Dispelling the myths of agency nursing

There are many myths about agency nursing, but how many are true? In this blog post, we’re going to put to rest some of these myths and show you why working with a nursing agency has something to offer for everyone.

Myth #1: Agency nurses don’t receive benefits

Each nursing agency you come across will offer a slightly different benefits package, so you can choose the one most suited to you.

Pulse Nursing offers competitive hourly rates, which vary according to speciality, grade and location. Our hourly rate also includes an element of holiday pay. This means our nurses receive a payment in respect of their accrued holiday entitlement each time they are paid, regardless of when they take time off. This leaves them free to enjoy paid leave at any time and any notice, without hassle.

We’re also passionate about helping our nurses fulfil their professional goals. That’s why we provide access to online training and development and revalidation support. Many of our team have had nursing careers themselves, so if you join Pulse Nursing, you can be confident that we understand your career aspirations and requirements.

Always on the go? Our exclusive app, ipoint, was built with our healthcare professionals in mind. You can update availability and book into shifts all at the touch of a button.

On top of the benefits mentioned above, our nurses can enjoy extra cash by recommending a friend or colleague and receive up to £500*.

Myth #2: My job isn’t secure

It’s completely up to you how many shifts you work. Whether you’re looking for the odd ad-hoc shift here or there, part-time or full-time agency, there is something to suit everyone.

If you’re worried about how working with an agency will affect your eligibility for things such as a mortgage, don’t worry. There are many specialist mortgage advisers out there who will help you to buy your dream home, and there is a lot of information available online.

Myth #3: There isn’t enough work

We’re proud to have a wide choice of shifts available across the NHS and private sector, in a variety of locations and specialities. We’re also a tier 1 supplier and master vendor to several clients, meaning we’re able to offer our nurses the first choice of shifts (before any other agency).

The amount of work on offer will also depend on the type of work you’re looking for and how flexible you are (such as your willingness to travel).

If you’d like to find out more about the work and rates available in your area with Pulse Nursing, please get in touch with the team.

Myth #4: I won’t be supported

At Pulse Nursing, we think the relationship between our nurses and their consultant is paramount. All our nursing professionals are assigned to a dedicated recruitment consultant who will fully support them in their quest for work and be their first port of call should they require assistance. Whether it’s concerns about a shift or queries about pay, our team are always on hand to help.

Myth #5: I will find it hard to get a full-time, permanent job

Working agency gives you some huge advantages, should you decide to move back to a more traditional full-time job. To begin with, working as an agency nurse means working in a wide variety of settings. You’re exposed to several different procedures, systems, and experiences. As a result, you make yourself more attractive to employers. The more you know, and the more you are exposed to, the more valuable you will become as your skillset grows.

Working as an agency nurse will also help you develop your interpersonal skills. You are familiar with meeting new people, building relationships quickly, and adjusting to change. These are attributes that you can take with you, to any new job.

Myth #6: Agency nursing is just a temporary option

Agency nursing is a great way to earn extra money, whether you’re topping up your income on your days off or looking for a new opportunity. But today, agency work itself has become a popular career option. The variety of opportunities, the attractive pay packages, the freedom it provides and the ability to select your shifts and clients are just some of the reasons why more and more nurses are choosing agency work as their career path. If you value flexibility, speak to a member of our team about becoming a full-time agency nurse.

Myth #7: I don’t get much say in when and where I work

One of the most appealing aspects of working agency is the control it gives you over the work that you accept. Setting, location, shift, pay… you can decide whether it’s right for you or not.

Pulse Nursing works closely with all nurses to understand their needs and find them work that best matches their requirements and lifestyle. Don’t believe us? Take a look at the vast number of jobs here.

Myth #8: I’ll be treated differently on shift

Our clients recognise the critical role agency nurses play in the successful delivery of quality patient care and use agency nurses regularly. They are accustomed to new staff being there and have developed ways to get new workers up to speed and part of the team quickly. They appreciate agency nurses’ skills, experience, and support, and will work hard to make sure they have a positive experience.

If you’re an agency nurse about to work your first shift, check out our first shift guide here.

There has never been a better time to consider joining a nursing agency. If you’d like to hear more about the opportunities available in your area with Pulse Nursing and the benefits on offer, register your interest and a member of the team will be in touch.

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