Are you considering an LPN to RN transition? There are a number of LPN to RN schools and programs to choose from. These schools have classes and hands-on clinical training that can prepare you for a new career path as registered nurse. Shop around to choose an LPN to RN school that best fits your needs and don’t forget to seek scholarships to help you finance your LPN to RN goal.
LPN to RN Schools and Programs
LPN to RN programs are offered at traditional schools as well as online institutions. To meet students’ diverse learning styles and needs, traditional schools have begun to offer LPN to RN online courses. If you need scheduling flexibility, then consider an online institution.
Research on the different components of LPN to RN programs to help you plan and organize the transition. If you currently work as an LPN, consider asking your RN colleagues for advice. Some of them might have gone through an LPN to RN school and could give you practical insights. Remember to contact your state’s board of nursing to make sure that your chosen LPN to RN training program is state-approved.
Financing LPN to RN Schools
LPN to RN training requires financial resources. The cost of LPN to RN programs varies from school to school. Ask your institution for information on financial aid and student loans. Seek and apply for outside scholarships to help you pay for your LPN to RN education. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) has published a list of available scholarships and resources for nursing students. The AACN itself offers scholarship opportunities to nursing students attending its member schools.
LPN to RN Training
In her book, From LPN to RN: Role Transitions, author Kathy Ham highlights some of the key differences between an LPN and a RN. An LPN to RN school or program can help an LPN acquire new skills and training to carry out the duties expected of a RN, such as: nursing care planning, nursing assessment, decision making, etc. Ham notes that while LPNs sometimes perform a portion of such tasks, there are situations in which a RN’s education and training make her or him a more qualified health adviser.
An LPN to RN transition can seem daunting, but it is achievable. As an LPN, you already have a foundation and work experience to build upon. The next step is to choose an LPN to RN school or program that works for you and that can help you attain a smooth professional transition.
Sources:
Ham, Kathy. From LPN to RN: Role Transitions. United States: Elsevier Health Sciences, 2001.
“Scholarships and Financial Aid Resources for Nursing Students,” American Association of Colleges of Nursing.
