Working as GPNA

[Josifek]

Hello. I am due to graduate from a LPN programme this April. Beginning this year in Kentucky LPNs (maybe RNs too, I dont know for sure) are required to work for 120 hours as a Graduate Practical Nurse Applicant before taking the NCLEX PN. I was hoping if anyone could tell me how difficult will it be to get a job in a nursing home in the Louisville area as a GPNA and will they actually pay me and if so how much? For example, if a particular LTC facility starts out at $18.00, how much are they going to pay someone who hasn't taken the NCLEX? These are just questions I've been having and thought someone might be able to help. We will have a job fair coming up in a few weeks for the upcoming grads and I'm sure I could ask there but sometimes employers dont want to discuss these things pre-interview. Thanks.

[Pitbullgirl]

Hi Josifek,

I just graduated with my BSN in December and took NCLEX-RN last week (passed thank goodness). I did a lot of research into the 120-hr mandatory preceptorship since I thought it might apply to my class, although it turned out it didn't.

Basically, EVERYONE in Kentucky will be in the same boat you're in. So bottom line is, all employers will have to hire new grads before they take NCLEX or else no one will ever be able to work. You'll just be a LPN-Applicant or RN-Applicant prior to taking boards.

I don't know about the pay, it may be a little lower. But 120-hrs is only about 3-4 weeks, so you're looking at a month before taking NCLEX. Not a big deal. Good luck on your boards!