Travel nurses are healthcare professionals—typically registered nurses (RNs)—who accept temporary assignments throughout the country and beyond for a variety of reasons, from researching emerging medical practices to offering a quick exit in times of local staffing shortages.
It’s a unique position open to those who thrive in fast-paced, ever-changing environments, empowering them to explore the nation while making a difference on the ground.
Travel nursing is not a journey for everyone, but it is a popular and growing option for those with the desire to explore, the flexibility to embrace the unexpected, and the know-how to make the assignment a success.
What Do Travel Nurses Do?
Travel nurses, like anyone in the medical profession, provide patient care to those in need. Similarly, the job duties of a travel nurse are largely the same as those of a traditional nurse. Common tasks may include:
- Assessing patient health and medical histories
- Administering medications
- Giving injections
- Evaluating treatments and progress
- Drawing blood
- Monitoring vital signs
- Educating patients and families
Of course, the duties of a travel nurse may vary depending on the region, facility, and particular needs of the patient.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is not the same as your average desk job. This type of job allows nurses to explore the country and experience new locations, both during their assignments and between assignments. Specific perks vary depending on the employer, but can include:
- Paid travel expenses and lodging
- Flexible shifts
- High salaries
- 401(k) and IRA accounts
- Professional development
- Student loan assistance
- Health coverage
The flexible nature of travel nursing also ensures that many nurses will have the flexibility to spend time with their families or explore additional hobbies.
What Are the Requirements to Become a Travel Nurse?
In general, the qualifications to become a travel nurse include:
- A current, valid nursing license from the state in which the assignment will be taken
- An up-to-date certification in CPR or basic life support
- Up-to-date immunization records
- The ability to pass a background check
- Certification in the area of specialty (if applicable)
In addition, being a travel nurse often requires nurses to sign on for a certain number of weeks within the year. Depending on the state and facility, some may also be asked to complete additional tests or receive special certifications.
What Is the Salary Like for Travel Nurses?
Salaries for travel nurses vary depending on many factors, such as the specialty, state, city, and length of the assignment. Generally, salary for these assignments ranges from $30 to $50 per hour, but this can vary.
Additionally, travel nurses are often eligible for bonuses — up to $4000-$5000 for six-week assignments — for completing an assignment on time and with excellence. That, plus the free housing and travel expenses listed above, makes travel nursing a lucrative field of work.
What Questions Should I Ask About an Assignment Before Accepting?
Before taking a travel nursing assignment, consider asking the following questions:
- What/who is the employer?
- What is the assignment duration?
- What is the salary/hourly rate?
- Is overtime/call-outs expected?
- What are the benefits?
- Who are the coworkers/supervisors?
- What is the work schedule?
- What is the policy for sick days/vacation days?
- What is the process for continuing education and other professional development opportunities?
Answering these questions ahead of time will help you make sure the assignment is right for you.
Conclusion
Travel nursing is an intriguing option for those nurses with a sense of adventure. With high salaries, flexible schedules, and the ability to explore new locations, it can be an ideal career option for the right person.
Just make sure to do your research and ask the right questions before signing on for an assignment. With the right preparation, your experience as a travel nurse can be life-changing for both you and the patients you serve.
FAQ About Travel Nurse
A: No. A valid nursing license is necessary to work as a travel nurse.
A: Travel nurses are typically paid an hourly wage, which varies depending on the region, specialty, and other factors.
A: It depends. Some travel nursing assignments require nurses to sign on for a certain number of weeks within the year, while others offer more flexibility.
A: It depends on the region and the particular needs of the facility. It’s best to research the requirements ahead of time and make sure you have all the necessary certifications before applying for a position.
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