The need for registered nurses is at an all-time high as the need for patient care grows. Hence, more hospitals are leaning towards staffing agencies to address seasonal fluctuations, burnout and nurse retirement.
How does a nurse staffing agencies work?
A medical staff nursing agency provides nurse placements to hospitals that have trouble filling vacant positions. They secure contacts for registered nurses to work in health care facilities. Nurse staffing agencies streamline the hiring process for healthcare professionals and hospitals. Some agencies also provide additional support like housing, education support etc.
Why should you partner with a nurse staffing agency?
Staffing agencies specialize in recruiting qualified candidates for permanent as well as temporary positions. Partnering with a nurse staffing agency can lead to lower turnover rates, promote inclusion and diversity and lower contingency spend.
Since only all staffing agencies are created equally, you will want to ensure they meet certain criteria before partnering with them.
Factors to consider when choosing a nurse staffing agency
The choice of the right medical staff nursing agency is dependent on three features, price, quality and speed.
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1.Price
Supplemental labour can be expensive in the long-run, hence, healthcare executives looking for a sustainable solution to efficiently staff their facilities. However, hospitals shouldn't select staffing agencies that promise the lowest rates. This may compromise the quality of nurses they receive.
Take time to understand what benefits the agency offers. Then contact the agency that provides the best services at a reasonable price.
2.Quality
Quality work is not only experienced and hardworking but fits well in the culture of the organization. They should prioritize teamwork, patient safety and communication. A high calibre nurse will ultimately contribute to the long-term stability of the unit. Hence, consider the quality of the nurses before choosing the right one.
3.Speed
The rate at which the nurse is placed at your facility is a key factor when determining staff. The speed of nurse staffing depends on don what you are looking for.
If you require nurses immediately, then consider a pay per day nurse. If you are short-staffed then opt for a temporary agency.
Final thoughts
As the nursing shortage looms, the need for qualified personal is apparent. Proper nurse staffing helps prevent burnout and improve patient feedback. Hence, healthcare professionals and hospitals are becoming more dependent on nurse staffing agencies.