10 Mistakes to Avoid While Finding a Travel Nurse Agency

A travel nurse agency is a staffing agency that hires nurses to work temporary assignments in various healthcare facilities. Travel nursing in the US has become a $10 billion industry. These agencies typically provide benefits, housing, and travel expenses for their employees.

If you’re a nurse considering a travel nursing job, it’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable agency. When it comes to finding the appropriate travel nurse agencies, nurses often make a few common mistakes. Avoid these errors to ensure you find the best possible agency for your needs.

1. Not Checking Credentials

One of the essential things to do when choosing a travel nurse agency is to check their credentials. Ensure the Joint Commission accredits the agency and has a good rating with the Better Business Bureau. It’s also essential to verify that the agency is licensed to operate in your state. Make sure you ask to see their credentials before you sign any contracts.

2. Not Asking About Benefits

When considering a travel nurse job, it’s crucial to determine what benefits the agency offers. Some agencies offer comprehensive benefits packages that include health insurance, housing allowances, and travel reimbursement. Others may only offer a limited number of benefits, so it’s crucial to determine what’s included in your contract before you sign anything.

3. Not Verifying Housing Arrangements

If the travel nurse agency you’re considering offers to house, verify the arrangements before you accept the job. Find out if the housing is furnished and what amenities are included. You should also ask about the housing location and whether or not you’ll have your bedroom. Be sure you’re comfortable with the housing arrangements before agreeing to take the job.

4. Not Checking References

Before you sign a contract with an agency, check their references. Ask other nurses if they’ve worked with the agency and if they were satisfied with their experience. You can verify online reviews to see what others have said about the agency. Be sure you’re working with a reputable agency before agreeing to take a job.

5. Not Reading the Contract Carefully

Before you sign a contract with a travel nurse agency, read it carefully. Pay attention to the job details and make sure you understand all the terms of the contract. Don’t be afraid to ask any queries if there’s anything you don’t understand.

Be sure you’re comfortable with the contract terms before you sign it. Sometimes, agencies will try to sneak in hidden fees or other terms that aren’t favorable to nurses.

6. Not Having a Backup Plan

Even if you’re careful in your research, there’s always a chance that things could go wrong with a travel nurse agency. It’s vital to have a backup plan. Have a list of other agencies you’re considering so you can easily switch if necessary. It’s a good idea to have some money saved up if you need to find housing on your own.

7. Not Staying Organized

When working with a nursing agency, staying organized is essential. Keep track of essential documents and know when your contract is up. It’s a good idea to keep in touch with your recruiter so you can ask questions and stay up-to-date on any changes. By staying organized, you can avoid problems and make sure your experience is positive.

8. Not Asking for Help

If you’re having trouble finding travel nurse agencies or understanding your contract, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can also contact a professional organization like the American Nurses Association. They can help you find agencies and answer any questions about your contract.

9. Working with an Agency That has a Bad Reputation

There are some agencies out there that have a bad reputation. Ensure to do your research and read reviews before signing a contract with an agency. You don’t want to end up where you’re not being paid, or the housing is subpar. By working with a reputable agency, you can avoid these problems and have a positive experience.

10. Not Negotiating Your Salary

When you’re considering a travel nursing job, negotiate your salary. Don’t accept the first offer you receive. Instead, take some time to research the going rate for travel nurses in your area. Then, use this information to negotiate a higher salary. You can ensure that you’re being paid what you’re worth.

Conclusion

Choosing a travel nurse agency doesn’t have to be complicated. Just ensure to do your research and avoid making these common mistakes. With a little bit of effort, you can find an agency that’s a good fit for you. Then, you can enjoy the benefits of travel nursing and explore new parts of the country.