Are you a nurse looking to take your career to the next level? Do you have a passion for adventure and a desire to see new places? If so, then you may want to consider becoming an L&D travel nurse.
What is an L&D Travel Nurse?
An L&D travel nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in labor and delivery. These nurses work in healthcare facilities across the country to provide care for expectant mothers and their infants during childbirth.
Unlike traditional full-time nursing positions, travel nurses work on temporary assignments that typically last between 8 and 26 weeks. This allows them to see new parts of the country while providing critical care to patients in need.
What are the Responsibilities of an L&D Travel Nurse?
As an L&D travel nurse, your primary responsibility is to assist expectant mothers during labor and delivery. This includes monitoring fetal heart rates, administering medications, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
In addition to childbirth, L&D travel nurses may also be responsible for providing care to patients who have experienced a miscarriage or require emergency gynecological procedures. They may also provide postpartum care to new mothers and newborns.
What are the Qualifications for an L&D Travel Nurse?
To become an L&D travel nurse, you must first obtain your registered nursing (RN) license. This typically requires a minimum of an Associate’s degree in nursing and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
In addition to your RN license, most travel nursing agencies require at least one year of experience in a labor and delivery setting. Some may require additional certifications such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
How Much Does an L&D Travel Nurse Make?
According to Payscale, the average hourly wage for an L&D travel nurse is $37.63. This rate can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific agency you work for.
In addition to their hourly wage, L&D travel nurses may also receive stipends for housing, transportation, and meals while on assignment. Some agencies also offer bonuses for completing assignments or referring other nurses to the agency.
What are the Benefits of Working as an L&D Travel Nurse?
Working as an L&D travel nurse has many benefits beyond the opportunity to see new places. Some of the top benefits include:
- Higher pay rates than traditional nursing positions
- Flexible scheduling and the ability to choose your assignments
- Access to additional training and education opportunities
- The opportunity to build your resume and gain new skills
- The chance to make lasting connections with patients and colleagues
How to Get Started as an L&D Travel Nurse?
If you’re interested in becoming an L&D travel nurse, the first step is to research travel nursing agencies and find one that aligns with your career goals and preferences.
Once you’ve selected an agency, you’ll need to submit your application and provide your nursing credentials and work history. From there, you’ll work with a recruiter to find assignments that fit your experience and availability.
While working as an L&D travel nurse can be a thrilling and rewarding career, it’s important to consider any potential downsides such as being away from family and friends for extended periods of time.
The Bottom Line
For nurses with a passion for adventure and a desire to make a difference in the lives of expectant mothers and their infants, becoming an L&D travel nurse can be an excellent career choice.
With a competitive salary, flexible scheduling, and the opportunity to see new places, L&D travel nursing offers a unique and exciting way to practice nursing and build your career.
So if you’re ready to take the leap and embark on a new adventure, consider becoming an L&D travel nurse today!