If you’re a neonatal intensive care unit registered nurse (NICU RN) who loves to travel, working as a travel nurse might be a perfect career choice for you. As a travel nurse, you’ll have the opportunity to work in different hospitals and healthcare facilities around the country, gaining invaluable experience and expanding your skill set. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about NICU RN travel jobs, including the benefits, requirements, and how to get started.
What is a NICU RN?
A neonatal intensive care unit registered nurse (NICU RN) is a healthcare professional who specializes in caring for premature and critically ill newborns. NICU RNs work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), which are specialized units within hospitals that provide medical care to sick and premature newborns. NICU RNs are responsible for monitoring their patients’ vital signs, administering medication, and providing emotional support to parents.
What are NICU RN Travel Jobs?
NICU RN travel jobs are short-term nursing assignments that typically last for 13 weeks. As a NICU RN travel nurse, you’ll work in a different hospital or healthcare facility each assignment, gaining invaluable experience in different environments. Travel nursing is a great way to gain experience, network with other healthcare professionals, and see different parts of the country.
Benefits of NICU RN Travel Jobs
There are many benefits to working as a NICU RN travel nurse. Some of these benefits include:
- Higher pay: Travel nurses typically earn more than staff nurses, as they are compensated for their travel expenses.
- Flexibility: Travel nurses have the freedom to choose where and when they work.
- Experience: Travel nursing allows NICU RNs to gain experience in different hospitals and healthcare facilities.
- Networking: Travel nursing allows NICU RNs to meet and network with other healthcare professionals.
Requirements for NICU RN Travel Jobs
To work as a NICU RN travel nurse, you’ll need to meet certain requirements. These requirements may include:
- A current RN license in good standing
- At least one year of NICU RN experience
- A current BLS certification
- A current PALS certification
- A current NRP certification
- The ability to pass a background check and drug test
How to Get Started with NICU RN Travel Jobs
If you’re interested in becoming a NICU RN travel nurse, there are a few steps you’ll need to take:
- Research travel nursing agencies: There are many travel nursing agencies out there, so it’s important to do your research and find one that’s the best fit for you.
- Apply with a travel nursing agency: Once you’ve found a travel nursing agency you like, you’ll need to submit an application and provide all of the required documentation.
- Interview with a travel nursing recruiter: After submitting your application, you’ll typically interview with a travel nursing recruiter who will help you find assignments that meet your needs and preferences.
- Accept an assignment: Once you’ve been offered an assignment, you’ll need to accept it and begin preparing for your travel nursing adventure!
FAQs about NICU RN Travel Jobs
Conclusion
Working as a NICU RN travel nurse can be a rewarding career choice for those who love to travel and are passionate about caring for sick and premature newborns. While there are requirements and challenges associated with travel nursing, the benefits are well worth it for those who are up to the task. If you’re interested in becoming a NICU RN travel nurse, start researching travel nursing agencies and take the first step towards an exciting career adventure!