What path do you recommend to be a nurse? What did you do?

Question

I want to be a nurse, but am a bit perplexed about how to go about it. I see programs offered to be a LVN then from there become an RN, then I've seen schools that say they don't offer that program so it's just an RN. Then I've read that it's best to specialize in something if you're going to be a nurse to be more marketable. So if I became an RN, then would I specialize in something? I have about 1 solid year of basic courses I need to take (chemistry, anatomy) before I began to decide what nursing school. Also, I'm lucky I have an employer that is flexible, but if I became an LVN, got a job as that, would it be harder or easier to continue classes to be an RN? Does anyone have any suggestions? Or perhaps tell me what they did? I'm confused!!

Answer 1

Wow, so many questions and so little space to answer them all.  Here we go...

First, LPN/LVN's while a valuable part of the healthcare team, are sadly, being utilized less and less these days.  In fact, in my hospital, they are being used as aides for patients that require an attendant with just a little more nursing knowledge and I am sure that this isnt what they signed on for when they became LPN/LVNs.  Also, not all states offer "bridge programs" (LPN/LVN to RN).  I would check before going down that road.

So, in my humble opinion, the best thing to do is to pursue RN.  It is a good investment and you will make back your money in a rather short period of time.

You can do this by either applying to a hospital school of nursing (at the end you will receive a diploma in nursing and be eligible to sit for your license exam), a community college (you will be awarded an Associate's Degree in Applied Science-Nursing and be eligible to test for your license) or a 4-year college/university and earn a Bachelor of Science: Nursing and be eligible to test in addition to being prepared for advanced practice study.

Yes, you will need Chem, Bio, Micro and A&P.  However, the type of program will dictate when you take them.  

Answer 2

my girlfriend is taking a nursing program with UOIT (University of Ontario Institute of Technology). First year is basic, 2nd year you branch off into what you want, labour, nurse, extra help, surgery help, etc. She loves it and is learning a lot.

Do not know if that would be an option.