[lgnurse20]

I am going to start agency in about 2 weeks so I can have more flexibility with school. Needless to say I am nervous about what to expect. I honestly don't know how all of this works. Can anyone give me insight...Also I need to buy health insurance and don't know where to start.

[suzanne4]

In what category? RN, LPN, CNA?
You usually give the agency a list of days that you are available, and the specialties that you are available for. They will try to match you with thier facility needs.

If they start bothering you to work when you are not available, look for another agency, or ask to speak to the manager of the agency. Especially when you are getting woken up, and yes, this does happen.

[lgnurse20]

I am a RN. Do you usually get enough work? I feel like this is a stupid questions because of the nursing shortage, but something I worry about. I am cutting down my hours at my job now to 16 hours, but still need a comparable income.

[suzanne4]

It will depend on the agency, as well as specialty. Some agency work becomes more seasonal in certain locations. Suggest that you sign up with at least two agencies. You never want to put all of your eggs in one basket.

[lgnurse20]

I am on with 2 agencies because that was I heard was a good idea. With the 2 agencies do I give them the same availability? I will be able to work wednesday,Thursday, friday and sunday. So do I tell both agencies the same days?

[suzanne4]

Give it to one and see what they come up with, or be prepared for a million phone calls. If you give them dates, they will book and then let you know. Not good to have two booking at the same time. But if you get cancelled, then call the other one.