The Texas LVN To RN Programs Can Be Completed In One Year
In most States, Vocational Nurses are referred to as LPN’s (Licensed Practical Nurse).
In Texas and California, Vocational Nurses are referred to as LVN’s (Licensed Vocational Nurses). While an LVN license is a hard-earned license, one of the problems has been that the salary for LVN’s in Texas has stagnated, or even declined. The biggest reason for this is, the scope of practice has been narrowed over the years. This is leading more and more LVN’s to seek out LVN to RN “Bridge” programs. The biggest benefit of taking a Bridge program instead of starting the RN program from scratch is how quickly it can be completed. It can be completed as quickly as ONE year!
Prerequisites Needed For The LVN To RN Programs In Texas
If you’re currently an LVN in Texas, you’ve already taken some of the necessary prerequisites. But you’ll need to take a few more: Microbiology, Chemistry, and College Algebra. The good news is, these prerequisites can typically be completed in just one semester. Also, some Texas LVN to RN programs require that you have at least one year of experience working as an LVN. This isn’t always the case, but some schools require it.
What Is The Pay Difference Between LVN’s And RN’s In Texas?
The pay gap between LVN’s and RN’s is one of the biggest reasons LVN’s decide to take the “Bridge” program. In Texas, that pay gap can start at a $10.00 per hour difference, and only go up from there! As of 2015, the average LVN salary in Texas is $44,500. Nation-wide, the average LVN salary is currently $43,949. So you can see why it’s beneficial to take one of the “Bridge” programs in Texas. You’ll still be a nurse, but your pay will be MUCH higher!
Do You Know the Scope of Practice?
The LVN scope of practice varies from state to state. Before you start out, it is good if you know what you will be supposed to do. The LVN to RN program you are considering should help you know what the scope of practice is. This will also enable you to make a decision on whether you really want to go ahead with these nursing careers or not. As an LVN, you may be working under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse. You will take instructions from doctors, RN’s and other senior nurses, and other medical staff. You will be assisting them in treatment, care, diagnosis and hygiene of the patients.
Accredited LVN to RN “Bridge” Programs In Texas
First of all, before you commit to ANY nursing program, make sure it’s actually accredited! I know that sounds silly, but it’s not unheard of for fly-by-night programs to operate in the State, and not be approved. To find out if the school you re interested in is properly accredited, simply go to The Texas Board of Nursing for verification. There are currently 70 approved Registered Nursing programs that award Associates Degrees, 1 Diploma RN program, 48 Nursing Programs that award Baccalaureate Degrees, and 2 Nursing Schools in Texas that train Advanced Practice Nurses. Here’s the Complete List.