Who determines the rate of pay for any job position in nursing, and what has to be done to change it.?

Ultimately the employer determines the rate of pay for any position, whether in nursing or otherwise. Often the decision is driven by the number of available employees, the demand for the job within the labor market, and the level of responsibility attached to the position. Legally, they only need to comply with state and federal minum wage laws (yes, they could pay a nurse less than $6 per hour in some states).

If you are unhappy with your rate of pay you have a few options. First, if you are already employed ask for a raise or if not employed discuss your desired amount when offered a job. Second, if you're employed and belong to a union then bring it up to the union as they usually negotiate pay rates and lock them into the union contract. Third, if the rates are low in your area but higher in other communities you may want to look at working in a different community. Pay rates are typically higher in metrapolitan areas vice suburbs or smaller towns. You may find a higher pay rate 20 to 30 miles away. Depending on what you want you may have to move to a different state, but keep in mind that higher rates often mean a higher cost of living.

These are just a few options you have. Ultimately, you can't force an employer to change their pay rates only negotiate. Good Luck.

demand determines the pay. hosps & clinics that cant fill positions are willing to pay more. when applicants are beating down the door at an employer, they can pay whatever they want because they know they have a big pool to hire from.