Where do I start?

Dixielee, BSN, RN · Jul 1, 2005

I am considering traveling nursing, if grad school doesn't work out for me to begin in September, sort of a backup plan. I'm an oncology nurse with 2 years experience.
I've spoken with Aureus, Fast Staff, and Medical Express. They all sound about the same. I feel sort of lost as to where is the best place/agency for me. How do you choose an agency to work with? And after an agency is chosen, how do you choose the right assignment?
Has anyone had good or bad experiences with these or other agencies? Any suggestions on other agencies?

Start by taking an hour or so and reading thru the threads on this forum. You will begin to see some agencies that stand out as good and bad. You will also get a feel for what to expect, how to negotiate, etc. As far as assignments go, you need to have a year of recent experience in the area you want to work. Find a city you want to try and then see if there are any positions. Many travelers are signed up with numerous agencies. I found a good one early on a stayed with it and have been glad I did. If you are very specific about where you want to go, you may have to be patient of sign up with lots of companies.

You need to be prepared to take the assignement though, if you have your recruiter go to all the trouble of getting presenting your profile, getting you an interview, etc. I am not saying that you must take every job you interview for, but I would not make that a habit or you may find yourself looking for a new company. Read this forum and get some idea, and check back for more specific questions when you have a better feel for it. Good luck, I love traveling.