QUESTION?

Nurses General Nursing

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I'm a 25+ year LPN with tons of experience in all areas.

I've been asked if I would accept an interim to permanent position as DON at a very small assisted living facility.

What kind of salary should I ask for? I haven't a clue!

Thanks

At least 50% more than you are making now. Start high so there is room for negotiation. I am NOT KIDDING.

If they accept it, you didn't ask for enough. But you'll be happy with such a raise!

Best wishes.

Specializes in Family Practice, Mental Health.

What kind of support staff will you have? Do you have an MDS coordinator, Staffing Coordinator, Administrative Assistant and such? If so, do a little investigating. Try and find out what the facility pays for their positions and that information will give you a good idea of where to ballpark your salary.

Specializes in ER, ICU.

Depends on what state you are in. I wouldn't take less than $60,000.

Specializes in Trauma Surgery, Nursing Management.

It does depend on the state you live in, but I think the median salary for DON is around $90,000.

I live in Missouri and I will have NO support staff, it's just me.

Now I've paid close attention to the DON now and though at times she is in at 0800 and out by 4 or 5, she is relied heavily on by the administrator to BE THERE. She is a very dedicated woman, spends the night if bad weather is forecast, offers to pick up staff when they can't make it in, works the floor when a nurse calls in, does change over, etc.. She is called by staff 24/7. It will be JUST ME as it is JUST HER now.

I want to be compensated for my time. Should I allow them to make an offer and counter offer? Really don't know.

That's a 24/7 responsibility. Start with $65,000/yr. Get s signed contract with raises written in every year. Good luck and congratulations! :smokin:

Do you get to set your own salary? I thought when a job offer is made it comes with a salary figure; you either take it, counter, or say no thank you. I hope the job pays well because it sounds like a lot of responsibility and hours.

I think the poster of this question was asking what would be a reasonable salary for this position. I guess she will take the offer if it is comensurate with the responsibility.

Specializes in PACU, OR.

Op, it sounds like you have a fairly good rapport with the outgoing DON; have you thought of asking her what kind of salary range you could look at as a starter?

Specializes in Hospice / Psych / RNAC.

Depends on how much the RNs are being paid. You should find out how much the higest RN salary is and ask for 30% more.

Specializes in ICU, CM, Geriatrics, Management.

Sounds like you'll have your hands full. A dedicated / capable staff is a must. Otherwise, you'll be expected to do everything, and be there at management's beck and call.

Staffing will be a huge problem... and if there's no coverage available, you'll always be it!

Consider this move carefully. Been there, and wouldn't want it again.

Good luck!

Great suggestion from a previous poster: have them sign a contract.

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