LPN vs Surgical Technician

U.S.A. Louisiana

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So I've done a lot of research on both LPNs and OR techs, but I really don't know which one would benefit me more. I don't have a degree in anything and while I like the idea of both jobs, I know I will need to make a living once I graduate. So could anyone tell me which one would be a better choice? How much the pay is in Baton Rouge? Easy to find a job?

I also live about 1.5hrs away from Baton Rouge and will relocate there once I graduate.

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Specializes in ER, TRAUMA, MED-SURG.
So I've done a lot of research on both LPNs and OR techs, but I really don't know which one would benefit me more. I don't have a degree in anything and while I like the idea of both jobs, I know I will need to make a living once I graduate. So could anyone tell me which one would be a better choice? How much the pay is in Baton Rouge? Easy to find a job?

I also live about 1.5hrs away from Baton Rouge and will relocate there once I graduate.

Hi! I live in Louisiana too, but we live around West Monroe. I wondered the same thing as you. I went for the LPN route instead of OR tech in part because I was wanting to eventually be an RN. Here, an LPN makes more than an OR tech. -

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Specializes in ER, TRAUMA, MED-SURG.

Hi! I live in Louisiana, but around West Monroe. I had the same thoughts - LPN vs OR tech. I went for LPN school in part because I wanted to eventually be an RN. I know in our area an LPN makes more than an OR tech.

Good luck with your decision! If I can answer any questions, I'll be glad to.

Anne, RNC

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Thanks! I was actually thinking about not pursuing the RN route afterwards. How is life as an LPN? I heard that being an OR tech is pretty stressful.

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

Why not try shadowing a surg tech for a day or two? Many hospitals are open to the idea of shadowing as long as it is properly set up. Then you can see for yourself what STs do in the real world.

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Specializes in telemetry, ICU.

As far as stress goes... being a nurse is incredibly stressful especially when working in a hospital. I highly recommend shadowing those positions that interest you, there are many jobs out there for different types of nursing so you definitely find something you like! OR nurse, cath lab nurse, dialysis nurse... Not sure about LPNs I am an RN and make 20/hr with a $5 differential for weekends and nights, on a hospital floor, I found a job pretty quick in Baton Rouge.

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Specializes in ER, TRAUMA, MED-SURG.
Thanks! I was actually thinking about not pursuing the RN route afterwards. How is life as an LPN? I heard that being an OR tech is pretty stressful.

Hi! I worked as an LPN for 5 years and it was great for the most part. I worked with some excellent LPNs and RNs, and the RNs were very helpful and taught me a lot.

Anne, RNC

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