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Name: David ResidentState: MN Specialty: Tele MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 2 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: CCTC SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: CCTC NonFriendlyHospital: NA Favoritecity: San Fran LeastFavoriteCity: Orlando Date: 15 Nov 2007 Time: 10:21:31
FirstTravelNurseExperienceGood, busy. TellAFirstTimerNeed positive attitude and be flexible. If not don't travel.
Name: Amanda ResidentState: MO Specialty: MICU MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 4 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: Onward Healthcare SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: PPR NonFriendlyHospital: Not yet Favoritecity: Danbury, Connecticut LeastFavoriteCity: Midland, TX Date: 19 Nov 2007 Time: 21:15:18
FirstTravelNurseExperiencePPR is a horrible company. My recruiter lied to me from day one then every other day until I was done with my assignment. My apartment was filled with roaches and then filled with mice when it became cold outside. My recruiter said I would be working in teaching hospital but that was a lie too. Then I got stuck paying utility bills and apartment fees when the apartment complex claimed they never received payment. Never work with PPR. When I complained to my recruiter he would either not take my calls or get very nasty with me. PPR is the worst travel company ever!!!! TellAFirstTimer
Name: Joe ResidentState: PA Specialty: Acute/Chronic Dialysis MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: HPS Staffing, LLC SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: American Mobile (cheap), Foundation ( misinformation) NonFriendlyHospital: Porterville Dialysis, CA & FMC Show Low, AZ Favoritecity: Oroville, CA LeastFavoriteCity: Porterville, CA Date: 23 Nov 2007 Time: 21:54:04
FirstTravelNurseExperienceIt was a 5. It was at Thomas Jefferson Hospital's outpatient unit. It was all RNs, no PCTs. We had to adjust ALL dialysis medications. The unit had a poor layout and had to hand carry each patient meds one at a time. I already had 10 years of acute/chronic experience as a non traveler and knew this was an inner city setting, tough! I was only 100 miles from home to "feel" the travel scene. TellAFirstTimerIf possible call an RN who worked there. Never go to Porterville Dialysis, CA or FMC Show Low, AZ.
Name: Sherylen ResidentState: GA Specialty: OB MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 10+ years... NOWTravelCompany: FreedomHCS SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: Fastaff!!!!! NonFriendlyHospital: Beth Isreal, NYC Favoritecity: Honolulu! LeastFavoriteCity: Flint, MI Date: 26 Nov 2007 Time: 04:53:44
FirstTravelNurseExperienceI was sent to NYC to work a 2 week assignment. The housing was at the Hotel Pennsylvania I was told by my recruiter that I would need to take the public transportation to get to work. So, my first objective when arriving in the city was to figure my route to work. The subway ended up being my best choice, therefore I went to ask an
attendant at the ticket booth how to get to the hospital. Guess she thought I was the dumbest person alive, but she gave me directions and the next morning, off I went. I was very excited to be in "The City".
At the hospital, I realized that not everyone was as open and friendly as I was used to. It was quite a culture shock for me, a girl raised in the S.W. who currently lived in the South!
In addition, the orientation was more or less....LESS!
I made it through that assignment with my head and neck/shoulders still attached and intact. I can certainly look back at that assignment and know that it was one of those that made me grow. TellAFirstTimerDo your homework. Understand WHERE you are going and for HOW LONG. It is best to do a telephone interview with someone from the hospital where you are considering working, preferably the manager of the department where you'll work. Find out in advance where you are going to be housed and how you are going to get to work. Make sure you know EXACTLY how you are to be paid, too. Many of these companies are paying "blended" rates that can get you in trouble with the almightly IRS. Get everything in writing!!!!
Once you arrive at the city of your "host hospital", do some exploring. Drive around and find the best route to the hospital, grocery store and gas station.
Then, explore the sights around the city/town where you now "live". After all, isn't that part of the reason you are a travel nurse?
Most of all, make new friends and HAVE FUN!
Name: Teresa ResidentState: Texas Specialty: IVT, ONCOLOGY, POST-OP MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: cross Country SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: no NonFriendlyHospital: TMH in Tallahassee Favoritecity: Chicago LeastFavoriteCity: Orlando Date: 26 Nov 2007 Time: 17:13:48
FirstTravelNurseExperienceDisoriented. Felt like I was expected to perform miracles. Didn't know the Docs and was expected to know all the unspoken rules. TellAFirstTimer
Name: Danielle ResidentState: Ontario, Canada Specialty: tele, trauma, transplant, outpatient MoneyImportance: 3 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 3 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some TravelingYears: 6-10 years NOWTravelCompany: Medical Express SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: ProCare USA, Dependable Staffing NonFriendlyHospital: Banner Good Sam, Phoenix Favoritecity: Palo Alto, CA/ Santa Barbara, CA/Chapel Hill, NC LeastFavoriteCity: Dunn, NC/Sun City, AZ/Phoenix, AZ Date: 04 Dec 2007 Time: 05:28:09
FirstTravelNurseExperienceScary :) I was a fairly new grad and was out of my home country. I learned the ropes fairly quickly, but if I had to do it again, I would have chosen a larger teaching hospital instead of a small community hospital for sake of resources and up to date equipment. A new nurse is still learning to feel comfortable as a nurse, which makes it difficult to adjust to the needed flexibility of being a traveler. Things worked out great, and 6 years later, still traveling and love it. TellAFirstTimerDo your research. Canadians: Find good tax resources, know the rules of TN visas/green card process, choose a company with a strong immigration department. Don't be afraid to ask for a new recruiter if you're having issues that are not being resolved. Know your contacts at your company (ie: quality management, payroll, immigration coordinator etc..) Go to cities that interest you/explore! Don't sign your contract until you're
satisfied that it covers all the details you find important. Talk to fellow travelers and have fun!
Name: Cathy ResidentState: Alabama Specialty: Med/Surg, Oncology, Dialysis MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 2 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$ TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: Liquid Agents SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: Sunbelt Staffing and On Assignment NonFriendlyHospital: no Favoritecity: Panama City Beach, FL but pay is awful LeastFavoriteCity: Date: 26 Dec 2007 Time: 13:16:48
FirstTravelNurseExperienceIt was in Jackson, MS in Oncology. The nurse manager was less than truthful about the patient ratio, but it only lasted 8 weeks. The staff was great and the hospital used alot of travelers. TellAFirstTimerBe flexible, but ask questions of the manager. Interview them while they interview you. They may still be untruthful, but have a good recruiter that can go to bat for you when you need them. If you can't trust your recruiter, find another company.
Name: lynetta ResidentState: ga Specialty: psych nursing MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: emerald SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: no NonFriendlyHospital: no Favoritecity: Phoenix LeastFavoriteCity: bakersfield Date: 27 Dec 2007 Time: 01:43:33
FirstTravelNurseExperienceintially staff was unfriendlyanddidnt't want to help ;
I just stayed to my self and observed and exercise safe nursing and gave my pts. the best care;
I've been a nurse for 25 years and have worked in many stressful and passive aggressive environments but you have to get beyond that and be there for the patients all places have their issues you have to be driven and dedicated TellAFirstTimer
Name: JILL ResidentState: AZ Specialty: ER MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 2 RecuirterImportance: 2 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: MEDICAL EXPRESS SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany:
Advantage RN & American Mobile NonFriendlyHospital: UPH Keno in
Tucson Favoritecity: TUCSON, BUT AT NORTHWEST MC LeastFavoriteCity: KILLEEN TX Date: 01 Jan 2008 Time: 19:55:09
FirstTravelNurseExperience
My first travel experience was great. It was at Northwest in Tucson.
All the primary staff were very friendly and of course the travelers seem to
migrate to each other. I was very busy every day, but so was the
primary staff. The ER was very busy. We wore pedometers for a
few days and we clocked about 11 to 12 miles per day. No need for
walking after work. TellAFirstTimerJust ignore the politics
because we are not there to change it. We may see what goes on, but we
are out of there in 13 weeks. That's what makes traveling nice.
And you also get to make a few new friends both with travelers and core
staff.
Name: ResidentState: Specialty: MoneyImportance: 3 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 2 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: Two Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: nightengale nurses SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: american moble NonFriendlyHospital: kindred hospital, or Phoenix St Luke's Behavioral health Favoritecity: Phoenix, AZ LeastFavoriteCity: chico, ca Date: 04 Jan 2008 Time: 13:27:58
FirstTravelNurseExperience
It was a nightmare with American Mobile. They stranded me in Deleware
(all the way from Mississippi) with no housing, and there were conventions
in town so I had to backtrack 100 miles to find a room. They had no
housing, and I waited until 3pm to check into my hotel each day while trying
to do orientation at the hospital. TellAFirstTimerAsk, Ask,
Ask before going with a nursing company. Ask other nurse travelers
about who they are with and their experiences. They can offer a lot of
good information and save you a lot of heartache with a "bad company" who
will take advantage of you!! If they don't offer what you want, look
for another company who will!! They need you, and will get you what
you need if they can. If not, oh well... see ya!!!
Name: Joanne ResidentState: Canada Specialty: Med/Surg MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 4 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: Cross Country SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: American Mobile NonFriendlyHospital: No horror cases yet, but USC University was my least fav Favoritecity: LA & Tucson LeastFavoriteCity: Oxnard -very dirty and run down Date: 06 Jan 2008 Time: 11:14:34
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMy friend and I travelled from Canada to LA for our first assignment at USC University. The agency kept losing our documents. I was out of my place on a Friday afternoon ready to cross the border when they called and needed new info yet again (they had 2 months to request this stuff). I crossed the border anyway not knowing if I would be able to start work when I arrived in LA 2 days later. The recruiter and her assistant continually misled us. We stayed on assignment 6 months not knowing we could renew for 6 weeks only. We were miserable, but we persevered and both of us jumped ship and signed with other agencies. I haven't looked back since. TellAFirstTimerFight for what you want, if they say no see if someone else will get you what you want. If you don't like your recruiter change, you aren't married to them.
Name: Joanne ResidentState: Canada Specialty: Med/Surg MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 4 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: Cross Country SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: American Mobile NonFriendlyHospital: No horror cases yet, but USC University was my least fav Favoritecity: LA & Tucson LeastFavoriteCity: Oxnard -very dirty and run down Date: 06 Jan 2008 Time: 11:15:39
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMy friend and I travelled from Canada to LA for our first assignment at USC University. The agency kept losing our documents. I was out of my place on a Friday afternoon ready to cross the border when they called and needed new info yet again (they had 2 months to request this stuff). I crossed the border anyway not knowing if I would be able to start work when I arrived in LA 2 days later. The recruiter and her assistant continually misled us. We stayed on assignment 6 months not knowing we could renew for 6 weeks only. We were miserable, but we persevered and both of us jumped ship and signed with other agencies. I haven't looked back since. TellAFirstTimerFight for what you want, if they say no see if someone else will get you what you want. If you don't like your recruiter change, you aren't married to them.
Name: CATHERINE PIYANAT ResidentState: COLORADO Specialty: CRITICAL CARE RN MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: JUST IN TIME STAFFING SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: RN NETWORK NonFriendlyHospital: MAYO CLINIC HOSPITAL, SCOTTSDALE, AZ Favoritecity: NAPLES, FL LeastFavoriteCity: PHOENIX, AZ Date: 07 Jan 2008 Time: 04:21:51
FirstTravelNurseExperience
My first assignment was at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Scottsdale, AZ.
The hospital beautiful and filled with snobs: clients and staff alike.
I was floated to every floor and they justified it by giving me one patient
on telemetry. I was so freaked out about taking care of patients
outside of the ICU, that I had called my recruiter @ Rn Network and she just
blew me off by telling I'm more than qualified to take care of these people.
Yeah!!! But not 5-6 people at one time. TellAFirstTimer
Research your company and try to talk to other travelers about their
experiences at hospitals and with travel companies.
Name: Nancy ResidentState: Ohio Specialty: ms/ortho MoneyImportance: 3 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some TravelingYears: 6-10 years NOWTravelCompany: Intelistaf SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: no NonFriendlyHospital: Palm Beach Gardens, Fla Favoritecity: Daytona Beach, Fla, Tucson, AZ LeastFavoriteCity: Palm Beach Gardens Date: 09 Jan 2008 Time: 16:30:46
FirstTravelNurseExperienceI had been out of hospital nursing for almost 6 yrs and took an assignment in Lee Memorial Hospital, Ft. Myers, Fla. I had never computer charted before, and it was my first time working night shift. Needless to say, I was a basket case for the first several weeks, but every one there was great and helped me survive. I have since done 11 assignments and wouldn't trade it for the world. TellAFirstTimerAsk plenty of questions in your interview and get everything in writing. If you want special housing or have special needs, just ask, some recuriters are amazing at what they can help you set up.
Name: Jeri ResidentState: MI Specialty: SICU/MICU/NSICU/CVICU MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 3 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: CCTC SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: No NonFriendlyHospital: No Favoritecity: New Orleans/Oschner Cardiac ICU LeastFavoriteCity: No Date: 20 Jan 2008 Time: 19:53:51
FirstTravelNurseExperienceIt was at Oklahoma City Baptist in the transplant ICU and delightful! The staff greeted me with open arms, they were always there to help, and the nurse manager was one of the best managers I've ever had the pleasure of working for.... I was a little scared at first, but the first day, we had a DIC patient and my orientation was cut short.... Fine by me cuz' I didn't look back. I had a wonderful 13 weeks in the facility.....Worked lots of overtime and did my best to be part of the team. TellAFirstTimerBe flexible!!!!! If you are not flexible, travel is not for you.
Name: Judy ResidentState: Al Specialty: PACU MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: CCTC SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: No NonFriendlyHospital: No, have been very fortunate Favoritecity: Tuscon, Portland, Or, Baltimore, Dartmouth LeastFavoriteCity: Marshfield, wi Date: 21 Jan 2008 Time: 20:02:40
FirstTravelNurseExperienceWent to a very busy unit that had a predominance of travelers. Staff was very good to work with and we had a good time hanging out after work. Made many friends and really sold me that traveling was the way to go. TellAFirstTimerBe open to new ideas and ways of doing things. "there is more than one way to skin a cat"
Name: Patrick ResidentState: Virginia Specialty: ICU MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: Two Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: Back in school SwitchCompanies: Select One DisasterCompany: AUREUS NonFriendlyHospital: Favoritecity: LeastFavoriteCity: Date: 22 Jan 2008 Time: 10:32:25
FirstTravelNurseExperienceDo not work with Aureus Medical Group if getting paid is important to you. They refused to pay the full amount allowed for milage going from Oregon to Maryland. After repeated attempts to dismiss the claim the management finally acknowledged that they did owe money however four months later and they still have not paid. This company obviously does not care about nurses which seems odd since without us they no longer would have a business. TellAFirstTimerMake sure you keep track of all money owed to you because if you assume that your travel company will look out for you it may cost you.
Name: Fancy ResidentState: Mo Specialty: Acute medicine MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: American Mobile SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: American Mobile NonFriendlyHospital: Desert Regional Medical floor 3 east Favoritecity: St. Louis LeastFavoriteCity: Palm Desert Date: 24 Jan 2008 Time: 06:19:43
FirstTravelNurseExperienceThis i my first assignment in a small community hospital. The equpment is old and outdated, the floor is horribly unorganized. I was truly floored to find out that there are literally 7 regular staff members on that floor. I saw pts being over medicated, staff yelling at patients , CM leaving the floor and the hospital for lunch for hours without informing anyone. I can't describe to you the things that i saw, in such little space just beware. TellAFirstTimerRead your contract carefully before signing , make sure that its correct. Always remember that you make all the decisions and that you are number one priority. Never ever stay at a hospital that is unsafe. And last but not least, have fun travel nursing is an opportunity of a life time. Oh and try to stay away from small rural hospitals if you can.
Name: Bob ResidentState: virginia Specialty: Surgical Tech MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: I'll Take The Stipend & RV It TravelingYears: 6-10 years NOWTravelCompany: Medstaff SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: PPR NonFriendlyHospital: Favoritecity: San Francisco LeastFavoriteCity: Anchorage Date: 26 Jan 2008 Time: 22:15:55
FirstTravelNurseExperienceBe warned about PPR. I had an accident while working for them cutting all extensior tendons on my hand. Accident happened on Friday afternoon Health Insurance was termanated Wednesday.. I had PT,OT,Meds and no Insurance. I had to wait 3 and half weeks for Cobra to catch up .. Worst of all I was paying 150$ / month for my insurance coverage..... TellAFirstTimer
Name: Jim ResidentState: New York Specialty: Critical Care MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 3 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 6-10 years NOWTravelCompany: Supplemental Healthcare SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: Medical Express NonFriendlyHospital: Buffalo General Hospital Favoritecity: Fresno LeastFavoriteCity: Buffalo Date: 29 Jan 2008 Time: 21:47:09
FirstTravelNurseExperienceFrom New York city to California. It was a bit of a culture shock to me. Everyone was easy going and very helpful. My first assignment was a good one. TellAFirstTimerGather as much information about the hospital and area you can. Most hospitals have web sites you can get some info from. Local chambers of commerce are also good resources.
Name: Robert ResidentState: WA Specialty: Surgical Tech MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: Advantage Rn SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: No NonFriendlyHospital: Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ Favoritecity: Seattle LeastFavoriteCity: All Good So Far! Date: 30 Jan 2008 Time: 23:53:08
FirstTravelNurseExperienceDifferent. The way people work, what they call things, techniques. You name, it was different. The thing is, its never different to them, just you. I learned fast that everywhere is going to do things differently, and have no clue that other place have their own way. Don't get to caught up in "Well, where I was before, they did it this way." Learn how the current facility does things, and look at as a learning experience. You can pick and choose what you think is worth remembering when you leave. TellAFirstTimerStay positive! Keep a positive attitude, and learn how to work with the people there. Avoid making it you against the world, or else it could be a long assignment. And get out and explore!
Name: Lisa ResidentState: TN Specialty: LD MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 2 RecuirterImportance: 2 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: Liquid Agents SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: RSI NonFriendlyHospital: All the hospitals I have been to have been very accomadating to travelers. Favoritecity: Salinas CA LeastFavoriteCity: Sparta IL Date: 09 Feb 2008 Time: 16:55:29
FirstTravelNurseExperienceI was very nervous, but there were other travelers at the hospital who showed me the ropes. The problems were with the company I was traveling with not with the hospital. TellAFirstTimerRead your contract carefully before signiing it. Not all companies offer the same benefits. Also some things in the contract may not be the same as what you talked with your recruiter about. It helps tremendously to have a recruiter you can talk with and is easy to reach.
Name: Gloria ResidentState: Florida Specialty: ER MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 6-10 years NOWTravelCompany: Nationwide Nurses SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: Yes NonFriendlyHospital: Not as of yet Favoritecity: Arizona or South Western Region LeastFavoriteCity: Nebraska Date: 13 Feb 2008 Time: 11:05:33
FirstTravelNurseExperienceI had my first travel experience with Nationwide Nurses and I will have my last until I retire that is. I did try two other travel companies in between assignments not because I was not happy with Nationwide but because I really wanted a state they did not have much in and OH MAN what a mistake. I wont name any names but the travel experience was horrible, both other companies actually! I went back to Nationwide Nurses and it has been smooth sailing. My recruiter is Awesome! She calls me back if I ever need her and most of the time can get right through to her. The housing is the best and I even take my dogs! TellAFirstTimerBe honest and open with what you want, ask questions and be sure to tell your agency any worries or concerns you have.
Name: Sylvia ResidentState: AZ Specialty: ICU and CCU MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$ TravelingYears: 10+ years... NOWTravelCompany: Searching SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: The Right Solutions NonFriendlyHospital: No Favoritecity: TX, LA or FL LeastFavoriteCity: MT Date: 13 Feb 2008 Time: 11:11:42
FirstTravelNurseExperienceI have been traveling ten plus years all over the United States. I have traveled with several companies and Nurses I found the worst one! TRS or The Right Solutions! It's like Murphy's Law Whatver bad can happen will happen!
The recruiter was pushy and rude and when the manager had to get imvolved it got worse.
I was lied told, was threatened to be sued if I left my assignment which was horrible and my license was at risk there for many reasons. Part of their lie! My calls were not returned and they did not even remember my name! Never again! TellAFirstTimer
Name: Michele ResidentState: Ok Specialty: ICU/CCU MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: Two Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: Medical Express SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: Premier Healthcare Professionals (PHP) NonFriendlyHospital: NEVER go to Hopewell, VA Favoritecity: Tucson, AZ LeastFavoriteCity: Oakland, CA Date: 13 Feb 2008 Time: 23:41:46
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMy recruiter was wonderful! It was a challenge for me to leave my home and live on the road. If asked to do it again, I would in a heartbeat! TellAFirstTimerListen to seasoned travelers...they have the experience on how to deal with companies, situations, and a lousy travel job. If you are not flexible and are not able to pick up new things quickly, it's not time yet for you. Always hook up with other travelers to hang out with when you're in a new city/town.
Name: Jesse ResidentState: IL Specialty: ER MoneyImportance: 3 BenefitsImportance: 2 LocationImportance: 3 RecuirterImportance: 3 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: Cross Country/ Providence Health Care SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: not really company's fault NonFriendlyHospital: LOVELACE in NM Favoritecity: Medford, OR hospital- to live in Dover, NH, Asheville, NC, Tucson, AZ, Indi LeastFavoriteCity: There has been things to like in every city Date: 27 Feb 2008 Time: 02:41:49
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMedford, OR was the first. It was a great place to start out. Hospital was good... Oregon was great... Medford doesn't have much going on, but it's a great location as a home base to explore. TellAFirstTimerDo not base your decision on the pay... sometimes it's not worth the problems you run into while working there.
Name: Gay ResidentState: Louisiana Specialty: PACU MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: CrossCountry Travcorps SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: no NonFriendlyHospital: none Favoritecity: Albuquerque NM LeastFavoriteCity: none Date: 29 Feb 2008 Time: 21:25:59
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMy first assignment was at Memorial in Modesto,Ca. Everyone was very friendly. They were especially sweet since I had just been through Katrina. The job was easy compared to the work to my pre travel job. TellAFirstTimerGo in with a good attitude. Be happy. It makes the staff feel good and they respond in a friendly manner. You also get good evaluations when they like you. Just don't sweat the small stuff. Although I think that this is easier said since I work PACU. You would never have more than two pts at a time in any reputable hospital. I think that other units could be much more difficult to travel to.
Name: Charlotte ResidentState: Texas Specialty: M/S, Pulmonary MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 1 Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$ TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: Paragon Medical Staffing SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: Independent Nurse Consultants, Inc. NonFriendlyHospital: no Favoritecity: winslow arizona LeastFavoriteCity: none Date: 02 Mar 2008 Time: 19:34:59
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMy first travel experience was great. I worked with the Native American population in Arizona on a research project. TellAFirstTimerAlways have your contract 48 hrs before you are departing for your assignment. Make sure everything they said they would do and offer is in
writing. Be flexible and do not get into the politics. Always know your options if you sign for more than 13 weeks and cannot finish.
Name: SHENA ResidentState: PHILIPPINES Specialty: CAKE MoneyImportance: 4 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 2 Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$ TravelingYears: 6-10 years NOWTravelCompany: NONE SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: NONE NonFriendlyHospital: MY SISTER Favoritecity: HOSPITAL LeastFavoriteCity: NONE Date: 30 Mar 2008 Time: 17:47:10
FirstTravelNurseExperienceSORRY NONE TellAFirstTimerNONE
Name: Emily ResidentState: Michigan Specialty: Labor and Delivery MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 2 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: Novapro SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: No, only been with one company NonFriendlyHospital: No Favoritecity: Denver Colorado LeastFavoriteCity: Reno Nevada Date: 31 Mar 2008 Time: 16:24:02
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMy first travel experience was in Denver at Exempla Lutheran. This was a great hospital and very friendly to travelers. My experience in Reno Nevada....well lets just say I probably would not have chosen this hospital had I interviewed with the actual unit instead of my company and was given the correct information! TellAFirstTimerIf you have found a good travel company and have started the interviewing process. PLEASE TRY TO INTERVIEW with the unit itself. I have found that if the travel company interviews you they may have information about the unit that is either old, wrong, or hasn't been updated. Sometimes this information can determine whether or not you choose the hospital.
Name: Emily ResidentState: Michigan Specialty: Labor and Delivery MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 2 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: Novapro SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: No, only been with one company NonFriendlyHospital: No Favoritecity: Denver Colorado LeastFavoriteCity: Reno Nevada Date: 31 Mar 2008 Time: 16:25:31
FirstTravelNurseExperienceMy first travel experience was in Denver at Exempla Lutheran. This was a great hospital and very friendly to travelers. My experience in Reno Nevada....well lets just say I probably would not have chosen this hospital had I interviewed with the actual unit instead of my company and was given the correct information! TellAFirstTimerIf you have found a good travel company and have started the interviewing process. PLEASE TRY TO INTERVIEW with the unit itself. I have found that if the travel company interviews you they may have information about the unit that is either old, wrong, or hasn't been updated. Sometimes this information can determine whether or not you choose the hospital.
Name: Jasmin ResidentState: FL Specialty: CCU/ICU/PACU MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 2 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$ TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: HRN Services SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: NonFriendlyHospital: CPMC Pacific Campus San Francisco Favoritecity: San Francisco LeastFavoriteCity: Date: 03 Apr 2008 Time: 06:18:55
FirstTravelNurseExperienceI enjoyed my first travel assignment. If you're flexible, if you're outgoing, and you value teamwork, you're not going to be upset with travelers always floating, having the worst patients, etc. I had a great agency and great recruiter. TellAFirstTimerDon't always go with the bigger companies, such as American Mobile, Cross Country, etc. There are some great mid size to smaller companies. As a first time traveler, traveling to San Fran by myself, HRN provided me a great package. If I did ever get bored, I would always be able to pick up extra shift at the hospital I was assigned or they would provide other per diem at a same day surgery, school of dentistry, etc. Higher hourly wages does not always mean you're going to get the most out of your pay stub. Look at the whole PACKAGE!
Name: Sandra ResidentState: Virginia Specialty: Labor & Delivery MoneyImportance: 3 BenefitsImportance: 4 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 2 Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$ TravelingYears: 1-2 years NOWTravelCompany: Medical Express SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: NonFriendlyHospital: Virginia Hospital Center Arlington Favoritecity: Charlottesville, VA LeastFavoriteCity: Arlington, VA Date: 19 Apr 2008 Time: 11:03:47
FirstTravelNurseExperience12 LDRs and 5 nurses scheduled on days. In 6 weeks, only got a lunch break 3 days. TellAFirstTimerGet everything in writing!! Make your recruiter your first priority. She can make all the difference!
Name: MAry ResidentState: AZ Specialty: PICU MoneyImportance: 2 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: 2-5 years NOWTravelCompany: RNNetwork SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: AMN NonFriendlyHospital: UNiversity of VA Charlottesville Favoritecity: Salt Lake City LeastFavoriteCity: Indianapolis Date: 30 Apr 2008 Time: 05:15:07
FirstTravelNurseExperienceFirst assignment was San Diego CA in 1989 - I had a great experience both at work and off work. I stayed 6 months and only experienced 1 earthquake! TellAFirstTimerTake 1/3 of what you think you will need! Do remember to take a fw things that will help with homesickness...I don't care how old you are, a little something familiar is comforting on those odd "blue" days. Also, before you go - practice eating at restraurants and going to movies ALONE.
Name: Margaret ResidentState: CA Specialty: NICU MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 3 LocationImportance: 4 RecuirterImportance: 2 Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$ TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: Procel SwitchCompanies: Yes DisasterCompany: Preferred Healthcare Staffing NonFriendlyHospital: Long Beach Memorial Favoritecity: Irvine, CA LeastFavoriteCity: Long Beach, CA Date: 06 May 2008 Time: 03:21:18
FirstTravelNurseExperienceIt has been wonderful! I started at Irvine Regional Hospital, a small, close-knit facility. I was welcomed by managment and staff nurses alike. They have patiently answered all of my questions and there has always been someone around to help if needed. The equipment may not be the most up-to-date, but it is well-maintained and suits the purpose. Ancillary staff and volunteers are so nice and helpful as well. There doesn't seem to be an overwhelmig amount of P&P's to worry about and I don't feel as though someone is waiting just around the corner to write me up. TellAFirstTimerGet everything in writing! Just as the saying "If it isn't charted then it wasn't done" applies to a legal case, "If it isn't in the contract then it isn't guaranteed" applies to the assignment. Enjoy your assignment! Have fun in whatever city you're assigned in! You're only there for up to 13 weeks-go with the flow, don't try to change anything and for goodness sake, stay out of the politics! Don't worry if others don't like you or resent the fact that you make more money-if they wanted to make the same general wages then they can apply to a travel agency just like you did.
Name: Dawn ResidentState: Kentucky Specialty: Telemetry/ER/Psych MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: Staffing Medical SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: No NonFriendlyHospital: NWT Favoritecity: LeastFavoriteCity: Amarillo Date: 09 May 2008 Time: 02:02:28
FirstTravelNurseExperienceScarey....clueless and unsure on my first assignment. Learned the ropes fast after the initial shock of the first week. Stay out of the politics and enjoy the area. TellAFirstTimerKnow and trust your recruiter!
Name: Dawn ResidentState: Kentucky Specialty: Telemetry/ER/Psych MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: Staffing Medical SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: No NonFriendlyHospital: NWT Favoritecity: LeastFavoriteCity: Amarillo Date: 09 May 2008 Time: 02:07:31
FirstTravelNurseExperienceScarey....clueless and unsure on my first assignment. Learned the ropes fast after the initial shock of the first week. Stay out of the politics and enjoy the area. TellAFirstTimerKnow and trust your recruiter!
Name: Dawn ResidentState: Kentucky Specialty: Telemetry/ER/Psych MoneyImportance: 1 BenefitsImportance: 1 LocationImportance: 1 RecuirterImportance: 4 Housing: One Bedroom Paid For TravelingYears: Under 1 year NOWTravelCompany: Staffing Medical SwitchCompanies: No DisasterCompany: No NonFriendlyHospital: NWT Favoritecity: LeastFavoriteCity: Amarillo Date: 09 May 2008 Time: 02:09:42
FirstTravelNurseExperienceScarey....clueless and unsure on my first assignment. Learned the ropes fast after the initial shock of the first week. Stay out of the politics and enjoy the area. TellAFirstTimerKnow and trust your recruiter! |