Many people who have become a Licensed Practical Nurse wish to advance in their career and become a Registered Nurse (RN). Some registered nurses may also pursue an RN to BSN program in order to earn a Bachelor of Science and increase their earning potential.
Many practical and registered nurses who pursue these educational paths at St. Louis College of Health Careers still need to work full or part-time while taking courses.
Having the ability to both work and pursue a degree, without letting any of their responsibilities fall by the wayside, is one of the attributes that makes nurses unique in healthcare. Nursing professionals excel at multitasking under stressful conditions without compromising on quality.
That being said, it’s not always easy to find a professional position that pays enough to support yourself and your family while also giving you the time you need to dedicate to your studies.
Luckily, there are several fulfilling career options that can provide valuable experience, a steady income, professional growth and the time you need to work toward your RN licensure.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
As an LPN enrolled in an RN program, working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can be an excellent way to gain hands-on experience in patient care while also furthering your education.
CNAs provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses, assisting patients with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs and providing emotional support. Working as a CNA allows you to apply your clinical skills in a healthcare setting, develop strong patient care skills and build relationships with patients and colleagues.
Medical Assistant
Medical assistants play a crucial role in healthcare settings. Their main job is to perform administrative and clinical duties to support healthcare providers and ensure the smooth operation of medical offices and clinics.
As an LPN in an RN program, working as a medical assistant can provide valuable experience in administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing patient records, and clinical tasks, such as taking patient histories and assisting with minor procedures.
Home Health Aide (HHA) or Personal Care Aide (PCA)
Home health aides and personal care aides provide direct assistance to individuals who require support with activities of daily living in their homes or residential care facilities. This role provides valuable experience in patient assessment, medication management and care coordination while also allowing for flexibility in scheduling and work location.
Hospital Unit Clerk or Administrative Assistant
Hospital unit clerks and administrative assistants play a vital role in hospital settings, providing administrative support to nursing units, medical staff and patients. As an LPN enrolled in an RN program, working in a clerical or administrative role can offer valuable insight into hospital operations, electronic health record systems and interdisciplinary communication. This role also provides opportunities for LPNs to interact with patients, families and other healthcare professionals, which can enhance interpersonal and organizational skills.
Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing blood samples from patients for medical testing, transfusions or donations. Working as a phlebotomist while studying in an LPN to RN program allows you to gain experience in specimen collection, venipuncture techniques and other laboratory procedures. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in clinical settings and enhances your technical skills.
Mental Health Technician or Behavioral Health Aide
Mental health technicians and behavioral health aides provide support and assistance to individuals with mental health or behavioral disorders in residential treatment centers, hospitals or psychiatric facilities. Working in a mental health or behavioral health setting allows LPNs to develop skills in therapeutic communication, crisis intervention and patient advocacy. This role provides valuable experience in mental health nursing and can deepen your understanding of psychiatric care principles and practices.
Dialysis Technician
Dialysis technicians operate and maintain dialysis machines, monitor patients during dialysis treatment and provide support and education to patients with kidney disease. Working as a dialysis technician while enrolled in an LPN to RN program or the RN to BSN completion program allows you to gain experience in nephrology nursing, renal care and chronic disease management. This role also offers opportunities for career advancement in dialysis nursing.
Health Educator or Wellness Coach
Health educators and wellness coaches are responsible for promoting overall health and wellness through education, outreach programs and individualized coaching sessions. Working as a health educator or wellness coach allows you to share your knowledge and expertise with individuals and communities, empowering them to make positive lifestyle changes and improve their overall well-being. This role provides opportunities to develop communication skills, engage in health promotion activities and advocate for preventive care initiatives.
Get the Skills You Need to Transition From an LPN to RN at St. Louis College of Health Careers
By exploring these career options and utilizing your skills and knowledge as an LPN, you can pave the way for a successful transition to becoming a registered nurse or earning your bachelor’s degree and achieving your career goals in the dynamic and rewarding field of nursing.
If you’re ready to start your transition from LPN to RN, the St. Louis College of Health Careers has got you covered. Enroll now by giving us a call at (866) 529-2070 or by contacting us here on our website today.