Cornered...super awkward!

[MSNMBA]

I am currently on contract at a large hospital. This hospital uses a lot of registry help as well. I learned that a peer and I work for the same agency. This individual has mounds of certifications and has worked as an RN longer than I have. Well, one day last week as soon as I hit the unit they hurriedly approach me, shove their check stub in my face and demand to know if my rate is the same as theirs. I was stunned because of the action and because this person is making 9-11 dollars LESS!! I told this person that they should advocate for themselves and not take the first thing offered. I also mentioned going back with proof of the last perm job hourly rate to see if an adjustment can be made.

I feel so bad for this individual. this person has worked in this facility almost 6 months. it is so awkward now when I take report from them, I can almost see the steam rising in their hair. In retrospect I think I should have played dumb, but on second hand this individual is being played with multiple strings. Do you think I could have handled this differently? What would you have done if cornered like that?

[canoehead, BSN, RN]

I had an experience like that too. I had 20y experience and a male new grad got $2.50/h more on his paycheck. The facility policy was that we could not discuss our pay with each other. I just let it slide, too much conflict.