openseas

I started out as a new LPN in Eastern IA at 19.15/hr. Looking to go back for my BSN just because I LOVE the learning process.

Here in N.E. Iowa at a facility (LTC) including vents the pay starts at 18.00 pls a hire-on bons of 5K for LPN's. I would like to know the payscale etc in the Crestview FL. area. Thinking of moving back south.... Thank you Florida LPN's for your info. David

Took the boards on Wednesday, the test stopped at 85, panicked for two days then found out Friday that I passed. Whew!

Dix, Hey stranger!! Thanks for the kind words. I take the test on Weds the 7th...so on the 9th I should have the results. I will keep you posted. So what are you doing these days? I'm actually working (after being "retired" for the past 2 year) and LOVING it. As soon as I pass boards the DON will orient me on the nursing side, nice little raise there too. To prep I have been doing the Davis NCLEX review tests on CD as well as the online Kaplan review and averging in the mid 80's for both. I miss you and the crew. It was strange to finish with a bunch of people I didn't really know. And of course I really miss a particular certian someone that we both know...and wonder every day if I will ever "get over" that. Someday..... David

I find that maintaining a professional attitude goes a long way in gaining accecptance. Address the patient by name and explain what you are doing goes a long way towards acceptance. If you feel it necessary given your particular patient, include a female. Be it a family member or female CNA. Remember it's the patients comfort and compliance that are the goal in any procedure. Act accordingly. David

David here. LPN since 03/08. I can grill a great terriaki steak and shrimp combo and make the best guacomole this side of Mexico. In my spare time I enjoy beer, rum, ativan and ambien. David

Yes I dated a fellow student. But if fell apart after about 6 months when her ex talked her into going back to him. I don't think that I will ever allow my heart to be so exposed again. David

After 20 years as a Navy Hospital Corpsman and retiring in 2004 I wanted to be a cop. Well after 4 years of doing 12 hour shifts and being exposed to the worse that society can offer (both bad guys and fellow deputies) I realized that I just had to get back into healthcare. The civilians don't give a !@#$ sbout your military training and competentcies, so back to school I went. Now as an LPN I am vey limited compared to what I could do in the Navy, but it sure beast what I was doing. David

So, for those of you who have taken the IA LPN boards recently....just how tough was it? Anything in particular I and others should know that could ease the process and help in passing it? Any input would be appreciated. Thanks!

Central Iowa starting pay in a small town LCF for LPN is 14/hr. The larger cities I hear range from 15-17/hr. Anyone working in a VA facility?