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If you’re a certified nursing assistant (CNA) with a sense of adventure, you might want to consider taking on travel assignments. These opportunities allow you to work in different locations across the country while earning a competitive salary and gaining valuable experience.
What are travel assignments for CNAs?
Travel assignments are temporary work opportunities for CNAs in different healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. These assignments typically last 13 weeks, but they can be shorter or longer depending on the facility’s needs.
As a traveler or a travel CNA, you have the flexibility to choose where you want to work and when you want to take a break between assignments. You can also negotiate your pay and benefits based on your skills and experience.
How do you become a travel CNA?
To become a travel CNA, you need to have a valid nursing assistant certification and at least one year of experience in a healthcare facility. Some facilities may require additional certifications or training, such as basic life support (BLS) or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
You also need to work with a travel nursing agency that specializes in CNA assignments. These agencies will help you find assignments, negotiate your contract, provide you with housing and transportation, and offer you support throughout your assignment.
What are the benefits of travel assignments for CNAs?
Travel assignments offer many benefits for CNAs, including:
- Higher pay rates than permanent positions
- Flexible schedules and locations
- Opportunities to gain new skills and experience
- Exposure to different patient populations and healthcare settings
- Paid housing and transportation
- Health insurance and other benefits
- Bonuses and incentives for referrals and performance
What are the challenges of travel assignments for CNAs?
Travel assignments also come with some challenges, such as:
- Adjusting to new environments and routines
- Working with different staff and patients
- Dealing with homesickness and loneliness
- Managing your finances and taxes
- Adapting to different state nursing regulations
- Dealing with unexpected emergencies or cancellations
How much do travel CNAs make?
The pay rates for travel CNAs vary depending on the location, the facility, and the agency. However, travel CNAs generally make more than permanent CNAs because they are compensated for their travel expenses and their temporary housing.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly pay for travel CNAs in the United States is $25 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of $52,000. However, some travel CNAs can make up to $35 per hour or more, depending on their skills and experience.
What should you consider before taking a travel assignment?
Before accepting a travel assignment, you should consider the following factors:
- Your personal and professional goals
- Your financial situation and obligations
- Your preferred locations and facilities
- Your availability and flexibility
- Your willingness to adapt to new environments and challenges
- Your support system and coping strategies
How can you find travel assignments for CNAs?
To find travel assignments for CNAs, you can:
- Research travel nursing agencies that specialize in CNA assignments
- Create a profile on online nursing job boards and websites
- Network with other travel CNAs and healthcare professionals
- Attend nursing conferences and job fairs
- Contact healthcare facilities directly and inquire about temporary positions
Conclusion
Travel assignments can be a rewarding and exciting option for CNAs who want to explore different parts of the country, meet new people, and advance their careers. However, they also require a lot of preparation, flexibility, and resilience. By considering the factors mentioned above and working with a reputable travel nursing agency, you can make the most of your travel assignments and enjoy a fulfilling and enriching experience.