In the fast-paced and demanding field of nursing, flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities. Float pool nurses are trained and ready to work in various units, filling in as needed to provide high-quality patient care.
Floating allows nurses to gain experience in different specialties, work with various healthcare professionals, and develop a diverse skill set. This flexible staffing model offers numerous benefits for both nurses and healthcare organizations. If you’re a nurse looking for a change or considering your options, we will explore the reasons why nurses should consider a float pool position and the benefits it can offer to their careers.
What is a Float Pool Nurse?
A float pool nurse is a nurse who is trained and able to work in various departments and units within a healthcare facility. A float pool is a group of nurses who will work across a facility, or multiple facilities, on an as-needed basis. The responsibilities of a float nurse may vary depending on the specific healthcare system and needs at a given time.
Requirements
Float nurses are valuable assets to healthcare organizations as they can adapt to different areas of patient care and fill in staffing gaps as needed. Float nurses are often experienced and highly skilled, as they must be proficient in a wide range of clinical areas.
These nurses must be quick learners, able to familiarize themselves with different units and their respective protocols efficiently. Strong communication skills are also important as they need to effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals and adjust to different team dynamics.
Most facilities will require that you have at least a few years of experience of clinical nursing experience before you can join a float pool. The reason for this is that floating requires nurses to be able to jump into almost any environment to start working right away.
Remember that float nurses have many of the same responsibilities as other nurses. However, the day-to-day tasks in this kind of role will vary based on where the nurse is needed. Some of the common tasks nurses in floating positions perform include:
- Administering medications
- Monitoring vital signs
- Preparing patients for procedures
- Completing physical assessments
- Reviewing medical documentation and records
- Assisting patients with daily activities
- Patient education
- Supervising nursing assistants
Benefits of Floating
While floating as a nurse may seem intimidating at first, it offers many benefits that can positively impact both personal and professional growth. By gaining new experiences, improving collaboration, enhancing flexibility, and promoting personal and professional development, floating can be a valuable opportunity for nurses to expand their horizons and take their practice to new heights.
Developing Skills
Float pool nursing is often challenging, which is perfect for nurses who want to learn quickly and think on their feet. Among all the beneficial reasons for becoming a float nurse, one of the most intriguing to many nurses is the fact that there is always something new to learn, do, or experience in this role. You will get a chance to build skills you might not otherwise use or learn in a standard nursing role.
Professional Growth
An additional benefit of floating is that nurses can find a new specialty or department that they love working in. Floating not only keeps your knowledge base up to date but also allows you to develop a diverse set of clinical skills. This versatility can be a valuable asset in your career growth and advancement.
New Experiences
There is always something new happening, and no two days are exactly alike when you’re working in a float pool. Float pool nurses will not necessarily be called to the same unit every time and may not work with the same people regularly. By working in various units and departments within a facility, nurses gain exposure to different patient populations, medical conditions, and treatment modalities, enhancing their professional development and expanding their skill set.
Collaboration
Floating also promotes teamwork and collaboration among healthcare professionals. When nurses float, they have the opportunity to work with new colleagues and learn from their expertise. Sharing ideas and experiences can lead to improved communication, increased efficiency, and enhanced patient care. It also fosters a sense of camaraderie and unity among healthcare teams, as everyone works together to ensure smooth and effective coverage throughout the facility.
Find Your Next Assignment with SHC
Float nursing is fast-paced and often exciting, giving nurses an opportunity to grow their skills and advance their careers. SHC is excited to partner with nurses interested in float pool assignments and our team is here to help you on your way to landing the perfect nursing position.
Supplemental Health Care has local and travel nursing jobs across the country. Contact our recruiting team to learn more about all our available opportunities.
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