Shazamme Blog

From Ward to Workforce: Kelly’s Journey in Clinical Facilitation and Education Support

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 03:29:01 GMT

That mindset became the foundation for her transition into clinical facilitation, where she could continue to make a meaningful impact on developing nurses.

Moving into clinical facilitation

Kelly’s passion for teaching and mentoring naturally led her into the clinical facilitation space, eventually joining First Choice Care’s Clinical Facilitation Placement team.

“My passion for guiding students led me into the clinical facilitation world and eventually guided me to join the Clinical Facilitation team at First Choice Care,” she explains. “In this role, I’ve been able to expand my impact beyond individual students to supporting facilitators more broadly.”

For Kelly, the role represents a meaningful progression that blends her clinical background with leadership and organisation, while maintaining a strong focus on student learning and development. “It’s been a rewarding progression that allows me to combine my clinical background with leadership, organisation, and a continued focus on fostering high-quality learning experiences in healthcare.”

What makes a great Clinical Nurse Facilitator?

When asked about the qualities that help someone excel in the role, Kelly highlights the importance of interpersonal skills and adaptability. “You need to be approachable, patient, and adaptable,” she says. “Creating a safe space where students feel comfortable asking questions is so important. A great facilitator can really make a difference in a student’s learning experience.”

Advice for nurses considering facilitation

Kelly is enthusiastic when encouraging others to consider stepping into facilitation. “Go for it! It is such a rewarding role,” she says. “You don’t have to know everything, but if you are kind, willing to guide, listen and encourage, you will love this job as much as I do.”

She believes the most fulfilling part of the role is seeing students develop and succeed. “Watching your students learn and excel under your supervision is incredibly fulfilling and a constant reminder of the difference you can make in shaping confident and compassionate future nurses.”

What makes a great CNF?

For Kelly, the best Clinical Nurse Facilitators are those who focus on empowerment and individualised support. “A great CNF empowers their students,” she explains. “They create a supportive environment and adapt to each learner. It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about helping others build confidence, think critically, and grow into the nurses they want to be.”

How to apply for Clinical Nurse Facilitator roles

If you’re a nurse who is passionate about supporting student development and interested in stepping into a facilitation role, First Choice Care welcomes applications from experienced clinicians who are ready to make an impact in clinical education.

To apply for Clinical Nurse Facilitator opportunities with First Choice Care, visit: https://www.firstchoicecare.com.au/facilitator-jobs

Nurse of the Month: March 2026

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 02:25:44 GMT

Congratulations Janine from Queensland

Flexible, Expert, Ready: How First Choice Care’s Agency Clinical Nurse Facilitators Support Australian Universities and Health Services

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 03:10:51 GMT

Supporting universities and health services with ease and professionalism

In today’s fast‑paced healthcare and education environment, universities and health services face growing demand for high‑quality nursing placements. Yet finding and retaining qualified Clinical Nurse Facilitators (CNFs) can be challenging, especially when they are essential to delivering Professional Experience Placements (PEP). At First Choice Care, we provide a solution: a flexible, professional agency workforce of Clinical Nurse Facilitators ready to support Australian education and healthcare providers .

A Growing Demand for Clinical Placements and Nurses

Australia’s healthcare system is under pressure to meet workforce needs, particularly in nursing. Workforce modelling suggests that demand for nurses will continue to outpace supply, with a projected shortage of tens of thousands of nurses within the next few years if clinical training capacity isn’t expanded. ( Universities Australia )

Universities are calling for more clinical placements to ensure students can complete their qualifications and graduate into the workforce, a challenge made more pressing by the fact that nursing programs require hundreds of hours of supervised clinical experience. ( Universities Australia )

In response, the Australian Government has invested significant funding. For example, $18.4 million to support nursing students through expanded aged care clinical placements, which includes provision of trained clinical facilitators to supervise and support students in real‑world settings. ( Health and Ageing Department )

The Vital Role of Clinical Nurse Facilitators

Clinical Nurse Facilitators are essential to the success of PEP. They mentor and support nursing students at the bedside, help to bridge the gap between classroom theory and hands‑on practice and ensure placements meet accreditation and safety standards. These facilitators improve learning outcomes and boost students’ confidence and competence critical factors in preparing future nurses for the workforce.

Workforce Shortages Highlight the Need for Flexible Support

At the same time, university enrolments in nursing continue to grow, with more students seeking clinical placements to complete their degrees ( AcademicJobs.com ). This creates a gap between placement demand and available facilitators, a gap that flexible agency support is uniquely positioned to help fill.

How First Choice Care Supports Universities and Health Services

At First Choice Care, we provide experienced Clinical Nurse Facilitators as an agency workforce, offering a flexible and cost‑effective solution for supporting PEP. Our facilitators are fully trained, clinically active and ready to step into placement blocks across urban and regional locations.

Key Benefits of Our Agency CNF Workforce:

Flexible & scalable: Access facilitators on demand to match placement schedules and student numbers.
Reduced administrative burden: We manage recruitment, compliance checks, onboarding, and rostering letting universities and health services focus on education and care delivery.
Experienced professionals: Our facilitators maintain current clinical practice while providing mentorship and guidance to students during PEP.
Cost‑effective: Engage CNFs only when needed, avoiding the fixed costs associated with permanent employment .

Why Partner with First Choice Care

By providing Clinical Nurse Facilitators as a professional agency workforce, First Choice Care helps universities and health services deliver high-quality Professional Experience Placements efficiently and effectively. Our approach ensures that student placements are well supported, compliant, and adaptable to changing demandswithout the challenges of managing a permanent facilitation workforce.

With our large pool of experienced facilitators and a 100% fill rate, we ensure we never let our clients down. We’re proud to support Australian healthcare education by connecting institutions with the right facilitator at the right time. Your next Professional Experience Placement, fully supported by First Choice Care facilitators, is ready and reliably staffed for success.

To find out more, visit: https://www.firstchoicecare.com.au/facilitator-shifts

Nurses of the Month: February 2026

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:11:00 GMT

Celebrating the nurses who go above and beyond every day.

We’re celebrating three incredible professionals: Leesa from Queensland, Moira from New South Wales and Martha from Victoria.

Why we celebrate our nurses

From meaningful resident interactions to flexible shifts and ongoing support, these nurses exemplify the heart and professionalism of First Choice Care. Every day, they make patients feel seen, supported and safe and that’s something worth celebrating.

“Being recognised, supported and truly part of the team, it makes all the difference.” – Leesa, QLD

Thank you, Leesa, Moira and Martha, for all that you do!

If you are looking to join First Choice Care, register today: https://www.firstchoicecare.com.au/

How to become a Travel Nurse

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 01:31:00 GMT

Your guide to exploring Australia while working as a nurse.

Imagine finishing a shift and walking out to outback sunsets, tropical coastlines or a quiet country main street instead of city traffic. That’s the reality for travel nurses working across rural and remote Australia – and it’s more achievable than you might think.

At First Choice Care, our Rural & Remote contracts give nurses the chance to step into 4–12 week full-time placements across QLD, NSW, WA, NT and TAS, with higher pay, accommodation organised and travel support to get you there.

This guide walks you through the education, qualifications and experience you’ll need – plus what to expect from life on contract.

What is a travel nurse?

In Australia, “travel nurse” generally refers to an experienced Registered Nurse (or Midwife) who works short-term contracts in different locations, usually through an agency. These contracts:

Are typically 6–12 weeks (sometimes as short as 4 weeks) with full-time hours.
Are based in regional, rural and remote facilities – from larger regional hospitals to multipurpose services and small community health sites
Offer higher hourly rates than metro agency casual shifts, plus allowances and benefits for being away from home

With First Choice Care, travel nursing also usually includes:

Accommodation provided or coordinated (often free in QLD, NSW and TAS, with small charges in some NT locations)
Return travel covered – flights arranged for you, or fuel caps if you drive
Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA) to help with food and incidentals (applies to certain contracts only)
Dedicated Consultant - and access to extra training and perks

Step 1: Get the right nursing qualification

To work as a travel nurse in Australia, you must be a nurse first – usually a Registered Nurse (RN).

M ost travel roles require:

A Diploma or Bachelor of Nursing (or equivalent) from a recognised institution
Completion of your graduate year (or equivalent transition program)

If you’re an overseas-trained nurse, you’ll need to meet Australian standards – this can involve bridging programs or additional assessment before you can register.

Step 2: Register with AHPRA / NMBA

Y ou must hold current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) via AHPRA to work as a nurse here – including in agency or travel roles.

For most travel nurse contracts, agencies will require:

Unrestricted AHPRA registration
Evidence of recent practice hours

Step 3: Build your clinical experience

Travel nurses are brought in to “hit the ground running”. That means you’re expected to be confident and safe with minimal orientation.

Most agencies – including First Choice Care – look for at least two years’ post-graduate clinical experience before you head out on Rural & Remote contracts.

For example, our Rural & Remote roles typically require:

Minimum 2 years post-graduate experience in your specialty
Demonstrated ability to work independently and adapt to new environments.

If you’re early in your career, focus first on:

Completing a graduate year in a hospital or health service
Gaining exposure to different wards (e.g. medical, surgical, ED, paediatrics, maternity, aged care)
Volunteering for extra shifts in regional facilities if available – great preparation for ru ral work

Step 4: Choose your specialty and upskill

Rural and remote facilities often need nurses who can cover more than one type of care. The most in-demand specialties for travel nursing include:

Emergency & ED
ICU / HDU
Paediatrics & Neonatal
Theatre & Recovery
Aged Care
Remote Area Nursing / Primary Health

To be competitive for Rural & Remote contracts – and to meet site requirements – additional training and certifications are a must. Common examples include:

Advanced Life Support (ALS) – often mandatory for ED, ICU and remote roles
Triage training , such as WACHS Triage or equivalent, particularly for WA emergency and multipurpose sites
Paediatric or neonatal life support (e.g. PALS, NRP) for paediatric and maternity placements
Remote area courses (REC, MEC, primary health skills) for remote nurse roles

If you know where you’d like to work (say, paeds contracts in the NT or ED roles in WA), it’s worth targeting your professional development towards those expectations.

Step 5: Get your compliance sorted

Every travel nurse role will require a stack of compliance documents. Getting these organised early makes it much easier to take contracts quickly.

Agencies and facilities typically expect:

Current National Police Check (often within the last 12 months)
Working With Children Check (state-specific)
NDIS clearance for certain aged care or disability roles (e.g. aged care roles in QLD)
Immunisation evidence (e.g. Hep B, MMR, Varicella, dTpa, COVID-19, influenza)
Basic Life Support / CPR currency
Proof of identity and work rights (passport, visa, etc.)

Your agency will help you navigate what each state, territory and facility requires – but if you love being organised, assembling a “compliance folder” (digital and physical) will save you a lot of hassle.

Step 6: Build the non-clinical skills travel nurses rely on

Rural and remote nursing is as much about who you are as what’s on your CV. The nurses who thrive on contract usually share traits like:

Adaptability – you’ll walk into new teams, systems and rosters regularly
Confidence with autonomy – particularly in smaller sites where you may be the most senior nurse on shift
Strong communication – with local teams, visiting doctors, retrieval services and your agency
Cultural safety and respect – especially when working with First Nations communities and diverse regional populations
Resilience and self-care – you’re away from your usual support network, so routines and boundaries matter

Many nurses say the lifestyle is incredibly rewarding but also honest about the trade-offs: frequent moves, time away from family/friends, and the need to constantly adapt.

Step 7: Register with a travel nursing agency

Here’s what partnering with a specialist agency like First Choice Care offers:

Access to contracts across Australia – QLD, NSW, WA, NT, TAS and more
A dedicated consultant who learns your preferences (locations, contract length, specialty) and matches you to the right roles
Travel and accommodation organised for you , including flights or fuel caps and housing
Living Away From Home Allowance to help with food and incidentals while you’re on contract (applies to certain contracts only)
Higher pay rates for Rural & Remote work, with superannuation and employee perks
24/7 clinical and wellbeing support (including EAP) – so you’re never on your own if something doesn’t feel right

Step 8: Plan your first travel nurse contract

Once you’ve got your qualifications, experience, compliance and agency partnership sorted, it’s time to plan your first contract.

1. Choose your destination and contract length

Talk to your consultant about:

States/regions you’re excited to explore
Whether you prefer 6-week “taste-test” contracts or longer 12-week placements
What kind of facility and specialty you’d like to start with

Many nurses begin with a contract that’s adventurous but still within their comfort zone clinically – for example, a regional paeds ward rather than a tiny remote clinic.

2. Understand what’s included

Clarify:

What level of accommodation is provided (type, location, costs if any)
Travel arrangements – flights booked on your behalf vs. driving with fuel caps
Any site-specific requirements (e.g. ALS within 12 months, specific triage certificates, on-call expectations)

Ready to start your travel nurse journey with First Choice Care?

If you’re an experienced nurse looking for high-paying contracts, new clinical challenges and the chance to see more of Australia, Rural & Remote travel nursing could be the perfect next step.

First Choice Care offers:

4–12 week travel nurse contracts across QLD, NSW, WA, NT and TAS
Higher hourly rates, accommodation and travel support
Living Away From Home Allowance and a supportive, nurse-led team to back you every step of the way

You can explore current Rural & Remote roles or register your interest on our Travel Nurse Jobs pages and one of our consultants will be in touch to talk about your experience, preferences and first contract.

Your next adventure and your next career step could be just one contract away.

Here is what’s next after applying with First Choice Care

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 04:56:55 GMT

You’ve done it, your application’s in and your journey with First Choice Care is underway! Curious about what comes next? We’ll walk you through every step, so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare for your first shift with us.

Your application review: what to expect

While our team reviews your application, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Behind the scenes, your application is shared with the right First Choice Care team, depending on your state or specialty area. Our recruitment consultants carefully review your experience, qualifications and preferences to find the best fit for you.

Top Tip: Make sure your CV is up to date and showcases all relevant experience for the role.

This process usually takes about two to five business days. Once it’s complete, one of our consultants will be in touch to discuss next steps and guide you through onboarding if successful.

Get ready to join First Choice Care

While we review your application, there are steps you can take to make your onboarding faster and smoother. Gathering these documents early will help us confirm your details, finalise your pay rate and get you ready for your first shift.

1. Confirm your work history

Your Statement of Service helps us confirm your work history so we can make sure you’re paid at the right level. If you’re an Enrolled Nurse (EN) or Registered Nurse (RN), we use it to confirm your year level and if you’re an Assistant in Nursing (AIN), Personal Care Worker (PCW) or Personal Care Assistant (PCA), it helps us check the recency of your work.

To obtain it:

Request it from your former employers’ HR departments.
Check that it clearly lists your total hours worked.

2. Complete key background checks

To work with First Choice Care, a National Police Check is mandatory. Depending on your state, you may also need additional checks such as a Working With Children Check (WWCC).

National Police Check (NPC) – It’s important to remember that the NPC must be issued within the last twelve months and clearly state that it’s for employment or work purposes, ideally mentioning work with vulnerable people. You can apply online (tip: keep your receipt, it’s tax deductible!).
Working With Children Check (WWCC) – Required in some states or for certain roles, such as paediatrics . Check your state’s WWCC website for details and fees.

3. Gather your vaccination and immunity records

Having your immunisation evidence ready helps us confirm your compliance quickly. Your recruiter will also discuss any specific client requirements during the interview.

Hepatitis B – Serology showing immunity or two documented doses.
Core Vaccines – Evidence for DTPa (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis), MMR (measles/mumps/rubella) and Varicella (chickenpox).
COVID-19 – At least two doses; some states require a third, especially in aged care – note, this is not mandatory for all First Choice Care clients.
Influenza (Flu) – Annual vaccination proof may be required.

Depending on where you work, extra checks like Hepatitis A in Western Australia A or TB form (all states) may need to be completed.

4. Refresh your training and competencies

At First Choice Care, we’re committed to maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence. That’s why all our nurses are required to complete our own online education modules, ensuring consistent, up-to-date training across our workforce.

While we don’t generally accept external education, we do require practical competency certificates for key clinical skills, including Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR, First Aid and Advanced Life Support (ALS). The specific certifications needed may vary depending on your designation and scope of practice.

5. Prepare your identification documents

You’ll need 100 points of ID to verify your identity.

This includes:

1 document from Category A (e.g., Passport or Birth Certificate), and
3 documents from Category B (e.g., Driver’s Licence, Medicare Card, Proof of Age Card).
If you are currently on a Visa, please include evidence of your working rights in Australia
At least one must include a photo.

6. Take a photo for your ID badge

A clear, professional photo helps us prepare your First Choice Care ID badge (think Passport style with a smile).

Top Tips:

Use natural lighting and a plain background.
Avoid filters or heavy edits.
Face the camera directly and smile naturally.

Next Steps: You’re almost there!

Once you’ve gathered these documents and completed the necessary checks, you’ll be fully prepared for a smooth and speedy start with First Choice Care. Our team will be in touch as soon as your application has been reviewed to guide you through collecting your uniform, setting up the My FCC by PeopleIN App and confirm your first shift.

Haven’t applied yet? Visit the First Choice Care Job Board to explore available opportunities and start your application today!

How to become a Clinical Nurse Facilitator: Lead, mentor and inspire in Nursing

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 00:30:15 GMT

Becoming a Clinical Nurse Facilitator isn’t just a career step, it’s about shaping the next generation of nurses. Facilitators stay in clinical practice while mentoring students, helping them build the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to succeed.

At First Choice Care, we work closely with Clinical Nurse Facilitators across Australia, offering job opportunities that not only let you share your expertise but also provide the flexibility to continue practicing in patient care.

The role of a Clinical Nurse Facilitator

A Clinical Nurse Facilitator plays a vital role in bridging the gap between theory and practice for nursing students.

On a day-to-day basis, they balance hands-on clinical work with teaching and mentorship, guiding students as they develop essential skills, clinical reasoning and professional confidence.

Unlike typical nursing roles, which focus primarily on patient care, facilitators dedicate significant time to supporting and assessing students in clinical environments. They work across a variety of Australian healthcare settings, including public and private hospitals, universities and specialised training facilities, ensuring students gain practical, up-to-date experience aligned with national standards and AHPRA requirements.

Key skills and attributes

A successful Clinical Nurse Facilitator combines a range of skills and qualities, including:

Mentorship and teaching – guiding students through clinical situations.

Leadership and organisation – managing multiple students and tasks.

Clinical expertise – providing accurate, evidence-based guidance.

Communication skills – consulting, negotiating, liaising with teams and drafting clear documentation.

Problem-solving – finding solutions while managing competing priorities.

Adaptability – supporting students with varying experience levels.

These skills ensure facilitators can guide students effectively and maintain high standards in clinical settings.

Essential qualifications and experience

To work as a Clinical Nurse Facilitator in Australia requires meeting key criteria to ensure you can effectively mentor nursing students:

Bachelor of Nursing degree and unrestricted AHPRA registration – You must hold a Bachelor of Nursing and an unrestricted registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to practice as a Registered Nurse in Australia.

Postgraduate study – Further qualifications, such as postgraduate certificates or diplomas in nursing or education can strengthen your career prospects.

Clinical experience – Most institutions require a minimum of five years of recent hands-on nursing experience. This practical background equips facilitators with the knowledge and confidence to guide students through real-world clinical scenarios.

Active industry engagement – Staying current with AHPRA standards, healthcare regulations and best practices is essential. Ongoing professional development ensures facilitators pass on up-to-date knowledge and maintain high standards of care.

Optional additional qualifications – While not always mandatory, further study in education, teaching, or leadership can enhance your ability to mentor and manage students effectively, giving you an edge in the role. Desirable qualifications include completion of a Certificate IV in Training & Assessment and participation in a preceptorship or equivalent program.

Specialised short courses – Completing courses such as Clinical Facilitation: Essential Skills and Principles can provide valuable preparation for the role.

Benefits of becoming a Nurse Facilitator

Becoming a Clinical Nurse Facilitator lets you combine clinical practice with teaching, growing your skills while helping students build theirs. By guiding and mentoring them, you shape the next generation of nurses.

Working with First Choice Care adds a layer of flexibility. During downtime from facilitation, you can pick up casual shifts or travel nurse contracts, allowing you to stay connected with patient care while enjoying variety in your career. It’s the best of both worlds, mentoring future nurses while still practicing the profession you love.

Working as a Clinical Nurse Facilitator lets you share your knowledge, support students in clinical settings and continue patient care. At First Choice Care, we’re proud to support facilitators in this vital role and we currently have Clinical Nurse Facilitator jobs available. If this sounds like the right step for you, find out more here: https://www.firstchoicecare.com.au/facilitator-jobs

Nurses of the Month - September 2025

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:19:00 GMT

We're celebrating outstanding First Choice Care nurses who go above and beyond. Recognised for their dedication, compassion, and heart for care, our Nurses of the Month inspire us all.

Hear from them below and join us in congratulating them on receiving a $100 gift card.

Ali W - New South Wales

Ali finds joy and purpose in every shift she takes with First Choice Care.

What she loves most about working here is the consistency and the support she receives from the team. “ I like the consistency and that there’s always someone there to help. Everyone is very friendly,” she says.

For Ali, it’s the daily care she provides that truly makes her work rewarding.

“Overall, I love caring for women and babies,” she shares, reflecting on the moments that make her role so meaningful.

Her approach to nursing is guided by a simple but powerful principle: “Never doubt your clinical judgement and always trust your gut.”

Ali is also quick to recommend First Choice Care to other nurses, citing the incredible support and flexibility she experiences: “Yes, 100%. The support I’ve been given has been fantastic, and they always try their best to get me as many shifts as I like.”

We’re proud to celebrate Ali and the dedication, care, and positivity she brings to every shift.

Aylmer U - Victoria

Some people talk about work-life balance, Aylmer truly lives it.

As our Victorian Nurse of the Month, he shines a light on what he values most about working with First Choice Care:

“I really enjoy the flexibility. It allows me to balance work with my personal life, and I think that’s one of the most attractive parts of working with First Choice Care.”

That flexibility means Aylmer can show up to every shift with energy, focus and heart.

For him, it’s not only about the big milestones it’s the little everyday moments that count. “Honestly, I feel that every moment has been a highlight. I’m very grateful because you always provide me with shifts, and that support has made my time here really positive.”

His perspective is guided by a simple yet powerful piece of advice:

“Never be afraid to grab a new opportunity. Every experience helps you grow, both in terms of skills and financially.”

It’s this openness that has helped him build his nursing career with confidence and enthusiasm.

Would he recommend First Choice Care to other nurses? Absolutely: “Because of the flexibility, the opportunities for growth, and the consistent support you provide. It’s a great way to develop professionally while also having control over your work-life balance.”

Aylmer, thank you for bringing your positivity, professionalism and care to every shift. We’re so proud to celebrate you as our Victorian Nurse of the Month.

Jenice H - Queensland

For Jenice, working with First Choice Care is all about freedom and flexibility. She loves having the choice over when and where she works, and the intuitive app makes it easy to accept or decline shifts at her convenience.

“It gives me the freedom of choice, whether I want to work or not, where I work, and when. The app is great — the shifts are served up to accept or decline. What could be better?”

Every shift brings its own moments, and she treasures the highlights, big and small. One night working in Children’s Mental Health stands out vividly: “There are some challenges. I was with a particularly challenging patient, but when it was time to go and I let them know, they ran up and hugged me. It can be challenging, but you take the rewards, highlight the good, and laugh.”

Her approach to nursing is guided by wisdom and balance: “Put your heart into it but don’t forget about yourself and your own needs — be kind, compassionate, and don’t be too tough on yourself. Don’t take things personally. Always look at the bigger picture. Make good assessments before you jump in and take action. My advice for others is to look up to the old girls — listen to them, they’ve been there and done it.”

When it comes to recommending First Choice Care, Jenice has no hesitation:

“I do all the time! I worked at a Private Hospital in Brisbane for 25 years, and First Choice Care was my best agency — always going above and beyond to find staff. When I moved to agency work, First Choice was my first choice. Now I get looked after and sent where I’m happiest; the allocations team know me well.”

We’re proud to celebrate Jenice for her dedication, compassion, and the joy she brings to every shift.

Coming to the end of your first year as a nurse? Here’s why you should be an Agency Nurse next!

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:37:57 GMT

Having 12 months of experience working as a nurse unlocks a lot of doors! You’ve got some experience under your belt and a greater idea of what you want out of your career as a nurse. By this point, you’ve experienced parts of the job that you love, and some things you don’t love as much, which will help shape your pathway forward.

One door that has now been unlocked for you is Agency Nursing. We think it’s the best next step for most nurses, whether you’re looking for more flexible work, or want to earn a bit extra while maintaining your existing job or study commitments. To help you see why, we’ve put together this list on the pros and cons of agency nursing.

What do you want to achieve next?

The first thing to consider when determining your next step is what exactly you are looking to achieve. Do you want more flexibility, to travel the country while working, to work and study, to earn a bit more money, or do you want to follow a specific specialisation?

Your priorities can help you determine whether Agency Nursing is the right step to take in your career. Put together a list of what you value, want to achieve, and want to prioritise. If any of our pros below connect with you, then Agency Nursing may just be right for you.

Upskilling and specialisations

If you’re ready to try something new, then you may look at upskilling. Undertaking further study will allow you to work in new specialisations that align with your passions. There are so many options when it comes to specialising in nursing, like emergency, theatre nursing, clinical, aged care, midwifery, and more.

If you choose to do further study, you can work around it by picking up shifts for a Nursing Agency (more on that below)!

Agency nursing

Agency Nursing is one of the best pathways for working in nursing on your terms. Whether you want greater flexibility, to supplement your income from your primary job, or to travel while working.

It isn’t perfect, of course, so we’ve put together the pros and cons of agency nursing to help you determine whether it fits your needs.

Pros of agency nursing

Flexibility

Agency Nursing provides unmatched flexibility. Your work schedule is entirely in your control. You can work as much as you like, picking shifts that suit the needs of your life. This is perfect for nurses who are engaging in further study, have another job and want to pick up more work, have family commitments, or just want more flexibility in general.

Pay

As Agency Nurses are employed as casual workers, they earn a higher hourly rate than full-time nurses. In some cases, a hard-to-fill shift or role may receive a slightly higher hourly rate. But this higher casual rate means that on average, you can work as much as a full-time nurse while earning more.

You may also receive higher rates as you progress in your career. Just like working directly for a healthcare facility, Agency Nurses may be offered a higher rate depending on the role and experience.

Travel

If you’re looking to explore Australia while working, then Agency Nursing is your perfect match. You pick up shifts in different cities that you visit, working while you explore. But the real gem comes in when you pick up Rural & Remote work. These temporary contracts will have you exploring and working in gorgeous rural locations all across Australia.

Variety

Variety is the spice of life, and Agency Nursing is perfect for getting your fix. You’ll work in a wide variety of healthcare facilities, with new people, and in new environments. It’s perfect for nurses looking to explore both public and private healthcare facilities in their city.

Networking

Working with a large variety of people across different facilities does wonders for expanding your network. You'll be working alongside a variety of different healthcare professionals, making connections, and learning from each other. A wide network is a great asset when you want to grow your career.

Cons of agency nursing

Shift availability

While Nursing Agencies have enough shifts to keep you working each week, you may not always get shifts at your preferred healthcare facility. The shifts available are based on the needs of each individual healthcare facility. Meaning one week your preferred facility may have a lot of shifts available, and the next week not as many. Fortunately, you will still find shifts in other facilities that you may enjoy working in.

Annual Leave/Sick Leave

If you want to go on a holiday or need to take a rest for a few days, you will be sacrificing income over that time. Agency Nurses don’t have access to Annual Leave or Sick Leave as they are classified as casual workers. However, to make up for it, you do get paid significantly more for each shift, which often more than makes up for the lack of Annual Leave. As an Agency Nurse you will also be able to easily take time off whenever you want, whether you’re sick or need a break, you control when you work.

Shift cancellation

Shift cancellations do happen from time to time. Facilities sometimes decide that they don’t need anyone working on the shift that you have previously booked. In the case of a cancellation, our team will work hard to try to find you a replacement shift that matches your needs.

Mentorship

Finding an ongoing mentorship relationship with a more experienced nurse is more challenging as an Agency Nurse, but not impossible. As a staff nurse, you may engage in a mentor relationship with your nursing manager or other more experienced nurses you work with every day. But as an Agency Nurse, you will need to seek out those relationships on your own. Agency Nurses do develop strong relationships with the allocations teams, which can help you find resources, and the work you want to advance your career.

Conclusion

After your first year working as a nurse, you have a lot of exciting pathways in front of you. It’s the perfect time to take a look at what you want to do with your career, and the options that best suit it. If you’re looking for more flexibility, better pay, and the ability to work and travel, then Agency Nursing may be calling you.

Find a job or register to work with us!

Nurse of the Month May 2025 - Marjie

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Fri, 23 May 2025 01:49:55 GMT

This May, we're thrilled to shine a spotlight on our Nurse of the Month, Marjie! Known for her dedication, compassion, and adventurous spirit, Marjie exemplifies what it means to be a nurse with First Choice Care. Her journey into emergency nursing and her love for rural and remote work make her truly one-of-a-kind. Here’s what Marjie had to say about her experience with us:

What do you like most about First Choice Care?

I like the flexibility of being an agency nurse. I also feel like I exist as a person to First Choice Care, where I have worked for others and only felt like a number.

Why did you want to become a Nurse?

I became a nurse actually as a platform for paramedicine and then I discovered the Emergency department and haven’t looked back. I love being able to help people.

What has been the highlight of working with First Choice Care?

I really enjoy working with handlers and I enjoy the flexibility to travel with my work and make a good pay packet. I am not someone who does permanency well, so this is an ideal set up for me.

Would you recommend First Choice Care to other nurses and why?

I would recommend First Choice Care for their rural and remote team. I have never done ad hoc shifts so I can’t speak for the metro teams, but I can only imagine that they are just as good. I have always been able to speak to a person when I called and the team actually communicate with each other which I love. I find the pay rates to be very competitive and I get the support I need when I need it.

Thank you, Marjie, for being such an incredible part of the First Choice Care family. Your passion for emergency nursing and commitment to quality care in rural and remote settings is inspiring. We’re lucky to have you on the team!

Oops, Don’t Do That: Compliance & Credentialing Errors That Slow Down Your Start Date

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 22:41:10 GMT

So, you’ve nailed your application and interview—congrats! But before you can start picking up shifts as a casual nurse or healthcare worker, there’s one final (and very important) step: completing your compliance and credentialing requirements.

Many applicants underestimate the time it takes to get their paperwork in order, and missing even one required document can delay your start date.

To ensure a smooth onboarding process, here’s a checklist of the most common compliance mistakes and how to avoid them.

Not Providing the Right References

Your referees play a crucial role in verifying your experience and suitability for agency nursing. However, many applicants make the mistake of:

Providing personal references instead of professional ones
Listing references who haven’t supervised them in the last 12 months
Forgetting to notify their referees that they’ll be contacted

What You Need to Do:

Submit 3 referees with their current phone number and email address

Ensure referees have directly supervised you in the role you’re applying for within the last 12 months

Contact your referees in advance and let them know they’ll receive an email or call from First Choice Care

Missing Critical Proof of Experience

If you’re applying as an Enrolled Nurse (EN) or Registered Nurse (RN) student, you’ll need to prove your recent clinical experience. A common mistake is not providing the right documents or thinking placements alone will count.

What You Need to Submit:

2 x recent ANSAT reports or University Transcript (for EN/RN students only)

2 x recent payslips (from the same role you’re applying for—important for verifying recent experience!)

Forgetting to Upload Key Qualifications

Many applications stall because nurses and healthcare workers forget to upload their essential qualifications.

Make sure you provide:

Copy of your relevant certificates (Postgraduate Certificate, Bachelor, Diploma)

Current AHPRA Registration (For nurses only—check your renewal date!)

Not Completing Background Checks

Your police clearance and working permits are non-negotiable for agency roles. A common mistake is not having the correct up to date documents or having the documents ready to go.

What You Need to Submit:

Certified Copy of a Current National Police Clearance (Dated within the last 6 months & clear of disclosable outcomes.

Current Blue Card with Yellow Card Exemption (Required for Disability Support Workers only)

Working with Children’s Permit (If applicable to your role)

Proof of Work Rights in Australia (Passport, Australian birth certificate, or Confirmation of Enrolment for student visa holders)

Not Meeting ID Requirements

Not providing the correct identification and clear headshot is a common roadblock in onboarding.

You need to provide at least 100 points of ID, such as:

Passport (70 points)
Australian Driver’s Licence (40 points)
Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate (25 points)

What You Need:

A clear headshot from the shoulders up for your ID badge. Think passport photo, not selfie.

Not Submitting Immunisation & Health Clearance Records

You’ll need documentation proving immunity to:

Hepatitis B (Serology results with titre level OR record of 3 completed vaccinations)
COVID-19 (Evidence of vaccinations required)
Hepatitis A (If required for your role)
Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) (Serology results OR record of 2 completed vaccinations)
Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DTP) (Vaccination within the last 10 years)
Varicella (Chickenpox) (Serology results OR record of 2 completed vaccinations)
Fluvax (Yearly dose—mandatory for Aged Care, Community, and Disability roles, highly regarded for Acute nurses)
Tuberculosis Clearance (BCG, Mantoux results <5 OR negative, QuantiFERON result required if applicable)

Relevant certificates required:

First Aid Certification (Must be completed within the last 3 years)

Don’t Let Paperwork Hold You Back!

Completing compliance might seem overwhelming, but getting it right the first time will speed up your onboarding and help you start working faster.

Triple-check that all required documents are submitted in full
Contact your referees in advance to avoid delays
Make sure your police check, AHPRA registration, and immunisations are up to date
Respond promptly to emails requesting additional documents

Tip: Keep a digital folder with all your credentials handy, so you can upload them quickly when applying for roles.

Conclusion

Completing your compliance and credentialing requirements correctly is an important step in getting started with First Choice Care quickly. Review your compliance and credentialing documentation and match it to this list to ensure you're getting it right the first time. Then you'll be ready to start picking up shifts and enjoying the flexibility that agency nursing offers.

Ready to join First Choice Care, Australia’s most supportive nursing agency? Check out our current roles or register your interest here .

Nurse of the Month March 2025 - Aisling

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:44:58 GMT

Introducing our nurse of the month for March 2025 – Aisling! Congratulations, you’ve been working hard to deliver exceptional care to your patients. We’re really excited to present you with this reward.

If you want to learn more about Aisling’s time with First Choice Care, check out her interview below.

What do you like most about First Choice Care?

I love working for First Choice Care as they are a great team. From signing up to providing full-time hours they are always helpful, supportive and understanding.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

My Dad was my inspiration to become a nurse, seeing him in hospital and his positive outlook on life no matter what cards he was dealt made me want to be there to care for people, to bring them some sort of normality in a very abnormal setting. Every day is worth going to work for when you can see patients making progress or be there to comfort those who are in their final days along with their families. Being an advocate for patients and ensuring they get the care they deserve is what is most important to me.

What has been the highlight of working with First Choice Care?

First Choice Care have given me the opportunity to gain huge experience. I have the opportunity to work in different facilities and in different specialties learning something new in each one.

Would you recommend First Choice Care to other nurses and why?

I already have! First Choice Care will always do their best by their nurses; you get to speak to the same people and you're not just a number with a space to fill. The allocations team really are amazing at what they do!

Oops, Don’t Do That: Common Mistakes in Your Nursing Agency Application

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 03:40:53 GMT

Are you ready to start working as a casual nurse with a leading nursing agency like First Choice Care? That's a great choice! Agency nursing offers unmatched flexibility, variety, and control over your shifts. But, when applying many nurses unknowingly make small mistakes that can cost them an interview.

To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of the most common (and easily avoidable!) mistakes nurses make when applying for casual work.

Typos & Incorrect Contact Details

Imagine this: You’ve submitted your application, your experience looks great, but when the recruiter tries calling you calling... the phone number doesn’t work. Or worse, your email address is missing a letter, and you miss that interview invite. Fortunately, these are easy to fix.

Common mistakes:

Incorrect phone number or email address
Not checking voicemails or unknown numbers
Emails from the agency going to your spam folder

Double-check your contact details before hitting submit. A small typo in your phone number or email can mean missing out on an interview. Make sure your voicemail is set up too and remember to check them.

Not Meeting the Minimum Clinical Experience Requirement

Unlike graduate programs or permanent hospital roles, casual nursing jobs require applicants to have a minimum amount of clinical experience. This is to ensure that agency nurses can step into different healthcare settings with minimal supervision.

Common misconceptions:

Thinking that newly graduated nurses can apply without any post-grad experience
Assuming that clinical placements during university count toward the required hours
Forgetting to clearly list your experience on your CV
First Choice Care typically requires nurses to have a minimum of 12 months of recent clinical experience in their specialty (this can vary based on role and location).

Before applying, check that you meet the minimum experience requirement listed in the job ad, this experience is clearly stated in your CV and you're able to provide evidence of this experience. If you’re unsure, reach out to the First Choice Care recruitment team!

Sending a CV That’s Too Long (or Too Short)

Your CV should highlight your nursing experience, skills, and qualifications clearly and concisely—but many applicants go wrong here:

Too much detail: Listing every duty from every job you’ve ever had can overwhelm recruiters.

Too little detail: A bare-bones CV that just lists job titles without responsibilities or specialties may not stand out.

Ideal CV length: 1-2 pages, with clear sections on qualifications, clinical experience, and key skills.

Bonus Tip: Tailor your CV for agency work by including:

Years of experience in each role (e.g., “XXX hours in an acute ward”)
Range of settings you’ve worked in (e.g., hospitals, aged care, community)
Specialised skills (e.g., ICU, paediatrics, wound care)

Using a Generic or Outdated Cover Letter

Cover letters are not always required but if you do choose to send a cover letter keep it brief and personalised. Mention why you’re interested in agency nursing, your flexibility, and what you bring to the team, this is especially important if you are new to working as an agency nurse.

If you have specific preferences, such as type of facility or shifts, the cover letter is a great place to include that information.

Conclusion

Getting your application right is the first step to starting your journey as an agency nurse. With these tips, your application is sure to stand out and get you through the recruitment process quickly.

Ready to join First Choice Care, Australia’s most supportive nursing agency? Check out our current roles or register your interest here.

Nurse of the month February 2025 – Holly

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:28:55 GMT

Congratulations to our Nurse of the month for February – Holy! She’s an incredible nurse who puts a lot of care and effort each day for her patients. We absolutely love working alongside you!

You can hear all about Holly’s time as a nurse at the interview below:

What do you like most about FCC?

I appreciate the assistance and communication from the allocation team when a shift has been cancelled and how they try to provide a shift. I like that I deal with the same allocation staff if I call to change a shift or need information; I have my two main men, Michael and Tait, who help me with anything I need.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I have always wanted a career that continues to teach me something almost every day; this career has no end to gaining knowledge, educating oneself and sharing that with patients to help them understand their situation in a caring and informative way. Being an agency nurse, you are constantly placed in different environments and departments, learning a new procedure or medication or dealing with a different hospital protocol on matters; it is fascinating.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Being able to work in multiple hospitals, obtaining rapport with NUM's and permanent staff. I like the challenge of trying to fit in when times are stressful and busy.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I have recommended FCC to many nurses; none have yet made the leap, but I am pleased with the services they provide and the support. I explain the flexibilities of the role and how the learning of new protocols and procedures is forever keeping me on my toes, the hourly wages making up for the occasional cancelled shift. Forever learning and being challenged, I couldn't love it any more.

Nurse of the Month January 2025 - Robyn

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:45:55 GMT

Congratulations to our Nurse of the Month for January 2025 - Robyn! We want to recognise the incredible levels of care you put in each day. Your patients are lucky to have you, and we're always grateful to have you on our team.

Robyn has provided us with an amazing interview below! Check it out:

What do you like most about FCC?

It can be hard to choose just one reason but one of the things I like most about FCC is how consistently connected they are to their nurses. There is never a time while on contract that I feel unsupported or isolated and they are genuinely passionate about making sure that I am valued and heard. Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, birthdays or any other special occasions that I’m on contract they always let me know that while my own family may be a long way from wherever I am, I still have my work family looking after me. Not just a bit, every single time!

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I have had a number of different career paths in my lifetime; from fitness to aviation and just about everything in between.

I became a nurse because I wanted to do something by which I could make a contribution in, not only my community but also my family. The question we ask children about “ what do you want to do when you grow up?” for me while my answer was seated in what a kind, generous, well respected and community revered role it appeared to be to say “Nurse” kind of just fell out of my enthusiastic child’s brain and never entered it until a very much family member suffered a devastating stroke that “to be a nurse” changed both our lives. I watched the nursing team show knowledge, skill and just as importantly compassionate care that made such a positive impact on my whole family that I decided I wanted to learn the same and hopefully give some of the same back.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The highlights of working for FCC have been many. The new adventures each contract brings, the opportunities to meet new people who have similar interests and sharing those adventures with new friends who become old friends who also become the same friends I recommend my agency with.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Of course!!! Two of them are now on contract with me in Lismore!! I always tell people who I’m signed up with because I’m really proud to belong to such an amazing team.

Agency nurse vs staff nurse: Which path is right for you?

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 06:18:11 GMT

As a nurse, you’ve got a lot of career opportunities in front of you. Two of these opportunities include choosing between staff nursing and agency nursing. Both offer unique experiences, benefits, and career opportunities. This makes choosing between the two quite a challenge.

So, which one is right for you?

If you’ve got no idea, then you’re in the right place. It can be hard to know the answer. But hopefully after our detailed breakdown of staff nursing and agency nursing, you’ll have a better idea as to which path suits you. Let’s dive in!

What is an Agency Nurse?

Before we get to the pros and cons let’s define what an agency nurse and a staff nurse mean.

An agency nurse is a nurse who works for a nursing agency. These nursing agencies partner with a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, GPs, aged care homes, and many more facilities. These facilities will send requests to the nursing agency to fill available shifts. The agency will then send one of its nurses to work in that facility for that shift.

So, this means that an agency nurse works across a lot of different facilities. Facilities often have shortages, so you’ll find a lot of opportunities to work in a variety of locations, with many different people and patients.

What is a Staff Nurse?

A staff nurse on the other hand is employed full-time by a single facility. They will work their required shifts in the facility that they are employed by. Staff nurses work consistently with the same people and cover the same responsibilities each week. Of course, even in one facility, no two days are the same, but generally things will be more consistent than with an agency nurse.

What are the big differences?

Agency nursing and staff nursing have stark differences from each other. From the way you are employed to the way you pick up shifts. Let’s go over some of the distinct differences now.

Pay levels

While staff nurses may be employed on a full-time salary, it’s actually agency nurses who win the pay battle. Agency nurses can make significantly more money than staff nurses. This is because agency nurses often earn a higher hourly wage and have the flexibility to work as much as they like.

So, if you want to work less but earn as much as you do now, that’s entirely possible as an agency nurse. Alternatively, you can take up an extra shift to help boost your savings goals. It’s also common for someone to work as a staff nurse and then supplement their salary by picking up some shifts with a Nursing Agency.

Flexibility

An agency nurse has the freedom to set their schedule. They can choose how many hours they work each week, when they work, and where they work. This means that an agency nurse has the flexibility to schedule around events and holidays or to add a few shifts when they want to make some more money.

Staff nurses tend to have a set schedule each week with a set number of hours. This is great if you crave that consistency and stability. But with the high demand for nurses in Victoria, you’ll likely find a shift whenever you want to work as an agency nurse.

Annual leave

As staff nurses are employed on a full-time basis, they get access to all leave entitlements. This includes annual leave and sick leave. So as a staff nurse, you can submit your leave applications for any holidays or sick days and know that you won’t lose out on any income.

On the other hand, agency nurses do not get access to sick leave or annual leave. Instead, this is often made up through higher pay and greater shift flexibility. So, if you’re sick you can take the day off, or schedule shifts around an upcoming holiday. But you won’t get paid if you’re not working. Generally, this is a consideration agency nurses have to make in their savings. Alternatively, they may pick up extra shifts before and after to make up for the lost income.

Stability

Staff nurses have a set number of work hours each week and a set location to work during those shifts. Their schedule is set in advance and followed through. There’s a guarantee that you will get shifts each week.

If you’re someone who likes the stability of working in the same facility with the same people with generally consistent hours, then staff nursing holds the advantage.

On the flip side, there is constant demand from facilities for more nurses. Which an agency nurse can fill whenever they feel like working. You’ll still be able to fill each week up with shifts, but they may be at different times, in different facilities, and with different people.

Facility politics

Few people enjoy work politics. If you’re always at a single facility it can be hard to escape the politics. This can drag down your passion for nursing.

Fortunately, agency nurses can escape politics by moving around between facilities. They can try out different facilities to find the ones that they prefer working for.

If you’re a staff nurse, then you can also take up a shift as an agency nurse in a different facility to get a little break from the politics.

Mentor relationships

Building a mentor relationship can be an important part of your career development. Since, as a staff nurse, you’ll be working with the same people each week, it is much easier to build these mentor relationships. You’ll be able to connect with senior nurses at the facility and develop a close mentor relationship.

These relationships are great for learning new skills, getting career advice, and improving your abilities.

Of course, being an agency nurse doesn’t stop you from gaining a mentor. You will just need to take the initiative and reach out to your mentor. As well as this you may need to coordinate shifts if you want hands-on time while working. However, agency nurses also often gain access to other educational and career-progressing opportunities to make up for it.

Experiences

Nothing quite matches the number of experiences you can get from being an agency nurse. Since agency nurses work with a wide variety of patients, healthcare workers, and facilities, they experience a lot of variety. No two days are the same.

Agency nurses can use these experiences to expand their knowledge and skills. It’s the perfect way to rebuild your passion for nursing and accelerate your career.

Which option is best for you?

Now that you’ve seen the pros and cons of both options it’s hopefully a little easier to know which path is best for you. Generally, agency nursing is perfect for anyone who wants greater control over their schedule, the flexibility to take shifts when they want, are seeking a break from staff nursing, or want to supplement their income. On the other hand, staff nursing can be great if you are looking for absolute stability, want to establish yourself in a facility, or want to build a mentor relationship.

If agency nursing sounds like something that you’d love to get involved with, come have a chat with First Chpoice Care by registering your interest today.

Nurse of the month August 2024 - Kat

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 05:24:35 GMT

At First Choice Care (FCC), we take pride in celebrating the incredible work of our nursing staff. For August, we are thrilled to announce Kat as our Nurse of the Month! As a dedicated travel nurse, Kat has made a lasting impact on patients across Australia while balancing her personal and professional life. Here's a closer look at her journey with FCC.

What do you like most about FCC?

"One of the things I like the most about FCC is the variety of contracts on offer to nurses throughout Australia and the work/life balance I've been able to achieve working as a travel nurse."

Why did you want to be a nurse?

"I chose to become a Registered Nurse because the profession offers a unique combination of personal and professional fulfillment. The ability to provide care, support, and comfort to patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives gives me a profound sense of purpose. Furthermore, I have always been fascinated by the human body and how its complex systems work in unison to sustain life. You can probably guess some of the subjects I enjoyed most whilst at university!"

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

"The best part of working with FCC has been the opportunity to improve my clinical skills, meet new people, and explore locations I wouldn’t have discovered if I had continued working solely in Brisbane."

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

"I would recommend my consultant, Sasha, to any of my nursing friends considering travel nursing. I have found Sasha to be dependable, an excellent communicator, and proactive in securing contracts for her clients."

Conclusion

Kat's passion for nursing, her adventurous spirit, and her dedication to delivering top-quality care make her a shining example of what it means to be part of the FCC family. We are proud to have her as our Nurse of the Month for August and look forward to supporting her continued success as she travels and makes a difference across Australia. Congratulations, Kat!

How to Prepare for Your First Contract Role at a Nursing Agency

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 06:29:33 GMT

When you think of agency nursing, consistency and routine are presumably words that don’t instinctively spring to mind. But at VNS Nursing Agency we are redefining the status quo. We provide exciting contract roles for nurses, midwives, enrolled nurses (ENs), endorsed enrolled nurses (EENs), Theatre Techs (TT), Instrument Techs (IT), and personal care assistants (PCAs) across metro and regional Victoria, allowing you to feel secure but not confined to one role. Contract roles can be exhilarating, but it takes planning and thought to hit the ground running. Let’s explore what contract nursing could look like for you with VNS and how to best prepare.

Understand the Contract Details

Though you're enthusiastic about your upcoming contract, it’s worth slowing down to consider the nitty-gritty details. What is life really going to look like for you over the next few weeks or months?

Here are some key questions and concepts to explore:

Contract details and requirements

How long is the contract for? What does this mean for your current living arrangements?
Consider rent, mortgage, pets, housemates, etc.
What are the specific requirements outlined in the contract and are you eligible for the role you want to apply for?
Consider the qualifications, required immunisations, police and Working with Children's Checks.
Is there an opportunity to extend or shorten the contract if need be and are there consequences for making such adjustments?

Shifts, pay and location

How are the shifts structured and what is the rostering/scheduling system used? Are you able to request shifts?
What is the pay structure?
Consider public holidays, weekends, night shifts, and afternoon shifts.
How often will you be paid?
Do you know anybody who lives in/around your possible new home? Are there opportunities for social interaction outside of work, such as sports complexes, libraries, community markets, etc?

Other

Will the nursing agency help me relocate? Is housing included in the contract?
Are there any moving bonuses or subsidies on offer? Check what benefits are included in the role you are interested in.
Do I need to buy a specific uniform or any other tools and equipment?
What is the area like? Can I access public transport?
Is there anyone that can support me during my orientation or someone that can show me around?

How to Best Prepare for Your First Contract Role

Upskill if required

Before you jump in the car, or in some cases a plane, to start your next nursing adventure, be honest with yourself about the requirements of the job. Do you hold the qualifications necessary to confidently undertake the role? Or is now a great time to focus on gaining nursing specialty experience? The more versatile your skill set is the more options for assignments and locations you will have.

Taking a short course in an area specific to the location you are going to, such as ECG interpretation, advanced life support or wound management, can boost confidence and open more opportunities. Check out our courses page here.

Know your itinerary/trip

Though spontaneity can be fun, it’s worth considering how you are going to get from point A to point B safely and on time. Your new nursing friends are likely expecting you on a particular date, so make a good first impression by arriving on time.

Considering the possibility of undertaking a “practice run.” This allows you to adequately plan whilst also giving you the opportunity to explore your new surroundings. If this is not possible, ask friends and family, contact VNS and research the town and surroundings yourself. Think about how you are going to spend your spare time and the items you may need to bring from home to occupy time outside of your working hours.

Get in the right mindset

Put yourself in the nursing clogs of your new employer. What would you be looking for in a nurse or midwife who is coming to your organisation to undertake a short-term contract? You’re likely thinking of somebody who is adaptable, approachable, passionate, and a proactive problem-solver who is equipped with the skills to do the job independently.

Find other travel nurses or those who are across contract nursing and make friends with them where possible. Gain an honest insight into their experiences and apply them to your own journey.

Why Undertake Contract Work with VNS?

Contracts vary from beautiful regional and remote locations to city contracts; the choice is up to you
Immediate start options are available
Open to all nurses - Registered Nurses (RNs), Enrolled Nurses (ENs), Endorsed Enrolled Nurses (EENs) and Personal Care Workers (PCAs)
Some contracts offer bonuses, travel redemption or free/subsidised accommodation
Sponsorship opportunities are available to highly qualified Nurses and Midwives with a minimum of 3 years of experience
Great pay rates with the security of ongoing work
A user-friendly Members only app where you can view your shifts in real-time
Most jobs include a free scrub top
An opportunity to earn money through our Refer a friend program
The ability to change to a different contract or new location

If this has sparked your interest in setting off into new facilities and exciting places, check out our contract roles today and apply!

Nurse of the month June 2024- Hollie

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 03:53:19 GMT

At First Choice Care (FCC), we pride ourselves on recognizing the outstanding contributions of our nurses, who consistently demonstrate dedication, compassion, and professionalism in their roles. This month, we are thrilled to honor Hollie as our Nurse of the Month for June 2024. Hollie exemplifies the qualities we value at FCC, and we are excited to share her story with you.

An Interview with Hollie

What do you like most about FCC? 

FCC has a streamlined sign-up process; the consultants are approachable and helpful.

Why did you want to be a nurse? 

As a nurse we are able to improve people’s experiences within the healthcare setting, making a real difference in someone's life. I truly believe that helping others is the most rewarding thing one can do with one's life.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Working with first choice care has enabled me to travel to a variety of locations within Australia. I have enjoyed the exposure to different facilities and the skills and experiences gained from this.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why? 

I have and would recommend FCC to any nurses wishing to travel and work within Australia. The signup process is streamlined and the consultants are down to earth and very helpful.

7 tips for healthcare career success

Tue, 28 May 2024 04:29:39 GMT

Healthcare is an incredible industry to work in. There are so many opportunities, amazing people to work with, and so much good to do. Because of all these positives, remaining focused on your professional development is important to make the most of your career.

To help you get the best out of your healthcare career, we’ve put together our top 7 tips for healthcare success.

1. Make a plan

To find success you must have a plan! This should always be the first step taken in setting up your career. So, what should you include in your plan? It’s all about what you want to achieve.

Think about some goals. Look to your future and where you want to be. Put together the steps you need to take, and the skills you need to develop to get there. The trick to making your plan effective is to include SMART Goals. That means specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. Your SMART Goals will help you keep on track as you progress in your career.

2. Surround yourself with the right people

The right people make all the difference. By surrounding yourself with people who have similar goals and aspirations you’ll find the support and motivation you need to keep pushing ahead. You’ll also be able to utilise this network for advice, to find job openings, and for help around upskilling.

The best way to find like-minded people is through networking events or by joining professional organisations. Have a look online or ask around for events happening near you. While they may seem intimidating at first, once you’ve gotten to know a few people they will be fun and great for your career!

3. Pursue your passions

The best way to advance your career, and have a blast doing it, is by pursuing something that you’re passionate about. Following your passion will keep you motivated and provide positive experiences regardless of the challenges you face.

To find the fields or specialisations you’re passionate about, consider your past experiences. What have you enjoyed most while working? What is something that first excited you about healthcare? Once you’ve got an idea consider doing agency work in these fields to try them out.

4. Be open to change

Healthcare is filled with change. There are new technologies, procedures, discoveries, and information coming in constantly. To work in healthcare, you need to be prepared for, and open to, change. You’ll be required to constantly learn and evolve your skills in order to keep up.

Sometimes unexpected career opportunities may open up. Exciting developments are occurring in healthcare, creating fresh job opportunities and innovative approaches to working within the field. When an opportunity that interests you arises, give it a go, even if it wasn’t part of your plan. Trying things out may allow you to find whole new passions.

5. Dress for success

What you wear is important for progressing your career, even these days. As they say, dress for the job you want, not the job that you have. Your clothing can reflect your level of professionalism and competence. It can also give you confidence, allowing you to step up to be who you want to be when meeting with others in your industry.

Scrubs will always be a staple in healthcare and have their time and place. But when it comes to networking events, interviews, or meetings, it’s important to dress the part. You don’t need to break the bank. Simply wear well-fitting, clean, and pressed clothing to convey that you’re put together and take your career seriously.

6. Continue your education

A key component to a long and successful career in healthcare is to never stop learning. As we’ve said earlier, it’s an industry which is constantly evolving, so staying on top of everything requires a love of learning.

Pursue new training opportunities where you can. Learn about new technologies, theories, or procedures. Look to professional organisations, your employer, or third-party learning companies for more ongoing educational opportunities. Growing your skills will grow your career opportunities, helping you reach your goals.

7. Start now

When’s the best time to start working on your career? Right now! Starting right now allows you to keep up your motivation, and maintain your momentum. Waiting could leave you procrastinating, and missing opportunities.

Get started with a plan as soon as you can. From there, you’ll be free to focus on education and upskilling, which will be guided by your plan. Start now and you’ll change your career for the better, forever!

Conclusion

Working in healthcare is an incredible experience. There are so many wonderful moments, opportunities, and people to meet. It’s an unforgettable career path. To make the most of it, you need to put together a plan, surround yourself with the right people, and get on with pursuing your passions. Start trying out these tips and see how they shape your career.

For a change in your career check out agency nursing by getting in touch with us!

Nurse of the month May 2024 – Rebecca

Fri, 17 May 2024 02:50:55 GMT

Congratulations to our nurse of the month for May 2024 – Rebecca! We’re really excited to present you with this award. You’ve been working hard shown dedication to your patients. You make a difference in the lives of others every day. Thank you! You can read all about Rebecca’s time with FCC at the interview below.

What do you like most about FCC?

I enjoy the flexibility and freedom of being able to work the hours and shifts that fit in with my life. The allocations system is easy and uncomplicated, the staff are great and easy to work with and talk to. I appreciate FCC always trying to find shifts that suit me and my availability.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I love science and problem solving and I love helping people so nursing for me is the perfect mix of that. After many years, it has taught me so much about people and the human experience in general, so the continual learning is what keeps me motivated and keeps me going.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The exposure to working in different facilities has been fantastic - it's great for networking and expanding your knowledge base, it's also confidence building. Plus, I have enjoyed meeting many other FCC nurses on the job who are all fantastic!!

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Yes - definitely. The sign-up process is very streamlined and straightforward - easy to follow and FCC don't waste any time either with on boarding - it's all pretty quick. I like the allocations system where you can put your availability in ahead of time so FCC can start filling you up with shifts, so you are not always having to wait to the last minute for a confirmation. FCC staff are also supportive and easy to talk to if you have any issues.

Nurse of the month April 2024 - Kathryn

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 05:26:03 GMT

Congratulations to our Nurse of the Month for April 2024 – Kathryn! You’re an incredibly important and valued part of the FCC team. We’re so proud of the hard work, dedication, and care you put into your work each day. You’re an absolute pleasure to work with so we’re excited to acknowledge this with the nurse of the month award.

You can read all about her time with FCC at the interview below.

What do you like most about FCC?

I love how they make you feel important, and listen to your choice of nursing placement.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

Truthfully my friends decided to become nurses so I followed, best decision of my life.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

FCC have excellent choices [of] rural & remote towns over Queensland and work hard to deliver your requests.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Would recommend to friends as they select the best suited accommodation, central to work, shops and restaurants. Great income benefits that help with the high cost of rural living. There is so much more but this would become a thesis.

7 courses and tips to level up your Rural and Remote training.

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:02:24 GMT

Training is essential for reaching the next steps in your nursing career. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 7 awesome courses and tips designed to help Rural and Remote nurses give their careers a boost. These courses are designed to help rural and remote nurses with the situations experienced, in rural healthcare facilities.

We’ve gathered a variety of opportunities you can take to boost your Rural and Remote career, gain CPD points, and have a good time while doing it. Check them out, here.

1. Remote emergency care (REC)

Want to respond to emergency situations with confidence, or need a refresher? This is the course for you. It’s designed to help Rural and Remote nurses develop the knowledge and skills required for Rural and Remote (R&R) emergency situations. Remote Emergency Care is a valuable skill set that enables individuals to provide life-saving medical care in challenging and often unpredictable environments where traditional healthcare resources may be unavailable or inaccessible.

This course is offered by CRANAplus. You can check it out at the link below.

https://crana.org.au/learning-opportunities/courses/remote-emergency-care

2. Maternity emergency care (MEC)

If you want to try your hand at maternity care, then the MEC course may be a great option. Maternity Emergency Care refers to the provision of emergency medical care specifically tailored to pregnant individuals and their unborn babies during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

Maternity Emergency Care is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of pregnant individuals and their babies, particularly in settings where access to obstetric services is limited or where emergencies may occur unexpectedly. By acquiring MEC skills, healthcare providers can effectively manage obstetric emergencies and contribute to better maternal and neonatal outcomes.

This is a course offered by CRANAplus and you can check it out at the link below.

https://crana.org.au/learning-opportunities/courses/maternity-emergency-care

3. Immunisation course

Upskill yourself through the Cunningham Centre’s Immunisation course. This course is recognised nationally by the Health Education Services Australia (HESA). You’ll receive a certification in immunisation and all the skills and knowledge necessary to safely administer vaccines across Australia.

This is a completely online course provided by the Cunningham Centre Nursing and Midwifery Education and Training (NMET) service. You can check it out at the link below.

https://www.health.qld.gov.au/cunninghamcentre/learn/immunisation-course

4. Pharmacotherapeutics

Learn more about the use of medication, the risks associated with them, and strategies to increase the benefits and minimise risks of treatment. This course will deepen and expand your knowledge of medication and its application in treatment so you’re able to utilise medications.

The course is offered by the Centre for Remote Health and is completely online. Check it out at the link below.

https://www.crh.org.au/online-courses/pharmacotherapeutics-for-remote-area-nurses-online

5. Advanced life support (ALS)

There’s a variety of Advanced life support courses available through multiple providers. Generally, an ALS is a requirement for all R&R contracts in Emergency settings, so if you haven’t undertaken yours yet, get started soon. It’ll open even more opportunities for work across the country.

Have a look around to find the best provider of an ALS course for your circumstances.

6. Country Health Service Triage Certification

If you’re looking to take up R&R opportunities in Emergency settings, then you’ll need a formal Triage Certification. It’s an essential qualification for any nurse seeking work in public health facilities, in the emergency department, or in a multipurpose facility.

This isn’t a training course. Rather it recognises your prior experience and training in triage. You’ll need at least 2 years of experience in an Emergency Department or Critical Care environment where your triage role is completed. So, if you’re looking to work in these roles ensure you gain the required experience and undertake any courses which upskill your triage knowledge.

7. Resus

If you work in an emergency setting, undergoing a resuscitation course is crucial. Working in an emergency department means being prepared to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrest, trauma, respiratory failure, and other life-threatening conditions. A resuscitation course equips healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to initiate and lead resuscitation efforts effectively, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

By undergoing a resuscitation course you’ll acquire the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to effectively manage medical emergencies and provide high-quality care to critically ill or injured patients.

Conclusion

Upskilling your knowledge and skills is essential to advancing your career in Rural and Remote nursing. Try out some of the courses provided to increase your qualifications and unlock new opportunities. You’ll find a lot more variety in the facilities you can work in and the roles you can fill. Add to that a mentor relationship with a senior nurse, and you can develop your abilities and knowledge faster to achieve your career goals.

For more tips around training, get in touch with us or check out our blog !

Nurse of the month March 2024 - Michelle

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 23:48:49 GMT

Congratulations to March’s nurse of the month – Michelle! We’re really excited to present you with this award. You’ve been working hard and putting all your passion and energy into providing the best outcomes for your patients. Thank you for your time, effort and care, it is always noticed.

You can read more about Michelle and her time with FCC at the interview below.

What do you love most about FCC?

What I love most about FCC is I have full control of my hours and work flexibility and the team works with me ensure I’m happy with what’s being provided

Why did you become a nurse?

Health literacy is a passion of mine, I became a mental health nurse to educate health consumers to enable them to have a quality life.

What has working with FCC enabled?

Being able to have such broad experience within my scope of practise, I’ve picked up new skills and learnt so much more. And having the perfect balance between work and life

Do you reccomend FCC?

Yes I recommend FCC, I live a busy life with my sports commitments and being with FCC allows me to chase my dreams while also making ends meet. They are supportive and try give me work that best suits me!!

Blog Post

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:27:43 GMT

10 tips for nurse shift workers

We know that shift work is tough! So, we’ve put together some tips to help nurses stay energised and passionate through their shifts. If you’ve got irregular or a tonne of night shifts it’s important to be prepared and put some robust routines together. It’ll turn the after late night shift “why on earth did I choose this career?” around to “I love nursing” again (at least after a good sleep).

We’ve all had the challenges of dealing with shift work, so we know what works and what doesn’t. Shift work can be stressful on your body, and all the systems that manage how your body functions, so we’ve got 10 tips designed to aid those body functions and help you feel your best.

There’s some important habits and routines you can put in place now that will help your body recover quickly and get it into a new rhythm, helping you stay energised. It’s all about finding the right routines which work for you. We’ve put together our top 10 tips to help shift workers with their health and well-being.

1. Create a sleep schedule

Sleep is the best defence on your side against the side effects of shift work. You’ll need to find the sleep schedule that works specifically for you. Most people need at least 7-8 hours of sleep a day however this can decrease with age.

The first place to start is keeping a sleep diary. Record your sleep patterns and any problems you encounter while sleeping in a physical book (we want to avoid screens). Then, use this to help you find the best strategies and conditions to improve the quality of your sleep. Once you know how your sleep is going, there are a few things you can try to improve it:

If you’re working regular shifts experiment with different sleep and wake-up times until you find something that works for you.
Have a short sleep before your first night shift.
When coming off a night shift, have a short sleep and go to bed earlier that night.

When you’ve found the sleep schedule that works best for you, try to keep it.

2. Find a routine

Beyond sleep, your body loves routines. This includes routines for eating, resting, working, and having fun. Start by putting together a consistent bedtime and wake-up routine. When you start either routine, your body will know it’s time for sleep and then wake you up with the wake-up routine. It can be as simple as a shower, putting on certain products and listening to some calming music. Just make sure you limit your screen time before bed.

Beyond your wake-up and bedtime routines are your other day-to-day routines. It’s a good idea to be consistent, when you can, with eating meals. It’ll help with your digestion and energy as your body knows when it can expect to receive more energy.

3. Plan out caffeine

Coffee is great for waking you up when you need it, but it can also disrupt your sleep or have other negative side effects when taken at the wrong time. So, to make the most of your daily coffee it’s important to structure it so you can get the best sleep possible.

You generally need to give your body at least 6 hours to process caffeine before you should sleep. This means that a 5 am coffee while on your night shift may be a bad idea, even if it’s desperately needed. Try to avoid caffeine after 2 am so you’ll be able to get a good sleep and be well-rested for your next shift.

4. Plan out water

Just as important as managing your caffeine intake is managing your water intake. At night your kidneys concentrate your urine while you sleep so that you don’t need to get up through the night. But when you swap night for day on night shift, your kidneys don’t swap around. So, your kidneys remain quite active during the day even when you’re trying to sleep. It can be frustrating when you’re trying to rest, especially after a night shift, and you keep getting woken up busting to go to the bathroom.

To help, taper off your water intake after 4 am. While staying hydrated is important, drink more water towards the start and midway point of your shift before tapering off. It’ll help you stay energised while avoiding your body waking you up mid-sleep.

5. Bring along healthy snacks and meals

Nurses work long hours so it’s important to remain energised through your shift. It can be tempting to reach for sugary foods or those high in cholesterol, like chocolate, baked goods or chips, but they’ll only provide a short-lived boost of energy. What you need is a long-term energy boost without the side effects of a sugar-high crash.

Some easy things to bring include egg cups, cheese and crackers, overnight oats and fruit. Eat meals with good fats like avocado, nuts and fish to help regulate hormones throughout your shift. Whether you’re on the night shift or not, structure your day around a “breakfast, lunch, and dinner” schedule to keep your metabolism going.

6. Keep up with family and friends

Shift work often pushes your schedule out of line with your friends and family. This can lead many shift workers to feel isolated. So, it’s important to make an effort to not lose contact.

Start by talking to your friends and family about shift work, so they understand the challenges you face, your shift schedule and be accommodating to find time with you. Make the most of your time off and plan mealtimes, weekends, and evenings together.

7. Keep active

Night shift can often bring with it reduced activity. While some nights are busy, others are less so, meaning you’re sitting down a lot more. It’s important to keep your physical activity up to improve your energy and alertness levels. Whether you’re going on walks while on shifts or going to the gym before your shifts, you’ll be able to keep your energy up to take you through the shift.

8. Learn how you destress

Everyone needs something that will help them destress. These things will help energise you, improve your mental health and make your shifts easier. Things like meditation, mindfulness, yoga, reading, exercising, or any other hobbies are great for your energy levels. Bring them into your routine to help make stress reduction second nature.

9. Plan the end of your night shifts

Plan a reward for yourself after your night shift. It could be a catch-up with friends, an after-night shift brunch, buy yourself a gift, or get yourself a massage. Motivation is so important for getting through challenging shifts. It’ll give you a quick mental health boost and help make each shift even more worth it.

Nursing is a 24/7 job, you can only do as much as you’re physically capable of. So don’t feel bad about relying on your colleagues and rewards for support.

10. Say no to overtime and take time off

When you’re feeling exhausted, have had a day with no sleep, or are close to burning out, don’t take on more work! You need to take time off for your mental health. Stress is a part of the job so it’s important to recognise when you’re feeling overwhelmed and need the time to recover. The best way to provide the best care for your patients is to be well-rested.

Sometimes just say no to overtime and take a day off between shifts.

Conclusion

When doing shift work your mental and physical wellbeing is important. Shift work can be challenging for your body and your health. To keep yourself at the top of your game, and in love with your job, take the time to look after yourself, and set up a routine that will keep your body energised. Take these tips and tweak them to fit your needs and schedule!

If you want more nursing tips, check out our blog here .

Nurse of the month February 2024 - Sonja

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 22:32:40 GMT

Congratulations to our nurse of the month for February 2024 - Sonja! It's been a long time coming for hardworking Sonja to win this award. She's been a nursing superstar and we're proud of all that she has achieved. Thank you for the time you put in and dedication you have to your patients.

If you want to hear more about Sonja's time with FCC, check it out below.

What do you like most about FCC?

I like First Choice because it is small and very personal. Karlene looks after me and goes out of her way to look after me and accommodate my wishes.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

My ultimate aim was always to do remote nursing and help our indigenous out in their communities and become a nurse with that goal in mind.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Highlights include nursing in Mornington Island and Weipa and meeting wonderful other nurses from the locality and other agencies and sharing in their experiences.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I wholly support FCC and have recommended them to other nurses due to the caring and supportive staff.

How to make your nursing agency application stand out

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 23:23:48 GMT

You always want to make the best first impression when applying for a job. Applying to work as an agency nurse is no exception. While there’s a lot of demand for nurses to fill all the available shifts, you still need to get your application right.

A great nursing agency wants nurses who are highly qualified, meet their minimum standards, and will be great to work with. The best way to showcase this is to assemble an application that ticks all the boxes and makes a great first impression.

What do you need to do to stand out? Fortunately, it’s simple. We’ve got tips for 3 parts of your application.

Include all the information you’re asked for.

The best way to increase your chances of getting the job, and making the application process faster, is by providing all the information asked for. It may seem simple, but it is one thing that is often missed.

When you’re completing your application, go through each section carefully. Ensure you’ve provided information for each section, including relevant details. Once you’re done, don’t submit it. Instead, go back over every question to make sure the information is accurate, and every question has been completed.

Once you’re happy you can hit submit!

Your Cover Letter.

Sometimes you’ll need to submit a cover letter. This one-page document is your chance to make a great first impression. It’s where you summarise who you are, what your experience is, and why you’re looking at agency nursing. The trick is to keep it concise, professional and well-formatted.

Name the position that you’re applying for, mention where you found the job ad and the documents you’ve enclosed. Add to that a few words about your qualifications, and specialties that you’re interested in. We love to see your future goals in agency nursing so we can help you meet them!

Your CV.

Even more important than your cover letter is your CV. This includes your education, work experience, and skills. It’s what the agency uses to work out if you’re the perfect match. To help out, and stand out, here are a few areas to focus on.

1. Contact details

Getting your contact details right is essential. Make sure your phone number and email are clearly displayed, easy to read, and accurate. If your email address isn’t easy to understand or isn’t professional, set up a new one and connect the accounts.

2. Timeframes

The timeframes of your career and education should be listed in reverse chronological order. This means that your most recent career achievements and highest education completed go first. It’ll make it easy to read and understand. You should also make dates of employment clear and include some dot points on your achievements and responsibilities.

3. Strengths

It’s a great idea to put your skills front and centre in your CV. Consider which skills you want to highlight. For some hints, look at what’s listed in the description or requirements section of the job listing. This will help you show that you match what the nursing agency is looking for.

4. Qualifications

Ensure your training and qualifications are up-to-date and relevant. This is especially important for emergency nurses, rural nurses, or other specialised nurses. List any other relevant qualifications to ensure you showcase that you’re ready for the job.

5. References

Not every employer requires references in the Healthcare sector. However, it’s often a requirement for nursing agencies. So, it’s a good idea to keep some handy. Put them into your application, and ensure all their details are correct. It’ll make your application process easier when the agency asks for references.

Conclusion

Having a great application allows you to stand out, make an excellent first impression, and get started faster. You’ll start your new job with the best foot forward, ready to meet your goals. If you’re looking to sign up to FCC, register your interest here.

How Do I Become an Agency Nurse or Midwife

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 04:29:33 GMT

How do I become an Agency Nurse or Midwife?

Are you looking for casual employment with the opportunity to expand your skills through unique opportunities? If yes, you may find that locating an agency nurse or midwife job through First Choice Care could be a rewarding and flexible solution.

We make it our aim to support agency nurses and midwives through a variety of different positions, so if you want to explore your options, you’ve come to the right place. Here we will explore the requirements you need to find excellent health care and nursing opportunities.

Why Choose First Choice Care as Your Nursing Recruitment Agency?

First Choice Care are fully committed to providing you with a professional service delivered in a warm and personal way. We are confident that you will notice the difference as soon as you get in touch with our friendly staff. Everyone here is dedicated to expertly matching your skillset and preferences to the shifts that make the most sense for YOU.

Our office staff are experienced with working within the industry on the Gold Coast and Northern NSW. They can help to place you in acute care, aged care or the community sector, including independent care needs.

We also have genuine preferred provider status with many facilities, and this helps us guarantee advanced bookings, and prioritise shift allocation for you. And don't forget, we can help if you want to pursue further education or upskill to gain new experience.

What Are Some of the Agency Nursing Opportunities?

Registered nurse and registered midwife. You need to have completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree at university. You need to have completed 12 months post grad paid experience in Australia.

Registered nurse and registered midwife (overseas). You will need a valid visa and a nursing degree at a university overseas with equivalent skill. You need to have completed 12 months paid experience in Australia.

Enrolled nurse. You need to have completed an 18-month or two-year VET qualification to obtain a diploma in enrolled nursing. You need to have completed 3 months full time paid experience in Australia.

Assistant nurse. You need to have completed a qualification in Health Assistance to a minimum of Certificate III. You need to have completed 200hrs paid experience in Australia.

What Are the Requirements?

You will need:

A current unrestricted AHPRA registration
A current National Police Clearance
Full immunisation history
Two clinical references
A reliable form of transportation and a valid driver's license
A resume that you can send with your application.

Some additional requirements depend on the role you are applying for:

Student nurses wanting to work as an Assistant nurse whilst undertaking study will need to provide evidence of completing two placements — one in aged care and one in hospital.

What Are the Roles?

These are some of the roles you can apply for:

RM - Midwifery
RN - Registered Nursing
Cardiac
CCU - Critical Care Unit
ED - Emergency
ICU - Intensive Care Unit
Medical/Surgery
MH - Mental Health
Orthopaedics
Oncology
PAED - Paediatrics
PERI - Operative/Theatre
EN - Enrolled Nurse
AIN - Assistant in Nursing
Disability Care

And more.

What are the next steps?

There are a few ways in which you can get yourself work-ready. You can apply for a specific role via our jobs board , or if you cannot find a position that matches your qualifications or preferences, register your interest with us. We have access to many casual nursing and midwifery roles throughout Gold Coast and Northern NSW. Register here , and we will be in touch with potential job opportunities.

If you have any other questions, please get in contact with us , or read our frequently asked questions here .

Nurse of the month January 2024 - Rashuan

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 02:16:14 GMT

Congratulations to our nurse of the month for January, Rashuan. You're an important and valued member of the FCC team and we're excited to provide you this recognition.

You can read all about his time with FCC in the interview below.

What do you like most about FCC?

FCC have given me great opportunities to grow as a nurse here in Brisbane since moving from New Zealand, September 2023. In particular, the variety of work I’ve been able to experience in the mental health system both in the public/private setting. The work & life balance FCC has also been a highlight whilst settling into a new country.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I’ve always had a passion to work in the health care sector, in which mental health has allowed me to work with people closely in providing the best holistic care. It’s the most rewarding job being able to serve others.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Having the flexibility to work the days that suite my schedule while building networks with different nurses around the city. Special mention to the awesome FCC team for being supportive & blessing me with work.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

100% I would recommend First Choice Care to anyone as they have ticked all the boxes and made it a pleasant transition from New Zealand to Australia, and experience to represent a quality nursing agency.

If you want to send your congratulations to Rashuan, head over to our Instagram and comment on the post!

Pros and Cons of Agency Nursing vs Casual Pool Nursing

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 04:20:14 GMT

Though we at First Choice Care absolutely love agency nursing, we know a casual pool setup is also a viable and often rewarding option for nurses. So which do you choose? Working out the pathway that is right for you and your family can take time, research, and many conversations with nursing friends over microwaved Tupperware meals. So to make it easier, we’ve done the leg work by exploring the pros and cons of both options so you can make an informed choice. But who really says you have to choose one or the other anyhow?

Pros to Agency Nursing

Greater work- life balance and flexibility

As an agency nurse, you are in charge of dictating when and where you’d like to work. Though you can’t simply create vacancies wherever you like, you can work closely with your nursing agency and with a clever roster request process, organise a working life that suits you and your family's needs.

If you don’t want to work the night shift - you don’t have to. If you want to work all morning shifts without feeling the pressure from your colleagues to pull your weight on the PM shift - you can. It should be noted though that the choosier you are with the roster, the more limited your chance of obtaining work.

Greater networking opportunities

When working in a range of different facilities and hospitals you are exposed to so much more. You get to have conversations and work alongside talented people you’ve never met, in new and exciting environments. Though this is possible in a casual pool as well, agency simply gives you more reach as you can work across a range of facilities.

Financial Rewards

As an agency nurse, you can certainly save your pennies quickly as the rate per hour is rather impressive in comparison to a regular nursing wage. But why the difference you may ask? Well, there is the unpredictability of shifts which plays a part, but the other important aspect is agency nurses cannot accrue sick/personal leave. To put it blankly, if you don’t work you don’t get paid.

Cons to Agency Nursing

Lack of set shifts

Agency nursing can be unpredictable. You can be called up in a minutes notice to start a shift 30 minutes away, whilst at the same time be cancelled even on your way to a shift. There are rules and regulations about canceled shifts you’ll want to know about to ensure you are getting paid adequately should the job be cancelled last minute.

The constant need to adapt to a new environment

For some agency nurses, this is not a con at all! They thrive in new environments and meeting new faces. It’s what keeps them motivated and prevents complacency. What do you think?

Pros to Casual Pool Nursing

Guaranteed work

When working casual pool, you’re entitled to a roster generally 4-6 weeks in advance, outlining the shifts in which you will be working. Though you won’t generally know where you are working (i.e the ward), you will know the time and length of the shift in advance.

Feel part of the team

As casual pool staff are working within the same organisation, they can quickly develop relationships even after just a few shifts of being allocated to the same ward/unit. Knowing you are going to see a friendly face during your next shift may be just the motivational lift you need to give your best nursing care.

Staff offers and discounts

These include but are not limited to, salary packaging, the use of the on-site gymnasium, discounted car parking, use of the staff health clinic, and attending the in-service education program.

Cons to Casual Pool Nursing

Limited say in where you want to work

As casual pool staff are allocated to work where there are vacancies, there is a chance that you’ll be allocated the same ward often, and you may not like it. Though I’m sure there is an opportunity to voice your preferences, it is the nature of casual pool nursing.

You may not be working with your friends

Your shift may at times feel like you are working for an agency. You may not know the environment, if you’ve never had a shift there before, and you may not have met any of the other nurses. This can feel a bit isolating if you’re normally surrounded with nurses you know and trust.

In summary, if you want freedom within your work where you have the opportunity to meet new people and experience a range of different environments, think agency nursing. However, if you’d like to know when your next shift is, have the ability to plan holidays, and potentially work amongst friends, the casual pool workforce may be calling your name. Remember, if you can’t decide, there is nothing stopping you from doing both for a period of time that works, then adjusting down to what you prefer!

Cheers,

Emma

Registered Nurse

Co-Founder The Other Shift

Theothershift.com

Nurse of the Month December 2023 - Tegan

antoni.banicevic@peoplein.com.au (Antoni Banicevic) — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 23:46:08 GMT

Congratulations to our nurse of the month for December - Tegan! Tegan is a passionate nurse who is committed to making a difference in people’s lives. She has been working out of the Central West of Queensland and enjoys the beauty of this region. You can hear more about Tegan's time with FCC in the interview below.

1. What do you like most about FCC?

FCC are very personable, and they have helped me to achieve milestones within my nursing practice they are a constant source of knowledge and encouragement!

2. Why did you want to be a nurse?

Nursing is a profession which gives me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. I thoroughly enjoy going to work, even on those difficult days because I know how much the work I do matters to patients and their families.

3. What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Working in the Central West of Queensland. This part of the country is particularly beautiful, and with the help of FCC I have been able to regularly secure contracts here.

4. Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Absolutely! FCC have been very supportive and encouraging of my goals as an agency nurse. I also must say that their onboarding procedure is very quick and streamlined, allowing me to start work very soon after I contacted them!

Congratulations Tegan. If you want to give her your congratulations, check out our posts on Facebook and Instagram.

Blog Post

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 04:16:02 GMT

14 reasons to work as an aged care nurse

As a registered nurse, you’ve got a lot of career options in front of you. There are many different facilities that want your attention and many different specialisations to focus on. One of the best specialisations is aged care nursing.

Aged care offers a rewarding career path filled with challenges, variety, and wonderful people. There are a lot of options in aged care that will push you to develop, and use, a wide range of nursing skills.

There’s a lot to love about aged care. So, we’re going to break down 14 reasons why aged care is an awesome career choice for registered nurses.

1. Make a real difference

In aged care nursing you will regularly experience first-hand how it feels to change someone’s day for the better. You’ll be empowering clients to live at home independently with home care, or leading uplifting lifestyle activities, putting a smile on residents’ faces. Having the ability to spend more time with individual residents over a longer period of time allows you to get to know them and see the difference you make directly.

It's a space where your skill set really will shine. You’ll be doing wound care, medication management, leadership, acute care, rehabilitation, care planning, and so much more. There are a lot of different skills to tap into, and the residents you work with eagerly show their appreciation.

2. Hear incredible stories

Each day you’ll meet people who have lived amazing lives. Residents love to share their stories. So, you’ll learn from their pasts, hear about Australia’s good old days, and find out surprising things about incredible people. If you love hearing about history and other people’s lives you’ll love working in aged care.

3. Receive genuine appreciation

In aged care nursing you are much more than a number. You are appreciated each day for the value you bring to the lives of residents. The people you help in your work are genuinely happy to see you, often greeting you with a big smile.

Within aged care, you have more of a direct impact on a resident’s day-to-day life. Whether it be explaining what their medications are for, having a laugh over a story, or consoling relatives. You are at the centre of the residents' world, and an important person to their family. It’s a position that you’ll be thanked over for a lifetime.

4. Become an instant leader

Often, in aged care nursing, you’ll need to manage people and take charge. If you’ve never developed leadership skills before, then this will be the perfect space to grow. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to test and grow these skills, which will be a great boost to your career.

Of course, you aren’t just expected to pick leadership skills up out of nowhere. There are some incredibly talented nurses in the space who are role model leaders. You’ll pick up skills from them through mentorship and as examples to follow.

5. Meet new people

If you love meeting new and interesting people, then aged care is perfect for you. There’ll be a variety of residents, their families, kitchen staff, management, carers, and other healthcare staff who you’ll meet regularly. It’s all like being a part of one big family.

Aged care is the perfect space to share precious moments with a wide range of people that will make an impact on your life.

6. Learn new things

There’s always something new to learn in aged care. A wide range of your skills will be put to the test and developed as you rise to the variety of challenges you face each day. You’ll also gain academic lessons from other healthcare staff and life lessons from many of the residents. Aged care is enriched with a culture of learning.

With the flexibility gained from First Choice Care, you’ll also have the time to further your professional development through formal study while also gaining on-the-job experience.

7. There’s a lot of job flexibility

It can be tough for many aged care facilities to find skilled RN’s. So, facilities and nursing agencies will look after you when you sign up. You’ll be able to find a variety of different shifts to suit your lifestyle and will find your work-life balance is respected. They work hard to retain you long-term.

If you’re looking for a career path where you’ll feel appreciated and are seeking greater flexibility, then aged care nursing is for you.

8. Fulfil a sense of purpose

Many people become a nurse to fulfil a sense of purpose. If you’ve had family in aged care it can be heart-warming to make a positive difference in the lives of residents and their families. This sense of purpose can energise you and the work you do. It’s the perfect way to find your passion and feel fulfilled at work.

9. Network with a lot of health professionals each day

Every day you’ll be working with a wide range of healthcare professionals who will be relying on you for accurate and detailed information. You’re in the perfect position to improve resident outcomes, learn new skills, and make connections. You’ll be an integral part of the team, making a real difference to the overall health and well-being of your residents.

10. Work you can take pride in

If you’re looking for a career path that you can be proud of, then aged care is the perfect option. As mentioned before, Aged Care nurses make a huge difference in the lives of residents and their families. You’ll be the person caring for their parent, grandparent, sibling, aunt or uncle.

It’s an important role that takes a lot of patience and compassion but is extremely rewarding. You’ll see the smiles on the faces of the residents each day. You’ll become their carer and advocate, working to put their needs first so they get the best care. It truly is a role that impacts the lives of those you work with.

11. Become an advocate for the elderly

The elderly are a vulnerable population, and you’re in the perfect position to give them a voice and control over their care. You can advocate for them, sharing their wishes with other healthcare professionals to ensure they receive the care they prefer. By becoming an advocate for your residents, you’ll be the person they trust to ensure they get the care that they need providing better overall outcomes.

12. Loads of career opportunities

It’s a lot easier to stand out from the crowd in aged care. With more demand for nurses and fewer nurses in facilities, your successes stand out more. It means it’s a lot easier to get promotions, raises and commendations. You’ll be able to speed up your career progression and reach heights you never thought possible.

If you want to take things even further, look at agency nursing. Here you’ve got the opportunity to have all the great career opportunities from aged care nursing, plus access to greater flexibility, time, training programs, and much more.

13. There’s huge demand

As mentioned previously, there’s a lot of demand for aged care nurses. This is because the population of Australia is aging. There are more elderly people, more facilities, and more roles for nurses to fill.

So, regardless of whether you choose to become a staff nurse at a facility or want to be an agency nurse, you are sure to find an endless number of shifts to fill.

14. It’s a lifelong career path with a lot of variety

Demand for aged care nurses is not going away, in fact, it is projected to rise as time goes on. So, aged care nursing is a great pathway for anyone looking to enter a lifelong career that they can be passionate about. You’re guaranteed plenty of opportunities to grow and develop your career.

Not only that, but the role nurses will play in aged care will become increasingly more varied. With the advent of AI and other technologies, your focus will shift to providing higher-quality care for your residents. You’ll be free to do a wider variety of support tasks, working with other healthcare professionals to keep your residents happy, healthy, and cared for.

Conclusion

There’s no career quite like that of an aged care nurse. You’ll be providing an essential service to incredible people who are grateful for your work every day. By taking this path you’ll experience unmatched variety, flexibility, and networking opportunities. It truly is special.

The best way to make the most of your time as an aged care nurse is by becoming an agency nurse. You’ll have greater control and flexibility over the shifts you work and the direction of your career. Get started by registering your interest with First Choice Care.

The ultimate guide to working as a nurse in Queensland

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 01:49:56 GMT

Are you looking for a career that allows you to follow your passion for caring for others? Then you’ll love nursing. It’s a rewarding career where you’ll work with a wide variety of people helping them improve their quality of life.

Nurses are a vital part of Queensland’s healthcare system, being the primary carer for patients and the go-to person for their families. You’ll need to have fantastic people skills, as you provide fundamental care and treatment to patients, while juggling the emotions of the patient as well as their families and loved ones, in what is often a very difficult and stressful time for all involved. It takes a special kind of person to be able to navigate these challenges but it is one of the most rewarding careers for people who love to help other people.

Ok, so you want to become a nurse, but how do you get started working as a nurse in Queensland? Luckily, we’ve got this extensive guide to working as a nurse in Queensland. You’ll learn how to get started, the different types of nurses, specialisations, where you can work, who you can work for, and much more.

So, keep reading to find out!

1. How to become a nurse

2. Types of nurses

3. Nurse specialisations

4. Work locations

5. Who you can work for

6. A few extras to know

7. Conclusion

How to become a nurse

There are a few different pathways you can take to become a nurse. Each path will result in a different level of qualification. But you can always go back and study more to achieve a higher level of qualification when you have the time. Once you’re done studying a bachelor’s degree in nursing you’ll also be registered with AHPRA, which involves further training to maintain. You can learn more below!

TAFE

The first step for many people on their journey to becoming a nurse is through TAFE. There are many pathway options available here that allow you to achieve different levels within the nursing career. These include Certificates, TAFE Diplomas, and advanced-level Diplomas.

One option for those looking to get started quickly in nursing is by completing a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance. With this, you’ll be able to work as an Assistant in Nursing (AIN). It’s a 6-month course completed through TAFE Queensland and includes a placement in a healthcare facility to provide you the practical skills essential to working as an AIN.

Another option is a Diploma of Nursing. This 18-month course will give you the educational requirements you need to work as an Enrolled Nurse (EN) in most facilities across Queensland. It’s a full-time course delivered by TAFE Queensland that requires 400 hours of supervised clinical placements within healthcare facilities covering all practical skills across multiple scopes of practice.

If you’re looking to complete further study with TAFE, some institutions offer a Graduate Diploma in Advanced Nursing, but this tends to be conducted in states outside of Queensland.

University

If you’re looking for further study beyond what is available at TAFE, then your next step is university. All major universities have fantastic healthcare programs that allow you to learn the ins and outs of nursing and even find a specialisation that you like.

To get into nursing through university your first step is a Bachelor of Nursing. This 3-year course is perfect for anyone wanting to become a nurse or for EN’s and AIN’s looking to upskill their existing knowledge and further advance their careers to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

You can also further diversify your career by choosing to complete a double degree in specialisations like Behavioural Science, Paramedicine or Public Health. While studying for a Bachelor of Nursing, student nurses are eligible to work as AIN’s upon successful completion of their first clinical placements. This allows students to earn an income while they study and do so in an industry that they a passionate about while benefiting their study at the same time.

AHPRA

When you become a qualified nurse (RN or EN) in Australia you’ll need to register with AHPRA, the regulating body for Australia’s healthcare practitioners. AHPRA’s role is to ensure nurses working in our healthcare facilities are working to set policies and standards that protect the health and wellbeing of the public.

Once registered with AHPRA, all nurses must maintain their registration. This will involve ensuring your annual training modules are kept up to date, clinical experience remains consistent and at times, further study. This could be short courses to expand your existing skillset and experience, or learning all new skills or changing your nursing specialty.

Think of the AHPRA requirements as an opportunity for you to update your skills and advance your career. The more skills, knowledge, and experience you have, the more desirable nurse you become to healthcare facilities. Generally, senior nurses have a wider variety of clinical experience and have completed further study in different nursing fields to gain this experience.

Types of nurses

There are a lot of different types of nurses with various levels of qualifications, specialisations and more. This is because a nurse's work environment can span various geographical locations as well as types of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, aged-care homes, schools, universities and so much more.

This kind of diverse working environment calls for an equally diversly skilled nursing workforce to meet the demand across all these different healthcare environments. When choosing the type of nurse you want to become there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. All nurses are in demand, so you’ll likely find work as a nurse at a healthcare facility or nursing agency [AR1] .

2. The type of nurse you want to become changes the type of work you’ll be doing. While there is some crossover between the types, there’ll be specialised tasks that each type will be called to perform.

3. You can always move to another type of nursing. Whether you want to take a step up in your career, or specialise, there are a tonne of courses available to help you get to where you want to go.

So, with all this in mind, let’s dive into 6 of the most common types of nurses in Queensland.

Assistant in Nursing (AIN)

First up is Assistant in Nursing, also commonly referred to as an AIN. Technically, AINs are not nurses. However, they perform nursing duties under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. Typically, these duties include assisting patients with personal hygiene, showering and toileting, mobility assistance, accompanying them on outings, and providing clinical support to the overseeing Registered Nurse.

AINs often go by other names like aged care worker, personal care assistant, , or health services assistant. This highlights the variety of work and facilities that AINs often work in.

It’s quite common for nursing students to start working as an AIN. Once nursing students have commenced and completed their first clinical placement they are usually eligible to work as AINs across most healthcare settings. For nursing students, they can then gain on-the-job experience in healthcare, while fitting shifts around their university schedule.

Of course, it’s not just for uni students, with many great AINs making a career out of it. If you are passionate about helping people and want to make a difference in others’ lives, then becoming an AIN is a great place to look.

Enrolled Nurse (EN)

Enrolled Nurses (EN) are second-level nurses who also work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. However, this supervision can be indirect or direct, depending on their responsibilities. ENs are far more responsible for their actions and are allowed greater levels of autonomy to provide nursing care to patients than AINs and as such are required to be registered with AHPRA.

ENs will perform a wide variety of tasks, depending on the facilities that they’re operating in. These tasks may include observing, measuring and recording vital signs reporting changes in patient condition to doctors, assisting in hygiene and comfort, first aid duties, and supporting the Registered Nurse with medication administration and checks.

Becoming an EN is both the perfect stepping stone into nursing and the perfect career path depending on your goals. Generally, ENs will have completed at least a Diploma in Enrolled Nursing, or similar. If you then want to take your career further, you can enrol to study further at University. It’s up to you!

Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered nurses, often just shortened to RN, are nurses who are held at a higher level of responsibility than other nurses. They are required to be registered with AHPRA, need to complete regular training, and will hold a more senior role in healthcare facilities.

Generally, an RN's responsibilities include medication administration, assessing and managing patients' clinical reactions, as well as more complex and specialised nursing care duties. They’ll work with, and supervise, AINs and ENs as a part of their team. As they must meet national competency standards, RNs have far greater levels of responsibility and autonomy in the work they do.

To become an RN, you need to complete study at university. Generally, this is a Bachelor of Nursing. But you’ll also need to complete ongoing studies to maintain your license and registration with AHPRA. This keeps you up to date with the latest practices to ensure you’re providing the best care possible.

Clinical Nurse

Clinical nurses are RNs, holding all the same duties, responsibilities and AHPRA requirements. However, the key difference is that Clinical Nurses are specialised. They will have undertaken extra study in a specialised field of healthcare and will have gained experience in that field.

Clinical nurses become the resource person for other RNs within a facility. They use their experience, extra knowledge, leadership skills, and advanced problem-solving abilities to enhance the quality of care for patients within a healthcare facility. Within this role, they’ll plan patient care, perform advanced clinical skills, and take an active role in mentoring less experienced staff.

Midwife

Midwives are specialised health professionals who provide support, care and advice to women during pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period. They are a central part of women’s health and hold a lot of responsibilities.

Their responsibilities include conducting births, providing care for newborns, supporting mothers, and advising them on how to care for their newborn. They’re also able to detect complications and carry out emergency measures that can happen during childbirth. With these responsibilities, Midwives are generally given a large degree of autonomy to support their patients as best they can.

Midwives have their own licensing under the Nursing Act to practice midwifery in Australia, which has its own guidelines to follow. Registered Nurses can complete further study to become a Midwife, or if you know that Midwifery is for you, you can enrol into a Bachelor of Midwifery.

Nurse Practitioners

Fulfilling an advanced role in the healthcare system, Nurse Practitioners are registered nurses who have been further authorised to work in an extended clinical role. They tend to function autonomously or collaboratively with their team, depending on the situation.

The nurse practitioner delivers innovative and flexible healthcare solutions that complement the work of other healthcare providers. In this role, they can provide patients with direct referrals to other healthcare providers, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic investigations. Nurse practitioners have greater levels of responsibility over their patients and are required to complete more advanced problem-solving tasks than other nurses.

To become a nurse practitioner, a registered nurse will typically need to undertake a further 1.5-3 years of study, complete other qualifications, hold a current practising certificate, have a minimum of 3 years post-registration experience in a specialty area, and a signed ‘Clinical Support’ form. The Clinical Support form showcases that your employer is willing to facilitate extended components of your course within their workplace.

Nurse specialisations

Nurses don’t just provide general support and care in hospitals or other healthcare facilities, they’re able to specialise in a variety of fields. There are a tonne of different fields available to nurses including aged care, mental health, education, emergency care, prison nursing, theatre nursing, critical care, acute care, family practice, and so much more.

Following a specialisation allows you to work in an area of healthcare that you’re passionate about. You’ll be able to work with people who share your passion and learn from their experiences. At the same time, you’ll be solving unique challenges each day in your specialisation that will help you gain more experience and widen your knowledge.

To become a specialised nurse you’ll generally need to undertake extra study, such as a postgraduate certificate in your chosen area of specialty or even a master's degree. But once that has been completed you can dive into roles that follow your preferred specialisation.

Work locations

In Queensland, you’ve got a wide choice of different locations to work in. From big cities to small towns, coastal cities, to country towns. There’s so much variety in the scenery, parts of the country and facilities that you can work at as a nurse. The best part is that there’s a huge demand for nurses across the entire state, so you can pick and choose where you work.

Let’s break down a few of these locations and what you’ll find at them.

Metropolitan

Metropolitan locations in Queensland refer to the state’s three largest cities. Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast all offer a unique experience for nurses. They have their own cultures, work opportunities, and lifestyles. So, it’s important to get to know them and see which one you prefer before making your choice. FCC primarily focuses on Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast in the metro space.

Brisbane

First up, the largest city, Brisbane. This is a city with big city amenities, bustle, and culture. You’ll find art, food, live music, festivals, and bars everywhere. Brisbane also has a family-friendly side with great schools, large parks, shopping centres, and quaint cafes. It’s perfect for those seeking fun and a family-friendly lifestyle.

In terms of opportunities, Brisbane has the largest public hospitals in the state and hires the most nurses. You’ll also find a large number of private healthcare facilities with the same demand for nurses as their public hospital counterparts. There are opportunities to expand into any specialty, whether that be acute care, theatre nursing, prison nursing, or more.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is characterised by its laid-back, beach-side lifestyle. It’s a very popular tourist town, which means that it has a tonne of things to see and do. There are gorgeous beaches, awesome theme parks, a huge new arts precinct, shopping, sports, food, bars, parks, putt-putt, and so much more. If you’re looking for a city that has a lot to do, then you’ll enjoy the Gold Coast.

As the Gold Coast is a growing city there are a lot of new healthcare facilities, built to handle the influx of people. This means that the city has some incredibly modern healthcare facilities with the latest technology for you to work with. A big aspect of healthcare on the Gold Coast is aged care. The city has one of the highest portions of people over 60 in the country, so requires a lot of nurses to help the city’s senior citizens. So, if you love aged care then the Gold Coast is a great place to look.

Sunshine Coast

If you thought the Gold Coast was laid back, wait until you see the Sunshine Coast. It’s the laid-back hippy city of South-East Queensland. You’ll find local markets, crafts, quaint mountain towns, and gorgeous beaches. It’s a small, spread-out city, with a lot of things to love.

For nurses, it offers an unparalleled lifestyle. You can go to the beach in the morning and then go to your shift in the afternoon. You’ve also got some excellent opportunities as a nurse in hospitals, other healthcare facilities, and aged care. It’s a small city with lots of things to do for nurses outside of work no matter your hobbies or interests.

Regional Towns

Queensland is filled with gorgeous regional towns. There are larger coastal towns like Cairns, Townsville and Mackay, that offer relaxed coastal living with plenty of opportunities for nurses. You can easily spend time at the beach, take a stroll through the seaside shops, and then drive to work with very little traffic in your way. It’s perfect for anyone who loves ocean breezes and a laid-back beach lifestyle.

If you want to experience the country air, then you’ll find some of the prettiest places in Australia in country Queensland. There are incredible country towns like Toowoomba, Roma, Mount Isa, and Dalby which offer country air, gorgeous scenery, and a wonderful sense of community. This is on top of the exciting opportunities available to nurses in these towns.

Remote locations

There are a lot of places outside of rural towns that need a nurse. This includes remote locations like indigenous communities, small towns, and more. You’ll live on-site and fulfil the nursing needs of the communities or workers.

Here you’ll explore often not seen parts of the country. It’s the perfect way to get to new locations that you may never have seen otherwise as they’re off the beaten path. If you love exploring new places and making a difference in people’s lives, then it’s the perfect opportunity for you.

Who you can work for

In Queensland, there are a wide variety of employers for nurses. You’ve got options at public health, private facilities, and nursing agencies. There are even roles you may not expect like at private companies who require healthcare staff. This variety of employment options has led to a competitive market for nurses, so you’ll find some great salary offerings and more across the state.

Here are the primary employers you may encounter.

Public Healthcare Facilities

Some of the larger employers of healthcare staff are public healthcare facilities. This covers a wide variety of facility types such as hospitals, clinics, prison health and community facilities. As there is a lot of demand for their health services, they are constantly on the lookout for new nurses, so there are a lot of opportunities to work in public health.

While there may be a lot of jobs, they are highly competitive. It’s an extremely desirable space for nurses to work in so there is a lot of competition for every position. This makes it challenging to enter public health.

But there is an alternative. If you’re looking to work in public health facilities another option could be a nursing agency. Agencies often work with a variety of public facilities to fill empty shifts, giving nurses greater experience in the public healthcare space.

Private Facilities

When it comes to Queensland’s private healthcare facilities you’ve got a much wider array of options. There are private hospitals, GPs, schools, mines, resorts, and so much more. You will find healthcare jobs in some places you wouldn’t expect.

Of course, with private facilities, you get a tonne of variety when you’re job hunting, which is incredibly exciting. But once you’re employed by one facility directly, there is less flexibility and room for change compared to working with a nursing agency.

Nursing Agency

A middle ground, best of both worlds option, is Agency Nursing. You’ll have the flexibility to work in both public and private facilities in metro and rural & remote locations. Just choose the shifts you want to do in your preferred locations and at the preferred time to make your own schedule. It’s perfect for anyone looking to take control of their career and work the shifts they want, when and where they want.

As an agency nurse, you’ll be supported by your agency to develop your career the way you want to. You can access training, experience multiple different types of healthcare facilities, and establish a diverse clinical network of colleagues and potential future permanent employment opportunities. The pay is also excellent, as you are employed as a casual. This does mean less certainty of shifts and no paid leave. However, if you want flexibility, choice in shifts and work/life balance then you can’t look past agency nursing.

A few things to know

Nursing is a career that has a long-lasting impact on your patients, those you work with, and yourself. It’s a career that requires a lot of love and passion. At the same time, it’s a career that is extremely rewarding for those who love helping people.

If you’re new to nursing or nursing in Australia there are a couple of things you should note about the profession. We’ve laid out our top 5 things to keep in mind about nursing in Queensland below.

Burnout

Burnout is a real risk and challenge in nursing. There are high days and low days in nursing and it can be tricky to separate yourself from the lows. Add to that a large amount of overtime and busy schedules. It’s no wonder nurses are feeling more and more burnt out.

But that’s where the bad news ends. You can combat burnout by ensuring you take time out for yourself. Aim for flexibility, so you can move your shifts around your life and focus on keeping your mind happy and healthy. Take up healthy habits like meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and healthy eating to help maintain your energy and give your mental health a boost.

Attitude and culture

Developing great interpersonal skills is important to being a nurse. You’ll need to build good relationships with patients, doctors, and other members of the multidisciplinary teams. A professional and caring attitude with effective communication skills is critical to ensuring the best health outcomes for your patients.

Culture goes a long way to making nurses feel valued and happy in their careers. The culture of nursing has shifted over the years, but now facilities are investing resources to improve the culture within the industry, championing inclusivity, harmony and safe work environments for all nursing professionals.

Diversity

Nursing is an extremely diverse space. You’ll work with nurses who come from all over the world. It’s great for sharing experiences and ideas while uncovering new things that improve your skills.

Male nurses make up about 10% of the nursing workforce currently, leaving nursing a female-dominated industry. The number of male nurses is increasing though, as more men are realising what an amazing and challenging career nursing is.

Shift work

As a nurse in Queensland, you’ll be doing a lot of shift work. This means night shifts, day shifts, last-minute shifts, and much more. It’s common practice across the world for nurses to work in shifts. Generally, these shifts are 8 hours long with the option to extend the shift to 10 hours if you wish to work overtime.

If you’re looking for a little more flexibility, agency nursing allows you to pick and choose the shifts you want, where you want. You can build your week of work around your schedule, improving work/life balance.

Nurse-to-patient ratios

In Australia, there is a lot of attention put towards increasing the nurse-to-patient ratios. This is because patient safety suffers when nurses are overworked or burnt out. With the goal of decreasing overwork in mind, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation often lobbies for higher nurse-to-patient ratios.

Patient-to-nurse ratios in Queensland were updated in 2016 for public facilities to improve working conditions for nurses. The ratios are now one nurse to four patients (1:4) for morning and afternoon shifts and one nurse to seven patients (1:7) for night shifts. That means in a ward of 28 patients there would need to be 7 nurses on a morning and afternoon shift or 4 nurses on a night shift.

Conclusion

Nurses are an incredibly important part of Queensland’s healthcare system. They transform the lives of the patients they care for and ensure the health system stays afloat. This role in the healthcare system makes it a challenging but rewarding career path.

There are a lot of different choices you can make in nursing to pursue your passions. You’ll find a wide range of specialisations, employers and locations to work in. It allows you to really make the career your own.

If you love nursing and are looking to give your career a refresh or take it to a new level, then agency nursing is calling you. You’ll get the flexibility you need to improve your work/life balance as well as a great hourly pay rate. Add to this the great support from our team to help you get the shifts that meet your needs, and you’ll be able to shape your career the way you want it. If this sounds awesome to you, reach out to FCC and register your interest.

Nurse of the Month November 2023 - Emma

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 23:52:30 GMT

Congratulations to our November nurse of the month - Emma! We love having you on our team and are very proud of all the hard work you do and the dedication you have towards your patients. It's incredibly inspiring. Emma has loved her time with FCC, loving the inviting atmosphere and the diverse hospital settings we offer. You can hear more about Emma's time with FCC at the interview below.

1. What do you appreciate most about FCC?

- "One of the aspects I cherish about FCC is the warm and inviting ambience it provides. As a newcomer to Australia, it has been an exceptional place for me to settle in."

2. What motivated you to become a nurse?

- "My lifelong aspiration to care for others and positively impact their health and well-being has driven me to become a nurse. It's a profession that allows me to fulfil my passion for helping people, and I'm thrilled to be doing so in Australia with FCC."

3. What has been the highlight of your journey at FCC?

- "The highlight of my time at FCC has been the diverse hospital settings I've had the privilege to work in, in and around Brisbane. It's been enriching to collaborate with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures in different wards and hospitals."

4. Would you recommend FCC to fellow nurses, and why?

- "Absolutely, I wholeheartedly recommend FCC to other nurses, especially those who are new to Australia or seeking a supportive work environment. The agency genuinely values its nursing staff, offers exceptional opportunities, and fosters a sense of belonging that makes you feel like part of a big family. It's an outstanding place for nurses to flourish."

Congratulations Emma. If you want to give her your congratulations, check out our posts on Facebook and Instagram.

7 benefits of working as a rural and remote nurse

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:06:04 GMT

If you’re a nurse looking for a career boost or a change of scenery, then you’ll love rural nursing. There are a tonne of opportunities to grow your career, explore new places, meet new people, and make a bit extra on top. Plus, you’ll find a lot of placements available, so you can jump in at any time.

Still need more convincing? Let’s dive into the top 8 benefits of working as a rural nurse.

1. Free accommodation

Most rural and remote contracts last between 4-12 weeks. So, you’ll need somewhere to stay. Fortunately, each contract comes with free accommodation.

You won’t have to worry about where you’re staying, paying rent, or hotel fees. There’ll be a room waiting for you that’s the perfect base to work and explore the beautiful environment around you.

2. A higher salary

Who doesn’t love having a bit extra in their pocket? Rural and remote contracts often command a higher salary than metro contracts. Of course, this will depend on the contract. But if you’re looking to make more money then you’ll easily run into a contract with a great hourly rate.

It’s the perfect way of giving your income a quick boost. If you’re saving for a home, a holiday, or something else, then the boost could make all the difference.

3. Travel allowances

Since you’ll need to travel to a rural or remote location for a few weeks (and eventually travel back home), you’ll receive a travel allowance. This will help to pay for flights, train tickets, or fuel for your trip over. Not as common, but some rural and remote contracts do include free flights. Do check, however, as they may not be free for your partner if you want to bring them along.

Generally, there’s a reimbursement of up to $500 for your international travel costs. Regarding fuel, you’ll be reimbursed fuel costs at commencement and completion of contracts.

4. Living away from home allowance (LAFHA)

To add to all this extra money on top is an added deal sweetener of a living-away-from-home allowance. This is to pay for all your meals or bills that you may get during your contract. FCC offers a $150 per week allowance to help make the trek to a rural or remote location even easier. You won’t have any extra bills to worry about on top of those at home. So, you can sit back and enjoy all the incredible experiences country Australia has to offer.

5. Increased autonomy

Rural and remote locations will often have smaller healthcare teams. This will often lead to nurses having greater levels of autonomy and economy for critical care. You’ll have the opportunity to make decisions and the opportunity to practice at the top of your field.

For those looking to get the chance to stand out in their field, grow their career, or get away from the structure of metro facilities then this is the perfect opportunity.

6. Professional growth and leadership opportunities

On top of increased autonomy, the smaller teams in healthcare facilities enable greater opportunities for professional growth and leadership. You’ll face new challenges and work closer with the team to solve them. Nursing in rural locations will improve your adaptability and challenge your skills, allowing you to grow professionally faster than you would in metro locations.

7. Greater work/life balance

Nothing beats small-town work/life balance. There’s no traffic, wide open spaces, and so much to do. Most healthcare facilities are a quick drive away, reducing commute times. Rural towns are also known for their laid-back, less hectic pace of life.

When you’re not working you also get the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful parts of Australia. There are farms, rainforests, beaches, lakes, deserts, and so much more ready for you to explore. All of this comes together to provide a higher quality of life.

Conclusion

There’s not much that beats the benefits of working rural and remote contracts as a nurse. You get to see some incredible places across the country, work with amazing people, and accelerate your career. All of that while earning some sweet bonuses on top.

It’s a win-win for anyone who loves travelling or wants to get out of the city for a bit. The best part is that once your contract is up you can return to your life in the city with a bit extra cash in your pocket.

If this sounds like an awesome opportunity for you, come register your interest here.

How to Effectively Communicate to Residents in the Aged Care Sector

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 03:38:11 GMT

I remember reading in a nursing textbook many years ago that good communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity. Effective communication in healthcare, particularly in the aged care sector is vital to ensure our most vulnerable are not only kept safe but they are happy, comfortable and feel respected in the place they call home.

Each day within the aged care sector nurses and carers are presented with challenges preventing them from being able to effectively communicate with their residents. These include; limited time with each resident due to increased patient to staff ratios, inappropriate use or lack of communication aids such as glasses, hearing aids and other communication tools, language barriers and a lack of consistency in carers. Being an aged care staff member is complex, requiring patience, poise and a deep want to help others without seeking anything in return.

Throughout this post we will explore how aged care staff such as nurses and carers can best communicate with their residents to provide the ultimate, positive, patient centered care experience.

1. Address a person by their preferred name, not 'dear’, ‘mate’ or 'love'

Kickstart your interaction the right way by using names they are fond of. If you have never met a particular resident before, ask what they would like to be called. If you've been looking after the resident for some time it might be worth double checking what name they would like to go by instead of assuming you have been right the entire time. If you're not sure, ask. For clients who are non-verbal, don’t be afraid to call the family and ask for advice.

2. Use aids where appropriate

To effectively communicate, some residents require the use of reading glasses, hearing aids, dentures, contact lenses, a tracheostomy filter and even writing boards. Without these special and often unique pieces of equipment patients can feel detached and isolated, limiting their ability to effectively communicate.

Furthermore, along with communication aids, some residents don’t feel comfortable communicating without a specific piece of clothing or jewellery on them at all times.

The challenge for aged care staff is that often residents cannot voice their need for such aids or demands and hence require sound documentation and handover between staff to ensure appropriate and timely fitting, removal and cleaning of such aids. If you are new to a facility or a new resident has been admitted, ensure you have a good understanding of their likes and dislikes and importantly what they require to communicate effectively.

3. Show clear intentions

Tell (and show if necessary) what you are doing or going to do. Avoid surprising the person with an unexpected behaviour as this could seem intimidating and even frightening. Move slowly with purpose and in a predictable manner, explaining what you are doing at the time. Though you may think you sound silly and repetitive, you are in their safe space and they need to feel respected and know exactly what’s going on. Consistency is key so avoid making abrupt changes to their routines.

If possible, get the resident involved in their care. Give them choices where appropriate such as the soap to use, do they want to help wash themselves, what would they like to wear? Enable them to feel empowered.

4. Build Trust

Residents in the aged care setting have likely moved out of their family home and into a new place that is unfamiliar for a magnitude of reasons. This can be frightening and unsettling requiring staff and also their families to go that extra mile establishing a new normal in which they feel safe.

Building trust can be quickly established through the use of family photos, personal belongings and caring about them on a personal level. Staff need to identify what items, hobbies and even things they liked to do prior to arrival and start to incorporate these into daily life. Once the residents start to feel comfortable, communication channels will likely open.

5. Pay attention to non-verbal cues

Eye contact, posture, tone of voice, body movements, breathing and even simple gestures can tell another person how you’re feeling significantly more than words can alone.

When engaging with aged care residents try and focus on using open body language. For example, sitting or moving to a position where you are level with the person instead of standing over them. Uncross your arms and try to maintain good eye contact. For patients with dementia, simply touching their arm or holding their hand can assure them you are not a threat and they are in a safe space.

6. Use words of encouragement

Try and approach each resident with a positive and open demeanour. Remember you, and potentially a small handful of other staff, may be the only person who that resident has contact with for the entire day. Make it count. Knock before entering their space and smile as you make eye contact despite how many jobs you know you need to complete. These few seconds make an excellent and safe first impression potentially opening up previously closed communication paths. Avoid mumbling, speak slowly but with purpose and ask direct questions where appropriate. Dodge using words and phrases of reassurance and encouragement if you believe they will be insulting and instead stick to talking about tasks for the day and stories of the past to fill the silence.

7. Cultural considerations

The beautiful thing about working in aged care within Australia is that we are a multicultural society. Our residents can come from all over the world bringing with them often new languages, different sets of values and cultural beliefs. So in order to effectively communicate with every resident fairly, aged care facilities must create an environment where residents not only feel they can express themselves but where they are being heard. For example, staff could be given the tools to learn some basic language such as “pain”, “toilet” and “hungry” and also be given an opportunity to learn some key cultural differences to make those residences feel safe and heard.

8. Take care when multitasking

Residents know when you are not giving them your undivided attention. They can feel when you are rushing and are so stretched for time you are trying to balance their needs with that of others. Even if they do partially understand your workload it doesn’t make them feel good as they feel more like a number than a person.

Though difficult, try where possible to fully engage with a resident before moving onto the next task. Make the residence feel valued even if it takes you a few minutes longer.

In summary, to effectively communicate within the aged care system it takes just more than a single staff member. It takes an entire team to create a space which is safe, welcoming and allows the resident to speak and act with the intention of being heard.

Emma Smith

Registered Nurse

Co-founder of The Other Shift

theothershift.com

Helpful Apps for the Modern Nurse

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 02:23:58 GMT

As a nurse, how do you keep track of your roster, continued professional development hours, your pay and bustling social life? Do you use a paper diary or sticky notes placed all around your home so you don’t forget anything? There is a much easier way! Mobile phone apps allow us to not only manage our busy schedules and become more knowledgeable through learning, but they also can help us save money and time.

This post explores the most helpful apps for the modern nurse you need to download today!

Calendar apps

The number of calendar apps found in the app store for both Apple and Android devices is huge. Some apps allow you to track your pay and hours while others focus on communication and swapping shifts between colleagues. Though the choice can be overwhelming, here are a few popular calendar apps you need to try:

Shift Worker

o Benefits: Choose from visually pleasing, easily identifiable icons such as a sun or a moon, able to fill in future dates automatically, send your shifts to others via email, MMS, Twitter or Facebook and easily add notes to any selected day

My Shift Planner

o Benefits: Comprehensive, syncs with google calendar, personalisation available, payday and public holidays.

MyDuty

o Benefits: Ability to create groups and view your friends and families schedules from any device where you are logged in.

ANMF Diary

o Benefits: This free app (to ANMF members) offers nurses an easy to use shift planner, pay calculator and dosage calculator whilst also providing nurses with news and upcoming events.

Educational apps

Trying to find quick evidence-based answers to your burning medical questions can be tricky in the heat of the moment. Using the apps listed below allows nurses to find information on demand to adequately inform yourself and also you patients and their families (Please remember that First Choice Care Nurses are asked not to have their phone with them on shift, but feel free to look at this during your break).

o Benefits: From visual representations of cardiac rhythms, to case studies and quizzes, this app packs a punch.

UpToDate

o Benefits: Incredible resource for nurses with a question they need answered instantly. You do require a special individual or institutional subscription to gain access.

Simulation Learning Apps

Simulation-based learning allows nurses at any level to expand their knowledge and prepare themselves for real-life situations. Both of the apps listed below allow nurses to be submerged into a simulation-based situation where they are required to act timely and respond to deteriorating patients which increases their knowledge and preparedness for the clinical environment.

Resuscitation
Full Code – Emergency Medicine

Translation Apps

Being able to communicate with your patients and their families during a crisis situation is critical. Mobile language translation apps allow nursing and medical staff to accurately communicate, exchange texts and translate signs to ensure no information is missed or misinterpreted.

Google Translate

o Benefits: Incredibility popular and easily accessible allowing translations between 103 languages by typing. It also permits for offline usage, camera translation and conversation mode using instant text.

ITranslate

o Benefits: Voice to voice communication. This app will translate and recite a spoken sentence in 42 languages.

Health and Wellness Apps

Nurses are often shift workers trying to function effectively whilst working against their body clocks circadian rhythm. Fatigue and exhaustion often voiced by nurses make completing regular exercise and selecting the right food and drinks a daily challenge. The apps listed below can help motivate nurses to start creating healthy habits today.

Keep it Cleaner

o Health and fitness app with a training program, run tracker, meal planner, hundreds of recipes, a period tracker, playlists, interval timer and more.

Insight Timer

o Large free library of guided meditation

Headspace

o Learn how to meditate and incorporate wellness into your busy nursing lifestyle in just a few minutes a day.

Clue

o Easy to use period tracker for the ladies to keep track of their menstrual cycles often impacted by shift work.

Personal Apps for the Modern Nurse:

There are some apps which don’t fit nicely into the above categories but they deserve a place on our must haves.

AusMed

o Keep track of your Continued Professional Development (CPD) hours with this comprehensive app.

Ways or Google Maps

o Don’t be the nurse who arrives late to a shift because of traffic jams or accidents. Ways or Google Maps allows you to pre-program your destination to ensure you don’t get caught up in any dramas on the road including speed cameras, accidents and traffic.

Nurses often take better care of their patients and families than they do themselves because historically, it’s difficult to manage both well.

Though it may take some adjusting from your normal routine, take a second between shifts and install even a few of these apps to your phone to experience the difference and stress relief they can bring you.

It’s amazing what help is available for nurses when you look for it. Also, just remember to always make sure that content from these apps are within your scope of practice.

Cheers,

Emma Smith

theothershift.com

Blog Post

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 23:08:59 GMT

10 reasons why Brisbane is the best city to work as a nurse

Australia’s third largest city, Brisbane, has become a hotspot for those seeking a sea change. Characterised by its large winding river, beautiful Queenslander homes, trendy bars, scenic parks, and warm weather, Brisbane is bringing a lot of attention to itself. It’s a city loved by those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle with plenty of opportunities.

That, and many more reasons, are why nurses, mental healthcare, and allied health professionals are turning their eyes towards the city. We know Brisbane is great, but for those of you who aren’t living here, we’ve put together this list of 10 reasons why nurses should consider the move.

1. A relaxed lifestyle

Brisbane may be a big city, but that doesn’t mean it’s all hustle and bustle. In fact, Brisbane has an extremely laid-back culture, especially compared with its southern cousins Sydney and Melbourne. You’ll be encouraged to enjoy a delicious coffee, go for a stroll along the river, and take life at your own pace.

A lot of people in Brisbane love to take advantage of all the lifestyle opportunities available. Whether that’s the fantastic riverside paths, beautiful pools, or the laid-back café culture. It’s truly a city where you work to live, and people in Brisbane know how to live a relaxing life.

2. Great pay

Nurses who work with First Choice Care in Brisbane can expect to get great pay. Australian nurses can earn more than their international counterparts, and nurses in Brisbane are no exception. Plus, they’ll often work shorter shifts here than UK or Irish nurses. With FCC, you’ll also have the flexibility to work as much as you like, increasing potential earnings.

3. Affordability

Brisbane remains one of Australia’s more affordable cities. You’ll find a wide range of apartments, houses, and townhouses that are much more affordable than equivalent places in Sydney or Melbourne.

On top of that, Brisbane tends to be more affordable to dine out in. You’ll also find affordable drinks, nightclubs, live music, and a wide range of free events across the city. Compared with other capital cities across Australia, you’ll be able to take your money a longer way on any night out.

Now that’s not to say that Brisbane is Australia’s most affordable city. It’s still a big city so has the costs associated with that. But if you compare it to Sydney or Melbourne, Brisbane is much cheaper.

4. Upskilling opportunities

If you’re looking to upskill and advance in your healthcare career, then Brisbane is the place to do it. There’s a large number of educational facilities whose healthcare courses are amongst the best in the world. You’ll also find a wide range of opportunities to find your specialisation, allowing you to follow your passion and make more money.

So, if you’re looking to take your career in nursing to a whole new level then you’ll love it in Brisbane. The flexibility you receive from working with FCC can also allow you to engage in further upskilling and training while working your nursing shifts around your schedule.

5. A launch pad for opportunities

Queensland is a big state filled with opportunities, and Brisbane is the perfect base to take advantage of those opportunities. If you want to escape the city for a bit and explore some rural or remote locations for a few weeks, FCC’s got you covered. You can take up some full-time rural and remote shifts, spend 4 weeks away from the city, and then come straight back.

While you’re away accommodation and travel will be covered, plus you get a living away from home allowance on top of increased pay! It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the career opportunities in rural parts of the country with the confidence that everything will be as you left it when you return home to Brisbane.

6. High demand

Nurses are in high demand in Brisbane. There are a lot of shifts ready for nurses to fill. So, you’ll have full control to work when you want to and as much as you want to.

You can get in touch with FCC and we’ll help you find a shift that suits your schedule, specialisation, and facility preference.

7. The best public and private health facilities

Brisbane has some of the best private and public healthcare facilities in the country. You’ll find opportunities at large public hospitals, smaller private hospitals, aged care facilities, mental health care, and so much more. There’s a lot of variety and with FCC you can choose to work across a wide range of facilities so no two days are the same.

8. Fantastic weather year-round

With more than 300 days of sunshine year-round and mild winters, it’s hard to find a city with better weather. Brisbane is famous for its climate. If you love warm weather, then you’ll be right at home.

Winters are characterised by cool nights and warm days, meaning you barely need a jacket. While Spring and Autumn have perfect beach weather, clear skies and warm temperatures. Summers can get hot and humid, but this is often broken by summer rains.

If you’re a hot weather and sunshine kind of person, then Brisbane is calling your name.

9. There’s a lot to see and do

Brisbane is the centre of South-East Queensland. When you live here, you get access to a whole region's worth of attractions.

There’s the food, bars, art, and cultural attractions in Brisbane. Theme parks, beaches and resorts on the Gold Coast. Wineries and farm-to-table food in Toowoomba. Then there’s the laid-back, small village, arts and crafts vibes of the Sunshine Coast. All of that is within a 2-hour drive from Brisbane.

If that’s not enough, then there are road trip opportunities galore. Travel north and explore tropical north Queensland, head south for New South Wales, or go west for a taste of the outback.

10. Great travel opportunities

While there’s a lot to see and do within a few hours of Brisbane, you can go even further easily thanks to Brisbane’s bustling airport. Brisbane Airport has direct flights to international destinations like New Zealand, Bali, Fiji, the West Coast of the USA and Canada, Japan, Korea, China, and the Middle East.

Domestically, you can get to both Sydney and Melbourne within 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, fly north to Cairns or Hamilton Island to experience the Great Barrier Reef. The only question when living in Brisbane is - where to next?

Conclusion

Brisbane has a lot to offer nurses. You’ll love the opportunities to gain greater flexibility and to grow your career. Plus, you’ll enjoy the great weather, gorgeous scenery, and fun attractions. It’s a city that has it all.

If you’re making the move to Brisbane and want to find a flexible job in nursing, apply with FCC today.

How to earn more as an agency nurse

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 23:20:25 GMT

There are a lot of great employment options available to nurses. But if you’re seeking an opportunity to earn more money you should look no further than agency nursing. As an agency nurse, you get the freedom and flexibility to take greater control over your income.

Let’s break down how this works, the kind of work you’ll do, and answer how you can earn more as an agency nurse.

What is an agency nurse?

An agency nurse works for a nursing agency, which is an independent company that provides staffing solutions for health facilities. The nursing agency works with a variety of different health facilities, like hospitals, and sends nurses out to fill any shift vacancies. Many agencies will specialise in a specific healthcare field or location, while others may provide a wider variety.

As an agency nurse, you’ll be able to choose the shifts you take up and the healthcare facilities you work in. You’ll then work as a nurse in these locations as normal, the only difference being that you are contracted by an agency.

What kind of work will you be doing as an agency nurse?

Being an agency nurse gives you greater control over where you work. This means you can choose to work in hospitals that you like and do the work that relates to your specialty. So, you’ll get the jobs that you want, in a variety of locations, with some of the best healthcare professionals in the industry.

It’s why so many agency nurses love the work they do. The flexibility with not just hours, but the range of clinical environments you can choose from, as well as the career development opportunities, are all unmatched in comparison to staff nursing.

How you can earn more

With flexibility comes greater control over how much you earn. We’ve broken down 4 things that determine how much you can earn and what you can do to increase your earnings.

1. Casual pay rates

According to Indeed.com an agency nurse earns an average of $102,465 per year, while a staff nurse earns an average of $80,159 per year. This is because agency nurses are employed as a casual employee and receive a higher base hourly rate. So, an agency nurse who works the same hours as a staff nurse will earn significantly more per year.

Of course, being a casual employee does mean that you don’t receive benefits such as annual leave or sick leave. But this can be managed. You can save money to cover any time off or pick up extra shifts afterwards to recover any lost income. As an agency nurse, the choice is entirely yours.

2. Work more (or less) hours

Agency nurses have the flexibility to choose how many (or how few) hours they work. This means you can pick up more shifts to earn more when you need it. Are you saving up for a holiday or a house? Just pick up a few more hours and you’ll reach those saving goals faster. You have that flexibility.

While you won’t be guaranteed a set number of shifts per week, nurses are in high demand so, you’ll likely be able to work as much as you want.

The good news is that with First Choice Care, you have the luxury of choice, with both adhoc metropolitan shifts and rural and remote short term contracts available across QLD, NSW and NT with some great benefits, so you can get guaranteed work and earn more.

3. Enhance your staff nurse salary

If you’re already employed as a staff nurse but want to make a little extra on top, agency nursing may be your best bet. With a nursing agency, you can add some extra shifts when you have time. The number of extra shifts you take on can depend on how much time you have and how much money you need.

It’ll also give you the opportunity to diversify your skillset. You’ll be able to work at a variety of different healthcare facilities and work with many of the best nurses. At First Choice Care, we have agency work across Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba and in selected rural and remote areas, so there is plenty of work available. Check out our job board for locations and specialties.

4. Work in rural and remote locations

Nurses are in high demand in many rural towns across Australia. With this demand comes the opportunity for higher pay. If you’re willing to fly in and fly out to a rural or remote town for a short period, then you’ll have a lot of opportunities to make more money and speed up the advancement of your career. At First Choice Care, our rural and remote nurses are paid well and offered many benefits such as free travel and accommodation and living away from home allowances. Find out more about the many benefits working as a FCC Rural and Remote Nurse or Midwife.

Our Rural and Remote team is always happy to chat with you. Check out the contracts available here or request a call back to speak to one of our friendly team members.

Conclusion

Agency nurses have a lot of options to earn more money. Not only do agency nurses start off with a higher hourly base rate, but the flexibility available allows them to work more hours. For staff nurses, taking up a shift or two of agency work can provide the opportunity to make more money and boost your career.

If this opportunity sounds exciting, you should check out our job listing page and apply today .

Nurse of the month July 2023 – Julie

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 06:31:40 GMT

The nurse of the month for July is Julie! Congratulations Julie. She is one of our Aged Care nurses for Brisbane North and the Sunshine Coast. Each week she travels down from Gympie for her shifts, always excited and passionate about her job. Julie is an absolute pleasure to work with. You can learn more about what Julie loves about working with FCC below.

What do you like most about FCC?

Flexibility of shifts, friendliness of staff and being able to contact staff whenever needed.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I became a nurse as I used to work as an OSO and saw other nurses working, which inspired me take this career path. As a nurse I love hearing stories from residents and getting to know there history and the diversity of cultures.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The support, friendliness and the quick response to any questions or queries. A big shout out to all the help from Hayley and Tait.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I would and have recommended FCC to others while working in the field as a nurse.

We would love it if you could check out our Facebook and Instagram posts, give them a like and comment some congratulations for Julie.

15 Items Nurses Should Consider Claiming at Tax Time

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 03:34:02 GMT

Have you completed your tax return yet? Though some may dread this time of year as they pull together all the required paperwork requested by our accountants, it can really pay dividends if we know what we are eligible to claim. As a fellow nurse, I was shocked at some of the items you could potentially claim for at tax time. Enjoy this post as I explain exactly what they are and how you could receive your best tax return yet!

Disclaimer - I am not a licensed accountant, nor do I work for the Australia Taxation Office (ATO). I am simply a registered nurse who is really passionate and incredibly interested in saving my nursing mates a few dollars. Have a chat with your accountant on anything I’ve listed and see which of the below could benefit you.

1. Clothing

Are you required to wear a particular uniform or an item of clothing for your job? According to the ATO you can “claim a deduction for the cost of buying, hiring, mending or cleaning certain uniforms that are unique and distinctive to your job, or protective clothing.” Here is what you can and cannot claim regarding clothing:

What you can claim:

●Footwear - must protect yourself from the risk of illness or injury such as non-slip nursing shoes

●Supportive / compression stockings

●Compulsory uniforms (including scrubs, aprons, vests, lab coats) with a logo

What you can’t claim:

●Deduction for the cost of buying or cleaning plain clothing worn at work (even if you’re instructed by your employer you need to wear it)

●Buying plain clothing such as black pants, plain shirts or black shoes, even if you only wear it to work

2. Annual Nursing Registration Fees (eg. AHPRA)

I highly encourage you to claim your annual nursing registration fee. Just keep the email receipt for proof of payment.

It should be noted though that nurses who are practicing a new role for the first time and incur some initial cost in obtaining a practicing certificate, can’t claim this fee. The cost must be incurred during the course of employment.

3. Overtime meal expenses

This one might be a bit confusing to get your head around but you are able to claim the cost of a meal you bought and ate when you worked overtime. However, you can only claim this meal if you receive an overtime meal allowance under an industrial law, award or agreement, and it's included in your assessable income.

According to the ATO, “you can't claim a deduction if your overtime meal allowance is rolled into your salary / wages and not included as a separate allowance on your income statement or payment summary”.

My recommendation here is to keep your receipts if you are wanting to claim a deduction for an overtime meal. An interesting (and cool thing) here though is the ATO set an amount each year you can claim for overtime meals without receipts, if it was a “reasonable amount.”

So if you’re asked to do overtime, don’t go hungry. Go buy a meal - just keep the receipt.

4. Self-education expenses

The ATO allows nurses to claim for self-education expenses if your course is directly related to your current job, eg. ECG interpretation.

However, you can’t claim for a course/study that is vaguely linked to nursing and is actually designed to help you get a new job away from the nursing profession.

5. Union and professional association fees

Whilst you can absolutely claim your annual union fee, don’t forget to jump onto their website and see what other freebies and discount codes are on offer.

6. Briefcase or work bag

Do you need a laptop bag or briefcase for your nursing job? Consider claiming it.

7. Stationary

According to the ATO, “as long as the expense relates to your employment, you can claim a deduction for the work-related portion of the cost of stationary”.

This includes:

●Calculators

●Logbooks

●Diaries

●Pens

8. Phone and internet costs

If your employer requires you to use your own phone and internet, you can claim this. However, you can only claim the use of your personal device for the work-related portion.

9. Car expenses

This one can get a little grey and will likely need clarification with your accountant or the person looking after your tax return.

In simple terms, you can claim a deduction when you:

●drive between separate jobs on the same day – eg traveling from your job as a nurse to a second job as a barista

●drive to and from an alternate workplace for the same employer on the same day – eg driving from your usual clinic to another clinic to work for the same employer.

However, you usually cannot claim:

●the cost of trips between home and work (regardless of the distance of travelled or shift time / date).

There are a few notes on the ATO website which talk about using your own car to drive heavy tools / equipment where there is no safe storage available. If you think you fall into this group - I’d suggest seeking further advice.

In case you’re thinking about it, you can’t claim a deduction for getting or renewing your driver's license, even if you must have it for your job. This is a private expense.

10. Watches and timepieces

Do you use a fob watch or another kind of wristwatch which has special characteristics that assist in your nursing role? You may be able to claim the cost of these items. This includes the replacement of batteries, repairs and watchbands. You can’t claim your ordinary wrist watch though, even if it’s waterproof.

As a little catch, the ATO states the following “if the watch cost more than $300, you can only claim a deduction for a decline in value (depreciation), just so you are aware.

11. First aid courses

Are you required to undertake a first aid course by your employer as you’re the designated first aid responder? You can claim this deduction. However, if your employer reimburses you for the cost of the course, you can’t claim it.

12. Repairs to tools and equipment

Do you use a stethoscope, trauma shears, apron or a pen touch at work? If these items break you can claim the cost for getting them fixed.

13. Seminars, conferences and training courses

If these all relate to your job, keep / upload a copy of the receipt to your myGov app and pop in a claim.

14. Journal, books, periodicals and magazine subscriptions

No, you can’t claim women or men’s health magazines nor can you claim Better Homes and Gardens, but you can claim journal and magazine subscriptions that are linked to your nursing job. Again, just keep a copy of the receipt / proof of payment.

15. Laundry and Maintenance

You can claim for the cost of washing and drying clothing if you wear it to work and it’s protective, occupational specific, or is a uniform - either non-compulsory and registered with AusIndustry or compulsory.

If your laundry claim (excluding dry cleaning expenses) is $150 or less, you don’t need to hold on to your receipts. But you do need to explain to the ATO how you calculate your claim. It’s not automatic.

Lastly, the ATO does make mention of potential allowances “for work that may be unpleasant, special or dangerous.” I haven’t heard much about this before so discuss it with your accountant if you think this applies to your situation.

Now, go and find all those receipts you’ve hidden in your car, work bag and around your house and get them ready for the accountant. A cash injection could be on its way!

Good luck.

Emma Smith

Registered Nurse

Co-Founder The Other Shift

theothershift.com

Celebrating the Contributions of Nurses in Remote and Rural Areas

Mon, 29 May 2023 03:38:58 GMT

Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare system, providing compassionate care, promoting health, and saving lives. However, sometimes the contributions of Nurses in remote and rural areas can go unnoticed. Nurses working in these areas face unique challenges, including limited resources, and some isolation.

Despite these challenges, they continue to provide essential healthcare services to underserved populations, making significant contributions to their communities. In this blog, we want to celebrate the contributions of Nurses in remote and rural areas and recognise the vital role they play in our healthcare system.

Shoutout to Registered Nurse, Shannon R! Shannon has completed multiple contracts at Wondai and has gone above and beyond during her time there. She organised coffee every morning for all healthcare workers delivered by the local café. This had never been organised previously which everyone appreciated and loved. Shannon has also assisted in accreditation preparation and mentoring new graduates.

Providing Essential Healthcare Services

Nurses in remote and rural areas provide essential healthcare services to underserved areas. They are often the first point of contact for patients, providing a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, maternal and child health, and chronic disease management. In many cases, Nurses are the only healthcare providers in the area, and they work hard to meet the needs of their patients.

Improving Access to Healthcare Services

Remote and rural Nurses also play a critical role in improving access to healthcare services. They provide care to patients who may not have access to healthcare services otherwise, such as those living in remote areas or with limited transportation options. Nurses often travel to provide care to their patients, making sure that everyone has access to essential healthcare services.

Supporting Community Health

Nurses in remote and rural areas support community health by promoting healthy behaviours and providing health education. They work with community members to develop health promotion programs and provide resources to help people make informed decisions about their health. They play a critical role in disease prevention and control, providing vaccinations and screenings to help prevent the spread of illness in the community.

Shoutout to Registered Nurse, Lauren B! Lauren has completed 4 contracts and has been at Mackay since October 2022. During Lauren’s contract in Mackay, she has been placed in several senior or in-charge roles due to her clinical experience.

Our First Choice Care Rural and Remote Nurses make significant contributions to our healthcare system. Despite the challenges they face, these Nurses continue to provide compassionate care to underserved populations, making a positive impact on the lives of their patients and their communities. Let's take a moment to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Nurses in remote and rural areas and thank them for their tireless work to improve the health and well-being of our communities.

Why Work as a Mental Health Nurse in Australia

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Wed, 24 May 2023 00:32:06 GMT

Mental health nursing is a fulfilling and challenging career that allows you to provide compassionate care and support to those who need it most. In this blog post, we will take you through what mental health nursing looks like in Australia, what the job involves, and why it makes such a rewarding career.

Mental health nurses are registered nurses who specialise in caring for patients with mental health issues. They work in a range of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community centres. Mental health nurses have a unique skill set that enables them to provide holistic care, recognising and managing the symptoms of mental illness, providing counselling, and developing treatment plans.

As a mental health nurse, you will be responsible for providing various services to patients with mental health issues. You will work closely with healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans that meet the individual needs of your patients. This will include assessing patients, administering medication, providing counselling and support, and monitoring patients’ progress.

Apart from providing direct patient care, mental health nurses also play a critical role in educating patients and their families about mental illness, treatment options, and how to manage symptoms. This helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness by promoting awareness and understanding.

In short, mental health nursing is a fulfilling career that provides opportunities to make a real difference in patients’ lives by offering the care and support they need to recover from mental illness. It’s also a constantly evolving field, with new treatments and therapies being developed all the time, providing mental health nurses the chance to be at the forefront of new developments and make a real contribution to the field.

If you’re considering a career in mental health nursing, First Choice Care can help you find agency nursing opportunities and provide you with the support you need to succeed in your career. Register to work with us or give us a call to find out more about joining our roster of candidates and begin your career in mental health nursing today.

Nurse of the Month – May 2023

Mon, 15 May 2023 06:31:53 GMT

At First Choice Care, we want to celebrate our amazing nurses! So, we will be announcing a nurse of the month, every month. This nurse will be kind, caring and compassionate and be reliable and dedicated to our nursing agency.

Congratulations Megan M. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for May! She has completed back-to-back contracts, always updating R&R with her availabilities. Megan is now on her 8 ^th contract! Read more about Megan below:

What do you like most about FCC?

What I like most about FCC is that the Rural and Remote Team have been very supportive since I joined over 12 months ago, and always make themselves available when I have questions or concerns. They offer suggestions and recommendations, and encourage me to follow new paths in my career whilst providing great opportunities for professional development for their nurses. They also have a very smooth onboarding process for new staff.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

After supporting a close family member during a critical illness, which saw us spending substantial periods of time at RBWH, where I observed the amazing work of the nurses and doctors, I decided, ‘I can do this!’. Then, during my nursing studies, I became aware of travel nursing opportunities which strongly appealed to me after doing the ‘9-5’ gig in corporate roles for the previous 30 years. This gave me the momentum I needed to continue with my new career goals, and with the ongoing support and encouragement of some very special people in my life, I haven’t looked back!

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

A highlight for me with FCC is that they are proactive in seeking contracts for their nursing staff rather than waiting for a vacancy to become available. The concept of ‘floating’ my resume to a number of different facilities subsequently creates opportunities for future contracts should a vacancy arise within that facility.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Yes, definitely! Being able to choose when and where you work, experiencing new facilities and locations, and the opportunity to explore on your days off – why wouldn’t you!

Every facility and experience is different and challenging. My mantra is ‘throw yourself out there – you’ll never know until you give it a go’. I personally have never looked back and am currently on my eighth rural placement. Travel nursing has opened so many doors for me, increased my confidence both professionally and personally, and has allowed me not only to visit new places but also to meet a wide range of people in every town and facility I encounter.

My advice to any nurse considering travel nursing is to go into it with a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, be prepared to accept and face any demons, a heightened level of tolerance and flexibility (because you’ll need it!), and most importantly, a good sense of humour and a degree of optimism.

Nurse of the Month – April 2023

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 06:38:30 GMT

Congratulations Holly S. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for April! Holly is a great worker who communicates with the team, working across both acute & aged care with us. Recently, Holly was a huge help and covered an urgent shift that was on the other side of town from her which we really appreciated! Read more about Holly below:

What do you like most about FCC?

My favourite thing about working with FCC is the flexibility to choose my shifts and hours to fit in around my kids and family life. The allocations team have always worked with me to find suitable places and start times so I can still work without having to stress around day care drop offs etc.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

This question is hard for me to answer. I always wanted to be a nurse, all of my memories as a child were always saying I want to be a nurse, so I don't really know why I wanted to be a nurse, but I love my job. I love people and I find nursing very rewarding.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The highlight of FCC for me is meeting new people and going to new places. I have learned so much from some amazing nurses and some of the facilities I've worked at, and I've made some good friends on the way.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Yes I would and I have!

Nurse of the Month – March 2023

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 01:31:56 GMT

Congratulations Kim A. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for March! Kim was nominated by the allocations team because she is a great agency nurse and works every week without an issue. She also gets requested a lot from our facilities which says a lot about her work ethic and great representation for FCC. Read more about Kim below:

What do you like most about FCC?

The flexibility to work when I want.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I don't think I would want to be anything else. Nursing has always been what I do.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The highlight of working for FCC has been how easy it is to pick up shifts and check rosters via the app. Also, I appreciate the text messages when there is a change to a shift.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I am happy with the services and support that the FCC team provides and that's what I tell the other nurses I meet when they ask me about working with FCC.

Nurse of the Month – February 2023

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:01:17 GMT

Congratulations Raj K. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for February! Raj is one of our facilitators and metro contract nurses and is already booked out with back-to-back contracts until June this year! Read more about Raj and why she loves working with us:

What do you like most about FCC?

I have been working with FCC for a few years now and I've never had issues. I always have plenty of work and don't have to look for work anywhere else. I like the flexibility in the times that I can work and can get time off whenever I need. Being a mother of young kids it gets very hard if you work full time and are not able to stay home if the kids are sick or whenever they need you most.

The staff are also so lovely. Every time I call the team, they remember you by name straightway.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

What I find most rewarding about my career as a nurse is that I have the opportunity to help people in their most vulnerable and unexpected moments. My job is to make them feel safe, comfortable and cared for. I always have room to grow professionally. I learn something new every day at the different places I work.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

My highlight working with FCC is the great communication from the team when picking up shifts. I have worked in many different places and absolutely love working and meeting new people.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I definitely recommend FCC to my family and friends as they are such a great nursing agency to work with. Great team, communication and also great pay :)

Nurse Talks: Nursing behind bars

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 23:31:43 GMT

We sat down with one of our very own Prison Health Registered Nurses (RN), Lee, who shared what it's like nursing behind bars.

Lee graduated with her nursing degree in 2016 and with only a few years of experience, she worked on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic. She joined us in September last year and with her experience has been an asset to the First Choice Care team.

With Lee's background being predominately in primary health, she has flourished in her role as a Prison Health RN, ensuring those within our prison system continue to receive their healthcare needs.

What was it like working on the frontlines as a fairly new nurse?

It was hard, but also very rewarding. I think at the beginning I was a bit nervous being on the frontline, but in the end, you just have to do what you can. I was able to experience many different jobs throughout the pandemic, including isolation hotels, taking COVID samples and working in drive through clinics, processing the samples as well as work in vaccinations hubs.

Explain a day in the life of a Prison Health RN?

I am still fairly new to the role, but I have worked in male prisons as well as one female prison. As a prison health nurse, I have daily tasks including medication preparation and rounds, tending to medical requests such as dental pain, injuries and mental health concerns. Often my role is conducting a patient assessment and connecting patients to the right healthcare professionals, such as a Nurse Practitioner or Doctor, the mental health team, opioid substance therapy team or even reviewing the patient's medical treatment.

Sometimes nurses must attend to medical emergencies, and we will follow protocol to address the situation. Luckily, I haven’t had any extreme emergencies since working as a prison health nurse.

What is the most interesting thing about being a prison health nurse?

While we have our daily tasks, no day is ever the same. There is always a variety of situations which keeps my job interesting, so I always get to learn something new on a shift.

What is your favourite thing about being an agency nurse with FCC?

The main thing would be that I can put my own availability down for shifts and schedule my work with my life. I try to put my availability down to work 4 days a week, but I don’t always have to work that if I don’t want to.

The First Choice Care team is great. They ask me what I prefer, and they never push me to do anything I am not comfortable with.

What do you like getting up to outside of work?

I like to walk my dogs, get the groceries done and stay at home with my husband.

Can you name 3 valuable skills you've gained since working as a Prison Health RN?

Time management
Decision making skills
Effective communication skills.

Communicating with prisoners

It’s much more straightforward than most think. I like to go through the medical situation point by point with patients. It’s like working in any other medical facility. You don’t see patients as prisoners, and you support them as you would in the outside world.

Would you recommend prison work to your fellow nurses? If so, what advice would you give.

Yes, and I would say don’t be afraid to ask for help in your role. The nurses I work with are approachable and willing to help, we all stay positive and look after each other.

If you're working with us and want to get involved in our next Nurse Talks please get in contact with us at marketingHC@peoplein.com.au .

For anyone interested in joining us you can apply now .

Nurse of the Month – January 2023

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 00:13:12 GMT

Congratulations Shannon R. you have been nominated as our first nurse of the month for 2023! Shannon is one of Rural and Remote Registered Nurses who has been consistently completing rural contracts at the same hospital since last March! Read what has been Shannon's highlight with us:

What do you like most about FCC?

Nothing is ever a problem, and the people are always friendly and helpful

Why did you want to be a nurse?

To make a positive contribution by caring for people.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The new friends and life experiences I get to enjoy both personally and professionally.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Absolutely, it has been a great agency with no hassles and so easy for me when starting to venture into agency nursing.

Nurse of the Month – December 2022

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 04:38:45 GMT

Congratulations Sijo J. you have been nominated as our final nurse of the month for 2022! Sijo is one of our go-to Aged Care registered nurses and works all week, every week. He never complains, always answers the phone and gets the work done. An agency's dream! Check out why Sijo recommends us:

What do you like most about FCC?

What I like most about First Choice Care, is the acceptance and reputation that First Choice Care Nursing Agency has in different facilities. As a First Choice Care registered nurse , I have been well-reputed wherever I go.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

Nursing has always been my passion, and it is a globally accepted profession.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

First Choice Care provides enough shifts for me based on my requirements and availability. They always have lots of shifts available that you can request and pick up. The innovative application that they have is great, where you can request shifts and update your availability. First Choice Care also provides their own education and training platform to improve and maintain nurses’ skills.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I would and do strongly recommend First Choice Care to other nurses. I recommend First Choice Care to nurses who I meet and chat with while working in different aged care facilities. It is my opinion that First Choice Care is the 'First Choice' like its name.

Nurse of the Month – November 2022

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 00:13:59 GMT

Congratulations Cherie A. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for November 2022! Cherie is one of our amazing R&R nurses who has been on back-to-back contracts for the past 2 years. She is very hard working, so this nomination is very well deserved! Check out Cherie's highlight of working with us:

What do you like most about FCC?

I enjoy that FCC are a smaller personalised company, with individualised consultants whom look after their nurses.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

My previous career was in the outdoor industry. So, when choosing a new career I considered the most important aspects of that job. I loved learning about first aid and medical scenarios, I enjoyed working with people and lots of them, and not just a casual interaction, also having multiple avenues of work so that if I didn't enjoy one area I could move into another avenue. So nursing was the obvious choice for me.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

My highlight of working with First Choice Care is the ease of picking up contracts and the good communication from the team. I love all the different places that I have worked, the amazing people that I have met, or reconnected with, and I've had the privileged of having tours with locals to see some spectacular places, with many once in a lifetime experiences.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I would recommend FCC as they are a smaller company with a great rural and remote team who look after their nurses and check in with you via phone while on contract. You're not just a number in their system. They have a multitude of contracts available for many places in and around mainly Queensland and NSW but also expanding into more regions making further travel possible if you choose to go to these regions.

Nurse of the Month – October 2022

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 05:31:51 GMT

Congratulations Maddison H. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for October 2022! Maddison is one of our prison health nurses. She was one of our first prison nurses and has been working constantly ever since. Check out why Maddison wanted to be a nurse:

What do you like most about FCC?

First choice care have been so easy to work with. From the first day of applying they have been prompt and professional. I was interviewed and started the onboarding process quickly after. Since then, I have had regular shifts and the team are lovely!

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I started my nursing career when I was 18 and at the time I was influenced by family members who were nurse unit managers at the Royal Melbourne hospital. I loved that nursing was hands-on and had many different avenues to explore.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The highlight of working with FCC has been the lovely team in the office who are regularly checking in to make sure I have enough shifts each week.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Absolutely. Working with FCC has been a delight! I have really enjoyed working in prison health and was well supported in the transition from other areas of nursing. A lot of the skills are transferable into the prisons. You also get experience in emergency response which has been fantastic!

Nurse talks: How to speak with patients and their family

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 02:32:29 GMT

This week, we had the chance to speak with one of our nurses, Kyra who gave some great insight on how to speak with patients and their family members.

Kyra became a nurse because she likes to keep busy, but also to help and care for people. But other than nursing, Kyra loves to be outside in her free time, whether that’s traveling around, camping, going on a hike, or at the beach.

At FCC, Kyra works within the medical/surgical ward and has a lot of experience when it comes to working with patients and discussing their care plans. Read how Kyra handles challenges on the ward and how she de-stresses from a shift.

How do you explain medication, treatment, or any healthcare situations to a patient without using heaps of medical jargon?

I guess it just comes with experience. I have been a nurse for 10 years and I've always been able to watch what other nurses have done and the way they explain things and just take away that medical jargon. You need to put it in everyday terms for people and use like general conversation. So, either stay away from medical terms or explain if you are going to use any medical terms as well.

I also give the patient plenty of time to ask any questions, sometimes if someone is feeling overwhelmed or haven’t had time to process information, they may have questions later.

How do you handle a difficult situation?

Obviously, keep the tone neutral and calm and ensure that they are happy to have a conversation with you. I will find a private space for the conversation if they want that. Generally, it’s just anxiety for their loved one that can cause people to get frustrated and distressed and sometimes they just need space to have a chat.

What do you do to de-stress?

It’s always good to just reflect. Sometimes a day just catches up to you and by the end, you’re just exhausted. So, sometimes I like to focus on the things that have frustrated me, and if that happened again the next day I would see if there were ways, I could handle it differently or if it was something external and something I could not change how just kind of unpack that.

What do you like most about being an agency nurse?

I like the flexibility in the times that I can work and just being able to take holidays when I need. I also like to move around in different areas of nursing and do different things.

What is your favourite thing about working with us at FCC and do you have any memorable moments?

The staff are so lovely and remember you by name and will ask about something you talked about in a previous conversation with them or just personal life in general.

It was kind of a memorable moment for me when I got the chance to work at a vaccination clinic a couple years ago. I was able to contribute to the COVID-19 vaccinations during COVID which was something different. I’ve also done some work as a school nurse through the agency which I found very interesting, and I wouldn’t have had access to this role as easily without the agency.

If you're working with us and want to get involved in our next Nurse Talks please get in contact with us at marketingHC@peoplein.com.au .

For anyone interested in joining us you can apply now .

Nurse of the Month – September 2022

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 01:30:28 GMT

Congratulations Jess B. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for September 2022! Jess is one of our R&R nurses. She has been booked out on back-to-back contracts with us all year and is currently on contract in beautiful Far North QLD. Check out why Jess recommends FCC:

What do you like most about FCC?

They make my life incredibly easy. I can text or call and everything gets sorted out or I get the answers to my questions. Payroll are also fabulous. I love how easy, kind and efficient this team is!

Why did you want to be a nurse?

Not a great story but, a lecturer at a nursing open day at USQ made nursing sound so appealing because you could work anywhere in Aus or the whole world. As a 17 year old I was imagining amazing around the world adventures, I had absolutely no idea what a nurse actually did, however, 10 years later I love what I do and I have worked in some very beautiful places all over Australia.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Being able to come back to Far North QLD, I really do love the community here. I also greatly appreciate the support and check-in phone calls – when you have had a tough few shifts or a bad week this is actually one of the kindest gestures.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

ABSOLUTELY! This team is so kind and organised and they are more than willing to help or support you in any way they can. I also find them so accommodating with planning contracts around my social life. They are flexible and genuinely there for you anytime.

Nurse of the Month – August 2022

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 05:55:37 GMT

Congratulations Colleen W. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for August 2022! Colleen is an all-rounder that works both in our metro pool as well as one of our go to clinical facilitators. She is a great advocate for First Choice Care. Read what Colleen loved most about us:

What do you like most about FCC?

I like the support and encouragement FCC gives me to enable me to do my job and the flexibility agency nursing gives, consequently giving me the opportunity to learn a variety of nursing skills.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I wanted to be a nurse to be a part of healthcare, to contribute to and make a difference, no matter how small in people’s lives.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

The highlights with FCC are many but all the amazing people I meet out in the clinical field and the supportive staff of FCC.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I definitely recommend everyone to work with FCC. The team at both the office and on the field are fantastic.

Making the most out of Remote and Rural Nursing in your free time

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 05:39:27 GMT

As an agency nurse, one of the benefits is the flexibility in your schedule. Remote and Rural nurses are privy to the same benefit, which allows for plenty of time to get out and explore, which is one of the biggest attractions to travel nursing.

Even though you’re taking off on a new and exciting journey, it’s important to keep that work-life balance as you would at your normal place of work. Before you embark on your adventure, investigate what’s on offer at your destination and create a bucket list for yourself!

Our Remote and Rural Nurses can enjoy a new lifestyle and dive into exciting adventures and activities.

Pack light

Before you embark on your exciting adventure, remember how long you’ll be gone. Let’s say you’ll be gone roughly a month or more, do you really need to pack 10 different pairs of shoes?

It’s important you look at what you can and can’t live without and the items you’ll use during your time away. We recommend a few items that will bring you comfort and help make your temporary space a home. That could be your favorite coffee mug or your silk pillowcase.

Whether you’re driving or flying, the less you bring the less you’ll have to worry about.

Plan and prepare – for best way to spend a day off

Remote and Rural nursing allows you to travel to beautiful places and gain invaluable experience in new settings and hospitals. You’ll also want to make sure you return home with good stories to tell your friends and family.

To ensure you’re not wasting a second, it’s best to plan and prepare for the week ahead. Map out the places you want to see and put a plan in place for how you’re going to get there. If it’s a spot just out of town, you might like to factor in how long it’s going to take to get there and back – maybe organise a day trip if needed.

Check out what’s on, whether it’s a community event or a yoga class, mark it in your calendar.

Take up new hobbies

If you’re in a more rural area with some time on your hands, why not pick up a new hobby? Being in new destinations comes with new experiences!

Let’s say you come from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane city, you might like to get out and take up weekday hikes. If you usually drive everywhere, get yourself a bike and explore your new home and trails.

Travelling is a great way to help you create new interests that you may not have considered back home.

Make some friends

For some it may be a little daunting, but one of the great things about travelling is meeting new people. This could be a co-worker at the hospital or care facility you’re working at, or someone you’ve come across while you’ve been exploring.

It’s important to establish connections whilst you’re away as this will only make your experience even better.

Looking to escape your day-to-day routine? Head to our jobs board today and check out the exciting opportunities at First Choice Care.

Nurse of the Month – July 2022

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 05:28:19 GMT

Congratulations Dana O. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for July 2022! Dana is one of our metro nurses and our allocations team all agreed that she was the most deserving of this recognition due to her flexibility and work ethic. Read why Dana became a nurse:

What do you like most about FCC?

After working full-time at my previous workplace for 10 years, I was ready for a change. FCC provides the flexibility to be able to choose where, when and how often I want to work.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

Initially, I did not want to be a nurse. I returned home from travelling overseas and needed a job. I gained employment as an AIN at a nursing home. The older RN’s that I worked with encouraged me to pursue a nursing career as an RN, and so I did. Here I am 20 years later, and still remain grateful to those nurses that supported me along the way. I love being a nurse!

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

I enjoy being able to experience a variety of different areas of nursing and expanding on my skill set. Also, I have enjoyed meeting other FCC nurses.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I would definitely recommend FCC to other nurses and have done so. I have been with FCC for just over 2 months and have found the staff to be supportive and helpful. FCC fits in with your working preferences, making it easier to maintain a work-life balance. I love being able to self-roster through the online portal.

6 nursing trends we should expect to see in 2022

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 05:12:15 GMT

The healthcare industry is forever evolving, but with the conditions imposed by the pandemic, the industry has been forced to further progress.

In Australia, the healthcare sector saw its largest growth in the last five years, and we can only expect this to continue. We’ve put together 6 nursing trends that you can expect to see in 2022, based on the most recent data and insights from medical professionals.

We will see more career options available for nurses in the coming years

The nurses of today are expected to specialise and this is a big trend we will see grow. But as healthcare needs climb and become more complex the opportunity for nurses to specialise will continue to increase.

At First Choice Care, we provide great opportunities for nurses, offering shifts within the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Emergency Department (ED), and Midwifery roles in the Ante/Post-Natal & Special Care Nursery. We also offer exciting remote & rural jobs for nurses with specialist qualifications, allowing you to work whilst also exploring beautiful parts of Australia’s North East.

As the use of technology continues to grow within healthcare, nurses will need to be more technologically skilled

As a result of the pandemic, the healthcare sector has become more reliant on technology than ever before. While there is no denying that technological advancements have improved patient care and supported nurses in the way they work, including just about every practice and process, we must realise that the nurses of today must be diverse. Nurses who are adept in technology are in high demand and we will see this rise.

Today, nurses use a wide array of technologically operated systems to increase efficiency. This includes Electronic Health Records to keep track of a patient’s health history. Computers and mobile phones are also used on shift to keep time, schedule staff, research, order medications, emails, and various other tasks. Nurses need to be able to adapt to the evolving environment around them and keep up to date with technology.

There will be a surprising growth in Non-Clinical Nursing Career roles

A surprising development in the nursing profession is the growing interest of nurses moving from clinical to non-clinical roles. As most nursing degrees have become more flexible, including advanced programs, many new graduated nurses who would have considered clinical practice previously are now looking at alternative avenues.

We will see a rise in fatigue/burnout awareness for nurses within the community

There is no doubt that society has become increasingly aware of nurse burnout and maybe you as a medical professional have learnt to accept that you need rest too.

Burnout and fatigue in the nursing profession is a growing problem, which is why many have turned to agency work to take control of their life and give themself more time with their family. Our nurses at First Choice Care have our full support and we will always do what we can to support our nurses and their lifestyle – no nurse is the same.

Online education programs will continue to increase in popularity

There are many benefits to online education, and while the original shift from in-person to online was challenging, as a result of the pandemic, it has now become a very popular way to learn. Particularly for those who are working, online education programs offer flexibility which is extremely convenient for agency nurses who want to balance their work and studies.

As the motivation for nurses to seek higher education increases, online nursing programs provide a way for nurses to gain a degree while maintaining their full-time income. This opens the door to higher education with no need to sacrifice shifts or family time.

Bilingual nurses will become more valued than ever

As the world has opened up again, post-COVID, Bilingualism is becoming an increasingly desirable skill for nurses to have to employers. Hospitals and medical facilities are actively employing bilingual nurses to better their care and improve health outcomes.

In Australia, Aboriginal-speaking nurses are extremely valued as we continue to focus on closing the gap.

Bilingual nurses play a crucial role in improving patient care and being able to communicate with patients, particularly around, consent, education, and information regarding their discharge.

We are a nursing agency that is taking progressive action and keeping up with the dramatic changes within the healthcare sector. Our nurses are the priority for us, and we will support you in whatever direction you want to take your nursing career.

We understand some profound changes are occurring, but you will never be alone when working with us! If you want more control and flexibility over your hours, apply with us today.

Nurse of the Month – June 2022

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 05:20:31 GMT

Congratulations Jacqui G. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for June 2022! Jacqui is one of our R&R nurses at First Choice Care. Read what Jacqui likes most about First Choice Care:

What do you like most about FCC?

FCC has always provided me with an opportunity to explore many awesome places with the bonus of earning a living. I find the team approachable, felt ‘heard’ if I have had any issues that may require adjustment. Accommodation provided has always been fantastic which takes the stress out of travelling to and from a workplace. The care packages are a pleasant bonus

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I have always felt that I could make a difference in others lives whether it be patients or work colleagues. Working within the Operating Theatres provides never ending challenges both personally and professionally. But I enjoy taking the back seat to assisting others to be able to live their best lives. Being a nurse has shown me to be more grateful for the opportunities I have been given and to stay humble.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

I find the team approachable and if there is a location where I would like to work, they have sought something for me and facilitated a contract. I have met some amazing people, made great friends, and have seen the most beautiful places.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Absolutely! I would recommend FCC to other nurses as I have always felt that I have been treated with respect, felt part of the ‘family’ that is FCC, and the team works with you to ensure your experiences are positive and rewarding.

First Choice Care New Website

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 04:33:53 GMT

Fresh new look – Introducing the new First Choice Care Website

We are delighted to announce the launch of our new First Choice Care Website. First Choice Care is the leading supplier to Queensland Health and other major facilities across the state, at First Choice Care we help you make the most of agency nursing for Registered Nurses, Midwives, and Assistant Nurses across many different specialties in Brisbane and wider Queensland.

First Choice Care was founded by a nurse so our focus has always been about providing the best experience for our nurses and midwives from the time they apply with First Choice Care to the time they are working with us. The experience we provide has extended to the digital sphere over the last 15 years and we thought it was time our website was due for a brand new look.

Working with us

For our amazing and hardworking nurses currently working with us, you’ll still have the ability to update your availability and book shifts on the FCCLive Portal.

As usual, we are always available to chat or answer any questions, please call the office on 1300 107 241 or email recruitment@firstchoicecare.com.au

Searching for work

The new website contains all the information you may require as a new nurse looking for agency work with a job board showcasing all the types of work and shifts we have on offer.

We also have opportunities for nurses to take on Remote & Rural Contracts. Remote & Rural nursing is an incredible experience, but it takes hard work and the right support to really make the most of it. That’s why we’ve built the team with experienced Travel Nurses to run the program and ensure you have everything you need to make the lifestyle work for you.

Contact our R&R Team on 1300 107 241.

Why work with us?

Along with a leading selection of shifts and some of the highest rates of pay, The First Choice Team offer you:

Hundreds of shifts daily across different specialties and locations

Our FCCLive Portal allows you to choose the shifts that suit your lifestyle

Free nursing uniform

24/7 Phone and Online support 365 days a year

Nursing and Midwifery Roles across metropolitan, regional, remote & rural areas

Employers

Our new Employer section will help you find nurses when and where you need them. Run by nurses who understand your needs, First Choice Care has one focus, to ensure Queensland’s health providers have ready access to quality, caring nurses. Using our state-of-the-art booking system and an intimate understanding of each provider’s needs and protocols, we create a seamless experience for healthcare facilities and the staff we provide.

Once you begin working with us booking is simple via our 24 hotline 1300 307 241 or through the online booking portal. Once a booking is made our team goes above and beyond to meet your needs with a qualified nurse, or specialist in your area.

If you have any questions, you can always reach out to us on 1300 307 241 or email recruitment@firstchoicecare.com.au

The website may be new, but we have the same hard-working team at First Choice Care doing their best to ensure you have the best experience working with us. We are always open to chat to help you find what you may need in the next part of your journey.

How to pick the right nursing specialty based on your personality | First Choice Care

Mon, 23 May 2022 04:29:07 GMT

We recently discussed the importance of specialist nurses, highlighting some of the various roles on offer at First Choice Care. Now, we want to guide you on how one might come to the decision of what to specialise in. Whether you’re a new graduate or someone who has worked in the healthcare and nursing profession for a few years, we hope that this blog can provide some guidance in where to take your career to next.

The question at the heart of this piece is, how do I choose a nursing speciality? There are several nursing specialities to choose from, some being patient-focused, while others are management-related and research-focused. Each speciality comes with its own pace and environment. With so many nursing specialties available, to find the right fit for you, consider each role and the environment, as well as your own personality traits which may align with aspects of the job.

Matching your preferred environment to work in with a nursing speciality

Consider the environment you would feel most comfortable working in. How do you like to engage with people? Are you someone who enjoys working closely with patients, or would you prefer to be away from the bedside? There are a range of nursing specialities that you can use your clinical knowledge without having to engage directly with patients.

Nursing specialities away from the bedside:

Nursing education
Case management
Infection prevention and control

Nursing specialities involving close patient care:

Emergency
Critical care (ICU)
Coronary Care Unit (CCU)

Matching your personality traits to a nursing speciality

One of the best ways to determine if a nursing role is the right fit for you, is to understand your own traits and match them! Here we have listed just a few nursing specialties and how they can interlace with a nurse’s personality traits:

Do you like expecting the unexpected? Enjoy a challenge and thrive on an adrenaline rush? It sounds like you would be comfortable in a trauma centre or the emergency department.
Are you compassionate? Have a nurturing nature? Would you be willing to support women through a pregnancy and during birth? Midwifery is most likely a great fit for you.
Maybe you enjoy influencing or teaching other nurses? Are you encouraging? Would you like being in a supportive role where you can help nurses around you? You could be a great Clinical educator.
Wanting to engage with patients of all ages? Do you want to diagnose, treat and educate? Become a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Are you a nurse who loves knowing absolutely everything about a patient? If a new symptom arises do you want to investigate and determine the diagnosis, identifying which meds may be causing the BP fall or rise? Critical Care would be the perfect place for you.

Choosing a Nursing Speciality: A common misconception

There is the common misconception that once you pick a nursing speciality, you must stick to it. This is false! While some nurses stay in their role for many years, others like to keep learning and change into different roles. Just because you’ve put in the work to get into your speciality, don’t feel like you have to stay in that area of nursing for the rest of your life. That is the wonderful thing about nursing, there are so many career opportunities, and you can change at any stage.

If you find that you are losing your spark, sometimes a change of scenery is all you need. At First Choice Care, we offer Remote and Rural nursing which allows you to take yourself to new and exciting places. Work in areas and hospitals you’ve never been in and meet amazing people. You’ll also receive exclusive benefits, housing allowances and enjoy the freedom of not having to be involved with the politics of a department. A great option to explore before deciding if you need to make the switch in your speciality!

So, come and find your dream nursing role with us here at First Choice Care. If you’re looking to change into any of the nursing specialities listed in this blog, be sure to check out our job board , paying close attention to the requirements of the role. There you’ll find some of the key actions needed to make a shift in your nursing career. You can also check out some of the courses on offer with our education partners here should you require to hit the books.

Nurse of the Month - May 2022 | First Choice Care

Tue, 17 May 2022 04:40:24 GMT

Congratulations Tori P. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for May 2022! Tori is one of the best and is a great advocate for First Choice Care. Read why Tori wanted to be a Nurse:

What do you like most about FCC?

Their great, supportive, friendly and personable team who work hard for their nurses. They offer work opportunities from a diverse range of clinical specialties.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I became a nurse so that I could make an impact on the lives of others and have a career that would be selfless and meaningful. Being able to connect with patients and their families on such an intimate level, often under difficult circumstances – being present as people face health challenges or injuries, witnessing the moment of birth or the end of life. Nurses are in a privileged position to play an important role in their patients lives. I appreciate the fact that nurses are still the most trusted profession to the public; a responsibility that should never be taken for granted.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

My highlight of working for FCC was being given the opportunity to move into the role of Clinical Facilitator which I have been doing now for approximately 5 years. It is a privileged to be able to mentor, educate, and facilitate the learning of our future health care professionals.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

The reason I would (and have) recommend FCC to others is because of the friendly staff, they’re accommodating and will advocate for you. As an agency nurse, often working in a variety of different clinical environments, with staff you don’t know, it’s hard to feel like you belong to “the team.” But, at FCC you will feel like you belong. I believe the pay rates are competitive which are paid weekly.

The Critical Role of a Specialist Nurse: What Roles Can FCC Offer You? | First Choice Care

Wed, 04 May 2022 04:45:42 GMT

First Choice Care (FCC) is a nursing agency that recognises the significant impact specialist nurses make on the healthcare sector. While it is important to us that you enjoy your work, we invite you to challenge yourself too. So, let’s explore what specialist nursing roles FCC can offer you and your nursing career and why it’s worth taking that exciting next step.

What is a Specialist Nurse?

In Australia, the term nurse specialist, which is commonly referred to as a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), is defined by Health Times as “a registered nurse who is recognised as a senior member of staff across all areas of practice but particularly in acute care”. These desirable nurses have likely undertaken additional tertiary education in an area of interest such as oncology, emergency or cardiac services and are actively working in that area.

The other type of specialist nurse in Australia is a Nurse Practitioner (NP). The Australian College of Nurse Practitioners describes the NP role as focusing on improving access to treatment, providing efficient, cost-effective care, and being dedicated to improving the health outcomes of all Australians. NPs have undertaken a masters degree, likely completed extensive research studies and potentially written papers such as a thesis.

The key difference between the two is the advanced scope of practice for NPs. Due to the volume of study and research undertaken, NPs are legally permitted to request and review most diagnostic tests, initiate referrals, prescribe necessary medications and collaborate with other members of the health care team to provide holistic care.

For CNS and NPs alike who are craving a high pressure, stimulating environment, FCC offers a wide range of shifts within critical care areas such as the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Emergency Department (ED) and Midwifery roles in the Ante/Post-Natal & Special Care Nursery. We also offer exciting remote & rural jobs for nurses with specialist qualifications, allowing you to work whilst also exploring beautiful parts of Australia’s North East.

Why Specialist Nurses Are Vital

Specialist nurses, both CNS and NP alike, are essential for the future of healthcare. They are not only needed to set a continuous high standard of care for all staff but their knowledge and expertise are critical to guide patient care both in and out of the clinical environment.

They communicate effectively with staff, patients and their families and they support others patiently whilst displaying kindness and empathy, despite the situation. Specialist nurses are the backbone of the evolving healthcare system and we constantly need more. At FCC we are proud to offer fast paced shifts across both the private and public sectors, giving you the opportunity to utilise your skills and knowledge to truly make a difference.

“Why” & “How To” Become a Specialist Nurse?

It has been continually recognised that nurse specialists will remain in high demand. This is due to an ageing population, the rising cost of technology and treatment, as well as unprecedented times from COVID-19. The skillset of nurse specialists are of great value in the healthcare sector and are very much needed in these busy times.

You can become a specialist nurse by completing relevant postgraduate studies, ranging from a certificate, diploma or even a master’s degree. There are also courses you can undertake which are run by our educational partners , which can significantly boost your confidence and know-how in a particular area. Upskilling can increase your opportunities to secure work with FCC in high-pressure environments where specialised skills are necessary.

So, what can becoming a nurse specialist mean for you?

Advance your existing nursing career
Significantly improve your nursing knowledge and expertise, becoming competent in areas out of reach for an RN such as diagnosing, prescribing and referring
New challenges of learning provide a stimulating environment to work and develop
Make a true difference to underserved communities if you consider working remotely
Financial incentives
Build professional relationships within the industry
Greater opportunity to secure shift in different critical care areas

Now we’ve got you excited about becoming a specialist nurse and if / when you have undertaken your study, take a look at the positions we have available here. Or get in touch with us to discuss your unique skill set, as we would love to hear from you and find a role that’s suitable.

Nurse of the Month – April 2022

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 05:00:21 GMT

Congratulations Choon W. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for April 2022! Read what has been Choon’s highlight of working with First Choice Care:

What do you like most about FCC?

I get to work when I want to work, and I am always given shifts when I need from the FCC team. I love the flexibility that comes with being an agency nurse.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

Because I love to help people and as a nurse I get to do that every day.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Yes, I most definitely would. Work when you want, then go on holidays when you want. You are technically your own boss with a nice work-life balance!

Nurse job outlook and career options

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 06:36:11 GMT

So you’re considering a career in nursing but you’ve got some questions that remain unanswered. What options are available outside of caring for patients? Can you specialise in a certain field of nursing? How much money can I earn if I’m really good at my job? This post explores what a nurse’s career looks like and the multitude of job opportunities available if and when you feel like a change.

Australian Nursing Workforce - What does it look like?

Before you launch into buying a new laptop and nursing shoes (which can be claimed at tax time as a work expense), it’s interesting to take a look at a few statistics regarding the nursing workforce.

According to the Australian Institue of Health and Welfare, in 2015 there were over 360,000 nurses and midwives registered in Australia and of this total, over 305,000 were employed in nursing or midwifery. Among these, most worked an average of 33.5 hours per week. (1)

It may come as no surprise that most of these nurses were female, though 2 out of 5 were aged 50 or over with the average age being 44 years old.

Though most do join the nursing workforce in their 20’s after finishing high school, there is no “right time” to become a nurse. There are certainly options available later in life after pursuing other avenues. The nursing workforce needs a vast range of nurses with varying levels of life experience to provide the best, unique patient care, so don’t ever think you have missed the boat!

How much can I earn as a Nurse?

If we talk firstly about nurses working in the public sector, it’s similar to teachers in that your wage is based on years of service and experience - up to a maximum amount.

For the first 10 years, a nurses rate of pay will continue to increase until it reaches a plateau. A nurse with 10 years experience or more can earn extra money however through study, working alternative shifts such as pm or night shifts or if there are government legislative changes. They could also work multiple jobs for extra cash, such as picking up agency shifts (VNS are a great choice!).

On the other hand, if you work in the private system, the rules are a little different. Private health institutions are independently owned and operated but regulated and licensed by the government. (2)

For a nurse, albeit the difference in pay is possible, it is typically minimal. Actually, you might get more excited about the varying levels in communication chains and the nurse to patient ratio.

So in regards to wages, can you happily work as a nurse without completing any extra study and still receive a respectable income? You bet.

Nursing is completely flexible

Unlike traditional jobs, nursing is very flexible and can be easily altered to suit your lifestyle and other commitments.

You can work full time, part-time, casually with a nurse bank and / or agency or organise yourself a fixed-term contract.

One of the other perks of nursing is shift work. Though some would disagree as it is “unnatural”, shift work allows you to visit the supermarket and complete your jobs away from the hustle and bustle of peak hour. It also gives parents the opportunity to balance their schedule, school and a partner/spouse who may work traditional hours. Though shift work may seem intimidating, there is a silver lining if you look for it.

Nursing Career Opportunities

It wasn’t until I started working as a registered nurse in my graduate year that I began to appreciate the wide and vastly different career options available.

With a nursing degree, there is never a dull moment. Explore the list below to see where a degree in nursing can take you.

Royal Flying Doctor service - Nurse

Certified Dialysis Nurse

Intensive Care

Emergency

GP Clinic / Family Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Case Manager

Nursing on a cruise ship

Rural and remote community nursing

Legal Nurse Consultant

Nurse Midwife

Nurse Anesthetist

Nurse Unit Manager

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Advocate

Pain Management Nurse

Psychiatric Nurse

Endocrinology Pediatric Nurse

Diabetes lesion nurse

Stomal therapy nurse

I could go on and on.

Though everyone must hold a Bachelor’s of Nursing in Australia, there is the ability to specialise in an area of interest. Extra qualifications typically take you upwards of 6 months to achieve, but can be very rewarding at the end.

The beauty about nursing is that you can often study and work simultaneously. You can alter your shifts and roster to suit your family, study and other commitments unlike those who work a 9-5 job.

I should flag though, we often joke in nursing that the more study you complete, the further away you get from the patient.

Just think about it.

You study a Masters in Nursing Practice and suddenly you’re a Nurse Unit Manager, who doesn’t have a direct patient load.

This is why nurses need to really consider what they want out of extra study and where they want their nursing to go. Don’t rush such a decision. Be sure you know what makes you happy with the profession.

In summary, nursing is an exciting career with endless room for growth and new opportunities. We will always be in demand. Regardless of sex and age, there is a place in the nursing profession for you.

Cheers,

Emma

www.theothershift.com

What Benefits and Opportunities Can a Nursing Agency Provide Me?

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 05:14:26 GMT

How great would it be working for a company that encourages its staff to work when they want to. A company that promotes and organises stimulating and unique job prospects and who genuinely care about the personal experience of their staff. First Choice Care (FCC) is one such company. Let’s find out if an agency nursing job in Brisbane and beyond is the next step in your nursing career by better understanding what’s in it for you.

1. Easy to update your availability through the FCC Live Portal

One of the perceived stressors for agency nurses is how quickly can they update their availability at any hour of the day. FCC makes this process simple through their Live Portal which can be accessed from their website. This feature eliminates unnecessary interactions, prevents your time from being wasted and allows for 24/7 access. It also includes information on wages, uniforms, key contacts and everything else you need to feel adequately prepared for your upcoming shift.

2. Travel – go rural with additional benefits attached

Is it time to mix up your nursing career and challenge yourself by spending some time in the rural and remote parts of Queensland? Thanks to our partnership with Queensland Health and New South Wales Health, we connect you to hundreds of communities in need.

FCC is passionate to offer tailored experiences while providing the right people to support local communities. We offer these incredible travel opportunities for Registered Nurses, as well as Enrolled Nurses, Midwives and Assistants in Nursing (AIN).

To read more about the exciting rural opportunities, visit the FCC website here.

3. Meet new people and grow your network

There is a common saying within our industry that “nursing is nursing”, regardless of where you work. The part of the job which is forever changing though is the people we meet and experiences we share with other like-minded individuals. The structure of agency nursing welcomes relationship building and allows you to grow your professional network across healthcare disciplines. These new connections can lead to opportunities you didn’t even know existed.

4. Be part of a bigger community

At FCC we are one big family. We want our staff to feel part of a community and not simply somewhere they work to make ends meet. We regularly run giveaways and offer prizes via our social media and also provide helpful tips and news through our newsletter, giving a unique experience different from other nursing agencies.

5. Be kept up to date with important information that impacts you

Trying to stay up-to-date with blogs, podcasts and other industry-specific news can feel like a full-time job. We want to take away this hassle by doing the research for you. Through our social media, downloadable information booklets and regular newsletters, we keep you abreast with what’s important, saving you time and energy.

6. Upskill Easily

Thanks to technology and research, the healthcare industry is changing at a rapid rate. To ensure your practice is relevant and evidence-based or if you’d like to further your clinical skills, FCC together with education providers offers accredited and non-accredited training and assessment for nurses and midwives.

These sessions include face-to-face and online learning, along with educational opportunities in stunning holiday destinations! If you’re looking to refresh your skills, meet or boost your required CPD points then head to our website here.

Want to get started with our nursing agency? FCC is here to support you. Get in contact with us today or if you want to read more about agency nursing, download our guide here.

Nurse of the Month – March 2022

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 05:46:26 GMT

Congratulations Kyra S. you have been nominated as our nurse of the month for March 2022! Check out what Kyra loves most about First Choice Care:

What do you like most about FCC?

I enjoy working within such a great team. The staff at the call centre make me feel like part of the team rather then just a number to call.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I wanted to be a nurse as I always enjoyed working with different people. I also love supporting patients while they are going through some overwhelming experiences, and do my best to give them reassurance and good care while they are in hospital.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Last year I did a contract at Doomben Vaccination Centre which I really enjoyed as it felt like I was contributing to Australia’s response to the COVID pandemic. I like the opportunities we get through FCC and to work in different areas.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

Yes, I always recommend FCC to other nurses when they enquire about agency work. I ensure them that FCC have great, supportive team, that I get good amount of work, and that the flexibility and work life balance is fantastic.

Rural & Remote Nursing: How it’s evolved & why it’s the perfect next step for you

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 05:50:22 GMT

If you are a registered nurse (RN) searching for the opportunity to have a break from your standard hospital environment, now is the perfect time to embrace the idea of travel nursing. Dedicated agency nursing services, like First Choice Care (FCC), provide extraordinary RN’s the chance to make a genuine impact on communities that are in need of help. FCC concurrently work alongside their nurses to establish a lifestyle they will love, in amazing locations across parts of Queensland (QLD). Curious about what travel nursing looks like as an agency nurse? This blog uncovers what you can expect, the benefits, whilst also exploring the history of this special side of our healthcare industry.

Where Travel Nursing Began

Though the travel nursing industry is booming in Australia and around the world right now, this was not always the case. According to Travelnursing.org , the idea of travel nurses only started in the late 1970’s in New Orleans, around the time of the popular Mardi Gras Festival. Due to the volume of people likely needing medical attention during the festivities, more staff were required on a short-term basis to help – so the idea of a new nursing workforce was born.

Travel nursing popularity grew into the 1980s as a temporary staffing solution to a national nursing shortage. This resulted in the opening of many agencies, employing skilled nurses on short term contacts.

Another historical nursing milestone was initiated by the Health System Research Institute (HSRI) in the 1970s where the study found that doctors would be willing to practice in remote and rural areas as long as they were guaranteed adequate scheduled time off. As a result of this study, a group of willing and able physicians were found who wanted to work on short term assignments in rural locations as needed. This is where others believe the idea of traveling healthcare really took off.

What is the Future of Travel Nursing

As we continue to ride this COVID wave, the concept of travel nursing and the possibilities that exist are only getting stronger and more established. According to the ABC, in 2020 “Australia’s regional areas have had their largest net inflow of people since the Australian Bureau of Statistics started measuring internal migration in 2001”.

With more and more Australians moving into regional areas, away from capital cities, it’s changing the landscape for healthcare. Advanced nursing and medical skills are required to cope with the influx of people embracing life away from big cities, which creates more job opportunities in these locations, which nurses can take advantage of.

The Appeal of Travel Nursing for Agency Nurses

Competitive pay – rates are based on specialty and experience
Free or subsidised housing is commonly available through nursing agency
Most travel nurses work on short-term assignments (4-12 weeks are common contracts)
Flexible working hours available, including full- time
You only need to provide your details/documentation papers to the nursing agency once and not the individual facilities/organisations
Satisfying, challenging and rewarding work
Discover incredible parts of Australia you’ve never been to
Meet new people and establish amazing friendships
You have the support of a passionate nursing agency behind you, ready to answer any questions you may have

The prospects for agency nurses are enormous, as new opportunities continue to arise right throughout the north/eastern states of Australia. Competitive pay rates and the chance to embrace different experiences is just the beginning. If you’re interested in exploring new and exciting locations, head to our website for more information or apply today and – start packing your bags!

To learn about exclusive contracts and hear from our nurses across remote and rural areas of Queensland, be sure to ‘follow’ and ‘Like’ our FCC Remote & Rural Facebook Page.

Nurse of the Month – January 2022

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 06:21:57 GMT

With a new year comes new opportunities! At First Choice Care, we will be announcing a nurse of the month every month. This nurse will be kind, caring and compassionate and be reliable and dedicated to our nursing agency.

Congratulations Lili S. you have been nominated as our very first nurse of the month! Have a read of Lili’s Q&A and see what she loves most about First choice care.

What do you like most about FCC?

I like the reliability and flexibility of picking shifts when and where I want too. FCC have also offered me the opportunity to experience and work in different health care facilities which provides job satisfaction for me.

Why did you want to be a nurse?

I chose my career, as a Nurse, because I wanted to make a difference in someone’s life. To offer hope and kindness to my patients during their time of need is always rewarding and fulfilling.

What has been the highlight of working with FCC?

Good hourly rates and the opportunity to work in a range of different hospital settings from private to public sectors. These experiences have helped improve my skills and knowledge. For me, FCC epitomises Nurses who empower other Nurses.

Would you recommend FCC to other nurses and why?

I would definitely recommend FCC to other nurses as it is run by nurses who understand our needs as healthcare professionals. All FCC staff are amazing, friendly and professional with all communication.

5 tips for Nurses & Midwives to improve communication in PPE

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 06:27:48 GMT

More than ever, patients are relying on healthcare workers to support them in these challenging times. It is important to realise that there is fear of the unknown within the community, which is made increasingly worse by PPE, as it can be confronting to some. By adapting the way you communicate, you can make a world of difference to the patient experience. Ambiguity and confusion can be minimised and the patient is more likely to take better care of themselves upon discharge as they understand the plan for their care. Here are five ways you can improve your communication when donned in PPE.

1. Introductions

Introduce yourself clearly, ensure your name is visible and even point to it when you are verbalising. Though your name badge can be helpful, in some settings, consider its effectiveness if covered in a gown. You may need to physically write your name on your gown or face shield for easy recognition. If your patient has a whiteboard in their room/cubicle, document your name, those of your colleagues and also the plan for their care once known.

During this introductory phase, try to embed a human element into the interaction. Talking about life outside the hospital/facility such as children, pets and funny stories can break down barriers early, allowing therapeutic relationships to form.

2. Be conscious of your speaking habits

Though it’s likely you are managing competing priorities, try not to appear rushed. Being fully present and focused during each encounter helps make the patient feel valued. Deliberately slow the pace at which you are speaking and keep the message short. Focus on your breathing (in and out through your nose) and allow time for pauses in order for them to process what has been said.

After relaying an important message, validate that they understand what has been said. Consider phrases such as, “X I know that was a lot of information. In your own words can you tell me what you think is going to happen next” If there is a misunderstanding, try and word yourself in a different way.

3. How you speak matters

Consider your tone of voice. Are you being gentle, kind and honest? Some patients, particularly the elderly population, may have pre-existing health conditions that make it challenging to hear and understand verbal cues. Consider using signs, interpreters and the support of family through digital means to help clarify. Try and avoid slang or over exaggerating as this may be misinterpreted.

Though you may feel frustrated at times, having your designated breaks, preferably in a well-ventilated space can ensure you are addressing your own mental health and minimise reactive behaviours.

4. Your body language

Stand facing your patient and make eye contact. Use your hands to speak and consider creating hand gestures together to help both the staff and patient understand simple requests. These could include;

A clenched fist to signify pain
A circle formed with their thumb and index finger to signify they are okay
Blinking excessively to demonstrate they need to use the bathroom

5. Can’t show your feelings? Say them

As a registered nurse or midwife, it can be hard to show empathy under PPE. Telling your patient, you understand and acknowledging their concerns or worries can have a significant impact. Another common stressor for patients is the prolonged use of wearing their own masks. Acknowledge the discomfort and encourage them to remove it when safe to do so (negative pressure environment). Remind them to change their mask every four hours (unless wet) and supply them with a new one, plus any skincare products like moisturisers, to limit the risk of pain and acquiring pressure injuries. This simple act of kindness can build relationships and minimise adverse events.

Good communication can’t take away the pain parents and families feel, but it can reduce trauma, both in the short and long term. If you require any extra support, help is available. Contact the team at First Choice Care on 1300 307 241 . We are available 24 hours a day and are ready for your call.

We recommend that you follow all government advice to stay up to date the most current information.

How to progress your nursing career as an agency nurse or midwife in 2022

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 06:32:48 GMT

Graduating nursing school and becoming a registered nurse (RN) is an exciting milestone in your nursing career – but it isn’t the end of your nursing education. Even if you decide not to pursue a higher level than registered nursing, you will continue gathering new information and learning about new treatments and practices as they happen in the nursing industry.

As the demand for skilled nurses continues to grow in Australia, so do your working options. Transitioning into agency nursing jobs and midwifery jobs offers you more freedom, flexibility, and better pay opportunities. Nursing agencies can provide you with great working conditions and a better variety of shifts. You will also have more opportunities for continued growth at a nursing agency. Below is a guide to help you progress your nursing career in 2022.

Invest in your education

Every time you achieve a higher level of skill , you gain more opportunities and access to more nurse jobs. This makes it more likely that you will find the nursing career that fits you best. Like many nurses, you can work with your existing degree while taking classes to earn a higher-level degree. For example, you might work in an RN job, assistant in nursing (AIN) job, or enrolled nurse (EN) job while taking classes.

Some essential classes to add to your schedule include:

Advanced Life Support This course is a highly sought after course competency that provides the practical skills to perform in a resuscitation situation.
Refresher Nursing Program Refreshes nurses with experience working as RNs or endorsed enrolled nurses (EENs) who are looking to re-enter the acute care setting.
Introduction to Venipuncture and Cannulation Learn the legal implications of venipuncture and cannulation, vein selection and any potential complications so you can stop waiting on a fellow nurse or doctor to step in.

Working while progressing your education will be challenging but rewarding. Having the right support will help you accomplish your professional goals.

Build your network

Networking is important to almost any career today — and nursing is no exception. Networking is how people reach across disciplines and connect on common ground. Your network can provide support and information that will help you become more successful. Your network can also help you deal with any stress you may encounter.

Take every opportunity to meet new people who may offer you new solutions and ideas. Another option is to build a network through workshops, conferences, continuing professional development (CPD) holidays, blogging, group meetings, team training, and webinars. Some helpful examples to try to include are our Respiratory Failure Nursing Seminar and our Plastering, Casting, and Slabbing Workshop . It could be the first step towards filling some of the available clinical facilitator jobs or aged care jobs in Brisbane.

The more like-minded people you include in your network, the more resources you will have.

Look after yourself

Nursing is a physically and mentally demanding career that can sometimes lead to burnout. There are some things that you can do to look after yourself, even if there isn’t time to include them all. Remember, you can’t take care of anyone else until you take care of yourself. Some ways to cope with burnout include:

Don’t over-commit. Learn to delegate responsibilities to other staff members when it’s an option.
Schedule your off-time. Plan quality time with kids and family.
Take care of your health. Live a healthy lifestyle by eating a good diet, getting enough sleep and exercising.
Self-educate by following healthcare blogs and nurses on socials.
Focus on the end game. Once you finish your education, you will be ready to begin a new phase in your nursing career that is even more rewarding than the last.

Are you ready for a new career in agency nursing or midwife?

If you are currently working with us and are looking to progress into a new role, contact us today and set yourself up for success in 2022.

If you’re wanting to join our Brisbane nursing agency at First Choice Care, we have a few ways you can get started. You can apply to work with us or go straight to our jobs board and apply for one of our positions.

How to become an agency nurse or midwife

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 06:37:20 GMT

Are you looking for casual agency positions and the opportunity to expand your skills? If you are a nurse, midwife or assistant nurse, you have come to the right place, as we provide a broad range of work and learning opportunities.

What Nursing Jobs Are Available?

First Choice Care can provide you with opportunities across Australia with Registered nurse (RN) jobs, Enrolled nurse (EN) jobs, Assistant in Nursing (AIN) jobs, and many more. If you’re looking for midwifery jobs in Brisbane, or aged care jobs in Brisbane and beyond, we can help you with that as well.

Registered Nurse or Midwife . You will need to be an Australian citizen and have completed a Nursing or Midwifery degree at university.

Registered Nurse or Midwife (overseas). You will need a valid visa and have completed a nursing degree at an overseas university with an equivalent skill.

Enrolled nurse. You will have an 18-month or 2-year VET qualification or obtained a Diploma in Enrolled Nursing.

Assistant Nurse. You will need a qualification in health assistance. The minimum qualification level is Certificate III and will include work placement of around 120 hours.

New Graduate Nurse. You will have completed a nurse residency or new graduate program, which usually takes one year.

What Roles Do We Fill? Acute

Critical Care (ED, ICU, CCU)
Theatre (Peri, Post Op, Scrub/Scout)
Aged Care
Community Care
Mental Health
And more

What Are The Requirements?

We would love to see that you are passionate about helping people and are patient-focused, having a ‘can-do’ attitude. Besides this, you will need the following:

Current unrestricted APHRA certification
Current and clear Australian National Police Check Certificate
A minimum of 1,000 hours of paid Australian experience within the last 12 months in relevant clinical environment
Complete vaccination records
An ability to work both autonomously and in a multidisciplinary team
Capability to adapt to new environments
Highly developed verbal and written communication skills

Positions with additional requirements:

Enrolled nurse (EN) – must have 12 months or 1,000 paid hours experience in hospitals or aged care
Assistant in nursing (AIN) (Cert III) – must have six months paid experience for aged care or 1000 hours paid experience for hospitals
Nursing Student (AIN)– a minimum of three clinical placements with at least one in aged care.

How Do You Get Started?

If you want to apply for work with First Choice Care, the leading nursing agency, please apply here . Alternatively, you can apply directly on our job board here .

First Choice Care is well known as one of Brisbane’s most reliable and trusted companies nursing agencies, and we are the preferred supplier to leading healthcare facilities. We invite you to reach out to us if you want to become an agency nurse or midwife.

You can contact our friendly team here or look at our frequently asked questions for more information.

Looking after your own mental health as an agency nurse

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 06:44:33 GMT

By their very nature, agency nurses tend to everyone else’s emotional and physical needs. Caregiving is a primary role for any nurse. From the moment they enter nursing school until the day they retire, agency nurses are taught to prioritise the health and well-being of others. Oftentimes, that causes their own mental and physical health to suffer.

Over the last 18 months, the global pandemic has shone a light on the need for nurses and other healthcare professionals to take steps to protect their psychological health. Small lockdowns and border closings personally affect hardworking nurses and midwives. Taking time out for themselves is not selfish. It is a necessity to preserve their health so they can continue to care for others.

Focusing on everyone else can leave nurses and midwives at a loss for how to take care of their own well-being. Here are some helpful tips for keeping a healthy state of mind.

Stay connected with friends

Personal connections are an integral part of maintaining psychological resilience. Physical distancing and other covid mitigation efforts can make it more challenging – but not impossible – to enjoy time with your pals. Making use of technology is a great way to bridge that gap for now.

Consider having a weekly check-in with a friend or group of friends over Zoom, Google Meet, or any other platform designed to help people keep in touch virtually. It may not have the same feel as getting together in person, but meeting for weekly tea or sharing meals from your respective homes while chatting online can help travelling nurses and midwives focus on themselves.

Indulge in some “me” time

Everything to everyone is the mantra of most healthcare professionals. Nurses and midwives can be conditioned to believe that giving precedent to their needs is selfish. The exact opposite is true. Practicing self-care makes them better caregivers. This means engaging in regular “me” time, where the focus is on engaging in activities that make them happy. Carve out some dedicated time each week to enjoy hobbies, get a massage, or take a walk to enjoy some quiet time in nature. Not sure what activity to choose? There are no right or wrong options. Pick something that brings joy and promotes relaxation, and commit to it for a set number of hours each week. Here are some tips on 20 amazing me-time activities.

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness-based stress techniques can be a lifesaver for agency nurses and midwives. Mindfulness exercises do not take much time and can be done just about anywhere (including during work-day break times). Not sure where to start? Pick a quiet spot, sit comfortably, and then begin by taking four to five long, slow, and deep breaths. Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth, focusing attention on how the body and mind feel to become calmer and more settled. The caveat: they must be practiced regularly to enjoy the full benefits.

Here are some great mindful apps:

Seek help when needed

There is no shame in recognising and seeking out the help of a mental healthcare professional when struggling. Agency nurses and midwives have challenging jobs under normal circumstances. Toss in a global pandemic and the stress factor elevates exponentially. When nurses and midwives are unsure how to take time for themselves, or have committed to it and still grapple with mental health issues, it is time to seek out counsel with a professional who can help.

Help Mental Health Resources & Services:

Life-changing conversations

First Choice Care helps its agency nurses and midwives maintain their mental health, even during the most trying times. We believe in having life-changing conversations focused on ensuring our team has the support needed to navigate through challenging situations. We encourage others to ask nurses and midwives if they are OK. Listen to them. Encourage them to prioritise their mental health and check in with them often.

Interested in joining a team that recognises and endorses your mental and physical well-being? Apply to work with First Choice Care Nursing Agency today.

Five phone interview tips to get a job at a nursing agency

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 06:48:29 GMT

In-person interviews are becoming less common for nursing agencies, with more employers leaning toward phone and video sessions instead. Nursing agencies may conduct phone interviews for several reasons. They are cost-effective and allow for an extended reach to find the best candidates. Preparing for an interview in any format can be stressful. Here are five phone interview tips for assistants in nursing, enrolled nurses, registered nurses, and midwives interviewing with nursing agencies.

Use a high-quality phone

Mobile phones are notoriously unreliable. They drop calls, lose service, and sometimes cut in and out depending on your data signal. Voice quality also is less than desirable when using mobile devices, especially if on Wi-Fi. You want your call to be clear so the interviewer does not mishear any of your responses.

Avoid placing the call on speakerphone. It can affect how well you hear. Plus, you risk the interviewer hearing any background noise in your environment.

Practise answers to common questions

A good rule of thumb is to spend some time practising answers to some of the most common questions asked of prospective agency nurses. Here are some examples you may come across during the interview process, whether held in person or on the phone.

Why did you choose a career in nursing? This is a catch-all question most healthcare employers ask nursing candidates. Honesty is the best policy when it comes to answering. Most nurses go into their field because they have a desire to help others. If you are passionate about administering care, speak up and make it known. Interviewers lean toward those who have a true calling for their work.
How do you handle a patient who is not satisfied with their care? In the age of ratings and reviews, agencies can lose out on new clients if they receive enough low patient satisfaction scores. Part of delivering quality care is the ability to deal with dissatisfied patients. Asking nurses this question is a good test of their problem-solving skills, which are important for many aspects of the job.
Do you practise self-care? This is an important question as well. Agency nurses who are burned out compromise the quality of care they give others. This also is a gauge of how well nurses can handle their emotions in a trying situation.

Get your game face on

It can be tempting to do a phone interview in your PJs, but we recommend against it. Take time to shower and dress, and never lay in bed while on the phone. There is no need to dress to the nines, but how you behave can set the tone for your entire interview.

Avoid food or drinks

It can be tempting to eat or drink while you are interviewing on the phone since the person on the other end of the line cannot see you. While they are not looking at you, they still can hear you. Eating and drinking sounds are louder than most people realise. You may think you are being discreet, but chances are, the interviewer will pick up on it. The only exception to this is if you have a dry throat or begin coughing while speaking. It is unfortunate, but it can happen. If it does, politely excuse yourself for a moment and take a drink of water before resuming the interview.

Never express negativity

Even if your last job was the worst experience, keep any ill thoughts you have about your last employer and fellow employees to yourself. Even if you are asked a direct question like, “what do you dislike about nursing?” find a way to frame your answer that does not sound negative.

Joining our team

First Choice Care welcomes qualified nurses to our agency. We have casual nursing and midwifery roles available. Apply now to join our team.

Sleep Hygiene as an Agency Nurse

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 06:52:22 GMT

Getting restful sleep can feel elusive, especially for nurses who work long shifts on rotating schedules. Just over two-thirds of nurses — Assistants in Nursing, Enrolled Nurses, Registered Nurses, and Midwives — struggle to stay awake during shifts due to poor sleep quality.

Getting quality sleep is not a luxury for nurses — it is a necessity. Ensuring you get the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep is an important part of practising good sleep hygiene.

Strategies for improving sleep hygiene

Agency nurses work hard and are tired at the end of a long shift. All they want to do is fluff their favourite pillow and fall into a deep sleep. Shifting from a day to night roster (and back again) can make it challenging, but not impossible. Here are some strategies for making quality sleep a reality.

Tips for night roster nurses

When you work an overnight shift, it is difficult to convince your body and your brain they must stay alert and ready for action. There are tricks you can use to adjust.

Sleep consistency is key to making the adjustment. You must train your body to work against its normal instincts for sleep and wake cycles by sticking to a routine. For instance, if you sleep from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on your days on, you must maintain the same sleep schedule on your days off. Once your body gets into the habit of following this routine, you will get a more restful sleep.
Eliminate distractions like sunny bedrooms by using blackout curtains and an eye mask. If you need to block out household noise, consider earplugs and a white noise machine set to a sound you find soothing. Turn off your phone while sleeping unless you are on call. You can set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” and make an exception for your employer’s phone number only to ring through.
Take a hot shower or bath before you go to sleep to help your body relax, or perform some meditation to help you wind down from your shift and relax enough for sleep.

Tips for day roster nurses

Day roster nurses have it a bit easier but still must follow a few rules to get restful sleep before a busy shift. Here are some tips.

Drink caffeine in moderation and never past 3 p.m. Moderate amounts every 2-3 hours is better than a super dose in one sitting.
Take a nap during your break for 10-20 minutes to refresh. Using the “ coffee nap ” method helps boost nap benefits.
Do a quick workout during a break to help keep your blood pumping. Knee lifts and jumping jacks work great.

Tips for rotating shift nurses

Rotating shift nurses perhaps have it the most difficult when trying to get enough rest. One of the best strategies you can use to help your body adapt is adjusting your sleep times. If you know you will switch from day shift to night shift, gradually delay your bedtime an hour each night to prevent a shock to your system. If you work a rotating schedule and find yourself worn out or unable to adjust, speak to your supervisor. They may be able to adjust your shifts or find a rotation that is better suited to you.

A final word on sleep hygiene

First Choice Care Nursing Agency cares about the quality of sleep nurses get before their shifts. We recognise that rotating shift nurses may need accommodations. That’s why we offer flexible schedules that promote your health and wellness. Contact us today to explore career options.

End of the Financial year is almost here – tips on what nurses can claim at tax time

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 06:53:09 GMT

Tips on What Nurses Can Claim at Tax Time

Nurses work hard. They deserve the luxury of not having to worry at tax time. That means not spending all their free time figuring out what is a legitimate expense and what costs they must pay for out of pocket. Assistants In Nursing, Enrolled Nurses, Registered Nurses, and Midwives must decide if they wish to hire a tax pro or muddle through on their own. This piece is a comprehensive list of what nurses can claim at tax time to help reduce the amount of time you spend gathering supporting documentation.

Work uniforms and safety equipment

Nurses spend, on average, $40 or more for one set of scrubs . That cost is for a basic top and bottom without much fanfare. Some nurses will spend up to $80 or more on scrubs to enhance their comfort if they will be working long shifts in them. Ideally, most nurses like to have five or six sets of scrubs on hand so they can get through a week’s worth of rotations without needing to do the wash. It is quite easy to rack up $1,000 or more in uniform expenses each year.

This does not include any additional nursing equipment like stethoscopes, face masks, non-slip shoes, and safety glasses. Those things can add up quickly as well.

The good news is, work uniform and other related expenses are tax-deductible when compulsory. That is the key here. A place of employment must require uniforms and safety equipment at your expense for these items to be tax-deductible.

Professional memberships, dues, and fees

Nursing professionals that require professional certification can claim the cost of maintaining their credentials on their annual tax returns. Professional memberships and union dues are also legitimate tax claims.

Any requirements for keeping your nursing licence or maintaining your current employment are tax-deductible. This includes continuing education credits. What does not count as a valid expense claim for reimbursement on your taxes? Educational expenses in preparation for a new occupation or advanced nursing degrees are not eligible unless they are compulsory by a current employer.

Personal car use

This is an important deduction, especially for an agency or travelling nurses who drive much farther for work than their traditional counterparts. All those road miles, fuel, and wear and tear on your personal vehicle are tax-deductible. There are apps that can help you keep track of car-related expenses so that you do not have to think about them at tax time. One of our favourite apps is GOFAR . It is ATO compliant and prepares a downloadable spreadsheet for use with your taxes. Tax accountants love it because it makes their job easier.

Subscriptions and educational materials

Nursing magazines, educational books, and medical journals used to keep nurses abreast of current best practices and medical techniques are deductible. Save all receipts for publications and other educational materials to support any claims for deductions you make on these items.

Home office expenses

Do you sometimes work from home to complete the tasks required of your nursing job? If so, you can claim a percentage of costs associated with your at-home hours. This includes internet and phone lines, dedicated space used for conducting official nursing business, and any equipment needed to do your job. Laptops and desktop computers, scanners, fax machines, and even your mobile phone are eligible for a partial claim on your tax return. Most accounting software walks tax preparers through this. Accountants also know the percentages to use to ensure you get the maximum tax benefits.

Reduce your tax time stress

First Choice Care Nursing Agency does not claim to be tax experts. The information shared here are only suggestions and should not be interpreted as tax advice. Always check with a professional tax accountant if you have questions. Do reach out to us if you are looking for opportunities to advance your nursing career on your terms. We can help you take your aspirations to the next level.

The importance of self-care as a Nurse and why it’s important for your future

Tue, 11 May 2021 06:37:55 GMT

Nurses are a voice to lead Australia’s healthcare industry into the 21st century and beyond. As frontline workers, nurses are contributors to the mission and vision of delivering quality healthcare to all Australians.

Society depends on the expertise and guiding hand of nurses in everyday healthcare decisions. From Assistants in Nursing (AINs) and Enrolled Nurses (ENs) to Registered Nurses (RNs) and Midwives, Australian nurses are at the forefront of healthcare, working tirelessly to attend to patient needs. Long shifts without adequate staffing levels and demanding tasks can make nursing a stressful occupation . What happens, then, when nurses become exhausted?

To celebrate International Nurses Day on May 12, we are encouraging nurses at all levels of the profession to embrace self-care. We especially are supportive of Australian agency nurses, who experience a few extra on-the-job stressors due to the constantly evolving nature of their positions. Self-care is no longer a luxury for Australian nurses. It is an absolute necessity. With nursing burnout rates already high and only continuing to rise due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, self-care strategies are a must-have for every nursing professional.

Benefits of self-care as an agency nurse

Self-care is all about recharging yourself. It includes any activity that provides for your mental, physical, and spiritual needs. Self-care is especially important for agency nurses, as they are under more pressure due to the nature of their transient positions.

It can be difficult for agency nurses to indulge in self-care since the very premise of their jobs is to take care of others. They may feel they do not have the time or the luxury. Taking time for yourself is not selfish. There are many benefits to self-care for agency nurses.

It promotes health and safety . It is healthy for a nurse to practice self-care so they can better look after others in their care.

It replenishes compassion . When nurses feel burned out, it is easy to forget the reason why you decided to become a nurse in the first place. Remember, you cannot fill a glass from an empty pitcher.

It manages stress . Nursing can be stressful. Failing to take time out for yourself is a surefire recipe for stress that continues to build over time until it affects your health.

Stress relievers for nurses

It is important for nurses like you to stay healthy so you can administer the best care to your patients. Some of the common signs of stressed-out nurses include irritation and anger, appetite loss, fatigue, and insomnia. If you feel burned out, you should seek immediate help before it takes a toll on your health. Here are some of the other ways you can help manage stress and anxiety levels.

1. Take a break

Everyone needs a break from their job, which is why agency nursing makes it easy to take off time when you need it. Whether you plan a vacation in a tropical getaway, or you simply have a staycation with the goal of relaxing, taking a break to focus only on your health and well-being is critical.

2. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is all the rage these days and for good reason. It can help nurses recognise when they are becoming overwhelmed and develop necessary skills for managing clinical stress. Mindfulness techniques are proven to help release stress and anxiety.

3. Pursue a hobby

Nurses deserve a little “me time.” Pursue a hobby outside of work that helps you refocus your energy and find enjoyment in life. How about painting nights with friends or bush walks that get you out into nature.

Committed to supporting nurses Australia-wide

First Choice Care is committed to supporting nurses in Australia year-round. If you are looking for flexibility in nursing opportunities from a caring staffing agency, get in touch today to learn how we can help.

How to upskill in immunisations as a Registered Nurse in Australia

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 06:28:08 GMT

Upskilling and cross-training are not new concepts in healthcare. Nurses have upskilled to help meet the demands of the growing healthcare industry for years. Now, with the changing climate due to a global pandemic and other health crises, it is more important than ever for RNs to upskill in immunisations.

RNs who choose to upskill in immunisations are not only meeting CPD requirements , but they also are expanding their horizons in the healthcare industry. RN immunisers will continue to be in demand thanks to the Queensland government’s Immunisation Strategy . Queensland is committed to making Queenslanders healthy, stressing the importance vaccines and preventative healthcare play in achieving the goal.

What is upskilling?

Upskilling is a common way for RNs and other nursing professionals to advance their careers by learning new and relevant competencies. This goes beyond the usual CPD courses meant to keep nursing skills sharp and ensure RNs are adhering to nursing best practices.

There is a range of innovation options available to RNs who wish to expand their horizons. One such need at present is immunisations. With the world very much still in the grips of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a growing necessity for healthcare professionals qualified in giving immunisations. To quickly get shots into arms, the Australian government is relying on healthcare professionals trained to administer vaccines and other immunisations.

Benefits of upskilling in immunisations

In addition to helping meet the national need for COVID-19 vaccine administration, there are other benefits for RNs who upskill in immunisations.

One of the biggest advantages is immunization upskilling broadens an RN’s job opportunities. Once they complete training, RN immunisers are approved and qualified to administer numerous vaccines. They can work in community health, general practice, hospitals, local councils, and occupational health services.

How to upskill in immunisations

Before they are permitted to administer vaccines or other immunisations, RNs must complete a board-approved immunisation program . All states have different laws about nurse immunisers. RNs in South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory are not required to have an Independent Nurse Immuniser qualification. All other states mandate completion of the course. All courses – whether online or in-person – must meet the requirements of the National Immunisation Education Framework for Health Professionals .

In Queensland, an Immunisation Program Nurse (IPN) is authorised to administer all vaccines regulated and approved by Queensland Health. RNs must meet IPN qualifications by completing an immunisation program .

RNs who complete an immunisation training course will learn:

How to define the importance of immunisation programs on a national and global level

How the immune system responds to vaccines and diseases they are designed to prevent

How legal and ethical issues are related to immunisation

How to analyse immunisation evidence-based practice for achieving safe outcomes

Upskilling for the COVID-19 vaccine

RNs who wish to give the COVID-19 vaccines are required to complete a COVID-19 vaccination education program.

To boost efforts, the Australian Government partnered with the Australian College of Nursing to develop and deliver free accredited training modules available to all nursing professionals. The modules provide guidance on training in the administration, storage, and handling of the COVID-19 vaccines. RNs who sign up for the training can expect training modules categorised into two groups: core and additional. All training is delivered through an online learning platform. Included in the training:

COVID-19 introduction

Handling and storage of COVID vaccines

Communication and purpose

Multi-dose vial training (for vaccines that require more than one dose for efficacy)

Documentation and reporting of vaccination efforts

Safety procedures and monitoring/reporting adverse side effects

There also are training modules specific to individual vaccines currently being used in COVID-19 vaccination efforts:

Pfizer/BioNTech

Oxford University/AstraZeneca

Novavax

Future vaccines

Committing to quality and excellence in staffing

First Choice Care is committed to providing staffing solutions that exude quality and excellence. RNs upskilled in immunisations who are looking for new opportunities can get in touch to learn how we can help find a new career option that leverages your unique skills.

Interview with Gordon

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 05:43:44 GMT

What do you love about working with First Choice Care (FCC)?

I love the flexibility in my job as well talking to the friendly HR staff. As a university student, I desired a balance between my personal life, work and study. FCC provided me that opportunity and I have been grateful since. In addition to life balance, the FCC staff make it a breeze for me to pick up my shifts whenever and wherever. They are professional and consistent in their communication and deliver friendly service when managing my shifts.

What is your nursing specialty and what facilities/locations do you usually work at?

As a dual-degree nursing & paramedic student, I have not any majors or fields of specialty chosen in my third year of studying. However, I do hope to one day further my knowledge and understanding of the renal system as I find its intricacies and influence over the body to be both a challenging and fascinating endeavour.

Working and collaborating with mostly the elderly community has surely reinforced my motivation to observe the renal system as chronic kidney failure and diabetes-inflicted residents are often the general trend with the people I work with as an AIN. The facility I enjoy working and spend time in the most is at the Bolton Clarke aged care establishment in Thornlands. It was the first aged care facility where I kickstarted my career with FCC and have always enjoyed working with the great variety of staff and residents there.

Describe a rewarding experience you’ve had whilst working with FCC?

Every shift is a rewarding experience. I always look forward to going home, knowing that I helped a father, mother, grandmother, grandfather or a close friend of someone’s life.

If I had to specifically choose a single moment that fulfilled my feel-good meter, it would have to be that time when I got to listen to a librarian’s stories about her family. I was assisting her in feeding during lunch and she would occasionally reminisce in moments about her husband and grandchildren. She was so happy that someone was there to listen and laugh with her about how beautiful and funny her family is.

Do you enjoy the flexibility of picking and choosing shifts that suit your family/and, or lifestyle?

One hundred percent I do. As a university student, I want to enjoy my youth as much as I can before the full term of ‘Adulthood’ kicks in. With freedom of picking and choosing shifts, I can spend time with my family and friends. This has given me the opportunity to not only live the life I want, but also helped me to look after my mental health so that I will not burn out from the stresses of study and work.

What advice would you give to other nurses looking for an agency role?

Always try your best, never worry about the rest. As an agency employee, you will work in various locations with different people in both workforce and community. Being exposed to many people with distinct thought-patterns and illnesses will challenge you as both a worker and as an individual. Experience growth is inevitable, just remember we all learn and work differently in methods and pace. Good luck and I hope to see you all.

How to Maximise Your Work Opportunities as a new Agency Nurse

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 05:38:40 GMT

As a new agency nurse, you may be a little concerned about the volume of shifts you’ll have the opportunity to work, but there is no need to worry. First Choice Care (FCC) nursing agency wants to help you maximise every chance you’ve got! This article explores the ninja tips you’ll want to know to land shifts which not only suit you and your lifestyle, but also your growing skill set as an enrolled nurse, registered nurse or midwife.

Maintain Your Availabilities

Are you able to work today? Tomorrow? Next week? FCC wants to know so they can best support you in obtaining the shifts that you want to work. The best and easiest way to update your availability is via the FCC Live Portal on the website. You can email or SMS your availability preferences as well if you are on the go. Prefer to do it “old school” – no problem! Feel free to give the allocations team a ring and discuss your availability.

As nurses we know that communication is key! So ensuring you update your availabilities as well as communicate any changes to those availabilities is pivotal to agency nursing.

It’s best practice to update your availability at least weekly, but if anything was to change during this time, we suggest you let the team know either via the portal or a phone call. The allocations team at FCC will prioritise staff who they know are wanting to work over those we haven’t heard from! Making it a habit to refresh your availability will ensure you have first access to upcoming shifts.

Be Contactable

You have updated your availabilities, now you just need to make sure you have your phone on are able to be contact by the FCC team when the call to offer you shifts. This is not only important when picking up last minute shifts, but it ensures you are giving yourself the best chance to obtain block bookings which are multiple shifts at the same facility.

Being contactable, particularly in the early days, shows you are reliable and somebody FCC depend on for important upcoming shifts. It also allows the team to contact you if anything were to change or notify you of any new and exciting opportunities arose perfectly matching your skill set.

Be Willing to Travel

Though it may be nice to secure work at your closest hospital or facility, accepting work a little further away from home can open up job opportunities leading to more financial reward.

So you might be thinking, “well, how far are FCC expecting me to travel for a shift?” There is no specific distance or travel time from your home in which FCC will ask you to go and they do try to keep you as close to home as possible because it means you will be happy to take the shift and the health facility is getting a nurse arrive sooner rather than later! However, it’s up to you what is a reasonable distance to travel taking into consideration the time of day, traffic conditions and your other responsibilities. Though being open to go that little bit further when you can, may pay dividends in the long run.

Remember, First Choice Care wants to support you in obtaining the shifts which suit you. Being honest about your mode of transport and why travel may be difficult at times of day is useful information and can help the team find shifts that align with you and your preferences.

Be Open to All Shift Types

One of the best ways to make extra money, build relationships with employers who request to hire you personally and to maximise your shift opportunities is to request to work all kinds of shifts. Yes, this includes night shift, weekends, public holidays and within both the public and private sectors.

Though these “not so popular shifts” may not be your first preference, it can be extremely beneficial to you to jump into these shifts! The opportunity to build a connection with Nurse Unit Managers (NUMS), Assistance Nurse Unit Managers (ANUMS), and other senior nursing staff during times which may not be as busy is priceless. Returning to a facility in which you feel supported, enjoy working and receive pay as an agency nurse is like hitting the jackpot – and FCC wants to help better your odds!

Jump onto the FCC live portal or call one of the friendly staff within the Allocations Team on 1300 307 241 to see which “not so desirable” shift you can put your name to so that you ultimately come out on top!

In summary, the beauty with agency nursing is that you get to choose when you work, to align with your commitments and lifestyle. But to really thrive as an agency nurse, you firstly need to update your shift availability regularly and be contactable to FCC staff. Secondly, being open minded about your travel and shift preferences and considering those shifts that are a little further away or trying some night shifts are great ways to build relationships with key nursing management, secure more shifts more often and make more money!

First Choice Care are excited you have come on board and want to help you maximise your work opportunities so don’t be afraid to call and speak to one of our friendly staff about how we can help you make the most out of your agency nursing shifts.

Cheers,

Emma Smith

Registered Nurse

A Quick but Useful Agency Staffing Guide for NUMS, ANUMS and Roster Managers

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 05:15:54 GMT

Where do you turn when needing to fill a nursing vacancy? Though calling a nursing agency may not be your go-to option, maybe you it should be? Nursing agencies like First Choice Care take away a lot of the staffing headaches you may currently be experiencing like pay, organising supernumerary time, dealing with professional and behavioural issues. Employing a First Choice Care staff member to fill your next shift vacancy may be the no-stress option you desperately need.

The Truth About Agency Nurses

As an ANUM myself, I know the negative stigma that can sometimes come with employing agency nurses to fill a shift. The thought is often they are super expensive and risk blowing out the budget. But if you take a step back and really consider what is at play, agency nurses can have many benefits for your facility.

Agency nurses are adaptable and resourceful by nature. Moving from one facility to the next, working with new people and becoming familiar with different environments every day. Though most non-agency workers find the idea of this kind of work incredibly stressful, these nurses thrive on the challenge! If something changes or doesn’t go their way they take it in their stride and carry on, getting the job done and going where they are needed because no two days are ever the same for an agency nurse and that is their normal! No drama, no stress and no tantrums! Agency nurses are an incredible asset to the team and management by slotting in and hitting the ground running, requiring no micromanagement, leaving you free to solve all the other problems that come up on the ward! At least staffing is no longer one of them.

You’ll Save Time Employing An Agency Nurse

At the end of the day you want your patients to be cared for by the most clinically competent registered or enrolled nurse, right? You want to feel confident that the nurses on your team are fit with both the skills and mindset to provide the best patient centered care possible. Well, this nirvana is possible by filling your shift vacancies with First Choice Care nurses.

You no longer need to provide extended orientation information to oncoming agency staff because First Choice has provided that information already. You don’t need to ask if they are safe and competent to complete common nursing tasks such as hand hygiene, manual handling, cannulation and basic life support because the agency has taken the time to ensure these competencies have been successfully passed. And you can save time on addressing issues around pay and leave entitlements as the agency looks after these challenging conversations. So yes, agency nurses may cost a little more, but what value do you place on your time?

In summary, agency nurses can help your next shift run as smoothly as one full with permanent staff. The registered and enrolled nurses coming from First Choice Care are reliable, passionate and adaptable and are ready to provide the excellent, patient centered care that your patients deserve.

Emma Smith

Registered Nurse

Why It’s Exciting to Be an Agency Nurse in 2021

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 05:11:01 GMT

Working as an agency registered nurse or midwife through 2020 was, how should we describe it, tiring? Hard work? Exciting? Though it was “The Year of the Nurse” designated to honor the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth and nursing progression, it was sprinkled with a few nasty bits we would probably rather forget. But 2021 is a new year and there’s plenty for agency nurses and midwives to be excited about and here’s why.

Healthcare Jobs Are on the Rise

After a quick browse on the Seek website , I found that the Healthcare & Medical industry in Australia boomed in 2020, growing by 12.3% and recording an average annual salary of $89,905. But what does this mean for us? There are probably a lot of nursing vacancies on offer with First Choice that comes with a very reasonable pay packet!

The Mental Health Sector Needs Support

If you’ve ever considered post-graduate studies in mental health, now could be the time to upskill. Beyond Blue and other mental health services received a record-breaking number of calls throughout 2020, especially in states who entered stage four lockdown. If you have a keen interest in psychiatry and helping those with mental health concerns, the number of presentations is likely to continue to rise as people cope with the emotional, social, and financial impacts of 2020. If the thought of going back to university scares you, the beauty about working for a nursing agency is that you have the freedom to choose when you work based around your shifts. This may not sound like a big deal but come assignment and exam time, you’ll be thankful you have the choice.

A Vaccine is Coming

And you could help administer the life-saving injections! The nursing workforce required to immunise the Australian public in the future is mind-blowing. Though giving injections is a vital skill learned in university, taking an immunisations course, such as the one offered by the Australia College of Nursing , can teach you to become an immunisation advocate and promote immunisation uptake nationally. The best part about this particular course is in the end you are authorised to immunise independent of a medical officer. There is an abundance of immunisation courses available online but they all vary slightly so ensure you read the fine print.

COVID Testing Is Still a Prominent Part of Our Society

While we wait patiently for a vaccine, outbreaks are going to continue to happen as borders open and we start living a new “covid normal” life. What that means for us as agency nurses and midwives is that screening clinics both in metropolitan, rural and remote areas will continue to demand our skills. If working in screening clinics and nursing in COVID-affected hotspots is of interest, speak to the allocations team in the First Choice office to discuss what work opportunities exist or check out the job board here . Being part of addressing the immediate need of the public due to a global pandemic is monumental and something to be excited about.

Ability to Try New Jobs on a Short Term Basis

Have you ever considered working in rural and remote communities around Australia helping to address the acute need of those struggling to access healthcare services? As we know, COVID doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor and certainly doesn’t care if you live in a major city or on a farm thousands of km’s from the nearest community hub. This fact has led to the opening of jobs in rural and remote parts of Australia you probably never thought existed. First Choice Care Remote & Rural Nursing Agency, unlike other nursing agencies, gives extraordinary registered nurses like you the chance to build a career and lifestyle they love, while supporting them with everything they need to make the most of their experience away from home. The nurses behind First Choice Care Remote & Rural team are ex-remote and rural nurses themselves so they know what it’s all about and can tailor your experience to best support the local community.

If you’re looking for a change in your agency nursing career, there is certainly no deficit in short term options to try. Contact First Choice Nursing agency here for more information about rural and remote nursing.

Nursing Agencies Will Continue to Be a Sound Resource

Adequately filling shifts will likely continue to be a challenge for hospitals and healthcare facilities in 2021 – which is great news for agency nurses! Nurses and midwives working their permanent hours who were unable to escape for a break last year will likely be looking to take annual leave now and in the coming months.

In summary, nurses and midwives are spoilt for choice when it comes to work opportunities in 2021. If you’re feeling restless in your current position and need a change of scenery, your next job will not be hard to find.

Thanks,

Emma Smith

Registered Nurse

Beginners Guide to Continued Professional Development (CPD)

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 04:41:45 GMT

Beginners Guide to Continued Professional Development (CPD) for Nurses and Midwives in Australia

It’s often assumed that registered nurses, enrolled nurses, midwives and even nurse practitioners understand what is required of them with regards to CPD. But in reality, this may not be the case. By law in Australia, any health professional is required to complete between 20-50 hours of CPD annually depending on their level of education. But what does this look actually look like? What counts as “valid” CPD and what doesn’t? This post explains what CPD is and answers some of the common questions.

What is CPD?

According to The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), CPD is, “the means by which members of the professions maintain, improve and broaden their knowledge, expertise and competence, and develop the personal and professional qualities needed throughout their professional lives.” ( 1 )

In order to register as a nurse or midwife within Australia and continue your practice year after year, you are required to complete a minimum number of CPD hours directly relevant to a nurse or midwife’s context of practice. One hour of active learning will equal one hour of CPD.

Who enforces nurses and midwives to complete CPD?

The NMBA. They enforce the rules and regulations set by the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law, as in force in each state and territory (the National Law).

What does “context of practice” mean?

Again according to the NMBA , “practice means any role, whether remunerated or not, in which the individual uses their skills and knowledge as a health practitioner in their profession.”

It’s imperative to remember though that “practice” doesn’t simply mean clinical care. It can also include research, direct non-clinical relationships with clients, working within management positions where you may develop and regulate policies, educational and advisory roles and any other role associated with the development and delivery of safe patient care.

Though it can seem a bit vague, ask yourself before signing up or handing over your credit card details, is this activity directly relatable to my area of nursing and or midwifery?

How many hours do I need to complete?

The hours of CPD required to maintain registration varies greatly depending on your profession. For the most up to date information refer to NMBA’s website via this link. However, in short here is a snapshot on how many hours you’re expected to complete:

Registered nurse or Enrolled nurse – 20 hours

Midwife – 20 hours

Registered nurse and midwife – 40 hours (registered Nurse 20, midwifery 20)

Enrolled nurse and midwife – 40 hours (enrolled nursing 20, midwifery 20)

Nurse practitioner – 30 hours (registered nurse 20, nurse practitioner endorsement 10)

What counts towards valid CPD hours?

According to the NMBA , CPD records may include participation in the following activities:

tertiary, vocational and other accredited courses including distance education (should relate to context of practice)
conferences, forums, seminars and symposia (even virtually)
short courses, workshops, seminars and discussion groups through a professional group or organisation who may issue a certificate of compliance/completion
mandatory learning activities in the workplace in the area of practice
self-directed learning, and
any other structured learning activities not covered above.

What is the best way to keep track of my CPD hours?

Using the sample template listed on the NMBA’s website which you can find here .

Download and utilise the Ausmed App – Read more here

Using the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) dashboard specific for CPD here

Your own diary/journal/record keeping method

Though there are a few ways to keep a record of your CPD hours, you need to make sure you record all the necessary information required by the NMBA. These include; identification of the learning need, developing a learning plan to meet this need, participation in the learning activity and finally a documented outcome and reflection of what’s been achieved and how this will relate to your professional practice. Simply stating, “I read X journal article and it took me 25 minutes” is not enough information to satisfy the board unfortunately.

How long do I need to keep my CPD records for?

5 years. This is the amount of time the NMBA recommends that you keep evidence of CPD, including self-directed learning for.

Does every nurse and midwife get audited regarding their CPD hours upon registration each year?

No. You will not need to submit evidence of your CPD to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia annually. However, when renewing your registration you are required to legally sign a declaration stating you have completed the necessary hours.

Each year, the NMBA will randomly select a number of registrants to audit so it’s best to be prepared. If you do get audited, you will need to demonstrate how you completed the requirements, showing a copy of your CPD plan for the previous year (1 June – 31 May).

I am a carer / nursing assistant. Do I need to complete and record CPD hours?

No. Assistants in Nursing or Carers are not registered with the NMBA and are not required to complete CPD for their registration.

I am registered as both a nurse and midwife. Can I count relevant CPD activities towards the CPD hours for both professions?

Yes. However, the CPD activities must be relevant to both nursing and midwifery professions. Again, if you are not sure, ask yourself “will this course/area of study improve my knowledge and competence as a nurse AND midwife?”

In summary, being “forced” to complete CPD is a good thing. It means the healthcare sector is full of competent leaders who look for learning opportunities to better patient care. Try not to view CPD as a chore. Embrace short courses, attend workshops and learn something new.

Cheers,

Emma Smith

Registered Nurse

A nursing agency explains: public vs private sector

Matthew.Power@peoplein.com.au (Matthew Power) — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 00:36:19 GMT

It’s no secret that Australia faces a nursing shortage, with thousands of new nurses needed to maintain our healthcare system in the future.

While this might not be the best news for the healthcare system, it is good news for nursing applicants: there are plenty of nursing jobs to go around in both public and private sectors!

Now the only problem is finding a nursing position that fits with your career, goals and where you want to go.

And the first consideration you need to make is the sector: do you go public or private?

Both have their own unique advantages, disadvantages and opportunities, so understanding the key differences between public and private sector nursing and choosing the right one is key.

Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry. Swingshift Nurses has your back!

Today we’ll be covering both public and private practice and helping you choose the right direction for your nursing career.

Management

There’s a common saying in management circles: people leave managers, not jobs.

We can all relate to that on some level. Whether it’s a horrible manager that you couldn’t get away from quick enough, or a friendly, supportive leader that inspired you, the people you work under can make or break a job.

And nurses are no exception.

While we’re not trying to make sweeping statements about the type of manager you’ll find in either sector, it is important to remember that public and private facilities have completely different aims – and with that, comes different management goals.

Public healthcare administration

Public facilities tend to employ a far larger number of nurses.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, for every private hospital there are approximately 49 private-sector nurses, while there are almost 473 public nurses for every public hospital!

What this means is that there can be a bit of distance between the nurses on the front line and the people running the show. If you’re a big fan of having a direct line with management, public sector nursing might not be for you.

Private healthcare administration

As for-profit organisations, administrators at private health facilities focus on whatever raises their overall profitability.

That means that management at private facilities (naturally) focus on income generation and their profit margins.

What this means for you is that private healthcare administrators also keep a close eye on costs… sometimes even more than at a public facility!

And since most private facilities are much smaller than public healthcare facilities, management can have a much close relationship with the nurses working the front-line.

Of course, we’re not saying this is a hard-and-fast rule… far from it! But it’s certainly another consideration worth making.

A matter of lifestyle

Public and private nurses are paid at similar award rates for the most part and more often than not, they do much of the same work.

So for many nurses, the choice between the two can come down entirely to lifestyle.

Lifestyle? What does that have to do with nursing?

You’d be surprised! Your workload and hours can actually change depending on which sector you work in.

If you’re unsure about which sector to go into, ask yourself whether you’re willing to accept less predictable shift work, whether your lifestyle can take it… and whether you want it to.

Working as a public sector nurse

Ah, the night shift. Some people dread it, while others love the flexibility shift work gives them in the rest of their day-to-day life.

Generally, nurses in public healthcare facilities work on a shift system – this is especially true of hospitals, which keep their doors open 24/7.

If you value shift work and aren’t adverse to the odd night shift, the public system could be the right choice for you!

Workload as a private sector nurse

On the other hand, private sector nurses generally report more stable hours, as well as smaller patient loads.

If your social life is important to you, the stability offered by a private facility might be more suitable for your lifestyle.

And because private healthcare providers tend to be smaller than public ones, nurses in the private sector tend to have lighter caseloads. This allows private sector nurses to provide more personalised care.

Need help finding the right position for you?

The decision to go private or public is a tough one, and only one you can make.

And once you make the decision, it becomes time to tackle the hardest part: finding the perfect job!

Whether you’re just starting your nursing career or think the grass is greener on the other side, register with First Choice Care now!

Our connections with facilities statewide can connect you with the perfect nursing position – whether that’s in the private or public sector.