What Is a Float Pool Nurse?

Hospitals may ask nurses to work overtime when patient volumes rise and staff shortages occur. These additional work hours increase staff burnout, dissatisfaction and turnover rates.

What Is A Float Pool Nurse?

A float pool nurse is a qualified, registered nurse who cares for patients in a hospital or healthcare facility. The only difference is that float nurses are called on to fill staff shortages rather than being tied to a specific unit. They may stay in one area or specialty for a short time, sometimes rotating multiple times during a single shift.

Over time, the healthcare system has adapted by creating staff units called nursing float pools. These pools contain multiple nurses, also known as flex nurses, pool nurses, float nurses, float pool RN, or PRNs — from the Latin term pro re nata, meaning "as necessary." This phrase perfectly describes a float pool nurse's duty, as they work on an as-needed basis and "float" between departments or facilities depending on the day's requirements.

Discover more about this role — including its responsibilities, requirements, advantages and challenges — to determine if it's the right job for you.

Responsibilities

A float nurse will perform various tasks during their workday. Some of these include:

• Assessing patient health

• Administering medication

• Consulting with doctors

• Updating medical records

• Explaining medical diagnoses to patients

• Counseling patients and families

• Performing life support

• Prepping people for surgery

Besides their essential duties, float pool nurses will also meet colleagues and patients, learn new protocols and procedures and become familiar with different environments daily.

Skills and Characteristics

Float pool nurses should possess all the qualities of a good nurse, but they must also be highly adaptable to change to keep up with this job's requirements. You'll need the following skills and characteristics to become a float nurse.

• Time management:

  Float nurses are usually more in control of their schedules and can accept and turn down assignments as they please. You should be good at time management so you don't take on too much work or double-book yourself.

• Adaptability:

  You must be comfortable with change and high-stress environments to be a good float nurse, as you'll move around a lot and help care for more patients. Quick learners who think fast on their feet are ideal candidates for this job.

• Communication:

  Float nurses must have strong communication skills to coordinate with new teams and help different patients. Without this skill, you may struggle to integrate well with each team or provide the best care to new patients.

• Learning and growth:

  As a float nurse, you'll assist teams in various specializations, so you need a willingness to learn and improve daily.

How to Become a Float Pool Nurse

Before becoming a float nurse, you'll need to be a registered nurse with some experience under your belt. Float nursing is slightly more challenging due to constant shifts in the work environment. You should be confident in your nursing abilities before starting this new career path.

Follow the steps below to become a qualified float pool nurse.

1. Earn a Degree

The first step to becoming a floating RN is earning a relevant degree. You can choose between an associate degree or B.S. in nursing.

Most states and healthcare facilities require RNs to have a bachelor's degree in nursing, but this accomplishment takes longer and is more expensive to complete. You can always start with an associate degree and earn your BSN later.

2. Get Licensed

Once you have your degree, you'll need a license to work as a nurse by passing the National Certification Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses. This exam takes several hours and contains a minimum of 75 questions to assess your nursing ability.

You must also acquire state-specific licensure to nurse within your desired state. You may need multiple state licenses or an Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact if you hope to become a travel float nurse. Find out which licenses you need and their requirements to begin the process.

3. Gain Experience

Most hospitals require float nurses to have a few years of hands-on experience. Inexperienced nurses who want to gain knowledge quickly can sometimes find work in a float position, but this is not the norm. Even if it's not a requirement, having some experience will simplify your transition to being a float pool nurse.

You'll start floating in no time with your degree, licenses, references and resume.

Benefits of Being a Float Pool Nurse

Float nursing is exciting and rewarding if you're comfortable with change. Here are a few benefits you may enjoy if you become a float pool nurse.

• Flexible schedule:

  Most pool float nurses can set their schedules and choose which assignments they accept. Some can even choose how long their shifts are. You can create a better work-life balance for yourself with this level of control.

• Better pay:

  Hospitals always need float nurses to assist in challenging situations. You'll have plenty of job opportunities and may earn higher pay than a traditional RN due to this demand and the complexity of the role.

• Skill expansion:

  Working as a float pool nurse will keep you on your toes and expose you to many specialties, departments and situations. You'll become a competent nurse with a broad skill set and comprehensive knowledge.

• Work variety:

  Float pool nursing never feels tedious or rote. Each day will differ from the one before, with new faces, environments and tasks. It's a thrilling experience for those who enjoy it.

• Networking:

  Float pool nurses have more opportunities to network than most medical professionals as they constantly meet new people. You can quickly grow your professional network in this role by making an effort.

Float Nurse Challenges

As with all things in life, float nursing comes with challenges. It's not ideal for everyone, and you may even view some of the benefits as drawbacks based on your preferences.

Consider the following challenges before becoming a float pool nurse.

• Less familiarity:

  You may not thrive as a float nurse if you enjoy consistency in your tasks and teammates.

• Problem-solving abilities:

  Float pool nurses often find themselves in a new department during stressful times, so you must stay calm and have a can-do attitude to solve problems as they arise.

• Isolation:

  Because they move around so much, float nurses might feel like outsiders and struggle to form bonds with their colleagues. You may look for other job opportunities if you value close relationships with co-workers.

• Unpredictable workdays:

  Every day for a float nurse is new and different, from the tasks you perform to the people you work with. While some find this invigorating, others may feel anxious and stressed.

• No specialization:

  Typical RNs gain experience in a single specialty. Float pool nurses work in various medical areas, becoming jacks of all trades.

Find Float Pool Nurse Jobs With Trustaff

Trustaff is a highly respected and well-known travel healthcare staffing company passionate about fostering meaningful connections within our industry. We have various high-paying float pool nurse assignments available with options for interstate travel. Additionally, you'll have a dedicated, one-on-one recruiter to help you find your dream assignments and 24/7 support to assist you.

All our travelers have access to comprehensive benefits packages and our Ingenovis Health ACT program so you can focus on your mental well-being and career advancement.

Start your adventure today by applying online.