nanceynurse

Yeah, we already offer a 8,000 sign on bonus, but it is not going to be easy to recruit anyone when we are being forced to work mandatory overtime plus not get vacation or any time off. We did have a change in management recently but the two new ones are just as ineffective as the old one. Our unit is in shambles. People are leaving by the droves, which things just keep getting worse for those of us who stay. (The ones of us that are dedicated to the babies). By the way, I feel management exploits that.

I think they can force you to work mandatory overtime. They do at my hospital.

Florida

yeah I don't disagree, but my unit is having serious problems with staffing. We have 20 positions open for Rn's and all are being required to work mandatory overtime right now. Our morale is down in the dumps also. So myself and others thought it might help with recruitment and retainment to offer a diff. so the hospital is looking in to it. Our pay is low where I live, and the cost of living is rising by leaps and bounds so it is hard to get people here.

to anyone that doesn't mind sharing. Does your facility give a differential, bonus or any other compensation for critical care areas? If so, how much?

I started Nicu as a new nurse straight out of nursing school, and my hospital also hires GN's for Nicu. We do have a weekend work program but it is limited to nurses with a minimum of 1 yr. nicu experience, but most of the weekend crew has at least 2 yrs of nicu experience. The managers say the weekend should be staffed with nurses with experience due to limited support (from management) on weekends. Hope this helps.

Do you have a problem with Mrsa in your Nicu's. What steps has your facilites taken to decrease the incidence?