Physician Substitute (Plasma Center Nurse)

[mmedrano12]

Hello everyone! I am a recently graduated RN ADN. For my first job I returned to a clinic that I once worked for as a medical assistant, and although I have a level of loyalty to this company who was willing to hire me as a new-grad, I was not using ANY of my skills as an RN. I came upon an opening for an RN (physician substitute) at a plasma donation center which is part of a large pharmaceutical company. Long story short I interviewed and accepted a position. The pay is substantial, there are paid holidays, and a sign on bonus. I consider myself fortunate to find this position and see it as another stepping stone in my career as an RN. Is there anyone out there who is currently working in a similar position? Did you enjoy the work? What was the training process like? I would appreciate any info you are willing to share, thanks!:)

[ck637143]

Hello everyone! I am a recently graduated RN ADN. For my first job I returned to a clinic that I once worked for as a medical assistant, and although I have a level of loyalty to this company who was willing to hire me as a new-grad, I was not using ANY of my skills as an RN. I came upon an opening for an RN (physician substitute) at a plasma donation center which is part of a large pharmaceutical company. Long story short I interviewed and accepted a position. The pay is substantial, there are paid holidays, and a sign on bonus. I consider myself fortunate to find this position and see it as another stepping stone in my career as an RN. Is there anyone out there who is currently working in a similar position? Did you enjoy the work? What was the training process like? I would appreciate any info you are willing to share, thanks!:)

That's crazy! I just accepted a position too for a biotech company that opened up a plasma center. I've worked in an acute care hospital (telemetry), SNF (sub acute), and was a supervisor for a rehab hospital. I have 4 years experience as a nurse. I recently moved back to San Diego and accepted a job for a plasma center. The place I work is very family oriented and has long term people working there. Its monday through friday with weekends off - especially sundays, paid holidays. The pay is decent as well and there are always yearly reviews to increase salary. Pretty much I screen patients, assess them especially for tattoos. I have yet to start a 5 week training with the company. I'll let you know how it goes.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

A word of caution. Based on scope of practice and licensure, an RN can never be a "physician substitute". You can be a assist a physician or perhaps be a physician extender. Legally, there will need to be a physician at the head of this operation because it involves 'medical' procedures. This needs to be an authentic level of involvement & authority - not just on paper. Otherwise, you may be left in the lurch if any claims of clinical 'misadventures' arise. Never underestimate the potential for adverse legal action in any setting. There are a kazillion attorneys who will leap at taking even the smallest health care claim.

Make sure you have a clear line of communication with this individual, including his/her expectations and instructions for handling any clinical issues that may arise. FYI, always be very careful in how you present yourself to the public in order to prevent anyone from claiming that you were violating your scope of licensure.

Good luck and be safe out there!

[elmcdnld]

I too just accepted a position as a physician substitute at a plasma center. I worked in telemetry for 3 years on the night shift as an RN. The pay is comparable with weekends and nights off, paid holidays, a 401K etc. I am really enjoying the training so far. Everyone acts as if I have taken a step down, but I enjoy the low stress, but active environment. Since I have a BSN, I'm hoping that there will be some upward movement into management at some point. There is a physician over the center who signs off and who we all for questions. Good luck! Hope it goes well for you guys!

[ALLRN73]

Hi elmcdnld. I know it's a been a long time, but would you mind sharing your experience as a phys sub? I have an opportunity for this position and would love to get your feedback and how it compares to working on the floor! Thanks so much...