Currently, there are nearly 250,000 practicing nurse practitioners providing care in a broad variety of healthcare settings, and that number is growing by three to four thousand every year. Historically, nurse practitioners have been paid a salary commensurate with experience. As the healthcare market changes, so too is the way NPs are being paid. It is imperative that nurse practitioner students are educated and knowledgeable about nurse practitioner salary, benefits packages and negotiation techniques. This information is necessary to make informed decisions on these matters, and before signing any formal contract.
Through a substantial literature review, it was determined there was a paucity of information detailing what new graduates can expect regarding compensation and benefits packages; and negotiation techniques necessary to be successful during the interview and hiring process. The purpose of this project was to determine if educating nurse practitioner students on compensation, benefits packages and negotiation skills allows them to feel an increased sense of confidence and understanding of this process so they feel better equipped to fully evaluate and negotiate job offers. A 90-minute presentation was given to NP students on these matters at a small, midwestern University. A pre- and posttest format was used. The findings were significant, showing that prior to the intervention students felt vastly unprepared to discuss and negotiate salary and benefits packages with potential employers. The authors also found that the presentation of information on these matters significantly increased their confidence and helped them feel better prepared to participate in this process. For sustainability, the authors plan to copyright the information and present in both poster and podium format
