Should I start working at an agency as a new grad?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

I strongly advise against starting in an agency as a new grad.

Agency nurses must be able to hit the ground running and are expected to operate with minimal supervision. They must also adapt quickly, make decisions, and handle various patient situations without much guidance.

Reputable agencies generally look for nurses with at least one year of experience and two years to work in specialty fields. If an agency is hiring new grads, it's a red flag.

Consider applying to a residency program. Six-month to year-long residencies exist to help new grads successfully transition from nursing school to the workforce.

You need feedback, support, oversight, and a daily routine with a gradual increase in responsibility.

As a new grad, and after all you've accomplished, you owe it to yourself to get the most support and structure possible in your first year.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

[Lynker, LPN]

I agree with Nurse Beth, please don't go to agency as a first job. Many require experience anyway, but you are not skilled enough to handle being a new nurse AND every single nursing task without help. As a past supervisor and current agency nurse, I've seen plenty of agency staff that need constant help with every little thing. It's just not sustainable. Like Beth said, you owe it to yourself to get your proper training, wherever that may be. I would advise to at least have a year under your belt before applying to an agency.

Good luck! 🙂