I need more money.

[rn2bsn]

I work in a CVICU, I serve as charge nurse and a unit preceptor without any compensation. Our unit is gravely short of staff. And because of all the overtime a lot of the present staff is leaving. Our manager is hiring nurses at pay rates that I cant believe. While they are making big bucks, they leave after orietation because of the work and staffing issues. I'm still here, working my butt off, training nurses that aren't staying on the unit. And hardly getting paid anything. But because I have allowed this to go on for so long, how do I ask for a pay increase? Am I crazy for staying? Any suggestions?

[noahsmama]

There is no way I would tolerate being paid less than people I'm training. BTW, I'm a bit surprised that you know what others are getting paid, but I would have no qualms about using that to my advantage. Whatever is the highest hourly rate you've seen so far for one of your trainees, ask for that amount plus another 5 to 10%. I figure you must be worth more per hour than the people you're training, otherwise, why do they need training from you?

I agree with others that you will need to let them know that you will walk if you don't get the raise -- then do it if they don't come through (but line up a new job first!).

Good luck!

[rn2bsn]

Thanks for all the replies. I do plan on making an appointment to meet with my manager. I'm also putting my resume out there. Already have a couple of hits. I realize that I'm not married to this job and it's ok to split. I'm doing the research now and hope to meet with her soon. Will let you know how it goes. Also thanks for the ideas on how to approach my manager.

[DizzyLizzyNurse]

You are not a slave or an endentured servant. Anyone who does not actually test the market and evaluate what their skills are worth on the open market at least yearly, are doing a grave disservice to themselves.

Very true. I found this out for myself recently. My old job wanted to barely pay me more for when I became an RN after being an LPN. ($1.50 an hour more and they also wanted me to be supervisor:uhoh3:.) I wanted a larger amount of money. They told me no. This was after 10 years as LPN and CNA. So I left. I am making $6 an hour more (great for a new grad!) at a job with more potential for me. (I want to be a L&D nurse some day.)

Best part is they called me last week practically begging me to come back. I told them I was happy and excited at my new job....thanks but no thanks. Felt great! :yeah:

Good luck!

[PintheD]

Why not follow through on some of those hits first? Best case scenario you receive a job offer. Now you are really in good shape for negotiation!