OTA or LPN

[Cavangirl]

OTA or LPN

I just got the accepted into the LPN program today but now don't even think I want to go into nursing. For the last few months I've become interested in the OTA program and feel I would be happier. The only thing is I have to decide within the next few days. I have no desire to go for RN after Lpn so jobs would probably be limited to nursing homes . Would there be more opportunities for an OTA in NYC area? I would love to work with all age groups especially children. Is there any new OTA grads that could answer my questions. Is is a good career and what is the starting salary like? Does the college help with job placement? And where are OTA's getting hired?

[RNBearColumbus, BSN]

I'm not an OTA grad, but I was once a staff development nurse and responsible for hiring OTAs. The starting hourly rate for OTAs in my area of Ohio was approximately TWICE what the starting hourly rate for LPNs was. (OTAs typically started at 26-30/hour. LPNs at 18. That might help your decision. :)

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I'm not an OTA grad, but I was once a staff development nurse and responsible for hiring OTAs. The starting hourly rate for OTAs in my area of Ohio was approximately TWICE what the starting hourly rate for LPNs was. (OTAs typically started at 26-30/hour. LPNs at 18. That might help your decision.

In addition to competitive pay, OTAs typically work banker's hours (Monday through Friday during daylight hours). They do not work midnight shifts. In addition, management at hospitals and other types of healthcare facilities in the US tend to highly respect the employees of their therapy departments (PT/OT/ST). Unfortunately, this is not always the case with floor nursing (LPN or RN).

This is just some food for thought.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Is there any new OTA grads that could answer my questions.

Welcome to Allnurses.com!

Since our membership consists almost entirely of nurses, nursing students and non-nurses seeking to switch careers, it is highly unlikely that OTs or OTAs are going to post responses here that will answer your questions about a career pathway in OT.

Good luck with your future educational and career endeavors!

[LTCNS, LPN]

OTA hands down. If I had it to do over again, I would go the OTA or PTA route. Good luck to you in whatever you decide to pursue!