Can RNs really make this much?

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Ok, so I started a CNA program this week as I want to work as a CNA while completing my direct-entry MSN program. My instructor last night whom's a RN/CNS and administrator at Kaiser, said that she has RNs on her floor making over $50/hour after their first year. I know nursing can be lucrative, but I was surprised at this type of earning potential after a year. I'm in Los Angeles so I know Cali can make more than other states, but this really shocked me. No wonder programs are impacted everywhere. I know (at least I hope) most people get into the profession for reasons other than money (although this helps and shouldn't be ignored), but I can see how it could attract those looking to make an excellent salary.

Yea, unions have pretty much done one thing for me--increase my wages. That 5% per year bit isn't too bad. I'm afraid the new owner is going to try and kill the union, however. Time will tell.

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Specializes in ED, Critical Care.

I live in West Virginia and landed a PT gig in a pedi ICU $22.75 to start, goes up to $24.00 after 90 days. It's my first job since graduating last May. I was holding on for something critical care. Funny thing is I turned down a FT job at another hospital about an hour away from as this is (different direction) The starting pay was $19.50 and insurance was going to cost $177.00 a pay!! This hospital offered all sorts of shift diffs. Why not just up the pay instead of all the confusing shift diffs?

The hospital I accepted a job at also offers free insurance for FT employees. I almost quite my current job for the first job offered as well. The PT job is 2 12s a week so if it does not kill me I'll make some crazy spending money!:D

Most hospitals in my area are paying the same, low to mid twenties. With the exception I mention. The capital city area has always been low ball.

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I graduated in June 2008 with my bsn. Have worked since in TN. I make 19/hr. I would be making prob 25-26 in Ohio-where I graduated and where I used to live. There is essentially no cost of living difference here than ohio. It says there is but after living here since...if anything tn is costing me more...even with no state tax. So I feel underpaid in comparison. I guess it could be worse though, an lpn I work with who has a year more experience, only makes 12/hr. That's how much I made as a tech in Ohio.

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Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, Emergency, SAFE.

Starting nurses @ $24 and cap @ $32 for staff/bedside RN. Goes up with other positions :Case management, nurse manager etc. NPs and CRNAs are in a class by themselves with their salaries. Im south central PA. Depends on the area.

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What state are you from--I don't make anywhere near 6 figures & that includes my call pay and the overtime we get when we are called in (cardiac cath lab). I am envious!

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Specializes in LTC for now.

She is from Cali. Isn't it like ridiculously expensive to live there? In Oklahoma I know if you make $50/hr you will be very well off. But sadly here they start out in the low 20s. Which is still pretty good.

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Specializes in Neonatal.

In Texas new grads are starting out at 27...with one year experience there is a pretty hefty jump in hourly rate, at least ten bucks extra per hour

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Yes, it is possible. Per-Diem nurse make that much, but w/o benefits.

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I just visited Honolulu Hawaii and the starting for med-tele nurses is 50$/hour. After reading northern Cal people's postings it does make sense that it is for living expense compensation. I am curious as to where the ratio between cost of living and dollar per hour is the highest. I do have to factor in weather and family-friends proximity as non-numerical variables when considering a move to a new place.

I have been offered travel jobs to HI, but the pay has never been more than $19./hr- less than half of what reg staff makes per hr there. The agencies' take on it is that travel nurses in HI are "paid in sunshine and beach." Sorry, but sunshine and beach don't pay the bills.

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Has anyone ever worked where the pay was high like California and then moved to where the pay is a lot lower like Wisconsin?

I don't think I could work for 50% less an hour than I am making now and more importantly in a state without ratios.

Also I don't think I could work in a non union hospital with mandatory overtime and other horrible management practices I have read about in this forum such as , the schedule being changed on people after posted and staff having to come in if they want to keep their job.

Cost of living has to be taking into account but that would not affect me that much.

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Specializes in M/S, MICU, CVICU, SICU, ER, Trauma, NICU.

After their first year? Doubt it.

However, after several years.

Can do it. Absolutely, and not even specializing with an advanced degree.

That's why going for an ARNP for some is a step back in pay.

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P.S. Kaiser is one of the major unionized hospitals out there, which is why Kaiser RNs are amongst the highest paid. Their application list is outrageously long, and it helps tremendously if you know someone that works there.

True. There are already several of us in my class trying to shine so the instructors can consider us for CNA positions at the end of the program, as they've mentioned that they've hired several in the past from the program. I have a cousin who's been a public health nurse for LA County since 1984 - she is in a manager position now and makes well into 6 figures, but she said her range of salary is very possible after a the first few years of starting. So yes, it is possible and actually quite common in some areas.

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