Preparing for Your First Assignment
Your first travel assignment sets the tone for your locum career. Here's how to succeed.
Before Accepting
Evaluate the Assignment
| Factor | Questions to Ask |
|---|
| **Case mix** | What procedures will I do? |
| **Volume** | How busy is the schedule? |
| **Call expectations** | Frequency and compensation |
| **Support structure** | Who's available for questions? |
| **Facility culture** | Why is the position open? |
Red Flags to Avoid
⚠️ Very short notice needs (may indicate dysfunction)
⚠️ Unusually high rates (what's wrong?)
⚠️ Vague answers to questions
⚠️ High locum turnover at facility
⚠️ Remote location with unclear support
Logistics and Preparation
Documents to Have Ready
| Document | Status |
|---|
| Active licenses (all relevant states) | Verified current |
| DEA registrations | State-specific if needed |
| Certifications (BLS, ACLS, PALS) | Current |
| References | Available contacts |
| Credentialing documents | Organized for quick submission |
Packing Essentials
| Category | Items |
|---|
| **Clinical** | Stethoscope, pens, comfortable shoes |
| **Tech** | Laptop, chargers, hotspot backup |
| **Kitchen** | Basic cooking supplies if apartment |
| **Comfort** | Pillows, favorite blankets |
| **Documents** | Physical copies of credentials |
Housing Strategies
Options
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| **Agency-provided** | Convenient, included | Limited choice |
| **Furnished Finder** | CRNA-friendly options | Need to search |
| **Airbnb** | Flexible, reviews available | Can be expensive |
| **Extended stay hotel** | Simple, amenities | Less homey |
Housing Tips
- Book early — Best options go fast
- Verify washer/dryer — Essential for long stays
- Check commute — Map it before booking
- Read reviews — Look for patterns
- Get in writing — Confirm all terms
First Day Success
Arrival Preparation
| Timing | Action |
|---|
| **Day before** | Drive to facility, locate parking |
| **Night before** | Prep clothes, pack bag |
| **Morning of** | Arrive 30 minutes early |
| **At arrival** | Check in with designated contact |
What to Expect
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|
| **Check-in** | HR/credentialing verification |
| **Orientation** | Facility tour, EMR access |
| **Meet team** | Introduction to staff |
| **First cases** | Often shadowed or light start |
Building Relationships
Day One Priorities
| Priority | Approach |
|---|
| **Learn names** | Write them down |
| **Be humble** | You're the new person |
| **Ask questions** | Shows engagement |
| **Adapt to their way** | Observe first |
| **Offer help** | Be a team player |
Keys to Success
✅ Show up on time, every time
✅ Be flexible and adaptable
✅ Communicate proactively
✅ Don't complain about prior facilities
✅ Be the easy, reliable locum
Managing Challenges
Common First-Assignment Issues
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|
| **Different protocols** | Ask, adapt, document |
| **Unfamiliar EMR** | Request extra training |
| **Clique-ish staff** | Be friendly, consistent |
| **Heavier than expected load** | Communicate with agency |
| **Housing problems** | Contact agency immediately |
When to Escalate
- Assignment differs significantly from description
- Safety concerns arise
- Housing is unacceptable
- Workload is unsustainable
- You're being treated poorly
Financial Management
First Assignment Finances
| Consideration | Approach |
|---|
| **Tax set-aside** | 30-35% immediately |
| **Per diem usage** | Track for tax purposes |
| **Receipts** | Keep everything |
| **Mileage log** | Start day one |
| **Banking** | Confirm direct deposit setup |
Understanding Your Pay
| Component | Typical |
|---|
| **Hourly rate** | As negotiated |
| **Housing stipend** | Tax-free if structured correctly |
| **Per diem** | Tax-free up to IRS limit |
| **Travel reimbursement** | First/last trip |
Building Your Reputation
What Matters
| Factor | Impact |
|---|
| **Reliability** | Showing up matters most |
| **Skill level** | Competence builds trust |
| **Attitude** | Positivity remembered |
| **Flexibility** | Makes you attractive for rebooking |
| **Communication** | Check in with recruiter |
Getting Extensions/Rebooking
- Ask facility for feedback at 2-week mark
- Communicate interest to recruiter early
- Be proactive about extension discussions
- Make it easy to keep you
Conclusion
Your first travel assignment is about proving yourself—to the facility, your agency, and yourself. Prepare thoroughly, stay flexible, build relationships, and communicate openly. Success on your first assignment opens doors to the best future opportunities. Most importantly, remember that every permanent staff member was once new somewhere—they understand the learning curve.
Travel guidance based on Anesearch locum network experience, January 2025.