Different fields of LPN nursing?

[DaveInOCNJ]

Hi,

Brand new member on AllNurses, been an LPN for just under 2 years, and I can't seem to find my place in nursing. I've worked in an Assisted Living, an Assisted Living for people with Alzheimer's, and a couple of Nursing Homes. I have no additional certifications.

What else can I do with my license? I need benefits, so Agency work is out. I don't care much for wound care, but I'm good with G-Tubes & diabetics. What about other fields, such as dialysis (just for instance)? I'm willing to hear about any/all other fields, what they entail, how much more education I'd need (preferable not more than a few weeks), how the pay scale is compared to Nursing Homes (not to sound greedy, but I've got triplets on the way), and anything else I might need to know.

Thank you.

-Dave

[Fiona59]

Well, from what I've read here, in the US it really depends on which state you work in and what the scope of practice will allow.

Up here in Canada, an LPN post graduation and with some experience can be apply for and be certified in Dialysis, Orthopedics, Immunization, Advanced FootCare, and the Operating Room.

A Dialysis LPN is required to pass the same course that the RN, the only difference in scope is pushing meds upon blood return.

Orthopedic LPN/Tech is certified in cast application and bone injuries. They work in the Emergency departments and cast clinics.

Immunization LPNs work in the school health programme and in the Community with Flu Clinics and travel vaccines.

Advanced Foot Care says it all and many start up their own business working with diabetics or work with Podiatrists.

Operating Room LPN/Tech. Same course as an RN takes but without the "supervisory skills" portion. You work as scrub or circulator nurse and can provide basic assistance to the anaesthistist (never can spell that word).

A new field opening up is flight nurse on medi-vacs. Instead of a paramedic going up with an RN, several regions are starting to utilize LPNs.

So you really will have to check out how your area is willing to utilize you.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

As an LPN, you can work in dialysis, rehabilitation, psychiatric nursing, clinic nursing, school nursing, med/surg, hospice, home health, surgery, and other specialties. It all depends on the geographic region in which you practice. Good luck to you, and congratulations on the upcoming triplets.

[kat7ap]

Around where I live there are multiple specialty hospitals for rehabilitation and long term acute care. Most of them hire LPN/LVNs. You will experience more acute care and skilled nursing than most nursing homes, but you have pts longer than in a regular hospital. You may want to get IV certified or ACLS if you wanted extra training, but it may not be necessary. The pay is comparable to nursing homes. Congrats on the triplets!