Who pays registered nurses?

The primary entities that pay registered nurses (RNs) are healthcare organizations and institutions, both in the public and private sectors. Here are the main entities responsible for paying RNs:

1. Hospitals: Hospitals are major employers of RNs, where they provide direct patient care, administer medications, monitor patients' conditions, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.

2. Clinics: Private clinics, outpatient clinics, and specialty clinics employ RNs to offer care to patients seeking medical services.

3. Long-Term Care Facilities: Nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and assisted-living facilities employ RNs to provide long-term care to elderly or disabled individuals.

4. Government Agencies: Government agencies, including the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and the Indian Health Service (IHS), hire RNs to deliver healthcare services to veterans and Native American communities, respectively.

5. Public Health Departments: RNs are employed by public health departments to provide community-based services such as immunization clinics, health education programs, and communicable disease control.

6. Home Healthcare Agencies: Home healthcare agencies hire RNs to provide in-home nursing services to patients who require medical assistance in their own homes.

7. Ambulatory Surgical Centers: Ambulatory surgical centers employ RNs to assist during surgeries and provide postoperative care to patients.

8. Hospice and Palliative Care Organizations: RNs are hired by hospice and palliative care organizations to provide end-of-life care and symptom management to patients.

9. Schools and Universities: School nurses play a vital role in promoting student health and providing first-aid care in educational institutions.

10. Private Practices: Some RNs work in private practices alongside other healthcare professionals, offering individualized care to patients.

It's worth noting that registered nurses may also work on contract basis or as travel nurses, where their compensation and payment terms can vary depending on the assignment and the agency they work for. Additionally, some nurses may engage in private practice or consulting, where they are self-employed and determine their own payment terms with their clients.