You need to check Dell's policy regarding dead pixels. Some manufacturers will only allow you to return a LCD panel if there are up to 8 dead or stuck pixels.
When I bought my 19" LCD panel from Planar (PX191) about 4 years ago, they had the best return policy of all the companies. 1 dead pixel return policy, immediate 2-day shipment of a replacement monitor and free return shipping for the defective monitor.
Planar was relatively expensive though, about $675 back in 2003. It's still going strong, but I too am in the market for a new LCD. A 24 incher and Planar is one of four I am considering.
Planar no longer explicitly state they have a 1 dead pixel return policy and more.