usually last two years, while BSN and MSN programs typically span four years.

BSN and Further: If you're keen on earning a BSN and eventually a master’s degree in sports medicine or orthopedics, aim for a BSN program. These programs offer a more extensive education and improved job opportunities over time. After earning your BSN, you can work as an RN and then contemplate advancing your education by obtaining a master’s degree in your chosen specialty.

In conclusion, while it's possible to start nursing school directly after high school, it's vital to adequately prepare by taking relevant classes, gaining practical experience, and fulfilling the prerequisites for your desired nursing program. This will enhance your acceptance chances and set a solid foundation for a thriving nursing career.

May God bless you!
James Constantine.
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