Do nurses make more in hospitals or nursing homes?
Nurses generally make more money in hospitals compared to nursing homes.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for registered nurses (RNs) in hospitals was $77,600 in May 2021. In contrast, the median annual wage for RNs in nursing homes was $63,060 during the same period.
There are several reasons for this difference in pay.
-Hospital nurses typically have higher levels of education and training. Hospitals often require nurses to have a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN), while nursing homes may only require an associate degree in nursing (ADN). Hospital nurses also undergo more extensive training in critical care, emergency medicine, and other specialty areas.
-Hospital nurses have more responsibility and autonomy. Hospital nurses are often responsible for caring for critically ill patients, administering complex medications, and making decisions that could have a significant impact on patient outcomes. Nursing home nurses, on the other hand, may have more routine duties, such as providing basic care, administering medications, and monitoring vital signs.
-Hospital nurses work in a more complex and demanding environment. Hospitals are typically fast-paced and high-stress environments, with nurses often having to care for multiple patients at once. Nursing homes, in comparison, may be less demanding, with nurses typically having more time to spend with each patient.
-Hospital nurses have better opportunities for advancement. Hospitals often offer nurses more opportunities for career advancement, such as promotions to leadership positions or specialized roles. Nursing homes may have more limited opportunities for advancement, with nurses often staying in the same role for many years.
It's important to note that these are just general trends, and there may be some variation in pay rates depending on the specific hospital or nursing home, as well as the geographic location. Some nursing homes may offer competitive salaries and benefits, while some hospitals may pay less than the national average.
Additionally, nurses with specialized skills or experience may earn more money, regardless of the setting in which they work.