New grad - cold call from pedi HH recruiter

[3wishes, MSN, APRN, NP]

Can anyone comment on hourly pay for inexperienced RNs starting in pedi HH? Clients are in the DFW metroplex. A recruiter cold called me and told me they offer $23/hr (more once you're trained for trach/vent). It's shift work. I forgot to ask about differentials. Benefits are minimal. I know hospitals there generally offer new grads $23-$26/hr with an increase after internship/residency and some increase pay every 6 mos. for the first 2 yrs. Of course I'd prefer an internship/residency but that hasn't happened and I've been looking for over a year.

I think in general I've heard that HH and SNF offer more than acute care to entice applicants, so I am surprised at the $23, and at the fact the recruiter brought it up. I'm wondering if unlike the hospital residencies that have firm starting rates, this is a situation that is negotiable. If so, I'm hoping someone can help me with some information because I don't know how to judge this offer, and counter if that's how this plays out. If they're cold calling, surely someone else has been through this!

Thanks for sharing!!!

[Preemie 2 RN, ASN, RN]

I work for a DFW pediatric private duty/home health agency and am a new grad. I make $25/hr for a very basic case. If I were to care for a trach/vent pt (after receiving trach/vent training) I would be paid more. I am happy with my case and pay though and I do get over time pay when I go over 40 hours a week.

[3wishes, MSN, APRN, NP]

Thanks Preemie 2 RN! That's exactly the info I need. Did you have to negotiate?

[Preemie 2 RN, ASN, RN]

No there was no negotiating. You're welcome :)