[Brownms46]

Originally Posted by mandykal

Kisha,

What's the name of the Agency, I would like to fill in an application once I complete a LPN Course. I also live in connecticut....And yes...Agencies pay bid bucks!

I am sure you are aware that you will need experience before going to an agency. Yes there are agencies that will take new grads, but I wouldn't be one of them.

[Gldngrl]

Brownie-
Read in your previous post that you are working as an "advice nurse"...what exactly does that entail? Is that similar to triage or is that more like an educator? Thanks.

[graysonret]

I've worked for agencies now, for several years. Yes, I make more money than a staff nurse, but the hours are never guaranteed. I've had great weeks and terrible weeks. You need, at least, 1 year hospital experience before you can do agency work. Some agencies, like the one I primarily work, do offer good benefits, including paid vacation. I do like working for myself and the freedom it gives, plus the challenges it offers. You have to be dedicated to work though, one can go broke "goofing off". "If you don't open the store, you don't make a profit".

[rnmaven]

Agency work isn't for everyone but if you can be flexible and you are a good nurse you will never be out of work. In the NY metro area RN's are getting between $45 to $55 per hour. Most give you benefits and vacation pay too.

The downside is that unless you are able to go to a few hospitals and like to work independently you will have fluctuations in cash flow. If you are flexible, the sky's the limit as far as I'm concerned. When the work is abundant I crunch a bunch of hours. Then I take off long stretches of time to rest. It's worked well for me for the past 4 years....don't know if I'll continue to do it full time when I finish up with grad school, but even if you just did a perdiem weekend you'd make $1200 for pulling a Friday/Saturday night...can't beat that for extra income.

If you build a reputation as a hard, conscientious worker you'll never be out of work!
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