8 Tips
1. #Mynameis...
It is early in the morning, you have arrived, lots of people running around and you stand like a lemon in the corner. Sound familiar? Welcome to the world of being the newbie, the agency worker. First of all introduce yourself to the nearest nurse and they will point you in the right direction. Continually introduce to colleagues for the day and vitally, to your patients, make sure they know your name to ensure quality care.
2. Smile.
If there is one piece of advice above all others, it is this one. Smile. Even if you don't feel like it, even if this is the fifth new place you have worked this week, your first impression will last. Smile politely, smile at patients and at staff. You'll be surprised how often it sets you apart. 'Better to be the one who smiled than the one who didn't smile back.'
5. Ask questions.
Do not be afraid to ask questions. If you don't know where something is, ask a nurse or auxiliary (I've even asked the patients). Better to ask, than cause yourself stress by suffering in silence. People will have come before you and asked, the staff will be well used to answering your questions. Asking questions shows that you are interested in what is going on.
4. Use your initiative.
I struggled with this when I first started working as a temporary worker, but as your shift progresses you may feel more able to complete certain tasks. Do not undertake tasks with which you are not comfortable. For example, I scrubbed patients finger nails one day when it was quiet. Or simply go and chat with a patient. Using your initiative really makes you stand out.
3. Arrive on time (if not early).
If it is a place you have never been before, allow yourself time to figure out parking or transport. Arrive a couple of minutes before a handover so that your details can be checked and you can orientate yourself to staff areas etc. Being punctual demonstrates you're reliable and dependable and you are more likely to get asked back. Furthermore, you might end up on placement or employed here some day.
Did I say listen? You'll not remember half of the places that people show you but try really hard to take in as much as possible. If it helps, carry paper and note info down. Practice being a good listener to build a good rapport with fellow workers, patients and families. People begin to get bothered if they have to repeat themselves continuously.
8. Be the nurse you want to be tomorrow, today!
Now is the time to start being the nurse you want to be.
7. Learn lots.
The absolute benefit of being a temporary worker is being able to work in numerous locations and specialties. Use your work as another placement, where you can learn new conditions, new diseases, medications and ways to become a better nurse!
For Student Nurses:
Agency Work
6. Listen, listen, LISTEN!
5. Ask questions
LOADING AWESOME
@markdornan47
