Maybe I Shouldn't Have Asked This...

kids · May 31, 2012

Many if not most facilities have a policy that bars employees from discussing their wages with other employees.

In a round about way you asked her what she makes (or made as a new hired) it's not something she could discuss "in general" as her only knowledge is likely personal. And really. it is rude to ask anyone how much money they make. This is a question that you should ask of the facility HR department, they may be willing to give you an approximate salary range for the position. Something you'll want to keep in mind is that any number they disclose to you is not guarantee that they would pay you that amount.

I'd take let the LPN know that you realize you put her in an uncomfortable position with your question and apologize.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · May 31, 2012

Many nurses, including me, do not want to discuss our earnings with ancillary staff members because of the fallout that sometimes occurs when the less-mature aides discover this information.

I worked as an LPN/LVN at a facility in Texas back in 2006 where the CNAs were earning $9 per hour and the LVNs earned $18 hourly. Although $18 is definitely not a lot of money by any stretch of the imagination, it was double what the aides had been earning. Therefore, the aides thought that $18 hourly was 'big bucks.'

Once they found out how much the LVNs were earning, some of the CNAs became resentful and passive-aggressive. Others became aggressive and blatantly stated that the nurses were overpaid and did too much 'sitting.'

So, to keep the peace, I prefer to avoid salary discussions with certain coworkers. After all, some people do not think we are worth what we earn. However, I think we're all worth a whole lot more.

allnurses Guide · May 31, 2012

For future reference, most sites where you can post your resume also have salary search options based on your local area. Monster.com, etc.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · May 31, 2012

you are asking the wrong person. She may get paid less than others or more than others. Ask HR. They can quote a base rate (which is what you would get right out of school). If you can afford it, go straight for RN and not waste time or money getting that license.

Been there,done that, ASN, RN · May 31, 2012

Yes, employers don't want the peons talking about wages.

Too many problems can come up when we talk amongst ourselves;0.

You didn't know, but now you do. It sounds like she over-reacted somewhat.

She could have just said, "sorry we are not supposed to discuss wages "and direct you to Human Resources for the answer.

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · May 31, 2012

She shut up after you told her that, in effect, her job wasn't worth having so you were going straight to RN. You hurt her feelings.

netglow, ASN, RN · May 31, 2012

I agree with Sue. Nobody cares about facility policy, BUT she probably makes 50 cents more than you, and that's why it's just not something she wants to talk about.

Anyhoo, you should search and find a range for your area. And no it's not worth it to do the LPN, just focus on the RN for now, if that is what you are going to do anyway. The way I see it it makes no sense to go into nursing anymore, period. But if you are going to do it focus your money on a straight line to it, don't waste money on sidelines that will count for nothing once your are there.

Anna Flaxis, BSN, RN · May 31, 2012

What BTDT said. It's not just in health care. Many non-healthcare settings have the same policy, for the same reason.

RN1485, BSN · May 31, 2012

Thanks all for the advice/comments!! I now know that I should've asked HR for that info to avoid putting her in an uncomfortable position. Lesson learned. Thanks again! :)