Your Guide to Per Diem LPN Jobs in Shelton, Washington
Are you a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking for a flexible and rewarding job opportunity in Shelton, Washington? Per diem LPN jobs may be an excellent option for you. Per diem, or PRN, stands for "as needed," these types of jobs offer nurses the freedom to choose their own schedule and work when they want.
Shelton, located in Mason County, Washington, is a small but thriving community with about 10,000 people. This quaint town boasts beautiful natural scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, and a low cost of living. It's also home to several healthcare facilities, making it an ideal location for aspiring LPNs.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to per diem LPN jobs in Shelton, Washington. We will cover the average pay for LPNs in Shelton, typical job duties, qualities of a good PRN LPN, what to expect in your first job, and how to find per diem LPN jobs in Shelton.
What Is the Average Salary for LPNs in Shelton, Washington?
Before considering any job, knowing how much you can expect to earn is important. In Shelton, the average earnings for LPNs is $55,000 per year, according to research. This is slightly lower than the national average for LPNs, around $56,000 annually.
However, Shelton's living cost is lower than the national average so that this pay can go a long way. Plus, per diem LPNs often have the opportunity to earn higher pay rates, as they are not usually salaried employees. This means that you have the potential to earn more by working per diem rather than in a traditional full-time or part-time position.
Typical Job Duties of an LPN:
As an LPN, your duties will vary depending on your workplace. However, there are some everyday tasks and responsibilities that most LPNs will have. These include:
- Administering medications, including injections
- Taking and recording vital signs
- Assisting with patient assessments and care plans
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Supervising CNAs and other support staff
- Educating patients and their families on medications and self-care techniques
- Updating and maintaining patient medical records
- Collaborating with other healthcare team members, such as doctors and registered nurses
- Delivering emotional support to patients and their families
What Qualities Should a Good PRN LPN Possess?
Working as a per diem LPN can be challenging, as you may work in multiple facilities and interact with different patients and healthcare teams. Therefore, possessing certain qualities to succeed in this role is essential. These include:
- Flexibility: As a PRN LPN, you may need to work different shifts and at different facilities, so you must be able to adapt to changing schedules and environments.
- Time-management skills: Managing your time effectively is crucial in this role, as you may need to work at multiple facilities or have a fluctuating schedule.
- Strong communication skills: As an LPN, you will be working with patients, families, and healthcare teams, so effective communication is essential.
- Ability to work independently: Per diem LPNs often work without direct supervision, so you must work independently and make decisions alone.
- Compassion and empathy: Working in healthcare requires a lot of compassion and sympathy for patients and their families. As an LPN, you will be providing emotional support to those in your care.
LPNs often work along with registered nurses and Certified nurse assistants.
As an LPN, you will likely work alongside other healthcare professionals, such as registered nurses (RNs) and certified nurse assistants (CNAs). It's essential to understand the positions and responsibilities of your colleagues, as you will all work together to provide the best possible care for patients.
RNs have a more advanced educational background and are responsible for managing patient care and creating care plans. They also administer medications, perform assessments, and oversee the work of LPNs and CNAs.
CNAs provide direct patient care and assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. They also help with tasks such as taking vital signs and transferring patients.
Your First Per Diem LPN Job: What to Expect.
If you're considering a per diem LPN job in Shelton, you may wonder what to expect in your first job. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- You may need to work at multiple facilities: Per diem LPNs often perform at different facilities to fill in for staffing shortages or to provide coverage during peak times. This means you have to learn new systems and adapt to new environments.
- Your schedule may be flexible: With per diem jobs, you can choose when you want to work. This can be great for those who have other commitments or need flexible schedules.
- You may have varied responsibilities: Depending on the facility and the needs of the patients, your duties as an LPN may vary. You may work in a long-term care facility, a hospital, or a home health setting.
- The shifts may be shorter: Some per diem LPN positions offer shorter shifts than traditional full-time or part-time jobs. This can be ideal for those who prefer a more condensed work schedule.
- You may have the opportunity to earn more: Per diem LPNs often have the potential to make higher pay rates than traditional positions.
How To Find Per Diem LPN Jobs in Shelton
When it comes to finding per diem LPN jobs in Shelton, there are several options available. One of the best ways to find PRN jobs is through Nursa, a healthcare job platform specifically for nurses. Nursa helps connect healthcare facilities with qualified nurses, making finding job opportunities that match your skills and preferences easier.
To use Nursa, you must create a profile and upload your resume. You can then browse and apply for available PRN LPN jobs in Shelton and the surrounding areas. You can also set up job alerts to be notified when new jobs that match your criteria become available.
Additionally, networking with other healthcare professionals and joining local nursing associations can help you find PRN job opportunities in Shelton.
CNAs in Shelton might also find jobs in the surrounding area:
If you are a certified nursing assistant (CNA) searching for job opportunities in Shelton, you may also find opportunities in the surrounding areas. Some nearby cities with healthcare facilities include:
Is Working as a PRN LPN in Shelton, Washington, Right for Me?
Choosing the right job is a crucial decision, and it's essential to consider your goals, preferences, and lifestyle before accepting a position. If you value flexibility, a per diem LPN job in Shelton may be a great fit for you. It can also be an excellent way to gain experience in different healthcare settings and enhance your skills.
However, a traditional full-time or part-time position may be more suitable if you prefer a set schedule and routine. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons and choose a job that aligns with your career goals and values.
In conclusion, per diem LPN jobs in Shelton, Washington, offer a unique and flexible job opportunity for licensed practical nurses. With a lower cost of living and the potential for higher pay rates, Shelton is an ideal location for those looking for PRN jobs in healthcare. By understanding the average salary, typical job duties, and qualities of a good PRN LPN, you can determine if this job fits you. With the help of job platforms like Nursa, you can easily find and apply for per diem LPN jobs in Shelton and the surrounding cities.
