Orderlies: What They Are, Examples of the Job, and How to Get Into the Field
Orderlies play a critical role in the healthcare industry. They assist nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals in managing patient care in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
Examples of the Job
Orderlies perform a wide range of duties, including:
- Transporting patients between wards and medical facilities
- Assisting patients with daily living activities like bathing, grooming, and dressing
- Changing linens and bedding
- Cleaning and sanitizing patient rooms and other medical equipment
- Maintaining and organizing medical supplies and equipment
Educational Requirements
Orderlies are not required to hold any formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some healthcare facilities may prefer or require candidates with vocational training or certification in healthcare-related fields.
Orderlies who wish to advance their career may consider pursuing certification as a nursing assistant (CNA). CNAs are required to complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam.
Progression in the Field
Orderlies with experience and training may advance to become nursing assistants, medical assistants, or other medical professionals with additional education and training.
Getting Into the Field
The best way to get started as an orderly is to gain experience in a healthcare setting. Many healthcare facilities offer entry-level positions that can provide hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. Volunteering at a hospital or clinic can also provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.
Other skills that can be helpful for those wishing to become orderlies include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and physical stamina.
In conclusion, orderlies play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by providing support and assistance to medical professionals and patients. While no formal education is required, vocational training and certification can be beneficial for career advancement. Those interested in the field can gain experience by starting in entry-level positions and working their way up with experience and training.
| Geography | Job Title | Job Level | Union | Employment Type | Salary (Lowest Average) | Salary (Highest Average) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US National Average | Orderlies | All Workers | Nonunion | Full-time | $37,627.20 | $34,132.80 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | Level 02 | Nonunion | Full-time | $34,424.00 | $29,868.80 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | Not able to be leveled | Nonunion | Full-time | $38,272.00 | $34,382.40 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | All levels | Union | All types | $36,587.20 | $36,150.40 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | All levels | Nonunion | All types | $35,880.00 | $30,201.60 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | All levels | Not applicable | Not applicable | $33,259.20 | $27,705.60 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | All levels | Not applicable | Not applicable | $37,627.20 | $32,676.80 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | All levels | Not applicable | Part-time | $33,384.00 | $27,664.00 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | Level 02 | Not applicable | Part-time | $31,969.60 | $24,939.20 |
| US National Average | Orderlies | Not able to be leveled | Not applicable | Part-time | $N/A | $N/A |
| North Carolina | Orderlies | All levels | Nonunion | Not applicable | $33,488.00 | $28,891.20 |
| South Carolina | Orderlies | All levels | Not applicable | Not applicable | $31,428.80 | $25,750.40 |
Orderlies are healthcare professionals who work in hospitals or other medical facilities to provide patient care assistance. In the US, the national average salary for Orderlies varies depending on the job level, union status, and employment type. The highest-paid Orderlies are those who work full-time and are not part of a union, with an average salary of $37,627.20 per year. The lowest-paid Orderlies are part-time Level 02 workers, who earn an average of $31,969.60 per year.
The effects of unionization on Orderlies also vary across the US. Unionized Orderlies earn slightly more than those who are not part of a union, with an average salary of $36,587.20 per year compared to $35,880.00 per year. However, it should be noted that unionized Orderlies face other external factors that affect their job, such as potential strikes or job demands from the union.
In terms of geography, North Carolina pays its Orderlies slightly higher than the US national average for nonunionized workers at $33,488.00 per year. Meanwhile, Orderlies in South Carolina earn slightly below the national average at $31,428.80 per year but still earn higher compared to other jobs of similar nature in the state.
Overall, the salary for Orderlies varies depending on several factors, and unionization can play a role in determining the level of compensation.
