Are you a licensed practical nurse looking for a change of pace? Do you love to explore new places and meet new people? If you answered yes to these questions, then a career as a travel licensed practical nurse might be perfect for you. In this article, we will explore the role of a travel licensed practical nurse, the qualifications needed to become one, and the benefits of this exciting career path.
What is a Travel Licensed Practical Nurse?
A travel licensed practical nurse, or LPN, is a medical professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses or doctors. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home health agencies. However, what sets travel LPNs apart from their counterparts is that they work on a temporary basis in different locations across the country. They may be called upon to work in areas where there is a shortage of medical professionals or to cover for regular staff who are on leave or vacation.
What are the Responsibilities of a Travel Licensed Practical Nurse?
The responsibilities of a travel licensed practical nurse are similar to those of a regular LPN. They include:
- Administering medications and injections
- Assisting with medical procedures
- Monitoring patients’ vital signs and symptoms
- Dressing wounds and changing bandages
- Documenting patients’ medical histories and progress
- Providing emotional support and comfort to patients and their families
However, travel LPNs must be able to adapt quickly to new environments and work with different teams of medical professionals. They must also be able to communicate effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
What are the Qualifications Needed to Become a Travel Licensed Practical Nurse?
To become a travel licensed practical nurse, you must first become a licensed practical nurse. This requires completing a state-approved nursing program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Once you have obtained your LPN license, you can start looking for travel nursing jobs. However, most travel nursing agencies require at least one year of clinical experience as an LPN before considering your application. You will also need to have a clean criminal background and be up-to-date on your immunizations.
What are the Benefits of Being a Travel Licensed Practical Nurse?
There are many benefits to being a travel licensed practical nurse. These include:
- Higher pay and benefits than a regular LPN
- Flexible schedule and work locations
- The opportunity to gain diverse clinical experience
- The chance to meet new people and explore new places
- Personal and professional growth
However, travel nursing also has its challenges. You may be away from home for long periods of time and have to adjust to new living arrangements. You may also experience culture shock or encounter difficult patients or coworkers. Therefore, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before embarking on this career path.
FAQs
Q: What is the average salary of a travel licensed practical nurse? | A: According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a travel LPN is $60,892. |
Q: Do travel LPNs receive the same benefits as regular LPNs? | A: Travel LPNs may receive higher pay and benefits than regular LPNs, but this varies by employer and location. |
Q: Can travel LPNs choose their own assignments? | A: Yes, travel LPNs can choose which assignments they want to take based on their preferences and qualifications. |
Q: How long do travel LPN assignments typically last? | A: Travel LPN assignments can last anywhere from 4 weeks to 13 weeks, depending on the needs of the healthcare facility. |
In conclusion, a career as a travel licensed practical nurse can be an exciting and rewarding experience for those who love to travel and work in healthcare. However, it requires dedication, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt to new environments and challenges. If you are up for the adventure, then start exploring the many opportunities available for travel LPNs.