Relocating from California?

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Wow, I just kind of got a shocker. I'm an LVN out here in California and would like to move to Maine after recently losing my husband. I've just gotten off the phone, was talking to a few perspective employers (My chosen vocation is home hospice). Everyone I've spoken to so far is lumping LPNs in with CNAs, with the duties and pay being in a similar ballpark. Out here in California we are NURSES and get paid almost as much as the RNs in Maine. I know the cost of living is much lower in Maine, but I'm really concerned with the lack of respect that I'm picking up on regarding LPNs. I worked my backside off to get my license and do most of what an RN does (with the exception of hanging meds) out here. Are LPNs really so low on the totem pole out there?

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Specializes in Family Practice, Primary Care.

LPNs are basically the RNs in assisted living facilities out here. RNs usually aren't hired in hospitals. Maybe it was just the east coast attitude you experienced?

You'll find more oppurtunities in southern Maine, but as far as I know, our state only has 1 LPN program. They just aren't used much here because Maine doesn't really have a nursing shortage in the area where 80% of the population is concentrated (York and Cumberland counties).

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There are numerous jobs in Maine for LPNs, and though the ones I've seen posted are generally in LTC settings, there are openings in hospitals and in hospice care. Some of the agencies offer per diem work in the $20/hr range. You might find this website helpful.

Good luck to you. I'm very sorry about the loss of your husband.

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Hey there!

I am also relocating from CA to Maine in about 6 weeks.

Best of luck of luck to you.

Kelly

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Specializes in Family Practice, Primary Care.
LPNs are basically the RNs in assisted living facilities out here. RNs usually aren't hired in hospitals. Maybe it was just the east coast attitude you experienced?

You'll find more oppurtunities in southern Maine, but as far as I know, our state only has 1 LPN program. They just aren't used much here because Maine doesn't really have a nursing shortage in the area where 80% of the population is concentrated (York and Cumberland counties).

I meant to say LPN usually aren't hired in hospitals, not RNs. Woops!!! Sorry.

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LPNs are not used in Hospice here. Sad, but true. Nor in home health much if at all. Doctors offices, LTC settings, substance abuse...

"lumped with CNA" is probably a bit drastic but they definitely are not as employable as RN and dont get as much pay. You will have a real shock from CA to ME for $$... but its a whole different way of life here.

I disagree with the poster that says there is no shortage. Everywhere I know is hiring... but its true - LPNs are not used in the hospitals. (Which I personally think is crazy but who asked me?)

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