Healthcare Staffing 101
What is the primary role of a healthcare staffing agency?
To connect healthcare facilities with qualified clinicians for temporary or permanent roles.
What does ICU stand for in nursing?
Intensive Care Unit.
What is one factor that increases the demand for travel nurses?
A: Seasonal staffing needs, pandemics, or facility shortages.
True or False – A nurse can work in any state without a license.
False – They must have a license for that state or a compact license.
What is the #1 reason for nurse burnout?
High patient ratios and long working hours.
What are the three main types of healthcare staffing placements?
Travel, per diem, and permanent placement.
What allied health profession specializes in using medical imaging to diagnose illnesses?
Radiologic Technologist.
What are the two main components of a travel nurse’s pay?
Hourly wage (taxable) and stipends (tax-free).
True or False – CNAs can administer medications to patients.
False – They assist with patient care but cannot administer medications.
What is the biggest challenge rural hospitals face when trying to recruit clinicians?
Limited access to talent due to location and lower compensation compared to urban facilities.
What factors influence a facility’s decision to use a healthcare staffing agency?
Staffing shortages, seasonal demand, high patient census, and specialized care needs.
What is the difference between an LPN and an RN?
An LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) has less training than an RN (Registered Nurse) and typically provides more basic patient care.
Name one major benefit of being a travel nurse.
Higher pay, flexibility, travel opportunities, or experience in different healthcare settings.
True or False – Allied health professionals include physical therapists, medical lab technicians, and dietitians.
True.
Why do some facilities prefer per diem nurses over travel nurses?
They offer more scheduling flexibility without long-term contract commitments.
What is the difference between a vendor-neutral MSP and a staffing agency MSP?
A vendor-neutral MSP does not prioritize any agency, while a staffing agency MSP may favor its own candidates.
What specialty nurse is responsible for assisting in surgery and handling instruments?
A Scrub Nurse or Operating Room (OR) Nurse.
Why do hospitals rely on travel nurses instead of hiring more permanent staff?
A: To quickly fill temporary staffing shortages without long-term commitments
True or False – Travel nurses can work in the same location indefinitely as long as they renew their contract.
False – Travel nurses may be subject to IRS tax rules limiting how long they can work in one location before it is considered permanent.
What is the most common reason a healthcare facility cancels a travel nurse contract early?
Budget constraints or decreased patient census.
What are the biggest challenges healthcare staffing agencies face today?
Clinician shortages, compliance requirements, increased competition, and fluctuating bill rates.
What does PCU stand for, and how does it differ from an ICU?
A: Progressive Care Unit – it serves as an intermediate step between the ICU and general medical units for patients needing close monitoring but not full intensive care.
What is the biggest factor that determines how much a travel nurse is paid?
The bill rate set by the facility.
True or False – The highest-paid RN specialty is typically a Critical Care Flight Nurse.
True.
What is "floating," and why do some travel nurses dislike it?
A: Floating is when a nurse is reassigned to a different unit than their contracted specialty, sometimes without proper training.