Denise Dammen, Monroe Times March 21, 2006

Darlington - The Lafayette County Board Tuesday authorized a $30,000 bonus incentive for seven non-union nurses at Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County. The money will be distributed based on years of service. If the nurses leave before six months they must repay a percentage of the bonus.

Board member Steve Carpenter pointed out it costs the hospital anywhere from $58 to $60 per hour to hire agency nurses. Hospital nurses currently receive a $17.24 per hour starting wage, although neighboring hospitals are offering $26.50 per hour. ... Board