If you’re a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking for a change of scenery, becoming a travel nurse may be just the thing you need. As a travel nurse, you’ll have the opportunity to work in different healthcare facilities across the country while earning competitive pay and benefits. But where do you start? That’s where travel nurse agencies come in. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about travel nurse agencies for LPNs.
What Are LPN Travel Nurse Agencies?
Travel nurse agencies are companies that connect healthcare facilities with temporary healthcare professionals, such as travel nurses. These agencies work with LPNs, registered nurses (RNs), and other healthcare professionals to fill temporary positions at various healthcare facilities.
LPN travel nurse agencies specifically work with LPNs to find temporary positions in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities across the country. These agencies handle everything from finding job opportunities to arranging travel and housing for their nurses.
Why Work with an LPN Travel Nurse Agency?
Working with an LPN travel nurse agency has many benefits, including:
Benefits | Explanation |
---|---|
Access to Job Opportunities | Travel nurse agencies have relationships with healthcare facilities across the country, so they have access to many job opportunities that may not be available elsewhere. |
Travel and Housing Arrangements | Travel nurse agencies take care of all the details of your travel and housing, so you can focus on your work. |
Competitive Pay and Benefits | LPN travel nurses earn competitive pay and benefits packages that often include health insurance, retirement plans, and more. |
Professional Support | Travel nurse agencies provide support for their nurses, including career guidance, continuing education opportunities, and more. |
How to Choose an LPN Travel Nurse Agency
With so many LPN travel nurse agencies out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you. Here are some factors to consider:
- Reputation: Look for agencies with a good reputation among nurses and healthcare facilities.
- Job Opportunities: Make sure the agency has job opportunities in the locations you’re interested in.
- Pay and Benefits: Compare pay and benefits packages among different agencies to ensure you’re getting a competitive offer.
- Support: Look for agencies that provide support for their nurses, such as professional development opportunities and mentorship programs.
LPN Travel Nurse Job Requirements
LPN travel nurse job requirements vary by agency and healthcare facility, but in general, you’ll need:
- A valid LPN license in the state where you’ll be working
- A minimum of one year of experience as an LPN
- Proof of required vaccinations and health screenings
- Up-to-date certifications (such as BLS or ACLS)
How to Become an LPN Travel Nurse
If you meet the requirements above, the next step is to find an LPN travel nurse agency that you want to work with. Once you’ve found an agency that fits your needs, you’ll need to complete their application process, which may include:
- Submitting your resume and work history
- Providing references
- Completing a skills assessment and/or interview
- Providing proof of licensure and certifications
After you’ve been accepted by the agency, you’ll work with them to find job opportunities that fit your skills and interests. From there, the agency will take care of all the details of your travel and housing arrangements, so you can focus on your work.
FAQ
What is an LPN?
LPN stands for licensed practical nurse. LPNs are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of registered nurses or doctors to provide basic medical care to patients.
What is a travel nurse?
Travel nurses are healthcare professionals who work temporary assignments at healthcare facilities across the country. They typically work with travel nurse agencies to find job opportunities and arrange travel and housing.
How much do LPN travel nurses make?
LPN travel nurse pay varies depending on the agency and the location of the assignment. In general, LPN travel nurses can earn competitive pay and benefits packages that often include health insurance, retirement plans, and more.
How long are LPN travel nurse assignments?
LPN travel nurse assignments can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the needs of the healthcare facility and the agreement between the nurse and the agency.
Do LPN travel nurses need to be licensed in every state?
No, LPN travel nurses only need to be licensed in the state where they’ll be working. Some agencies may require additional licenses or certifications depending on the assignment.