Thinking about Relocating : need advice to make the relocation easier

[Nurse Beth]

Hi Nurse Beth,

I'm an RN of 4.5yrs and live in MI. I've always worked for the same facility which is a 300 bed hospital. I've done medsurg/tele and L&D both of which I don't particularly want to go back. I'm in outpatient ambulatory surgery now and love it. Anyway, I'm considering moving to Tennessee. I'm married and have 3 children so it's a big decision. My husband's pay is a bit higher there or possibly the same, but more jobs; mine I've heard wages would be a bit lower. Cost of living seems close from what I can see. No property taxes though. Anyway, I know I'd have to get my license there, I'd be going from a non-contract state to a contract state so I'm not positive how that works. But I'd like to get that part started ahead of time but I don't want it to inactivate my license here in MI in case we changed our minds and decide not to move or something. Also I have heard recently from a friend that's a travel nurse that I should work with an agency and they'd help with my relocation or I'd make more money? I honestly don't know anything about agency nursing. I work in outpatient surgery right now part time by choice and I absolutely love it. Not sure I am willing to give up my position either. I don't want to go back to floor nursing. I have a day shift now, no call. I completely love it. But I hate MI weather and the economy is awful here and we kinda just want a fresh start and to experience what else is out there. Any advice on the best way to make a relocation happen regarding just applying to a hospital there or using an agency? Would you risk giving up a position you loved for the unknown?

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Dear Thinking About Re-Locating:

It is hard to think about leaving the perfect job because there are no guarantees that you'll immediately find the same set of conditions you enjoy now. At the same time, you'll have regrets if you don't go for it. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes.

Using a travel agency to find contract work in your targeted city in Tennessee has the advantage of finding you a temporary position ready to step into when you get there. Then you can take a few months to get the lay of the land, find out the best places to work, etc., while still drawing a pay check.

Many hospitals and even outpatient clinics offer re-location assistance for experienced nurses as well, you just have to ask. You can apply online to start the process.

Best of luck in your new adventure,

Nurse Beth

[Mhays]

That is a great thing to be relocating. I am relocating as well and I am finding out that it is hard to get everything in order and just get the small things taken care of. I find that these tips are the best and they are:

1. Start early

2. Get all paper work in order early for work.

3. Get the relocation papers ready to go.

4. Call people to let them know about the new address.

I wish you all of the best.

[mirandagwalker]

Please may I have some advice I have applied for a band 6 post and I have to do a presentation. This is the title 'How would you know you were delivering a high quality specialist palliative care service in the community?'

At present I am a band 5 and I have had 10 years post registration experience and the last three years I have worked in a hospice my interview is on 14 December. I really would appreciate your help. Thanks so much.

[Mhays]

Congratulations in looking into your relocation. I have just relocated myself and I did these following steps which I believe will help you:

1. Google the location that you are trying to relocate.

2. Go to your local library and get some books on your new location.

3 Ask your employer for information about your new location too.

I hope this helps you out and congratulations to you.

[marcellahays1]

Here is what I would do:

1. Ask questions in your community about this aspect.

2. Ask your members of the community what they want to see or are looking for.

3. Write a survey questionaire and ask the people in the community for their opinions.