What about Floaters?

MollyJ · May 5, 2002

Well, I don't know that I would choose to float to as many sub-specialty places as you mentioned BUT fresh out of school, I floated for 6 months, generally to med-surg, ortho, step down ICU and a little post-partum and peds (more post-partum than peds and this was WAY before LDRPP was a twinkle in anyone's eye).

People were generally happy to see you. (Whether they stay happy to see you is up to you.)

You weren't as roped into the intra-departmental politics.

In general no one had a lot of loyalty towards you either, and you might have a hard time getting help. I floated in the hospital I trained in, so it wasn't a horrible transition. I was happy to take a permanent position when one came up, but I got an opportunity to look over a lot of units to know where I wanted to go.

Agnus · May 5, 2002

Versitility, flexibility secondary to, developing a broad range of knowledge and skill.

I think the down side would be greater but that is not what you asked.

mattsmom81 · May 5, 2002

Floaters are generally PRN or pool staff, but I've been noticing some hospitals in my area now offer FT float positions with full benefits which is new. :)

Most PRN nurses do it for the $$ and flexible hours they can get.

Teshiee · May 5, 2002

One advantage is change. Some nurses like different settings not getting to comfortable in one area. 2) A general vast knowledge in each area. 3)keep you mentally focus different area may keep you on your toes.

Personally I hate to float. I will work in different NICU'S as registry but not float out to Med Surg. There tends to be an abuse factor with some facilities. I agreed to float out and I never saw NICU again. Then I worked in NBnsy the PP nurses dumped their babies on me. It depends where you work and how organized each floor is. For the most part it would sure make you a well rounded nurses. Jack of all trades a master of none.