RN positions where not on feet so much

[purplefinchLPN]

Hi everyone, I am new to this site.

I am currently an LPN and also have a BS Degree in Business Admin. I have worked in healthcare all my life even prior to my LPN degree where I worked the insurance, managed care, and executive assisting areas of healthcare. Due to this experience I am very computer literature as well as savvy about health insurance. I am currently working as an LPN in Hospice where I do all the authorizations for hospice admissions with insurance companies, notify Medicare of admissions, provide computer support, and COB with insurance companies for our patients. Before this I was an Admissions Coordinator at a LTAC facility.

I am planning on going to school this fall to get my RN Degree which will take me two semesters to complete. My problem/questions is this: I have a bad case of inherited neuropathy which affects my feet, legs and now my whole body as well. I am taking Lyrica which does help to some degree as long as I do not push it too much by being on my feet. Given my background, education, etc. can anyone suggest RN positions that I would be qualified for as a new RN that would not require that I be on my feet working as a bedside nurse? I am totally unable to do that. I would love to be an Admissions Coordinator again but as a new RN I am not sure I would be qaulified for such a position. How about working as a legal nurse consultant? Or would I need more experience for that?

Also, can anyone confirm what the starting rate for a new RN is? I called our HR dept and was very displeased to find out that they start all RN's out at $23.50/hr. That is not much more than I am making now and I am very disappointed by that. I live in Tucson, AZ and have been told that rate is competititve for our area. I cannot believe that given the supposed nursing shortage we have and my previous education and experience that is the best I can expect. Sounds like there may be a shortage of nurses but they have not equated that with compensation and in my case I cannot say the shortage has made finding an LPN-RN Program easier at all. You would think there would be more programs out there for this if there is truly a "shortage."

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!

[akcarmean, LPN]

:wlcmblks: allnurses. Sorry I can't be of any help. But you might try going to the local tab then from there you can find the individual state of AZ and you might be able to get some of your questions answered there.

good Luck

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Good luck.

Since you're asking a question, I'll move this out of Introductions to General Nursing, where perhaps someone can advice you.

The first thing that pops in my head is RN Case Manager.

It is an aged old problem that experienced LPNs have when they become an RN, the beginning salary isn't much. But the range is higher.

[DutchgirlRN, ASN, RN]

Congratulations on getting your RN. Remember that a starting salary is just that. You have many opportunities in front of you. Get a year of med/surg, ICU, ER, along those lines under your belt. Agencies pay far more but require 1 years floor experience.

[MrsWampthang, BSN, RN]

Could you stay in the position that you're in as an RN? Your employer may even pay for some, if not all, of your schooling. Otherwise, check online sites for case manager positions, telephonic nurse positions or prior authorization nurse positions. Those should have the requirements for the job listed so at least you would know what you need to have under your belt before you apply. My question would be though, is are you going to be able to do your clinicals? You will have to be on the floor for several hours, usually twice a week. Good luck!

Pam

P.S I do prior authorization for state sponsored business now and I really like it. Especially since, nobody dies from my mistakes, and the worst day there is still better than the best day working the floor! No one is throwing up, coughing, pooping(admin, can I use that term on this site?), or bleeding on me! :w00t:

[scottlgarrett]

Hello Tucson, you could try United Healthcare concurent review positions, or do home visits with a hospice (That is what I do), No offense to anyone but ICU nurses do not spend a great deal of time on their feet, but there are times when it is unavoidable. I agree the NEW GRAD PAY here is horrible, but what can you do?