If you’re contemplating a career as an agency nurse, it’s likely you’ll have a lot of questions about what to expect. At Mayday Healthcare we’ve been helping registered nurses secure agency work since 2003, so we’re very well positioned to answer some of these questions. 

 

Agency Nurse Jobs: How do I become an agency nurse?

The first step to finding an agency nurse job is to register with a nursing recruitment agency. Mayday Healthcare, for example, have a quick and easy registration process for registered nurses. Simply fill out our registration form and one of our expert team members will be in touch to guide you through the remainder of the application, the compliance stages and to establish your preferred areas of work. You’ll need your NMC PIN, DBS and proof of vaccinations. Once you’re all set up, you can book shifts depending on your availability and desired locations for an agency nurse job- Mayday will send you all the information you’ll need and we also supply you with a Mayday Healthcare uniform and ID Badge. 

 

What can I expect on my first agency nurse shift?

Your first shift as an agency nurse might feel a bit daunting. A Mayday Healthcare recruitment consultant will be on hand at any time to answer questions you have, even out of hours. We highly recommend doing some research about the trust and ward beforehand, and make sure you’ve got everything you need with you, like your ID and a pen - this really helps to make a great first impression. You’ll usually receive an induction to the unit, but don’t be afraid to ask questions if it’s safe to do so. Mayday Healthcare have put together a useful employee handbook containing policies and procedures that will help you refresh your knowledge of guidelines and standards in your agency nurse job.

 

 

What is the most challenging part of an agency nurse job?

An agency nurse job can feel drastically different to a permanent nurse job. Moving between different wards and trusts means that you’re always having to learn new unit layouts, understand a variety of systems and integrate with already established teams. However, the things that make an agency nurse job challenging are also the things that can give you the greatest job satisfaction. 

 

What is the most rewarding part of an agency nurse job?

Working in an agency nurse job means that you’re providing care where help is needed the most. Every shift gives you the opportunity to make a difference. Alongside this, you’ll be gaining valuable experience across a number of environments and you’ll be developing your knowledge every single day. 

 

How much do agency nurses get paid?

Agency nurses can enjoy salaries that are higher than average, based on the premise that agency work is less reliable than full time, permanent work - so agency nurses are offered a premium on their wages. Agency nurse pay rates vary according to specialism (such as RGN, ITU nurse, A&E Nurse and so on) and by location. Pay rates can range between £20 an hour and £37 pounds an hour, depending on factors like region, level of experience and day of the week, like weekends and bank holidays. 

 

If you’re looking for an agency nurse job, or have any questions about how to register, get in touch with one of the Mayday Healthcare team today.