[TransGlobalMed]

Here we go...don't you all beat me up now. We are seeking the sincere advice and serious input of those in the field. What we would like to know what do you feel it would take to be the best travel nurse firm? Our company is currently a leader in global staffing of power and petrochemical facilities. We have 5 international offices. We have a few recruiters, in mind to help us start, that are well know to many of you and have great reputations. Our mission is to employ only the top 10%in the certain specialize nursing fields, pay them better then anyone else can, offer them fortune 50 benefits and domestic and worldwide opportunities.

With this what advise do you in the trenches have.

[anniegirl]

As for my advice...treat med-surg nurses as valuable as any other specialty. We are a SPECIALTY that frequently goes unrecognized in appreciation and in pay. I have worked side by side with ICU nurses in med-surg settings that cannot believe the amount of critical thinking and prioritizing it takes to care for 6-8 patients at a time. I feel as though med-surg RN's are widely viewed as "unable to cut it" in a recognized specialty and therefor viewed as lesser nurses. Let me tell you that what we do night in and night out takes as much or more ability than any "specialty" out there. Sincerely, AAthmer RN, medsurg/ICU, 6 yrs experience.

[lam]

I agree. Plus med surge is not set up the same as the specialties in regards to emergencies. ICU they already know the patients are bad on med/surge ya never know when some one will go bad. when I did my rotation in the NICU I was amazed at the support that the nurses gave each other I have never seen that again since. when an alarm went off every one turned and said you ok do you need help. I would like to see that happen on a med surge floor. lol

[AngelMind]

I don't know about everyone else, but this is what I look for in a company.
Good benefits: health, life, dental, vision insurance
Housing: paid private housing, utilities paid including telephone and basic cable. Furnished with complete housing package. Safe and close to the hospital if possible.
Hospital: Travel friendly
Car allowance or rental car.
Travel expenses
License reimbursement and certificate reimbursement.
401K
Loyalty bonuses
Great recruiters that are there when you need them.
Large selection of states and jobs.
Last but not least, great pay, 35$+ per hour.

I am an ER RN with 11 years nursing experience and 3 years travel experience.