OT vs RN

Quickbeam, BSN, RN · Jul 8, 2008

I recognize your screen name as someone who has posted here many times with similar questions. I hope you can find your answers.

I don't think the OT/BSN question is as simple as your equation. My best friend is an OTR and has vast expertise in areas I was not schooled in (despite having rehab certification). She also has 2 master's degrees and is doing additional graduate work. According to her, OT is getting very close to the "Master's required" point. In some areas, it is already there.

OT is a great field but the job market is very different. There is not the breadth or depth of jobs available. I'm in an RN job where I interact witb OTs all the time and I hear about the scarcity of jobs. They often say they are the first to get laid off. Many that I work with are part time for lack of a full time position. That may be regional, I don't know.

OTRs can do assessments, are experts in adaptive equipment and postural support and creative ADL work arounds. My friend is an OTR for a school district and she assesses physically disabled children.

It might help you to talk to OTRs in your area about the job prospects as well as the educational requirements.

NeosynephRN · Jul 8, 2008

While I have never been an OT..I had 3 in my nursing classes...much for the same reason as the pp listed. Lack of Jobs...Lack of full time positions..etc. I am not sure if this is common or just here. Good Luck!

CHATSDALE · Jul 8, 2008

i can't believe that bsn will make #18 ph even as a starting pay

only one who can make a personal decision if that person

DukeNurse86 · Jul 8, 2008

to be completely honest, you're posting for advice from a somewhat biased population. the starting pay of $18 does not sound accurate. most of the jobs i applied to offered at least $20, with excellent benefits. but remember, this is a starting salary, and nurses quickly move up the ladder the more experience they have. and who said you have to work only nights? yes, that is a possibility, but i'm sure your preference will be recognized upon obtaining a full time nursing job. imo, nursing offers job security unlike any other profession. there is an overwhelming demand in most parts of this country. look things over a little closer, and i'm sure you'll come up with something. best of luck to you.

BethulieRN · Jul 8, 2008

Just graduated from ADN program. First job oncology nursing. Starting salary 24.60$ per hour, plus 5$/h for working nights, total of 29.60 per hour. With extra 2$ for working weekends. I also have the option to work mornings or afternoons.

mpccrn, BSN, RN · Jul 9, 2008

nurses move "quickly" up the ladder?? please tell me where you work! my biggest raise in the regional trauma center i worked at for 25 years was 19 cents. with 30 years experience and a ccrn license i'm making 29.82/hour. :crying2:

GrumpyRN63, ADN, RN · Jul 9, 2008

nurses move "quickly" up the ladder?? please tell me where you work! my biggest raise in the regional trauma center i worked at for 25 years was 19 cents. with 30 years experience and a ccrn license i'm making 29.82/hour.

Wow,sorry to hear that, that $uck$!! :eek: I'm from the east coast as well, with ten yrs less experience, make $10 more per hr??? Actually a nurse I worked who started as a new grad @ $26/hr left w/ one yr experience to work in another hospital for $31/hr base ?? You would be better off leaving and would make more starting out in a new facility. :twocents: