Are you a registered nurse looking for an exciting and rewarding career that allows you to travel the country while doing what you love? Have you considered psychiatric RN travel jobs? This unique career path offers a range of benefits and opportunities that are hard to beat. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what psychiatric RN travel jobs entail, the requirements for getting started, and the opportunities available to you.
What are Psychiatric RN Travel Jobs?
Psychiatric RN travel jobs are a type of healthcare travel job that allows registered nurses to work in different psychiatric facilities across the country for short-term contracts. These contracts typically last between 8-26 weeks and offer opportunities to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
As a psychiatric RN travel nurse, you’ll be responsible for providing direct patient care, administering medications, managing patient records, and educating patients and their families about mental health issues. You’ll also work closely with other healthcare providers, including psychiatrists, social workers, and therapists, to develop treatment plans and ensure the best possible patient outcomes.
What are the Requirements for Psychiatric RN Travel Jobs?
As with any nursing job, there are certain requirements that must be met before you can start working as a psychiatric RN travel nurse. These include:
- Hold a current, active RN license in the state where you plan to work
- Have at least one year of experience working in psychiatric nursing
- Be willing to undergo a background check and drug screening
- Be willing to work on a contract basis with varying shifts and schedules
Additionally, some psychiatric RN travel jobs may require you to have certain certifications, such as a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (PMHNC).
What are the Benefits of Psychiatric RN Travel Jobs?
Psychiatric RN travel jobs offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive career choice for many nurses. Some of the most notable benefits include:
- Competitive pay rates and travel reimbursements
- Flexible scheduling and the ability to choose your own assignments
- Opportunities to gain valuable experience working in different psychiatric settings
- Access to a supportive network of healthcare professionals and colleagues
- The chance to explore new cities and states while working
- Increased job security, as there is always a high demand for psychiatric RN travel nurses
FAQs about Psychiatric RN Travel Jobs
Here are some frequently asked questions about psychiatric RN travel jobs:
Q: How much do psychiatric RN travel nurses typically make? | A: The pay rate for psychiatric RN travel jobs can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and certifications, but the average pay rate is around $1,500-$2,500 per week. |
Q: Do I need to have my own housing when working as a psychiatric RN travel nurse? | A: Some travel nursing agencies provide housing for their nurses, while others offer a housing stipend to cover the cost of housing. It’s important to discuss housing options with your agency before accepting an assignment. |
Q: Can I bring my family with me on assignments? | A: Yes, many travel nursing agencies offer family-friendly assignments and can help you find housing that accommodates your family. |
Q: How long do psychiatric RN travel assignments typically last? | A: Assignments can last anywhere from 8-26 weeks, depending on the needs of the facility and the nurse. Some travel nurses may choose to extend their assignments or take on new assignments in different locations. |
Conclusion
Psychiatric RN travel jobs offer a unique and rewarding career path for registered nurses looking to explore new places, gain valuable experience, and make a difference in the lives of patients with mental health issues. If you’re interested in pursuing this career path, start by researching travel nursing agencies and discussing your options with a recruiter. With the right skills and qualifications, you could be on your way to an exciting and fulfilling job as a psychiatric RN travel nurse.