Only 56 percent of RNs would choose the same career path if they could do it over again, and only 22 percent would choose the same practice setting, according to the Medscape Nurse Salary Report 2015.
Medscape surveyed 8,256 nurses (LPNs/LVNs, RNs, APNs) in the United States.
Here are seven takeaways:
1. For RNs, the average annual gross salary totals $79,000. An APN nurse anesthetist receives an average annual gross salary of $170,000. The majority of APN nurse anesthetists are satisfied with their compensation, while about half of RNs are satisfied.
2. Gender affects nurses' salary, with male APNs and RNs making 9 percent more than their female peers.
3. APN salary increases at a more significant rate (15 percent) than RNs salary (11 percent rate) as they age.
4. RNs in California and Hawaii receive the highest compensation at $105,000; APNs in California and Hawaii also make the most money, at $120,000.
5. Those RNs serving as contract workers make the most ($95,000), while those in the school setting making the least ($63,000). APNs make the most in government work and the least in the school setting.
6. About one quarter of nurses reported relationships with their patients as the most rewarding part of their jobs.
7. A direct correlation exists between level of training and satisfaction with salary, setting and career.
Medscape Executive Editor Laurie Scudder, NP, DNP, said "…it's distressing to see such a high level of dissatisfaction across the board in their choice of practice. Further efforts to understand and address the factors behind this dissatisfaction will be critical to our profession and the healthcare system as a whole."
Recent articles:
Northern Wyoming Surgical Center business manager earns CASC: 5 key notes
Colorado's healthcare spending flying high and not coming down — 5 takeaways
Alabama launches 'Rural Health Week' to raise awareness — 5 facts