What is nursing agency work?
Nursing agency work refers to the practice of hiring nurses on a temporary or contract basis through a nursing agency. These agencies act as intermediaries between healthcare facilities and nurses, providing healthcare facilities with nurses on an as-needed basis.
Nursing agency work allows nurses to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes, and provides the flexibility to choose when and where they work.
What qualifications do I need to work as a nurse through an agency?
In Australia, to work as a nurse through an agency, you typically need to have:
• A current registration and nursing practice permit with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
• A minimum of 12 months of recent nursing experience in an acute care setting.
• A current National Police Check.
• A valid Working With Children Check (WWCC) or equivalent depending on the state.
• A valid professional indemnity insurance.
• Proficiency in English language
and comprehension.
• A valid visa (if you’re an international nurse).
• Updated vaccination records.
It’s important to note that the specific qualifications may vary depending on the agency and the type of work you’re looking to do. It’s best to check with the agency or consult with a recruitment agent for specific requirements. Also, having a specialised certification in certain areas such as ICU, oncology, paediatrics, mental health and others may also increase your chances of getting hired by an agency.
What are the benefits of working as a nurse through an agency?
There are many benefits to working as a nurse through an agency. The most obvious is the flexibility of being able to choose when and where you work. You can also gain experience in different specialties, settings, and locations, which can help you to advance your career.
Additionally, working for an agency can provide you with a consistent and stable income, even if you’re only working part-time.
It also allows you to have a variety of shifts, which can be beneficial for nurses who want to work part-time or have other commitments.
How do agency shifts and schedules work?
Agency shifts and schedules vary depending on the agency and the location but usually run from two to 12 weeks in length. Some agencies offer a variety of shift options, including full-time, part-time, and casual work. Others may offer a more consistent schedule, with regular shifts.
How do I find nursing agency work?
There are many ways to find nursing agency work. One of the most common is to search online for nursing agencies in your area. You can also ask friends or colleagues who have worked with an agency in the past for recommendations. Additionally, many hospitals and healthcare facilities have relationships with agencies and can provide you with information on how to find work through an agency. If you’re interested in nursing agency work or would like to find out more then get in contact with our specialist Nursing team at Verus People by emailing nursing@veruspeople.com or giving us a call on 1300 063 437.
