Hospital vs. Nursing Agency?

[tauries]

Hello,

Can anyone tell me what's the difference between applying to a nursing agency to help you get a job versus applying straight to the hospital of your choice? What are the pros and cons? Because my co-worker told me that I would get paid less if I applied with the agency, but they do help me find a place to stay versus applying with the hospital I get paid more, but I have to find my own place. Can anyone tell me more about how this works because I just graduated and I want to work in California. My co-worker tells me to get endorsed by the agency-- I really don't know what that means!

[caliotter3]

I think you want to know that agency nursing is typically travel nursing (assignments of usually 13 weeks duration) or working at local hospitals for varying amounts of time (a "staffer", but an employee of the agency). In both of these examples you are not an employee of the hospital where you are working, and only work there while assigned there by your employer, the agency. When you apply directly to the hospital, you are applying for a permanent job at that hospital only. Don't know what your friend means by getting "endorsed" by an agency, unless they are referring to the agency is acting as the go between and you don't have to worry much about selling yourself to the hospital. But this is not entirely true. Even when referred by an agency, the hospital may interview you and accept or reject you. Same as if you were to apply for a permanent position with them.