I'm a CNA and passed LPN boards what now..

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I'm a CNA at a long term care facility, I've only been working there a couple of months and I just recently took and passed my boards. Hoping to get my license today or tomorrow. But what I am asking is Im scheduled to work every other weekend. Well this weekend is my weekend to work as a cna... are they required to pay me LPN wage if I get my license before the weekend? Or do I even have to work it if Im technically an LPN now. NEED ADVICE!!! :)

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Specializes in Neuro ICU, SICU.

You are a CNA until you get an LPN job (assuming that you havent already acquired an LPN job)... this isnt something that just happens automatically. You will have to apply for an LPN position and be offered and LPN job, before you can actually start working as an LPN.

and I definitely wouldnt just skip work as you mentioned at the end of your post

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They already told me that in order for me to get an LPN job is to go in and re-apply. Well I don't really want to work there as an LPN. I actually already have an LPN job lined up where I am supposed to orientate next week. I just needed to know if they would have to pay me LPN wage since it says on the iowa board of nursing website employers are required to pay you based on the level of education you have received.

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Specializes in Peds/outpatient FP,derm,allergy/private duty.

You're a Licensed Practical Nurse because you passed your licensure exam, even if yoiur job title and pay is as a CNA. If you are orienting next week for a new job, the new job would probably come sooner than the hassle and paperwork involved in them paying you an LPN wage. If for some reason you end up staying at the place you are now, check with your state BON to find out what their policy is regarding the CNA job and what you would be legally responsible for now that you weren't as a CNA.

In my state I know that an RN must keep an active LVN license to "work below the level of the license". Congratulations on passing your board exam!!!!

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Specializes in LTC, Education, Management, QAPI.

Be careful! In most states, regardless of the capacity you work, the department of health professions will hold you to the highest licensure you have. Although you need to go in- professionally it's the right thing to do- be wary because in the off-chance something were to happen, you are held to the standard of an LPN, not a CNA. This may be different in different states, but here in the Commonwealth, you can work below your license but it's not a great idea.

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Specializes in SNF/LTC.
They already told me that in order for me to get an LPN job is to go in and re-apply. Well I don't really want to work there as an LPN. I actually already have an LPN job lined up where I am supposed to orientate next week. I just needed to know if they would have to pay me LPN wage since it says on the iowa board of nursing website employers are required to pay you based on the level of education you have received.

So if you are educated as a doctor and lose your license for malpractice and get a job as a CNA then they pay you doctor wages based on your highest education?

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Professional boards cannot dictate salaries. Employers determine the salaries for their staffs.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

I worked as a CNA after I passed my boards...still was paid CNA pay, because that was the position I was in...I had that job on the weekends while I had my HH job...I quit my CNA job after I was hired at a Rehab Hospital.

What your post did was raise the question...my soon to be former employer decided to place me in a transition role position...I was classified as a RN, however, was paid as a LPN...it was only supposed to be for three months (July-October), but I got the raise two months past probation...does anyone know whether they owe me back wages??? Just curious...not concerned because I accepted an acute care position, and I will work with them per diem...Not meaning to hijack the thread, but just makes me wonder...

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Specializes in LTC, Education, Management, QAPI.

no, they dont owe you back wages. It's snarky, but not illegal. I'd question my companies integrity if they made the promise, but its permissable....

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.
no they dont owe you back wages. It's snarky, but not illegal. I'd question my companies integrity if they made the promise, but its permissable....[/quote']

Thanks NurseGuyBri for answering...I can start a discussion about my companies integrity...I have vented on a thread about them recently...However, I'm glad I am starting a new position next month!!

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