QUESTION?

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I'm a 25+ year LPN with tons of experience in all areas.

I've been asked if I would accept an interim to permanent position as DON at a very small assisted living facility.

What kind of salary should I ask for? I haven't a clue!

Thanks

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At least 50% more than you are making now. Start high so there is room for negotiation. I am NOT KIDDING.

If they accept it, you didn't ask for enough. But you'll be happy with such a raise!

Best wishes.

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Specializes in Family Practice, Mental Health.

What kind of support staff will you have? Do you have an MDS coordinator, Staffing Coordinator, Administrative Assistant and such? If so, do a little investigating. Try and find out what the facility pays for their positions and that information will give you a good idea of where to ballpark your salary.

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Specializes in ER, ICU.

Depends on what state you are in. I wouldn't take less than $60,000.

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Specializes in Trauma Surgery, Nursing Management.

It does depend on the state you live in, but I think the median salary for DON is around $90,000.

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I live in Missouri and I will have NO support staff, it's just me.

Now I've paid close attention to the DON now and though at times she is in at 0800 and out by 4 or 5, she is relied heavily on by the administrator to BE THERE. She is a very dedicated woman, spends the night if bad weather is forecast, offers to pick up staff when they can't make it in, works the floor when a nurse calls in, does change over, etc.. She is called by staff 24/7. It will be JUST ME as it is JUST HER now.

I want to be compensated for my time. Should I allow them to make an offer and counter offer? Really don't know.

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That's a 24/7 responsibility. Start with $65,000/yr. Get s signed contract with raises written in every year. Good luck and congratulations! :smokin:

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Do you get to set your own salary? I thought when a job offer is made it comes with a salary figure; you either take it, counter, or say no thank you. I hope the job pays well because it sounds like a lot of responsibility and hours.

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I think the poster of this question was asking what would be a reasonable salary for this position. I guess she will take the offer if it is comensurate with the responsibility.

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Specializes in PACU, OR.

Op, it sounds like you have a fairly good rapport with the outgoing DON; have you thought of asking her what kind of salary range you could look at as a starter?

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Specializes in Hospice / Psych / RNAC.

Depends on how much the RNs are being paid. You should find out how much the higest RN salary is and ask for 30% more.

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Specializes in ICU, CM, Geriatrics, Management.

Sounds like you'll have your hands full. A dedicated / capable staff is a must. Otherwise, you'll be expected to do everything, and be there at management's beck and call.

Staffing will be a huge problem... and if there's no coverage available, you'll always be it!

Consider this move carefully. Been there, and wouldn't want it again.

Good luck!

Great suggestion from a previous poster: have them sign a contract.

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