The Nursing Shortage

A nurse—whether working in a family clinic or large hospital—is responsible for a majority of patient care. Nurses perform some of the most important duties during a patient’s stay at the hospital, from monitoring vital signs to administering necessary medications. Nurses also provide a human face to what can sometimes be a cold, sterile environment. However, in recent years there has been a vast shortage of nurses in the healthcare industry. In fact, this shortage is expected to increase dramatically over the next few years.

Estimates show that approximately 72 percent of hospital supervisors reported a nursing shortage at their facilities in October 2004. A previous report also estimated that in the year 2000, approximately 30 states experienced a nursing shortage. Unfortunately, these numbers are only increasing. One startling statistic estimates that by the year 2020, over 44 states and the District of Columbia will be experiencing a shortage of registered nurses, or RNs.

Some statistics also show that the number of nursing school graduates has decreased quite significantly. Since nurses play such a large and important part in today’s medical care system, it is a worthy endeavor to investigate the causes behind these shortages. Although it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly why there is such a dramatic nursing shortage, examining the trends and statistics can provide clues. Investigating these clues is key to understanding how to combat the nursing shortage. Further, as hospitals and clinics struggle to recruit nurses, some nurses are seeking other avenues of employment or ways to perform their duties.

Hospitals and clinics have begun to investigate other methods for attracting nurses to their environments. Exactly how these facilities are addressing the shortage can provide insight into the larger problem of the nursing shortage, and it can provide clues to the trends of the nursing shortage in the future. If the statistics show the shortage growing worse, what can be done to stop it? Or will the nursing shortage continue to grow until the trends reverse themselves? A thorough examination into the shortage itself can provide some hints.

How much money does a registered nurse earn?

You can expect 54,000 to 65,000 range depending on location and area of expertise.

Every answer should have a state, the rates differ.

• In california RN's working in a hospital usually start out at about $30 per hour. My aunt has been an RN for about 5 years and she makes $35 per hour.

• It all depends on where you are working and how much your hospital pays, to find out what your pay would be at the hospital you want to work at you woul have to go ask someone at that hospital

• The median expected salary for a typical Staff Nurse - RN in Cherry Hills Village, CO 80111, is $60,278. This basic market pricing report was prepared using our Certified Compensation Professionals' analysis of survey data collected from thousands of HR departments at employers of all sizes, industries and geographies.

• In the DFW area in Texas, an RN can earn anywhere from $23-$37 per hour depending on the hospital, experience and whether or not you are full-time or PRN.

• Pay rate in Michigan is comparable to the range given in the previous answer for Texas.

• My wife makes $53.00 dollars an hour in San Francisco

• MY wife is is an rn. working for the state of IL. and makes $58,000 per year

• The salary ranges by state, but you can check your local Department of Labor office, or "Salary.com" for your specific answer.

What to Ask When Negotiating Your Salary and Benefits Package
Apr 1, 2007
By: Lisa Lapina
Healthcare Traveler


Negotiating the right contract is an important part of securing an assignment that fits your needs. When discussing your benefits package with your recruiter, it is important to examine your priorities. Maybe you would be happiest with a package that provides the most complete health coverage available. Then again, if you have thorough insurance through your partner's policy, you may prefer to trade a greater selection of benefits for a higher pay rate. To determine what is best for you, think about the overall package and how it will affect your lifestyle.

Salary

Finance matters, and how much money ends up in your hands should ultimately help you decide which contracts to accept. You should be sure to ask the following important questions: Will I get guaranteed hours? If so, will they be paid upon assignment completion? Will I receive shift differentials for working shifts more difficult to fill? Will I collect a completion bonus? Can I get direct deposit, or do I need to open a local bank account (and possibly wait days for my paychecks to clear)?

Health insurance

A company's health insurance options should also be a key consideration. Are you eligible for short-term, comprehensive group, preventative dental, life, dependant health, or a combination of coverages? Would you have to pay for your insurance? If so, is it available from the first day of your assignment or will there be a waiting period? What is the deductible and co-pay? Should you forego coverage, would you be offered a fixed benefit payment each month? If health insurance is one of your main concerns, a great plan could make a particular staffing company more attractive.

Medical malpractice insurance

Protecting yourself against medical malpractice is crucial. Would you be offered this benefit? And if so, would you have out-of-pocket costs or would the travel company absorb such expenses?

Housing

Living arrangements should also play an integral role in the negotiation process. Is private housing offered or would you have to share an apartment with another traveler? Would you be required to pay for your accommodations? Who would be responsible for utilities and additional fees—like a pet security deposit—the company or you? If you do not wish to take the offered accommodations, would you receive a housing subsidy? Other issues relating to where you'd be living must be determined as well, such as travel reimbursement and parking.

Continuing education

In the healthcare industry, staying on top of your game is essential to career success. Your education is imperative, which is why you should inquire about continuing education (CE) opportunities. Would conferences, seminars, and classes be available while you're on assignment? If so, would the costs be covered or reimbursed? Could you complete CE requirements online?

401(k) plan

If saving for the future is high on your list of priorities, a 401(k) plan is a fundamental factor in your decision-making process. Would this benefit be provided to you? If so, what is the waiting period? Would the staffing agency offer a percentage match to increase your contributions?

Customer service and clinical support

Last, but certainly not least, is accessible support from the staffing agency. Would your recruiter be accessible? Could you get the answers you want when you need them? Are clinical support and 24/7 services offered? Would the company help to manage your credentials, remind you of expiration dates, and follow up to assure compliance is met?

The bottom line—know before you go. Be aware of your preferences at the beginning of your assignment search, and don't be afraid to speak up and ask for something that may not be listed. These practices will guarantee you're moving in the right direction and focusing your energy on signing with a staffing agency that will truly meet your needs.

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