Another day in the life of

[DonH]

I had a fantastic 2 weeks off and I have to go back to work tomorrow and I am so dreading it. Our department is a mess, we are short staffed and everyone is so overly stressed.

I keep hearing this, or similar versions, from all over. The majority of places are understaffed. Just talked with a NP from a different state a few days ago who is taking extra weekend shits as a regular RN where she can earn over a grand in a single weekend shift! I’ve heard several local nurses claiming they have been offered over $100 an hour including differential to work a shift just so the hospital can staff. What is going on? What’s the non biased reason? Is it burnout and staff has just had it? Is it recruiting or being stolen to go to other employers? Is it all the people they insisted on firing because they would not succumb to a vaccination mandate? How are so many places coast to coast in this position? There has to be a reason.

Are you able to tap into any of these reported $100/hour shifts? It’s almost like the supply chain, staffing and inflation issues that are badly hitting restaurants and clothing stores have also hit healthcare.

I totally applaud you trying to rein in any expenses you possibly can. But if you can also take advantage of any offers - signing bonuses, overtime, etc, you should consider it. Loyalty has gone out the window with employers. Employees need to do the same and take advantage of any opportunities that are out there. $100/shifts won’t be here forever.