I recently hosted a ShiftKey “Ask Me Anything” event, where I spoke with hospital nurses about how best to use the ShiftKey app to manage all their documents and find and bid on shifts. There were loads of questions, and I wanted to share the top four tips.
Tip one: Hands-on, in-person certifications go further
Yes, you can do CPR/BLS online—but many of our hospital clients still prefer a hands-on, in-person skills check, typically from the American Heart Association or Red Cross. If you choose a hybrid option, make sure there’s a hands-on, in-person skills check. That’s what makes it count.
If you’re looking at ER, ICU or pediatric shifts, you’ll probably need ACLS or PALS too. It depends on the unit, but it’s better to be ready.
Tip two: Don’t let your uploads slow you down
This one’s from experience—blurry photos and half-cut screenshots can hold up your profile without you even knowing it. Use your phone’s scan feature instead of snapping a picture. It keeps everything clear and centered. And double-check that your name and dates are visible. If it isn’t visible, it isn’t able to be validated. Finally, the names on the documents or certificates you upload should match the name on your ShiftKey profile.
Tip three: Set a five-minute reminder once a month
Once a month, pop into your ShiftKey credentials tab and check: Anything expired or expiring soon? Any new facility requirements? Anything missing? It’s quick, and it keeps you from scrambling when that perfect shift pops up. Plus, it shows you facility-specific requirements you might not have noticed before (more on that next).
Tip four: One document can unlock even MORE shifts
Some hospitals ask for extras like CPI or unit-specific experience. On the ShiftKey app, these are called “Facility Required Documents.” These documents are not required at the state-level, which is why you probably still see shifts, but without them you might not be seeing ALL the shifts that you could bid on.
You don’t need to have everything, but sometimes one more document can open the door to a whole set of new shifts. It’s worth checking to see what’s optional in your area.
Want the full checklist and a walkthrough?
We covered all of this (and much more) in the full session. Things like:
- How to know when an orientation shift is available (yes, orientation shifts are paid!)
- What to do if a document gets marked invalid
- What facilities really look at when reviewing your ShiftKey profile
Have your own question?
Our team is here to help! If you have additional questions or need help figuring out what’s holding up your hospital shift access, you may set up time with an activation and credentialing expert at ShiftKey.
