RDA to LVN, starting hours and pay in Sacramento area?

[RDAtoLVN]

I am a Registered Dental Assistant looking switch professions. As of right now in my field and in my area, RDA's pay cap is about 25.00, even with years and years of experience. What is the starting pay for LVN's and what are the typical starting shifts for LVN's straight out of school and in my area? I'm trying to determine whether or not it is worth taking out another loan for! Please Help!

[vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN]

Hi! I suggest that you do what I did to research whether or not it's worth it to pay big bucks for an accelerated LVN program.

I went to various SNFs and asked the DSD/DON if they ever hired new Grad LVNs. Most places told me yes.

(I was in process of applying for CNA work, but I did my research on LVN school when putting in CNA apps)

I asked what the starting pay range was. No place quoted me less than $19/hr. Many paid a few bucks more per hour.

I calculated my loan payment at an est of $500/mo and then subtracted that from full time pay at the lowest pay rate, less est. taxes and est. cost of benefits.

I also calculated that i could survive off of 2 LVN shifts per week, in the event I couldn't find full time work.

For me, at that time, 2012, it was worth it for me in my particular situation.

If you're currently making $25/hr, it may not be worth it, as some LVN jobs pay less and you'll incur a student loan debt.