How To Transition from Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing

As the nursing shortage continues, now is an excellent time to consider taking the next step in your career by making the switch from practical nursing to registered nursing and building on your skill set so you can be part of the solution and advance professionally. Recent workforce studies report that at least 200,000 experienced registered nurses (RNs) left their positions between 2020 and 2022, resulting in an insufficient number of skilled professionals remaining in this field.

The demand for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) is expected to increase by 3% between 2024 and 2034. However, the need for RNs far surpasses this figure, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 5% increase in the same time span. We explore the educational requirements you need to meet to transition from an LPN to an RN, highlight some common challenges, and provide strategies to overcome them. Learn how to successfully navigate this exciting opportunity and make the most of your career.
 

The LPN to RN Transition: Key Differences

Making the switch from practical to registered nursing might seem challenging, but it's a rewarding way to advance in the health care industry. RNs often take on a more hands-on role when working with patients and collaborating with other health care professionals. If this sounds exciting, pursuing a career as an RN might be the opportunity you're looking for to contribute to health care in a meaningful way. 

An LPN typically works under the supervision of an RN to deliver care to patients. RNs have more autonomy over their work. Let's take a closer look at the job responsibilities for each role with a comparison of some of the most common tasks that LPNs and RNs perform.

LPN Job Duties

In a typical day, an LPN might:

• Monitor patients and assess their comfort level
• Provide emotional support for patients and their loved ones
• Administer medications in accordance with the established nursing care plan
• Collect and record patient data
• Measure vital signs, such as blood pressure
• Conduct physical assessments under the supervision of an RN
• Change bandages and dress wounds
• Insert and change urinary catheters

RN Job Duties

While there is certainly some overlap, an RN's daily duties often require additional training. In their role, an RN might:

• Triage patients based on the severity of their symptoms
• Assist with diagnostic tests and analyze results
• Collaborate with physicians, doctors, and other health care professionals to diagnose patients
• Contribute to new and existing treatment plans
• Administer medications and treatments
• Educate patients on how to manage or prevent illnesses
• Supervise LPNs and certified nursing assistants (CNAs)

Education Pathways From LPN to RN

Many LPN programs take 12 to 18 months to complete. Additional education is required to transition into an RN role. Most nurses spend two to four years completing their training, although the time may vary depending on the program they choose. In-person, online, or hybrid training arrangements may also impact the graduation date. There are established educational pathways for LPNs transitioning to RN roles.

Bridge Programs

A bridge program, such as an associate degree in nursing (ADN), builds on an LPN's skills. LPN to ADN pathways typically take two years to complete and offer the opportunity for career advancement. Typically, LPN to ADN programs include nursing theory, patient care, pharmacology, and communication skills. Clinical experience is also necessary. 

Candidates for LPN to ADN programs must hold active LPN licenses. Applicants should check with their educational institution to determine which prerequisite training they may need to complete. Additional conditions may include achieving a pass on an entrance exam, submitting letters of recommendation, and meeting minimum grade point average requirements.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is a robust educational program. LPN to BSN programs usually take between two and four years to complete. Some schools may waive core topics if a student has completed a similar curriculum to receive their LPN or has met the necessary training requirements. Nurses who hold a BSN can sometimes find more opportunities for career advancement.

Units in a BSN include nursing theory, pharmacology, patient care, leadership, and communication skills. Before enrolling in an LPN to BSN program, candidates must complete any required prerequisite training and maintain an active LPN license. They may also need to pass an entrance exam, submit letters of recommendation, and meet minimum GPA requirements.
 

Common Challenges and Success Strategies

It's usual to feel a little overwhelmed with an LPN to RN career transition. Understanding the challenges of health care professionals who make this move may help you prepare for (and overcome) them.

Work-Life Balance

It's important to focus on improving time management skills and assessing priorities regularly to determine which tasks are the most critical. Delegating some personal responsibilities while in education might help with day-to-day stress, such as using grocery delivery or cleaning services. Prioritizing mental and physical health is essential - for example, making time for enjoyable activities and looking into flexible part-time, online, or hybrid program options.

Increased Responsibilities

Returning to a classroom setting may be challenging, but your experience as an LPN can help you excel. When enrolling in an LPN to ADN or BSN program, consider forming a study group with classmates to make the experience more enjoyable. Also, take advantage of the academic resources the school provides, which often include tutoring services.

Financial Considerations

There are several options that may make pursuing an RN career more affordable. The LPN to ADN program tends to be more affordable than LPN to BSN, so this may be a better option to begin your career transition.

There are several grants and scholarships available to help health care professionals advance throughout their careers. Some employers may offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for practicing LPNs. You could also consider applying for a federal student loan with a low interest rate to cover your schooling.

Culture Shock

While LPN and RN work environments are similar, RNs have significantly more responsibility. It's exciting to step into a leadership role that provides you with some autonomy over your work, but some RNs feel a little disorientated as they move into the new position. Reach out to your peers for support as you all go through the transition. Seeking a mentor with more experience as an RN can also help you adapt to new responsibilities.
 

How To Prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination

The NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN nursing exams test candidates' understanding of biological and social sciences, psychosocial factors, and physiological integrity. There are several topics to focus on when preparing for the NCLEX-RN, such as those relating to physics and chemistry, care management, and assessment practices. Here's how to prepare:

• Exam prep resources: Most nursing programs offer practice tests, study guides, and seminars to prepare for the NCLEX-RN.
• Online practice tests: The official NCLEX-RN practice exam demonstrates the correct format and offers sample questions.
• Mobile apps: Smartphone apps, such as NCLEX Mastery, provide practice questions to make the most of your study time.

Finding Support on Your Journey from LPN to RN

As you embark on this exciting career transition, having the right people by your side is important to overcoming potential challenges and celebrating your victories. If you're researching nursing education programs in your area, explore the programs available at Concorde to meet your personal and professional goals. For additional guidance or support, fill out our information request form. We'll provide you with details about our curriculum and financial aid opportunities to help you make the best decision for your future.