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If you’re a registered nurse looking for an exciting and fulfilling career, ER travel nursing may be the perfect fit for you. ER nurses are the first point-of-contact for patients who are in critical condition, and their work can be both challenging and rewarding. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about ER travel nursing, from what it is to how to get started.
What is ER Travel Nursing?
ER travel nursing is a specialized field of nursing that involves working in emergency rooms at healthcare facilities across the country. ER travel nurses are hired on a contract basis and typically work for 13-week periods, with the option to renew their contracts at the end of each assignment. This type of nursing requires a high level of skill and experience, as ER nurses must be able to think quickly and respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice.
What Does an ER Travel RN Do?
As an ER travel RN, your primary role is to provide medical care to patients in emergency situations. This may include administering medication, performing diagnostic tests, and assisting with medical procedures. You’ll also be responsible for monitoring patients’ vital signs and communicating with doctors and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
What Skills Do You Need to Become an ER Travel RN?
To become an ER travel RN, you’ll need to have a strong set of skills, including:
- Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- The ability to work well under pressure and in high-stress situations
- Flexibility and adaptability
- A thorough understanding of medical terminology and procedures
If you’re considering becoming an ER travel RN, it’s essential to have experience working in emergency rooms or other fast-paced healthcare settings.
How to Become an ER Travel RN
Before you can become an ER travel RN, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- A valid nursing license in your state of residence
- A minimum of two years of experience working in an emergency room or other critical care setting
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree
- Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
- The ability to pass a drug test and background check
Once you meet these requirements, you can start looking for ER travel nursing jobs through staffing agencies or job boards. It’s important to do your research and find a reputable agency that can help you find the best assignments for your skills and experience.
Pros and Cons of ER Travel Nursing
ER travel nursing can be an exciting and rewarding career choice, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are some of the pros and cons of working as an ER travel RN:
Pros:
- Higher pay than staff nurses
- Opportunities to travel and see new parts of the country
- The chance to work in different types of healthcare settings
- The ability to gain new skills and experiences
Cons:
- Long hours and irregular schedules
- Frequent travel and time away from family and friends
- Adjusting to new hospitals and healthcare systems
- The possibility of being assigned to understaffed or poorly run facilities
FAQs About ER Travel Nursing
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What is the typical salary for an ER travel RN?
The average salary for an ER travel RN is around $100,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and other factors.
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What kind of housing is provided for ER travel nurses?
Most staffing agencies provide fully furnished housing for their ER travel nurses, or they offer a housing stipend that can be used to find your own accommodations.
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What are the working conditions like for ER travel nurses?
ER travel nurses typically work 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. They may also be required to work overtime or be on call.
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What kind of benefits do ER travel nurses receive?
Most staffing agencies offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid time off and retirement savings plans.
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Can ER travel nurses bring their families with them on assignments?
Many staffing agencies allow ER travel nurses to bring their families with them on assignments, and some even provide additional compensation for family members’ travel and housing expenses.
Conclusion
ER travel nursing can be an excellent career choice for experienced RNs looking for a new challenge. While it’s not for everyone, those who thrive in fast-paced, high-stress settings can find great success as ER travel nurses. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can get started on the path to a rewarding and fulfilling career as an ER travel RN.