relocating to florida

[brannach]

Hi Everyone,I just love all the info on this site and am hoping that someone can give me any info on the hospitals in the south west area of Florida.We are relocating this summer to the Port Charlotte,Fort Myers area.I have been in psych for 15 years.I would love to switch to maternity but I know it is hard to get into.I always hear that you need 1-2 years experience first .i would like any info on nursing in Florida,pay rates etc.I have applied for my license(any day now)I know the pay is a lot less but no more snow and ice will be a welcome change.Thanks:rotfl:

[brannach]

Thanks for the reply.How is travel nursing in Florida,sounds interesting.I am still checking into hospitals.I would love to switch from psych to maternity hopefully I can find a hospital that will allow that.Thanks again for the info.

Yes Florida has a very diverse population. Just finishing a travel assignment in North Florida. During orientation was told that the population of the state is one of the most diverse in the country. Also advised if one has a problem with that to leave now.

As far as the hospitals in that area I cant give you much information. Farther North however in the Orlando area there are literally a hundered options within about 50 miles.

Also strart working on getting your license now or at least 2 to 3 month ahead of time. Florida at times is slow at process of endorsement. And it being the time of year that there are lots of new grads testing it could slow things down. Minimum it takes a month.

rj:rolleyes:

[rjflyn, ASN, RN]

So far so good. My first assignment was up the other day. Getting ready to start my second. The first hospital really wanted me to stay on as staff. But knowing what I make as a travel nurse and what their payscale was it wasnt going to happen at this time.

Benefits were mentioned in another post and I look at what the hospital provides even though I will not be using them as it give on an idea as to how they feel about their staff in general. I have in my mind that being a health care worker my benefits should be the best avalible and at no or minimal cost to me. SO if they feel staff are important they will have those costs low.

rj:rolleyes: