Thinking about Agency work

[mom4josh]

I've been working as an Oncology Charge Nurse for 5 years now. I really like the stability and familiarity of being in the same place every night and all that goes with knowing everyone, policies, etc. Love the hospital, despite quite a few policy changes recently.

However, I have heard about an agency who is placing med/surg RN's in a hospital that is only 5 miles away from home (working 38 miles away now), that would pay $14 more per hour, with medical benefits from day 1. I could probably get the schedule I want, and make more money with less hours, plus save all the time & money on traveling. However, not sure that this hospital's policies are all that great either. But it would only be for a 12 week contract.

Anyone out there who has made the switch? Regretted it or been pleased? Would appreciate any input. Thanks!

[suzanne4, RN]

The only thing that you can do is try it, there are those love agency work and those that hate it. It will depend alot on how easily you can adapt to things, and the way that other facilities do things. It may be quite different from what you are used to.

Suggest that you take a leave from your facility, and do not quit that job to make sure that you like it, or try it on your days off before making a commitment to something that you are not sure of.

It is not always greeener at the other facility.