LPN or Dialysis tech????

sjoe · Dec 12, 2002

Well, $17.17/hr is about the average RN pay in Florida, for example. So some people would not call it low. Others would.

It would be good experience--at the very least you would learn whether you wanted to work in dialysis as an RN later on--and certainly better pay than working as a CNA.

rainrn · Dec 12, 2002

I agree with sjoe. It would be great experience. I worked dialysis as a RN for a while. The techs did everything RN's do except give medications, assessments, and labs. It will really help your iv skills, and help you learn how to prioritize, and many other skills. I also agree you would then know if you want to be in that area as a RN. Good luck..

RNpupil · Jan 9, 2003

I say LpN you'll find a job. What's gonna happen when theres much less patients to perform dialysis on?

emily_mom · Jan 9, 2003

I don't think you would have to worry about less patients on dialysis.

laurako · Jan 15, 2003

I say dialysis tech. LPN, been there, done that, got 11$/hour, and the nursing assistants at night made more than me. But do get your RN, it is worth it. Worth all the work I went through.

Newbee · Feb 2, 2003

Hi Bambi!! Am currently an LPN-C working dialysis and patient care unit-I enjoy the more relaxed atmosphere of dialysis and relationship with my patients-but prefer the more hectic and varied routine of the floor-same pay,can't give meds,other than heparin,so my skills are better utilized on med/surg..Lots of great things to learn in dialysis--good luck on the certification exam....

BBFRN, BSN, PhD · Feb 2, 2003

As a Med/Surg LPN, I say RUN to dialysis! Don't even stop to look over your shoulder! Run, Bambi, Run!!!

Bambi · Feb 3, 2003

Hi all,

I will really consider your advice. Finding someone who will hire me at a decent rate is going to be the biggest obstacle. I am not doing so bad @ my PRN rate in the LTC facility I work in now. At this point I could pick up full time on PRN pay.

indianamomx2 · Mar 1, 2003

I worked for a dialysis center in Indiana, they do hire LPN's, my freind and I went together she was an LPN who worked at LTC and got her dialysis tech certification with me. Of course this was in Indiana where are you:?

Bambi · Mar 2, 2003

I am in Colorado. I've already asked, and I was told they don't acknowledge LPN's, only RN's. They would probaly hire me, but I would be paid the same as a tech from what I gather.

cpgrn · Mar 2, 2003

My oldest daughter is a DON at a dialysis center in MO. She loves it. If this is what you want to do - do it! If you get with a large enough center, they may even have tuition incentives to get your RN. Good luck.