Home Health Pay Rate

Published Aug 11, 2005

1 Post

How negotiable is a rate for HH Nursing pay?

I have been working exclusively for one pediatric patient (I am considered an "Enhanced RN) for a medically fragile, fully dependant 12 yo. I escort him to a Spec School.

Since there are many other 1:1 nurses there, we talk & I have learned that I am underpaid. My agency claims that my patient of 3+ years has a low rate.

I am extremely reliable. There is never a back up for me if I want a day off. I had asked them to find someone to job share with me to increase his coverage when I want a day off (and maybe give me some flexibility to see other better paying clients?) They can never "find" additional nurses for the case. In fact, many of his home shifts go uncovered. Other RN's claim I have bargaining power to get a better rate.

I have developed a close relationship with the family & am quite fond of the child.

Am I being foolish accepting low pay? Is there room for negotiation? Any agency people out there that can enlighten me about the truth?

Confused!

(NJ)