* Location: Salary disparities exist across different countries and even within regions of a single country. Highly sought-after locations with nursing shortages often pay more, regardless of contract type.
* Specialization: Nurses with specialized skills (e.g., critical care, operating room) command higher salaries than generalist nurses, irrespective of whether they're PCNs or TCNs. However, the premium for specialization might be slightly less for TCNs.
* Experience: More experienced nurses, whether PCN or TCN, generally earn more. However, TCNs may not always receive the same level of annual salary increases as PCNs.
* Employer: Large hospital systems or private practices may offer higher salaries compared to smaller facilities, and this difference applies to both PCNs and TCNs. However, some employers might intentionally offer lower pay to TCNs.
* Contract terms: TCNs' salaries can vary widely based on the contract's duration, the number of hours worked per week, and the inclusion of benefits. A short-term, per-diem TCN position will generally pay less than a longer-term, full-time TCN role. They also might not receive the same benefits as PCNs.
General Trends (but not universally applicable):
* Base Salary: PCNs *usually* receive a higher base salary than TCNs for comparable roles and experience. This is because PCNs offer more stability and commitment to the employer.
* Benefits: PCNs typically receive a more comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off (vacation, sick leave), retirement plans, and potentially tuition reimbursement. TCNs often receive fewer or no benefits, or significantly reduced benefits. This is a substantial difference in total compensation.
* Bonuses and Incentives: PCNs might have access to performance-based bonuses, or other incentives, that are less common for TCNs.
* Opportunities for Advancement: PCNs generally have more opportunities for professional development, career advancement, and leadership roles within the organization. This isn't directly a salary difference, but it impacts long-term earning potential.
In short: While a direct numerical comparison is impossible without specifying the location, specialization, and experience, PCNs typically enjoy a higher overall compensation package than TCNs due to the combination of base salary, benefits, and long-term opportunities. However, the difference can be smaller in specific circumstances, such as a highly competitive job market or a lucrative temporary contract.