Thinking about travel nursing ICU

[nurse24_]

Hi Everyone! I am looking for some advice on taking my first time travel contract for ICU. I have been an ICU nurse for 3 years and with the contract rates out there I have really been thinking about taking one. Can anyone give me some tips? things they learned along the way? Also has anyone taken contract assignments at Kaiser (southern California) and what should I expect? Thank you all in advance for your help and insight!?

[NedRN]

The main issue travelers have had historically with Kaiser is floating. Staff works 8 hours, travelers 12 hour shifts. It may not be as much an issue with ICU as floor nursing, but it is possible for you to get floated every four hours. Most get used to it according to travelers I've met working at Kaiser (I'm OR - seldom floated). But it can be a shock of cold water for first time Kaiser travelers. It does improve your charting efficiency!

Personally, I like Kaisers. They feel similar to VAs or say the British healthcare system with most providers on salary. Laid back, and progressive research based policies. On the other hand, staff do not feel good about Kaiser (poor morale) and strikes are common. That's all the pluses and minuses I can think of. You can expect an automated interview system by the vendor manager (American Mobile I believe still has the contract) and expect to describe how you handle a stressful situation.