Is agency work a good idea for a new nurse?

[Vernie08]

I have been a nurse for 1 year. I work at a LTC facility. I am still learning everyday. My problem is that I wanted to do some agency nursing on the side you know some part time work. The angency will work with my hours at my current job and this gives me some home health care experience. It's just that it's kind of a solo thing and I would not have a fellow nurse to run to with my many questions that I seem to always have. It's only one patient at a time but I'm really scared that I may not know what I'm doing. I really really want to gain this new experience and have been planning to do so once my year of nursing experience was up. Should I wait a little longer and build up some more knowledge at my current job, or should I go for it now. I really want to do the best for my patient that I may get but I don't know if I can yet. I need some advice asap because the agency wants me now. They are really trying to work with me but am I ready? What do you think?

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

If you're questioning whether or not you're ready, you might not be. Is there any way they'd let you shadow someone first?

[nkara, CNA]

I'd say go for it.. I loved home care when I did it. It's a completely different environment. One on One care with that patient. You're only a phone call away for any questions and they are very compassionate with your other work schedule. At least with the two agencies I worked for. Good luck.

[ANH_RN]

I have always had an interest in home health care. Agencies around here require at least 2 years of med-surg type experience. I am almost 10 months in and I would not be comfortable on my own. But then again, it's ME. If you think it would be a great experience for you and they think you can handle it go for it. I am sure there is at least SOMEONE you can call for questions?