Just remember if the grass appears greener there is a reason.... it is usually located over a septic tank.
Even at $30.00 hr, one is still only making roughly $48,000 -$55,000 a year. Overtime is highly discouraged and the usual schedule for nursing is 12 hour shifts that either are 36 hours and one week with 40 hours (3/12 and 4 hr shift). As well, many times they are fragmented shifts (never in a row) one on, two off, one on, off, two on, etc.. The higher pay per hour also reflects working week ends, night and holidays.
I have been an RN with all the titles and with two degrees and over 18 years experience as a RN. I make as much or more in the field. Many medics are seeing that the work production is MUCH more than in the field. I have two RN/Paramedics that are requesting to re-enter back into the field. Alike EMS, nursing is really hard work and one should have a love for it. Especially attempt to remember this as one is removing a fecal impaction or catheterizing a 500 pound female that has not bathed in one year. Sorry, I want one to visualize more than the glory of the profession.
Many Flight Nurses are paid the same as Med Surg Nurses, etc. Some may receive more pay due to the additional required cert.'s. Just remember that now many hospitals now require at least 3-5 years as an ICU, Neonate, ER nurse before entering this highly competitive application of a Flight Nurse. Also many now require one year general nursing before even or allowing to enter ICU nursing, etc.
Most nurses are paid per hour, some are paid by assignments. One can actually be penalized for not completing an assignment as per contract nursing.
Many read the great pay and excitement. I compare it to the military propaganda. There is a reason they pay such... they have to! No else, with a right mind would take the position. Albeit in a high risk poor staffing (too numerous patients for safety sake), dangerous areas to work in (high crime, violent area).
One has to very, very careful when considering such positions. Travel nursing usually makes more money per hour. They should. One has to have a lot of experience and autonomy to walk in without any major orientation and work cold turkey. Also, one will find the original staff can be envious, which can lead to dangerous, professional problems. It can have its advantages, but can also be dangerous at times.
Just remember.. is this worth the minimum of three years? There are just as many professions that make much more with less responsibility and more pay. Personally, I feel it is a calling, that someone has to be passionate about. The pay is never that good to just get paid to do it.
