LPN or Surg Tech ?

[Kayla Swaby]

I really want to get into the medical field. I have been in school for a while taking classes that were needed or I didn't need. I have all my pre req but due to needing something now so I can support my son without depending on anyone I decided to look into LPN  or the surgical program. I really didn't want to do the LPN program because I hear the LPNs will eventually be gone and it's pointless. I Also worked overnight as a nurse assistant at an assisted living and I did not like it one bit. I also understand some nurses DO have to deal with the icky stuff such as feces. My goal is to be a surgical nurse or a clinical nurse.  Sorry to be all over the place but the my question is do LPNs get paid more than Surgical tech ? Also which one would be better for someone who's a single parent ? 

[klone, MSN, RN]

What do you mean by "clinical nurse"?

As far as hireability and job security, definitely go with surgical tech. They are in SUCH HIGH demand, everywhere. However, as a surg tech, you will be expected to take overnight call. Emergency surgeries happen at all hours of the day. Do you have a backup plan for those times you're on call and get called in for an emergency appy at 2 am?

LPNs aren't going anywhere, though. You are more likely to get normal "bankers hours" as an LPN. 

As far as pay - when I get to work I can see what my organization pays LPNs vs. scrub techs; don't have that info off the top of my head. With scrub techs right now, places are paying big sign-on bonuses because they're so in demand. You could also work for an agency and make just about double (no benefits, though) and set your own hours.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

klone said:

You could also work for an agency and make just about double (no benefits, though) and set your own hours.

Most hospitals won't hire surg tech agency without at least 1, preferably 2, years of experience. But you're correct- surg techs are in high demand right now. If that's the route you choose OP, make sure you go to a good program that has a lot of clinical hours. I work with two programs who do clinicals at my hospital, and the ones who have clinical four days a week are leaps and bounds ahead of the school that only does clinicals two days a week, even though they will graduate at the same time. 

[klone, MSN, RN]

I just checked, and my organization pays scrub techs about $1/hour more than LPNs. 
 

However, getting your LPN would provide a more direct pathway to becoming an RN if that is your ultimate goal. 

[Kayla Swaby]

Thank you so much ! The information that you all provided has helped me think a bit clearer on what k want to do. I really don't want to do LPN because of the duties. Surg tech sounds more of a thrill but LPN hours sounds more feasible for my son ! @klone @Rose_Queen

[skrmama98]

You'll deal with "icky stuff" day in day out as a surg tech too—you'll definitely see a lot more blood, bone, and smell it too. You either love the OR or you'll hate it...people have said LPNs are being phased out forever but the shortage is bad enough that it won't be anytime soon. Near me there's a new LPN program even starting, the demand is there. Personally I'd do surg tech but I like the OR and don't like bedside patient care.