Questions for nurses who have travelled.

[Grow_a_Soul]

1. How do these agencies afford to pay these high rates? I know the hospitals pay them but my whole thing is if the hospitals would pay that to regular staff wouldnt that be easier and then they wouldnt constantly be having new nurses rolling in? How is it feasible?

2. What kind of orientation to the facility do you typically get if any? And also what kind of time frame do you have between arrival and starting work. Do you actually have time to get to visit the place or are you working all the time?

3. How do the nurses act toward you? Do they ever get bitter b/c your making twice as much as they are? Or are they helpful and glad to have you there?

These are just a few things I have always wondered about travellers.

Thanks!

[RNERHOUSESUPOR]

1. Remember the nursing shortage. Places that use travel nurses don't have enough nurses in the area to fill the vacancies. The amounts Travel nurses are paid are not DOUBLE the rate paid to staff. Supply and demand usually regulates the cost, of course we all know how that has been altered by various individuals in the markets and other areas where the money is just numbers and not actual products or supplies.

2.Orientation is much shorter than what you would get as a "New" staff person. You need to be well rounded in your desired specialty and able to pick up on the various needs specific to the facility. I try to work 3 twelve hour shifts and then I have 4 days to explore and enjoy the area.

3. If you have a good attitude, are skilled in your specialty and are willing to work , the staff appreciate you . Management too. I have been to the same hospital several different times. I started travel nursing in 1989 and still enjoy it. It's not for everyone though.

That's my opinion.

Rod