LPN in AB vs BC

Castiela · Dec 28, 2017

I believe in bc LPNs have a much more limited scope of practice. I can't speak for interior health, but for my health authority, LPNs can't start IVs, hang IV meds/ blood, care for central lines etc. They can't work in critical care specialties. And I think Alberta pays more than B.C. althoug( BC LPNs just received a large pay boost this past year

Fiona59 · Dec 28, 2017

I've worked in both provinces. BC indeed has a far more restrictive scope despite saying you will work to full scope. The hospital decices what you will do.

In the smaller areas, your chances of working in post partum are not looking good.

In Alberta, LPNs can and do work in post partum, NICU, ER.

If you do make the move, expect to feel under utilized.

dayandnight · Dec 29, 2017

Depends on the region but very limited scope of practice compared to AB. I worked in a smaller hospital where LPNs relied on RNs to call the mds for lab results etc and were very dependent on rhe RNs whenever their patients deteriorated etc. At the bigger hospitals LPNs are more independent but still have the restrictive scope. They can start Ivs now but only ER lpns can hang iv fluids with potassium. I think the decrease in pay would also hurt a bit, since lpn wage in BC caps at 28-29 dollars at maximum. I don't think lpns can work in maternity at BC at any big hospitals. It may be possible for rural areas up north or you can also ask the First Nation health authority etc... that helps.

Daecat · Dec 31, 2017

I have worked in AB as an LPN. I moved to BC only to find less available jobs and limited scope. I ended up working as a care aide and now I am in school to get my RN. The pay is much better and the cost of living is lower in AB. We struggle financially here, this is just us. I am sure not very one will experience this.

dayandnight · Jan 1, 2018

I have worked in AB as an LPN. I moved to BC only to find less available jobs and limited scope. I ended up working as a care aide and now I am in school to get my RN. The pay is much better and the cost of living is lower in AB. We struggle financially here, this is just us. I am sure not very one will experience this.

This applies to everybody in healthcare right now. A lot of RNs in BC can't even get their own home and a lot of them are relocating to the outskirts of Fraser Valley area after they get married because raising a child and owning a home, or even renting a place is a huge financial burden in Vancouver right now. I plan on relocating as well after I get married.

frances81 · Jan 30, 2018

I moved from Victoria to AB for a variety of reasons - but a big one was cost of living. Cost of living and housing has been going through the roof the past few years; add to that lower pay, I cant see ever being able to afford going back. And definitely could *never* afford to buy there :cry: