Nursing is a noble profession that requires dedication, skill, and empathy. Agency nursing, which involves working for a nursing agency that supplies staff to hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, is often misunderstood. Many myths about agency nursing persist, which can prevent nurses from exploring this career path. In this blog post, we will debunk ten common myths about agency nursing.
Myth 1: Agency nurses only work in temporary positions.
This is not true. While agency nursing is often associated with temporary or short-term assignments, many agencies offer long-term or permanent positions. Additionally, agency nurses can choose to work as much or as little as they want, providing flexibility and control over their schedules.
Myth 2: Agency nursing is only for new nurses.
This is also false. While agency nursing can be a good way for new nurses to gain experience and exposure to different healthcare settings, it is not limited to new nurses. Many experienced nurses choose to work for agencies as a way to maintain a flexible schedule, gain new experiences, and supplement their income.
Myth 3: Agency nurses are not as skilled as staff nurses.
This is a common misconception. Agency nurses are just as skilled as staff nurses and often have more diverse experiences. Agency nurses must be able to adapt quickly to new settings and patient populations, which requires a high level of skill and expertise.
Myth 4: Agency nurses are paid less than staff nurses.
While agency nurses may not receive the same benefits as staff nurses, such as health insurance and paid time off, they are typically paid a higher hourly rate to compensate for this. Additionally, agency nurses often have more control over their schedules and can choose to work more or fewer hours as needed.
Myth 5: Agency nurses have no job security.
While agency nurses may not have the same job security as staff nurses, agencies work hard to ensure that their nurses have steady employment opportunities. Many agencies have long-standing relationships with healthcare facilities and can offer consistent work to their nurses.
Myth 6: Agency nurses are not part of the healthcare team.
This is false. Agency nurses are an essential part of the healthcare team and work alongside staff nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide quality patient care.
Myth 7: Agency nurses are not trained to use electronic health records (EHRs).
Most agencies provide training to their nurses on the specific EHR systems used by the healthcare facilities they work with. Additionally, agency nurses often have experience working with different EHR systems, which can make them more adaptable and efficient.
Myth 8: Agency nurses cannot specialize in a particular area of nursing.
This is not true. Many agencies offer opportunities for nurses to specialize in a particular area of nursing, such as critical care, pediatrics, or oncology. Additionally, agency nurses can choose to work in settings that align with their interests and skills.
Myth 9: Agency nursing is not a real nursing job.
This is a harmful myth that can discourage nurses from exploring agency nursing as a career option. Agency nursing is a legitimate and essential part of the healthcare industry that provides vital support to healthcare facilities and patients.
Myth 10: Agency nurses cannot build relationships with patients.
This is false. Agency nurses may work with patients on a short-term basis, but they can still build relationships and provide compassionate care. Agency nurses often have experience working with diverse patient populations and can quickly establish rapport with patients and their families.
In conclusion, agency nursing is a valuable and rewarding career option for nurses. While there are many myths surrounding agency nursing, it is important to understand the facts and consider all of the opportunities and benefits that this career path can offer.
Alternatively, if you’re considering agency nursing but don’t know where to start, contact one of our dedicated recruitment consultants at Medical Staffing who would be happy to help!
