Katerin Díaz, a Cuban nurse based in South Carolina, brought to light an issue that many in the healthcare sector think about but do not always express: salaries do not compensate for the effort, stress, and responsibility of their work. "In South Carolina, we earn between $30 and $35 an hour. If you work at night or on weekends, you make a bit more. But sometimes I think, wow, we don’t earn enough for what we go through every day," she shared in her TikTok video that has sparked the debate.
Katerin explained how, in her daily routine, she can have up to five unstable patients, each with different illnesses, while facing a constant level of stress and a day full of uncertainties. "Every day is a surprise when I arrive at the hospital; it's like a little box of surprises. It's difficult, it's a challenge," confessed the nurse, who works in med-surg and telemetry units, where emergencies are part of everyday life.
The video by @katerindiazdelgad has sparked hundreds of comments where other health professionals shared their experiences in different states. One user mentioned that her husband, a pediatric nurse, earns $44 an hour but is responsible for 27 patients alongside just one other nurse, putting him on the brink of collapse. Others pointed out that in Texas, a new graduate can start earning $50 an hour, while in states like Puerto Rico, salaries barely reach $15.
"In Florida, you start between $30 and $35, even in ICU," commented another user, while someone else added, "New Jersey pays $46.50 an hour for new graduates." However, the main complaint is not just the salary but the working conditions. "We are overloaded with too many patients and excessive paperwork. It's abusive," said a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Although some users noted that the salary seems "good" when calculated weekly or monthly, Katerin responded, "The weight of the work is immense. You don't know what it is until you're there." Others agreed that often, a love for the profession is what keeps workers in the healthcare sector. "Medicine and education are studied out of vocation," one user stated.
Amid the debate, alternative options also emerged for those looking to enhance their income. Some may consider working with nursing agencies or specializing in areas such as nurse practitioners (NP), where salaries exceed $70 per hour. "I started earning $37, and today I make $68 as an NP," shared another individual.
Katerin closed by inviting others to share how much they earn in their states, emphasizing that salaries should be more equitable. Meanwhile, the video has made one thing clear: the debate over pay in the healthcare sector is only just beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nurse Salaries in the United States
How much does a nurse earn in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, a nurse can earn between $30 and $35 per hour. If they work at night or on weekends, they may earn a bit more. However, the debate is not only about salary but also about the working conditions they face.
What are the main complaints of nurses regarding their working conditions?
Nurses complain that, in addition to salaries, working conditions are a constant challenge. They face heavy workloads, too many patients, and a significant amount of documentation, which creates a stressful and exhausting work environment.
Are there alternatives for nurses seeking better income in the U.S.?
Yes, some nurses choose to work with nursing agencies or specialize as nurse practitioners (NP), where salaries can exceed $70 per hour. These options may provide better compensation and working conditions.
How do nursing salaries vary across different states in the U.S.?
Nurse salaries vary significantly across the United States. In Texas, a new graduate can start earning $50 per hour, while in Puerto Rico, salaries barely reach $15. In New Jersey, new graduates can earn $46.50 per hour, highlighting the disparity in compensation depending on the state.
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