How to Become an Agency Nurse, and Tips to Get Started

Deciding to become an Agency Nurse is a big decision. Whether you are opting to be a full time Agency Employee, or to simply supplement your income with additional shifts, there are a few things you may be wondering about.  

Today we will cover the benefits of being an Agency Nurse or Allied Health Professional, how to get started, and of course a few tips to make the transition into agency work a smooth, rewarding one.  

How do you become and Agency Nurse? 

Becoming an Agency worker is no small decision, although it has tons of benefits, ranging from higher pay rates, better flexibility and an opportunity to explore different fields and specialties on difference assignments.  

When you do decide that Agency Nursing is for you, then getting started is not quite as complicated as it may seem.  

Ambition24hours boasts a wonderful registration system, and by making use of the A24Group of Agencies platform, Staffshift, our staff can access a wide range of shifts, from a few different well-established Nursing Agencies in the UK.  

So Where Do You Get Started? 

Firstly, you will need to register via Staffshift – this is the first and most important step. Use the button below to get there.  Remember to check your email once you have entered your details on the first Staffshift page - The system will send you a confirmation email which will allow you to continue with the registration process.

Next, you will update your profile with your personal information, work history, qualifications, and skills.  

You’ll need to upload a few documents which we will verify: 

• Right to work 

• Proof of NMC Registration 

• Your training and qualification certificates amongst other items, as specified in the Curriculum Vitae section of your Staffshift.com profile 

Once our compliance team has verified your reference details, and cleared you for work, you will be able to update your availability on the Calendar in Staffshift, as well as browse available shifts in your area and field of specialty.  

Remember to download the Staffshift app to browse shifts while you commute or in your leisure time.  

Where Can I find the best nursing jobs in the UK? 

By being registered with Ambition24hours, you will gain access to a large pool of shifts and job opportunities across both the public and private sectors.  

Use the Staffshift app to browse the best Agency Nurse Jobs, and express your interest in assignments with a simple click of a button.

Remember that as an Agency employee, you may be assigned to one facility for a few weeks, or perhaps even just one shift. In either case, you need to swiftly familiarise yourself with the facility, processes, and requirements. Follow these tips to make the process so much easier. 

What are the main benefits of becoming and Ambition24hours Agency Nurse in the UK? 

Ambition24hours Nursing Agency has decades of experience in medical recruitment, with a powerhouse of infrastructure, ensuring we can place large volumes of staff with employers in need. Ambition24hours has a strong reputation throughout the United Kingdom, and for good reason: 

• 24-hour booking and support services, 7 days a week, 365 days a year – Simply WhatsApp the team on 07380278107 

• Staffshift allows you to update your availability and browse available shifts on your smartphone, when it suits you  

• Simple application process for available shifts 

• Clear expectations on what you can be paid per shift 

• Weekly payment of remuneration, paid directly into your bank account 

• Access to A24Group training courses to upskill and stay compliant 

5 Tips for Your First Day on the Job as an Agency Nurse 

 Request an Adequate Handover 

At each facility, an agency nurse should receive an adequate handover that outlines the shift, assignments, and procedures. It is important that an agency doctor or nurse feels comfortable, so remember to ask as many questions as possible while receiving the handover.  

Save our WhatsApp number and chat with us to get help now. Our friendly team is available 24/7. 

Ensure Your Communication is Clear  

In addition to working at multiple facilities, agency medical professionals do not work at the same site permanently. The importance of introducing themselves to all staff nurses or doctors on duty cannot be overstated. To have exceptional communication skills, you need to build connections with your colleagues early in the day and let them know that you are willing and capable of performing your duties, and offer a helping hand if needed.  

Utilise all skills 

As agency nurses and doctors, we learn a lot of skills and how to complete them correctly. Taking notes will help you remember what new skills and lessons you learned. You can build a strong reputation within the workforce by taking pride in the execution of your tasks.  

Remember the basics of your training and be sure to always prioritise the facilities processes and procedures. If you are unsure of how to execute a task, ask for guidance.  

Always be prepared 

It is important that agency nurses should always remember the fundamentals of basic nursing. When working at a new facility it's important that you: 

• Pre-Plan your travelling Route and Ensure you know where to go 

• Arrive early to ask for a thorough induction and get familiarised with the facility, storage, duties and requirements. 

Understand the Assignment 

When you are assigned a post, you will receive the assignment name, location, date and time. In addition to this, you will receive 3 vital parts of information from via the Staffshift app, which would give you guidance on the job description, and requirements. 

• Agency – this would give you guidance as to which Nursing or Staffing Agency you will be representing on the day (In many cases it would be Ambition24hours Nursing, but could feature any of the A24Group of agency brands) 

• Description of Position – this would be the role that you would fill for the duration of your assignment 

• Staffing Instructions – This will specify any instructions or information required on the day. 

You may need to refer to your training to ensure you recall all duties associated with your assignment profile.  

Remember that when you join Ambition24hours Nursing Agency, you benefit from decades of experience, and a 24/7 support team who can offer you support and guidance along the way.  

Want to become an agency nurse?