What do I negotiate?

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PACU.

I just got off the phone with a DFW area HH Agency that has set me up for an interview on Monday. When I asked about the range of pay, the recruiter said that that would be negotiated with the Director of Nursing on Monday. Since I know nothing about Home Health-what should I be negotiating for?

I do have a job lined up for April; but, I may not have a home by then if I don't find something now (long story).

Any help in what a good salary for a relatively inexperienced BSN grad would be (or whether I should negotiate salary versus pay per visit), along with other negotiable items, would be greatly appreciated. Also, why in the world were they so eager [could have sworn I heard salivating] to have me come as soon as possible the moment I said that I have little experience as an RN and none in Home Health?

Thanks

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I am not a HH nurse, but I just wanted to say that I hope it all works out for you! Good luck!

BTW: you have excellent questions and I cannot wait to hear the responses!

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It is usually dependent on the coverage that the patient has. Some insurance plans pay per visit, and others per hour. That is what will be discussed, there really isn't any negotiating over that. It is stipulated by Medicare, etc., what the visits can be billed at, etc.

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PACU.
I am not a HH nurse, but I just wanted to say that I hope it all works out for you! Good luck!

BTW: you have excellent questions and I cannot wait to hear the responses!

Thank you so much for your encouragement!!!

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So, Loricatus, how'd the interview go? They were probably "salivating" because there have been lots of "bad" agencies around, teaching nurses/other staff "incorrectly". They're glad to get someone "green" that they can teach correctly, not having to break any bad habits. At least, that's when I salivate! Good luck to you........ Jeanne

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PACU.
So, Loricatus, how'd the interview go? They were probably "salivating" because there have been lots of "bad" agencies around, teaching nurses/other staff "incorrectly". They're glad to get someone "green" that they can teach correctly, not having to break any bad habits. At least, that's when I salivate! Good luck to you........ Jeanne

Thanks for your interest. Actually, the "salivating" appeared to be coming from the other end-someone green can be taken advantage of because they don't know better. It turned out that each visit would pay a flat $22.00, without any mileage allowance until I worked 6 months for them. And, I wouldn't get paid until 6-8 weeks after the visit. I may be green in HH. but I wasn't born yesterday. Would you say that this would be considered one of the "bad" ones???

I did find a hospital position which starts next week----sure hope that goes well.

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$22 flat fee per visit, without mileage, and not paid until 6 - 8 weeks after the visit is a joke, in my opinion. Good that you had sense enough to say "no, thank you"! I hope your hospital position works out well for you. I don't hire anyone without at least one year of hospital experience, anyway -- there are too many situations that come up in home health that require quick thinking, and it's a very autonimous position to be in -- no one handy to assist if needed. A nurse with hospital-based experience is more capable of handling such situations. But, don't give up on home health -- once you've had some experience under your belt, try it again, if you're so inclined. It's a very rewarding niche in nursing. Best of luck to you. Jeanne

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