8 Things to Look For in an LPN Temp Agency

As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), working with a temp agency can provide more flexibility, exposure to different types of work, and great opportunities to expand your career. But, since there are so many agencies to choose from, finding the right one can feel impossible. Here are some of the key factors that you should consider when looking for the best LPN temp agency for your career goals.

LPN Temp Agency Reputation

The agency’s reputation speaks volumes about its reliability and credibility. Look for agencies with positive reviews from both nurses and healthcare facilities. Use websites like Glassdoor to get insights from current and past employees. Reach out to LPNs you’ve worked with or check out online forums and social media groups for insights on what it’s like to work for the agency. Working with an agency with strong connections in the healthcare community is more likely to offer quality assignments and better overall experiences for nurses.

Here are some questions you should try to answer during your search:

1. How long has the agency been operating?
2. Do they partner with reputable healthcare providers?
3. What do other nurses say about their experience with the agency?

Keep in mind that some reviews can be misleading. Don’t just read one or two reviews, take a look at as many as you can both positive and negative, and try to filter out reviews that don’t seem to align with what the majority of people are saying.

Pay and Benefits

How much money you’ll get paid is a major factor when choosing a temp agency. Some agencies will offer more competitive rates, while others might have lower pay but better benefits. When you’re looking for the best temp agency it’s best to look at the entire compensation package, including overtime pay, health insurance, bonuses, travel reimbursement, and other perks. 1099 agencies tend to pay more than W-2, but you’ll be responsible for handling everything on your own, including liability insurance, health benefits, and taxes.

Here are some important questions to ask while you search for LPN temp agencies:

1. What are the average pay rates for LPNs?
2. Are there opportunities for overtime or bonuses?
3. Do they offer health, dental, or other insurance options?
4. Are they W-2 or 1099?

Assignments, Locations, and Flexibility of The LPN Temp Agency

Some LPN temp agencies only offer local shifts, while others may have assignments that require you to travel. Agencies like Cascade Health Services offer the best of both worlds. Consider whether you want to work locally or if you want to travel, and whether the agency can offer the kind of flexibility you need in terms of location and scheduling.

Questions to answer during your search:

1. Do they offer long-term placement or short-term?
2. What geographical areas do they cover?
3. Can you choose which shifts or assignments to take, or are you required to accept any offered?

Does The LPN Temp Agency Offer Support and Communication?

A reliable LPN temp agency should be able to maintain clear and consistent communication with their nurses. From the initial job placement process to handling payroll issues, a good agency will have a strong support system. Make sure the agency is responsive and available to answer questions when you need them. 1099 agencies tend to offer less support because you are not considered an employee of the agency. If strong communication is important to you, it’s best to partner with a W-2 agency.

Here are some questions to ask:

1. How easy is it to reach your recruiter or support team?
2. Is there a 24/7 support line in case of emergencies?
3. How do they handle issues that arise on the job (e.g., conflicts with staff, scheduling errors)?

Consistency of Work

While an LPN temp agency provides more flexibility, many nurses seek a steady stream of assignments that some agencies can’t provide. A good agency will have plenty of assignments to keep employees busy. Ask the agency about the frequency of work, and how likely you are to get continuous shifts.

Here are some questions you should ask your recruiter:

1. How frequently do you have open assignments for LPNs?
2. What is the typical duration between contracts or shifts?
3. Is there a preference given to nurses who have been with the agency longer?

Training and Development

Continuous professional growth is important for any nurse. Some agencies offer training programs or certifications to help nurses keep their credentials up to date, or to help them specialize in different areas. This is extremely useful to nurses looking to expand their skills.

Here’s what you should ask your recruiter:

1. Does the agency offer continuing education or certifications?
2. Are there opportunities for professional development within the agency?
3. Can you specialize in specific areas like geriatric care, home health, or pediatrics?

Legal and Contract Transparency

Before you sign up with an LPN temp agency, make sure you fully understand the terms of any contracts or agreements. This won’t be as important if you only plan on working PRN, but if you’re signing up as a travel LPN, it’s important to understand the contract you’re signing. Look for transparency in areas like pay rate, contract duration, and cancellation policies. Avoid agencies that aren’t clear about their expectations or who hide important details in fine print.

A few questions to ask:

1. What are the terms of their contracts?
2. Can you cancel an assignment without penalty?
3. Are there any hidden fees or charges to be aware of?

Agency Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be cautious of agencies that have poor communication, delayed payments, or force you to take unwanted assignments. An agency that doesn’t value transparency or consistently has negative feedback from other nurses is best avoided. Look for reviews from nurses and avoid temp agencies where the majority of people are complaining about these red flags:

1. Complaints about delayed payments or unfair treatment.
2. An inability to provide references or verifiable testimonials.
3. Pressure to take assignments outside your area of expertise or comfort.

Choosing the right LPN temp agency is crucial to ensuring a positive, fulfilling experience in your temporary nursing career. By researching the agency’s reputation, understanding the pay structure, and ensuring they align with your professional goals, you can find an agency that supports your growth and provides the work-life balance you desire.

Take your time, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts when making the decision. With the right agency by your side, temp work can open the door to exciting new opportunities and help you thrive in the fast-paced world of healthcare.