Pool Position

Every organization organizes it's internal nursing pool differently. In some, all positions are considered generalists, who work in all areas. In others, pool nurses are organized according to specialty. So, the answer to your questions... "it all depends". In general, the more diverse skills & competencies you have, the more often you'll be scheduled. Your ability to get along with other staff & "hit the ground running" without a lot of support will also make you more popular. In large hospitals, it's not unusual for the most preferred Pool Nurses to be utilized as fill-in for nurses on FMLA & parental leave... in these cases, they're booked well in advance.

Ask for information about the average number of shifts that Pool Nurses worked each pay period - the organization should be able to provide this.

As HouTx said it can really vary, every hospital will be different.

My first pool position I was on their four week schedule and never cancelled. I came to work and my assignment was posted by the time clock.

My second pool position I was given a schedule for 4 weeks indicating what days I was expected, scheduled, to work. Depending on what shift I worked, 7 am to 3 pm, 3 pm to 11 pm, 11 pm to 7 am, I was called 2 - 4 hours prior to my shift and told where I would work or if I was cancelled.

Ask for something in writing if they say, or promise, you what hours you will get. It doesn't need to be a signed contract, but something in writing will help in case there are any problems or confusion down the road. Ask what happens if you are told to work, show up, there is a mistake and you are sent home?

If you will be called on your scheduled days to let you know if or where you will work, find out who does the daily staffing. Become their friend, find out if they mind if you call them a few hours before your shift so you will know. I can't imagine why they would mind, saves them having to call you?

Of course this is in the old timey days before cell phones. I would think it may be easier with texting, cell phones, etc., for everyone involved.