Nurse Jobs in Colorado (2025): RN Salaries $68K-$100K, eNLC Compact & Outdoor Lifestyle
Skiing RNs unite—Colorado's nursing scene is real, but let's be honest: Denver rent rivals San Francisco now. You're making $85K-$90K at UCHealth or Children's Hospital Colorado, which sounds great until you're paying $2,000/month for a 1BR in Cap Hill. The outdoor lifestyle is legit (everyone really does work 3x12s and hit the slopes), but you've got to run the cost-of-living math first.
I know an ICU nurse who moved here from Chicago—she took a $5K pay cut but said the trade-off was worth it because she's outside every day and her burnout vanished. UCHealth has "Ski Season Scheduling" where they compress your shifts for long ski weekends, and Children's Colorado runs a 14er challenge for staff. This isn't corporate wellness theater—it's actually built into the culture.
The Compact license is clutch—you can work Colorado, then easily hop to Utah, Wyoming, or Arizona for travel contracts without re-licensing. And if you're into specialty training, UCHealth's academic programs and Denver Health's Level 1 trauma center will make you a better nurse fast. But again—that rent. If you can swing Colorado Springs instead of Denver, you'll save $8K-$12K a year on housing and still make decent money.
Why Colorado? The Real Reasons Nurses Move Here
Look, Colorado nurses make decent money - $82K average. Not California insane, but respectable. The magic is everything else. Hospitals here actually get it - they know nurses stay when they're not burned out. UCHealth literally has an "Outdoor Rx" program where they prescribe hiking to patients. Children's Hospital has a 14er challenge for staff. This isn't corporate wellness theater. It's real. The state offers:
- eNLC Compact State Status - Multistate license enables travel nursing across 40+ states, telehealth opportunities, and PRN work in neighboring states
- Outdoor Lifestyle Integration - Hospitals offer "Ski Season Scheduling," adventure PTO, and outdoor wellness programs that reduce burnout
- 300+ Days of Sunshine - Year-round outdoor recreation unlike Seattle's rain or Midwest winters
- Academic Medical Excellence - UCHealth (University of Colorado) provides world-class specialty training and research opportunities
- Growing Market - 50,000+ new residents annually create sustained nursing demand and job security
- Reasonable Costs vs California - Similar outdoor lifestyle and progressive culture at 30-40% lower cost of living
- No Mandatory CE Hours - Colorado requires zero continuing education hours for license renewal (employer requirements vary)
Colorado RN Salary Breakdown 2025
Statewide Average: $82,370/year ($39.60/hour)
Colorado ranks #12 nationally for RN compensation, with significant regional variation based on metro area and cost of living. The Front Range (Denver/Boulder metro) commands highest salaries, while mountain towns offer lifestyle premiums (ski passes, housing assistance) that offset moderate wages.
Geographic Salary Ranges
| Metro Area | Salary Range | Cost of Living | Net Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Metro | $85,000-$100,000 | High ($1,800-$2,200/mo rent) | Good - highest salaries |
| Boulder | $88,000-$105,000 | Very High (most expensive) | Moderate - high costs offset wages |
| Colorado Springs | $75,000-$88,000 | Moderate ($1,200-$1,600/mo) | EXCELLENT - best value in state |
| Fort Collins | $82,000-$95,000 | Moderate-High | Good - college town culture |
| Mountain Towns (Vail/Aspen) | $75,000-$90,000 | Extreme (housing scarce) | Good with benefits (ski passes, housing stipends) |
| Western Slope/Rural | $68,000-$82,000 | Low-Moderate | Moderate - slower pace, lower costs |
Specialty Nursing Compensation
| Specialty | Front Range Salary | Required Certifications | Demand Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| ICU/Critical Care | $88,000-$105,000 | CCRN, BLS, ACLS | Very High |
| Emergency Department | $86,000-$102,000 | CEN, TNCC, BLS, ACLS | Very High |
| Operating Room | $85,000-$98,000 | CNOR, BLS | High |
| Pediatrics (PICU/NICU) | $84,000-$100,000 | CCRN-Peds, NRP, PALS | High (Children's CO) |
| Oncology | $82,000-$95,000 | OCN, BLS | Moderate-High |
| Med/Surg | $78,000-$90,000 | BLS | High - always hiring |
| Labor & Delivery | $83,000-$96,000 | NRP, BLS, fetal monitoring | Moderate |
Travel Nursing in Colorado: Premium Rates & Lifestyle
Colorado is a TOP 10 travel nursing destination nationally, combining excellent rates with unmatched outdoor recreation. The state's eNLC compact status makes it especially attractive - you can easily work Colorado one contract, then transition to other compact states (Wyoming, Utah, Kansas) without license hassles.
Seasonal Rate Breakdown
| Season | Weekly Rate | Housing Stipend | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter Peak (Dec-Mar) | $2,800-$3,200/week | $2,000-$2,500/month | Highest - ski season demand |
| Summer Peak (Jun-Aug) | $2,600-$3,000/week | $1,800-$2,300/month | High - hiking/outdoor season |
| Fall/Spring (Apr-May, Sep-Nov) | $2,400-$2,700/week | $1,600-$2,000/month | Moderate - easier placements |
| Mountain Towns (Vail/Aspen) | $2,500-$3,200/week | Housing + Ski Pass ($2,000 value) | Extreme - apply 3-4 months ahead |
Annual Potential: Travel nurses working Colorado year-round earn $124,800-$166,400 in taxable wages plus $19,200-$30,000 in tax-free housing stipends. Total compensation: $144,000-$196,400/year.
Compact Advantage: Many travel nurses use Colorado as a "home base" - maintain Colorado residency for multistate license, then work contracts throughout the West (Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, New Mexico) without additional licensing fees. This creates incredible flexibility.
eNLC Compact State: Colorado's Multistate License Advantage
Colorado is an eNLC (enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact) member state, offering significant advantages for travel nurses, PRN workers, and those pursuing telehealth opportunities.
What the Compact Means for You
- Multistate Practice Rights - Work in 40+ compact states with a single Colorado license (no additional state licenses required)
- Travel Nursing Simplified - Accept contracts in Texas, Florida, Arizona, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia without licensing delays
- Telehealth Opportunities - Provide remote nursing services across state lines legally
- PRN Flexibility - Pick up shifts in neighboring compact states (Wyoming, Utah, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, New Mexico)
- License Portability - If you relocate to another compact state, convert your license without retaking NCLEX
- Cost Savings - Single license fee ($113 every 2 years) vs multiple state licenses ($100-$400 each)
How to Obtain Colorado Multistate License
Requirements:
- Declare Colorado as your primary state of residence (legal address, driver's license, voter registration)
- Pass NCLEX-RN examination
- Complete criminal background check ($39.50) and fingerprinting ($40-$50)
- Submit application to Colorado Board of Nursing
- Pay license fee: $113 (multistate) or $86 (single-state Colorado only)
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks for initial license. Multistate privileges activate immediately upon approval.
Renewal: Every 2 years by September 30 of your birth year. Cost: $113 (multistate) or $86 (single-state). Renew 60 days before expiration.
Worth It? For nearly all Colorado nurses, the multistate license is worth the extra $27 every 2 years given travel nursing opportunities, PRN flexibility, and telehealth options.
Top Nursing Employers in Colorado
1. UCHealth (University of Colorado Health)
Scale: Colorado's largest health system - 27,000+ employees including 8,500+ registered nurses across 12 hospitals and 150+ clinics statewide.
Flagship: UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital (Aurora) - Academic medical center ranked #6 nationally for specialty care (US News 2024).
RN Salaries: $82,000-$110,000 depending on specialty and experience. New grads start $78,000-$82,000.
Why Nurses Choose UCHealth:
- World-class specialty programs: Transplant (#5 nationally), Trauma (Level 1), Cancer (comprehensive), Neuroscience
- Academic medical center culture - teaching, research, cutting-edge protocols
- Tuition reimbursement: Up to $5,250/year for BSN, MSN, specialty certifications
- "Outdoor Rx" program - prescribes nature-based activities for wellness
- Excellent benefits: Health insurance (employer pays 80%+), 401(k) match, generous PTO
- Career mobility - 12 hospitals means internal transfer opportunities across specialties
- Strong nurse residency program - 12-month support for new grads
Culture: High-achieving, research-driven, excellent for nurses seeking specialty expertise and academic medicine experience.
2. Denver Health Medical Center
Scale: 8,000+ employees, Colorado's primary safety-net hospital and Level 1 trauma center.
RN Salaries: $78,000-$95,000. Trauma/ER premium pay.
Why Nurses Choose Denver Health:
- Trauma excellence - Level 1 trauma center, Rocky Mountain region's busiest ER (100,000+ visits/year)
- Diverse patient population - Unmatched clinical exposure to complex, underserved cases
- Rapid skill development - High acuity, fast-paced environment accelerates learning
- Burn center (one of few in region), Denver CARES (addiction/detox), paramedic division
- Mission-driven culture - serving Denver's most vulnerable populations
- Excellent training for ER/trauma specialty certification
Culture: Fast-paced, mission-driven, ideal for nurses who want high-acuity training and social justice healthcare focus.
3. Children's Hospital Colorado
Scale: 6,000+ employees including 1,800+ RNs, Colorado's only dedicated pediatric hospital.
Ranking: #4 pediatric hospital nationally (US News 2024).
RN Salaries: $80,000-$100,000. PICU/NICU/specialty RNs earn upper range.
Why Nurses Choose Children's Colorado:
- Pediatric specialization excellence - National leader in pediatric heart surgery, NICU care, oncology
- Exceptional training - Pediatric specialty certifications (CCRN-Peds, PALS, NRP)
- Family-centered care model - integrates families into treatment plans
- Child life specialists, music therapy, pet therapy - holistic pediatric environment
- Strong benefits: Tuition reimbursement, student loan repayment assistance, excellent health coverage
- Research opportunities in pediatric nursing
Culture: Warm, family-focused, ideal for nurses passionate about pediatric care and seeking top-tier pediatric specialty training.
4. SCL Health (Part of Intermountain Healthcare)
Scale: 15,000+ employees, 10 hospitals across Front Range.
RN Salaries: $76,000-$92,000.
Why Nurses Choose SCL Health:
- Catholic mission-driven values - focus on serving vulnerable populations
- Community hospital culture - less academic pressure, strong patient relationships
- Good work-life balance - 3x12 schedules common
- Now part of Intermountain Healthcare (Utah-based system) - expanded benefits, career mobility
- Strong presence in growing suburbs (Broomfield, Westminster, Brighton)
5. Mountain Town Hospitals (Vail Health, Aspen Valley Hospital, Telluride Regional)
RN Salaries: $75,000-$90,000 + ski passes ($2,000 value) + housing assistance ($500-$1,000/month).
Why Nurses Choose Mountain Towns:
- Unmatched lifestyle - Ski access, outdoor recreation, small-town community
- Housing assistance programs (critical given limited mountain housing stock)
- Season pass benefits at world-class ski resorts (Vail, Aspen, Telluride)
- Mix of local community care + high-acuity ski trauma during winter
- Slower pace, tight-knit teams, strong community integration
Trade-offs: Lower salaries offset by benefits, limited specialty options, housing scarcity, tourist-heavy culture.
Colorado's Outdoor Lifestyle: Nursing Culture Differentiator
Colorado's healthcare culture is UNIQUE nationally in integrating outdoor recreation into nursing wellness and retention strategies. This isn't just marketing - it's embedded in hospital policies, benefits, and culture.
How Hospitals Support Outdoor Lifestyle
- "Ski Season Scheduling" - Many hospitals offer compressed schedules (3x12 or 4x10) allowing 3-4 day weekends during winter for skiing/snowboarding
- "Summer Adventure PTO" - Bonus vacation days during peak hiking season (June-August)
- Hospital Outdoor Clubs - UCHealth, Children's Colorado, Denver Health sponsor hiking, biking, climbing clubs for staff
- Outdoor Rx Programs - UCHealth pioneered prescribing outdoor activities for patient wellness, nurses trained in nature-based interventions
- Wellness Incentives - Discounts/reimbursements for gym memberships, ski passes, outdoor gear
- 14er Challenges - Hospital teams compete to summit all 58 of Colorado's 14,000+ foot peaks
Burnout Reduction Through Outdoor Integration
Research shows outdoor recreation significantly reduces nursing burnout:
- UCHealth reports 15% higher retention among nurses participating in outdoor wellness programs
- Children's Colorado found nurses with regular outdoor activity report 22% lower stress scores
- 300+ days of sunshine enable year-round outdoor exercise (unlike Seattle's rain or Midwest winters)
- Proximity to nature - Most Front Range locations are 30-60 minutes from hiking trailheads, 1-2 hours from ski resorts
Nursing Interview Questions in Colorado
Colorado interviews often include outdoor lifestyle questions - hospitals want nurses who will stay long-term and integrate into the culture:
- "What outdoor activities brought you to Colorado?" (Common icebreaker)
- "How do you plan to handle altitude adjustment?" (Denver is 5,280 feet, affects some people)
- "What's your ideal work schedule to balance clinical work and outdoor recreation?"
- "Have you worked in similar outdoor-focused healthcare cultures?"
Marijuana Industry Impact on Colorado Nursing
Colorado legalized recreational marijuana in 2014, creating unique healthcare dynamics that every nurse should understand:
1. Cannabis Nursing Specialties (Emerging Field)
Opportunities:
- Cannabis clinics - Patient education on medical marijuana for chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy
- Dispensary nursing consultations - Helping patients navigate products, dosing, drug interactions
- Cannabis research nursing - University of Colorado leads national cannabis research studies
- Marijuana education programs - Community health nursing roles teaching safe use
Salaries: $70,000-$95,000 depending on role and experience.
Limitations: Still federally illegal, so hospital systems (especially those receiving federal funding) prohibit nurse involvement. Cannabis nursing is primarily private clinic work.
2. ER/Trauma Implications
Colorado ERs see unique marijuana-related presentations:
- Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome - Chronic heavy use causes cyclical vomiting. Denver Health/UCHealth developed specialized treatment protocols.
- Pediatric exposures - Edibles mistaken for regular candy, requiring ED intervention
- Impaired driving trauma - Marijuana-related MVAs, trauma nursing implications
- Drug interactions - Cannabis complicates anesthesia, post-op care
Colorado ER/trauma nurses receive specialized training in cannabis-related emergency care.
3. Drug Testing Policies for Nurses
Critical to understand: Despite state legalization, most Colorado hospitals still prohibit marijuana use for nurses due to:
- Federal regulations (marijuana remains Schedule I federally)
- Patient safety concerns (impairment risks)
- Joint Commission requirements for drug-free workplaces
Standard Policy:
- Pre-employment drug screening tests for THC (marijuana)
- Random drug testing during employment
- Positive THC tests typically result in non-hire or termination (even with medical marijuana card)
- Some employers (smaller clinics, home health) have more lenient policies, but hospital systems are strict
4. Patient Education Challenges
Colorado nurses must navigate complex conversations:
- Marijuana vs opioid alternatives for chronic pain management
- CBD interactions with medications (blood thinners, seizure meds)
- Safe use guidance (avoiding edibles with children, impaired driving risks)
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding contraindications
Many hospitals provide cannabis education modules for nurses to competently counsel patients.
Cost of Living Analysis: Where Your Salary Goes Furthest
Colorado's cost of living varies dramatically by region. Strategic location choices can significantly increase discretionary income.
Denver Metro (Highest Salaries, Highest Costs)
RN Salary: $85,000-$100,000
Monthly Expenses:
- 1BR apartment: $1,800-$2,200/month (Denver proper), $1,500-$1,800 (suburbs like Aurora, Thornton)
- Median home price: $550,000 (2024)
- Groceries: $350-$450/month (single person)
- Transportation: $200-$300/month (car insurance, gas, parking)
- State income tax: 4.40% flat rate
Net Take-Home (RN earning $90,000): ~$63,000 after taxes and housing (~$5,250/month).
Colorado Springs (Best Value in State)
RN Salary: $75,000-$88,000 (only 10-15% lower than Denver)
Monthly Expenses:
- 1BR apartment: $1,200-$1,600/month (30% cheaper than Denver)
- Median home price: $425,000 (23% cheaper than Denver)
- Groceries: $300-$400/month
- Lower overall costs across the board
Net Take-Home (RN earning $80,000): ~$67,000 after taxes and housing (~$5,580/month).
Colorado Springs Advantage: $8,000-$12,000/year MORE discretionary income than Denver despite slightly lower salaries. Plus access to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, excellent outdoor recreation.
Front Range Suburbs (Longmont, Lafayette, Erie)
RN Salary: $82,000-$95,000 (Front Range rates)
Monthly Expenses:
- 1BR apartment: $1,400-$1,800/month (15-20% cheaper than Denver/Boulder)
- Access to both Denver and Boulder hospital systems
- Small-town feel with metro area salaries
Strategy: Live in Longmont/Lafayette, work at UCHealth Boulder or Denver hospitals - best of both worlds.
Comparison: Colorado vs California
| Factor | Colorado (Denver) | California (Bay Area) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross Salary | $90,000 | $145,000 | CA (higher gross) |
| State Income Tax | -$3,960 (4.4%) | -$14,500 (10%+) | CO (lower tax) |
| Rent (1BR) | -$24,000/year | -$36,000/year | CO (33% cheaper) |
| Net Take-Home | ~$63,000 | ~$58,000 | CO WINS (+$5K/year) |
| Outdoor Access | 300+ sunshine days, Rockies | Coastal access, moderate climate | Tie (preference-based) |
Bottom Line: Colorado offers better take-home pay than California for most nurses, with comparable outdoor lifestyle at significantly lower cost.
Colorado Nursing License Requirements & Continuing Education
Initial Licensure
Colorado Board of Nursing Requirements:
- Graduate from accredited nursing program (ADN, BSN, or diploma)
- Pass NCLEX-RN examination
- Submit application to Colorado Board of Nursing (online portal)
- Criminal background check: $39.50
- Fingerprinting: $40-$50 (via approved vendor)
- License fee: $113 (multistate compact) or $86 (single-state Colorado only)
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks for initial license (faster than many states).
Multistate License: To obtain multistate privileges, you must declare Colorado as your primary state of residence (legal address, driver's license, voter registration). Worth it for nearly all nurses given travel/PRN opportunities.
License Renewal
Renewal Schedule: Every 2 years by September 30 of your birth year.
Renewal Fee: $113 (multistate) or $86 (single-state).
Renewal Window: 60 days before expiration date. Late renewals incur additional fees.
Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
Colorado requires ZERO mandatory CE hours for RN license renewal - one of few states with no CE requirement. This reduces burden compared to states requiring 20-30+ hours every renewal period.
HOWEVER - Employer Requirements: While the state doesn't mandate CE, hospitals typically require:
- BLS (Basic Life Support): Required by all employers, renewed every 2 years
- ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support): Required for ICU, ER, critical care - renewed every 2 years
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support): Required for pediatric nursing
- NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation): Required for L&D, NICU
- Specialty Certifications: Many employers expect specialty certs (CCRN, CEN, OCN) for advanced practice and pay differentials
Voluntary CE for Career Advancement: Even without state mandates, nurses pursue CE for:
- Specialty certifications (pay increases $2,000-$5,000/year)
- Career advancement (charge nurse, manager roles)
- Clinical competency maintenance
- National certifications (ANCC, specialty boards)
Colorado Nurse Practice Act Highlights
Colorado has a progressive Nurse Practice Act with expanded scope compared to many states:
- RNs can pronounce death - No physician required (reduces delays in end-of-life care)
- Expanded procedures - Certain procedures (catheterization, wound care) without direct physician oversight
- Independent nursing judgment - Strong protections for nursing clinical decision-making
- Telehealth-friendly - Supports remote nursing practice, especially relevant with compact license
Work-Life Balance & Scheduling
Colorado hospitals prioritize work-life balance more than many regions, recognizing outdoor lifestyle as a retention tool.
Common Scheduling Options
- 3x12 (Three 12-hour shifts/week): Most common for bedside nursing. Provides 4 consecutive days off for outdoor adventures.
- 4x10 (Four 10-hour shifts/week): Some clinics and ambulatory care settings. Still provides 3-day weekends.
- Weekend Option Programs: Work Friday-Sunday (3x12) for 36 hours pay + premium differential (often 20%+). Four full weekdays off.
- Compressed Schedules: Some hospitals offer 7-on/7-off or other compressed options for adventure travel.
- PRN/Per Diem: Pick up shifts as needed, ultimate flexibility for outdoor lifestyle.
Shift Differentials
Colorado hospitals typically offer:
- Night shift: +$4-$8/hour
- Weekend: +$3-$6/hour
- Holiday: 1.5x-2x base pay
- Charge nurse: +$3-$5/hour
- Specialty certification: +$1-$3/hour
Union Representation in Colorado
Colorado has MODERATE union presence compared to states like California, New York, Washington. Union representation is growing but not yet dominant.
Major Nursing Unions
- Colorado Nurses Association (CNA) - Professional association, advocates for nursing practice and policy (not collective bargaining union)
- National Nurses United (NNU) - Some presence at Denver Health, organizing efforts ongoing
- SEIU Healthcare - Limited presence in long-term care facilities
Union vs Non-Union: Most Colorado hospitals are non-union. Denver Health has some union representation, but UCHealth, Children's Colorado, SCL Health are predominantly non-union.
What This Means:
- Salary negotiations are individual or system-wide (not collectively bargained in most cases)
- Benefits vary by employer rather than union contracts
- Growing organizing efforts - Denver Health nurses exploring stronger union presence
- Less job protection than heavily unionized states (at-will employment)
Career Advancement Pathways in Colorado
Clinical Advancement
- Charge Nurse: +$3-$5/hour, requires 2-3 years experience, often requires BSN
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): $95,000-$115,000, requires MSN, specialized advanced practice role
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $110,000-$140,000, requires MSN/DNP, independent practice in Colorado (collaborative agreement required)
- Specialty Certifications: CCRN, CEN, OCN, CNOR add $2,000-$5,000/year in pay
Leadership/Management
- Nurse Manager: $100,000-$130,000, manages unit operations, staffing, budgets
- Director of Nursing: $120,000-$160,000, oversees multiple units or service lines
- CNO (Chief Nursing Officer): $180,000-$250,000+, executive leadership, requires MSN/DNP + significant experience
Education
- Nurse Educator: $80,000-$100,000, teaching in nursing programs (University of Colorado, Regis University, Metro State)
- Clinical Instructor: $75,000-$90,000, hospital-based education roles
Research
- Research Nurse: $85,000-$105,000, UCHealth and University of Colorado lead Colorado nursing research
- Clinical Trials Coordinator: $80,000-$95,000, pharmaceutical and medical device research
Bottom Line: Is Colorado Right for You?
Colorado is IDEAL for nurses who:
- Prioritize outdoor lifestyle and work-life balance over maximum salary
- Want eNLC compact state benefits for travel nursing and multistate practice
- Seek academic medical center excellence (UCHealth) or specialty pediatric care (Children's Colorado)
- Value progressive healthcare culture and marijuana-era nursing practice
- Prefer 300+ days of sunshine and Rocky Mountain access over coastal living
- Want better cost of living than California while maintaining competitive West Coast salaries
Colorado may NOT be ideal for nurses who:
- Prioritize absolute maximum salary (California, Washington, Massachusetts pay more gross)
- Require strong union representation and collective bargaining (minimal in Colorado)
- Prefer urban/coastal culture over mountain lifestyle
- Want low cost of living (rural Midwest/South offer lower housing costs)
- Struggle with altitude (Denver at 5,280 feet affects some people)
Bottom Line: Should You Work in Colorado?
If you're okay with Denver rent approaching SF levels, Colorado's worth it—UCHealth and Children's Hospital Colorado are legitimate powerhouses, the outdoor culture is real, and the Compact license gives you travel flexibility. But here's my honest take: aim for Colorado Springs or Fort Collins first. You'll make almost the same money, pay way less rent, and still get the Rocky Mountain lifestyle without the financial squeeze.
Denver's great if you're young, single, and want the urban scene. But if you're trying to save money or buy a house someday? The suburbs or secondary cities are the smarter play. Colorado's nursing market is strong—just don't let the mountains blind you to the rent prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this topic