Navigating Unexpected Changes

Welcome to NurseCafe, the newsletter serving up nursing insights as refreshing as your first sip of coffee before a 12-hour shift.

In today’s email:

• Navigating Last Minute Changes: Tips about handling an unexpected unit change.

• The Rundown: The rise of per deim nursing.

• Agency Spotlight: We explore the staffing agency Medely.

• Around the web: Is this how our bosses think we react to a change?

P.S: If you want to read any previous editions of NurseCafe you can on our website an if you were forwarded this email you can subscribe here.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

When You're Floated to a New Unit 15 Minutes Before Shift End

Being told you're floating to another unit can trigger an immediate fight-or-flight response in even the most seasoned nurses. But with hospitals continuing to manage staffing creatively (that's a nice way of putting it), floating is becoming more common than ever for both staff and per diem nurses.

Here's how to survive your next float assignment with your license and sanity intact:

Know Your Rights: Most facilities have floating policies that limit how far out of your specialty you can be assigned. Review your contract or facility policy before you agree to a float assignment that feels unsafe.

The 15-Minute Preparation Rule: Take 15 minutes at the start of your shift to:

• Locate crash carts and emergency equipment

• Find the medication room and supply areas

• Ask about unit-specific protocols

• Identify your resource person

Prioritization is Different: On med-surg, you might have 5-8 patients instead of 1-2. Remember that assessment skills transfer, even if the pace is different.

Use This Line When You Need Help: "I typically work in [your specialty], and I'm not familiar with this procedure. Could you guide me through your unit's process?" Most nurses appreciate the honesty and will be happy to help.

THE RUNDOWN

🤝 Nurse Licensure Compact Updates: The Nurse Licensure Compact continues to expand, with Pennsylvania becoming the 41st state to enact NLC legislation in 2023, though implementation is still in progress. California, New York, and Washington remain notable non-compact states.

👩‍⚕️ Nursing Shortage Continues: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, with about 193,100 openings for registered nurses projected each year. This sustained demand supports the continued need for both travel and per diem nurses.

💰️ Rise in Per Diem Work: Healthcare facilities are increasingly turning to per diem staff to address short-term staffing needs, with industry analysts noting that the flexibility benefits both facilities and healthcare professionals looking for work-life balance.

AGENCY SPOTLIGHT

We Explored Medely: Here's What Nurses Need to Know

Medely is a healthcare staffing platform that connects nurses and allied health professionals directly with healthcare facilities for per diem shifts. Let's take a closer look at what they offer based on their website and user experiences.

What Makes Medely Different: Unlike traditional agencies, Medely operates as a technology platform that allows healthcare professionals to browse and book shifts directly through their app or website. According to their website, they currently serve healthcare facilities across the United States with a focus on per diem staffing rather than long-term travel assignments.

• Direct Booking: Browse and book shifts directly through the app without recruiter intermediaries

• Quick Payments: Medely advertises payment within 48 hours of completing shifts

• Credentialing System: Digital credential wallet to store and submit licensing documentation

• Shift Flexibility: Choose when and where you want to work based on available opportunities

• Multiple Specialties: Options for RNs, LVNs/LPNs, CNAs, and allied health professionals

How It Works: Healthcare professionals can sign up on Medely's platform, upload their credentials, and then browse available shifts in their area. The platform shows shift details including facility information, hourly rates, and shift duration. After working a shift, professionals can submit their time for approval and receive payment.

Geographic Coverage: While Medely doesn't explicitly list all locations on their, they operate in nearly all metropolitan areas nationwide.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

AROUND THE WEB

💸  Nurses discuss what will happen if overtime is no longer taxed.

🛏️ Bedside is not for everyone.

🌕️ How your boss thinks you’ll react when asked to switch from days to NOC shifts.

That’s it for this week’s newsletter. If you have any feedback or story you would like covered, reply to this email. We read every response. 🤓 

See you next Monday! ☕️