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Travel nursing is an exciting career opportunity for healthcare professionals who love to explore new places while helping others. However, one of the crucial factors that influence the decision of aspiring travel nurses is the salary. In this article, we will explore the highest paying travel nurse jobs and provide useful tips to help you earn more money as a travel nurse.
What is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is a registered nurse who works on a contract basis for a specific period in various healthcare facilities across the country. The job involves providing quality care to patients while adapting to different hospital settings, protocols, and cultures. The duration of the contract can range from 8-13 weeks, and sometimes the contract can be extended based on the need.
How Much Does a Travel Nurse Make?
The salary of a travel nurse varies based on several factors such as location, specialty, experience, shift, and demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of a registered nurse is $75,330 per year, but travel nurses can earn more than that. As per a survey by NurseFly, the highest paying travel nurse jobs pay an average of $3,297 per week.
Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialties
Specialty plays a significant role in determining the pay rate of a travel nurse. Here are some of the highest paying travel nurse specialties:
| Specialty | Average Weekly Pay |
|---|---|
| Operating Room (OR) Nurse | $3,700 |
| Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse | $3,452 |
| Emergency Room (ER) Nurse | $3,398 |
| Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU) Nurse | $3,387 |
| Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nurse | $3,370 |
| Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse | $3,255 |
| Labor and Delivery (L&D) Nurse | $3,250 |
Tips to Increase Your Earnings as a Travel Nurse
Here are some tips to help you increase your earnings as a travel nurse:
- Choose high-demand specialties and locations.
- Negotiate with the recruiters for better pay rates, benefits, and travel expenses.
- Work overtime and holidays to earn extra income.
- Get additional certifications and degrees to increase your marketability.
- Join a travel nursing agency that offers referral bonuses.
Conclusion
Travel nursing offers an opportunity to explore new places, make new friends, and earn a good income. With the right approach and mindset, you can become one of the highest-paid travel nurses in the country. Follow the tips mentioned in this article and choose the right specialty and location to boost your earning potential. Happy traveling!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How much do travel nurses make per hour?
The hourly pay rate of a travel nurse varies based on the specialty, location, and experience. According to the NurseFly survey, the average hourly pay rate of a travel nurse is $50 per hour. However, some specialties like OR and ICU nurses can earn up to $100 per hour.
Q. How long is a travel nursing contract?
The duration of a travel nursing contract can range from 8-13 weeks. However, some travel nursing contracts can be extended based on the need of the healthcare facility. The contract can be renewed for another 8-13 weeks, or the travel nurse can move to a new location.
Q. Do travel nurses get benefits?
Yes, travel nurses are entitled to receive benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, retirement plans, and housing allowances. However, the benefits may vary based on the agency and the contract terms.
Q. How do I become a travel nurse?
To become a travel nurse, you need to have an active nursing license, a minimum of one year of recent nursing experience in your specialty, and a clean background. You can then apply to a travel nursing agency or work directly with a healthcare facility that hires travel nurses.