Pay raises?!

I completely understand your frustration - and we can't even get tips. I am not familiar with your geographic area, but I can let you know that the avg increase for nurses (and other direct health care providers) inUS hospitals last year was a measly 3%. It was less in non-acute (LTC, LTAC) jobs. I know of a some nurses who actually ended up taking home less money after their "raise" because it tipped them (barely) into more FICA deductions. GRRRRR

Get certs, get your BSN if you do not already have it, and look into moving. Also, consider graveyards if you are not already working them. Look for over time. These can all get you more $$ without a large raise.

Definitely look into evening or night shifts for differential pay and OT (if it is available). Not sure how taking on more student loan debt is going to help your situation esp. since many employers do not pay more for BSN vs ADN for floor nursing positions. More and more employers are instituting pay rate freezes and limiting OT as ways to control costs. After you get your first year in, maybe look at picking up a few agency shifts if possible....just be sure to have them take out taxes (some don't if they offer a daily pay or "instant pay" option) or you will end up owing income tax in April.

I get $5/hr for CCRN cert and BSN. It does pay with the right employer. Also, Many employers will pay for your BSN or at least part of it. You do not have to go into debt to pay for it. It also opens the door for advanced practice if you choose to go to grad school.

Thanks everyone I have my BSN and work 2nd so I do get differential pay however the differential is base pay at the other big hospital in my city. Hoping to get more experience under my belt and get into a better paying hospital!