If you’re a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) who loves to travel, then becoming a traveling CRNA may be the perfect job for you. As a traveling CRNA, you’ll have the opportunity to work in various healthcare facilities across the United States, providing anesthesia services to patients in need.
What is a Traveling CRNA?
A traveling CRNA is a certified registered nurse anesthetist who works on a temporary basis in various healthcare facilities across the country. These facilities can include hospitals, surgical centers, and private practices. Traveling CRNAs are typically hired through staffing agencies that specialize in healthcare placements.
How to Become a Traveling CRNA
To become a traveling CRNA, you must first obtain your certification as a registered nurse anesthetist. This requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing, a current nursing license, and completion of a nurse anesthesia program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. You must also pass the National Certification Examination for Nurse Anesthetists. Once certified, you can search for travel CRNA positions through staffing agencies or job boards.
Benefits of Being a Traveling CRNA
There are many benefits to being a traveling CRNA. Some of the most notable include:
- Higher pay
- Flexible schedule
- Opportunity to work in different healthcare facilities
- Ability to travel and see new parts of the country
- Experience working with different patient populations
Challenges of Being a Traveling CRNA
While there are many benefits to being a traveling CRNA, there are also some challenges to consider. These can include:
- Frequent travel away from home and family
- Adjusting to different facilities and patient populations
- Working with unfamiliar healthcare teams
- Limited time off
How to Find Traveling CRNA Jobs
The best way to find traveling CRNA jobs is through staffing agencies that specialize in healthcare placements. Some of the top staffing agencies for CRNAs include:
- American Mobile Healthcare
- Cross Country Nurses
- Healthcare Staffing Professionals
- NurseChoice
- Triage Staffing
You can also search for travel CRNA positions on job boards such as Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor.
FAQ
Q: What is the average salary for a traveling CRNA? | A: The average salary for a traveling CRNA is $200,000 to $250,000 per year. |
Q: What type of housing is provided for traveling CRNAs? | A: Housing arrangements can vary depending on the staffing agency and facility. Some agencies offer free housing, while others provide a housing stipend. |
Q: How long are travel assignments for CRNAs? | A: Travel assignments can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the facility’s needs and the CRNA’s availability. |
Q: Can new graduates become traveling CRNAs? | A: It is rare for new graduates to become traveling CRNAs. Most agencies require a minimum of one to two years of experience in a clinical setting before hiring a CRNA for a travel position. |
Conclusion
Becoming a traveling CRNA can be a rewarding career choice for those who love to travel and provide anesthesia services to patients in need. While there are challenges to consider, the benefits of higher pay, flexible scheduling, and the opportunity to work in different healthcare facilities make it a great career option for CRNAs looking for a change of pace.