I’ve had plenty of requests for the top dos and don’ts for an agency nurse on their first-ever shift. After speaking to experienced nurses and some who have just completed their first day nursing shift, I’ve noticed that most worries fall into three key areas.

Whether you’re feeling nervous or unsure about where to go or what to do, this guide shares practical, honest advice for agency nurses starting out. So, let’s get into it.

What if I’m nervous?

Feeling nervous about your first agency nurse shift is completely normal. I’d say it’s expected. Even seasoned agency nurses can experience those first-day jitters when they enter a new hospital or unfamiliar ward.

The important thing to remember is that nerves can be a good thing- they show that you care and want to do your best. That’s a great mindset to have as you step into your first day nursing shift.

Think back to other times you’ve felt this way: your first clinical placement, maybe your final exam, or the first time you worked in a new department. How did you feel afterwards? Chances are, you realised it wasn’t nearly as daunting as you imagined.

One of our nurses summed it up nicely: “Hindsight can be very frustrating at times!”

So, how do you manage agency nurse nerves? Here are some simple strategies:

• Take slow, deep breaths. Try inhaling for four seconds, holding briefly, then exhaling for four seconds.
• Remind yourself that your colleagues, team, and recruitment consultant want you to succeed.
• Visualise your shift going well -it’s amazing how effective this can be at calming anxious thoughts.

Agency nursing advice from those who’ve been there: most nurses come out of their first shift saying they actually enjoyed it and that all the worry beforehand was unnecessary. You’ll likely feel the same!

Where do I go when I arrive?

This is probably one of the most common concerns for any nurse starting agency nursing: Where exactly do you go when you arrive? Hospitals can feel like a maze when you first walk in, especially if you’re rushing or unsure where to report.

Top tips for agency nurses:

• Speak to your recruitment consultant before your shift. They can give you clear instructions on exactly where to go, who to report to, and where to park.
• Check the hospital’s website. Many have detailed maps showing wards, entrances, parking, and public transport options.
• Plan your route in advance and, if possible, even visit beforehand so you’re familiar with the journey.

On the day, aim to arrive 15-20 minutes early. That gives you breathing space, time to settle, and time to ask questions if you’re unsure. If you do get lost, ask hospital staff or reception - they’re used to new nurses arriving and will point you in the right direction.

Starting agency nursing is all about being prepared, and this is one area where preparation really pays off.

I won’t know where anything is!

This is another big worry for agency nurses, especially if you’re new to the hospital or even new to agency work altogether.

Not knowing where key things are - medication rooms, emergency exits, equipment cupboards - can feel unsettling, but here’s the key advice: ask!

Every hospital has different layouts and ways of working, and nobody expects you to know everything straight away. At the start of your first agency nurse shift, you should be given a hospital orientation or induction. This will cover all the essentials: where to find supplies, key contact points, where to take breaks, and emergency procedures.

During your induction:

• Stay attentive and take notes. A small notebook can be invaluable here.
• Identify the most important areas for your work: medication storage, emergency equipment, documentation points, etc.
• Make a mental or written checklist for yourself at each new placement.

If anything’s unclear, speak up. Agency nursing guidance from experienced colleagues is always there - they expect new staff to ask questions. A two-minute conversation can save you a lot of time later.

If you’re working regular shifts at the same hospital, you’ll soon know it like the back of your hand. If you’re moving around different locations, you’ll get better and quicker at orienting yourself each time.

That adaptability is part of what makes agency nurses so valuable.

Final thoughts and guidance

Starting agency nursing can feel daunting at first, but it’s also exciting, rewarding, and a great opportunity to build experience and confidence.

Here’s a recap of the key tips for agency nurses:

• Be kind to yourself: Nerves are normal and show you care.
• Prepare properly: know where to go, whom to speak to, and what to expect.
• Ask questions: don’t struggle in silence, especially when it comes to finding your way around.
• Trust your training and instincts: you’ve got this.

Hospital orientation for nurses is designed to help you feel settled and confident. Use it well, take notes, and ask questions as needed. Before long, you’ll feel totally at home - and may even find yourself giving agency nursing advice to new starters in the future.

If you’d like more support or tailored guidance for your first shift nursing tips, contact us today- we’re always happy to help you get off to the best start.