Working agency

catrn10 · Mar 2, 2003

I have worked agency for nearly three years. I am currently starting an assignment,traveling in Macon, Ga. I always am nervous when I start a new position. I have learned to organize myself quickly and make sure I am oriented to the facility I am working at. Other than the charting, Nursing care is pretty universal. Just be sure to chart correctly and ask questions if you don't know the hospitals procedure for certain things. there is always a manual lying around that will tell you, make sure you know where it is. If you are diligent, keep your mouth shut, and arrive on time, you should do ok. Be careful what you say and don't tell employees what you make. Some hospitals will fire you for it. Once they get to know you, you usually have a pretty smooth time of it.

sjoe · Mar 2, 2003

There is an agency nurses forum on this BB, if you want to hear more.

wolfie · Mar 2, 2003

I've worked agency for 6 years. I either work at home or travel and I wouldn't work any other way. I hope I will never have to work for a hospital again. :nono:You have to be very flexible.but essentially nursing is universal. I go in take care of the pt and I get out. No politics No listening to *****ing and moaning. Like the previous post said don't talk alot and follow the hospitals procedure and you will be fine

mattsmom81 · Mar 2, 2003

Agency has its percs and it's pitfalls for sure. If you are experienced, self confident, independent....and are savvy to how to stay out of trouble with coworkers... you will probably do well as agency and enjoy the variety and the extra $$.

Now I have friends who prefer to go to the same place every day, and know who they're going to work with, and know the docs, etc....those are the types that enjoy the comfort of 'home' turf. We are all different...whatever floats our boat should be what we go for. :)

Personally I love being able to focus on my patients and not get sucked into/distracted by unit and hospital problems and politics.

nightingale, RN · Mar 2, 2003

It is the only way to go, as far as I am concerned. It is deffiniitely NOT for everyone. Come visit us and learn more on the Agency Nurse Forum.