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Many people wonder if a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) can work as a travel nurse. The answer is yes, but there are some things you need to know before pursuing this career path. In this article, we will explore what it takes to be a travel nurse as an LVN and what opportunities are available for those with this qualification.
What is an LVN?
An LVN is a healthcare professional who has completed a practical nursing program and passed a licensing exam. LVNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians, providing direct patient care such as administering medications, taking vital signs, and assisting with activities of daily living.
What is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is a healthcare professional who takes temporary assignments in different locations. Travel nurses work for staffing agencies and are hired by healthcare facilities to fill short-term staffing needs. They can work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
What are the Requirements for a Travel Nurse?
To become a travel nurse, you must have an active nursing license in the state where you plan to work. You also need to have at least one year of clinical experience in your specialty area, such as medical-surgical, ICU, or emergency nursing. Some travel nursing agencies require more experience, so it’s important to check with them before applying.
Can LVNs Work as Travel Nurses?
LVNs can work as travel nurses, but their opportunities may be limited compared to RNs. Most travel nursing agencies require RNs, but there are some that hire LVNs for certain assignments. LVNs may also be eligible for travel positions in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
What are the Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse?
One of the biggest benefits of being a travel nurse is the opportunity to see new places and meet new people. Travel nurses also earn higher hourly wages than staff nurses, and many agencies offer bonuses and other incentives, such as free housing and travel reimbursement. Travel nursing also allows you to gain experience in different healthcare settings and enhance your nursing skills.
What are the Challenges of Being a Travel Nurse?
Travel nursing can be challenging, especially for those who are new to the profession. Travel nurses must be adaptable and able to quickly adjust to new environments and work with unfamiliar staff members. They also have to deal with the stress of being away from home and loved ones for extended periods of time. Travel nursing can also be physically demanding, as some assignments require long shifts and heavy lifting.
How Do I Become a Travel Nurse as an LVN?
If you’re an LVN interested in becoming a travel nurse, the first step is to research travel nursing agencies that hire LVNs. Many agencies require prior travel nursing experience, so it may be helpful to start by taking local travel assignments or working as a staff nurse first. You should also update your resume and obtain any required certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, LVNs can work as travel nurses, but their opportunities may be limited compared to RNs. To become a travel nurse, LVNs must have an active nursing license and at least one year of clinical experience in their specialty area. Travel nursing can be a rewarding career path, offering the opportunity to see new places and earn higher wages. However, it can also be challenging, so it’s important to carefully consider whether it’s the right choice for you.
| LVN as a Travel Nurse | |
|---|---|
| Can LVNs work as travel nurses? | Yes, but their opportunities may be limited compared to RNs. |
| What are the requirements for a travel nurse? | An active nursing license and at least one year of clinical experience in a specialty area. |
| What are the benefits of being a travel nurse? | Higher hourly wages, bonuses, free housing, and travel reimbursement. |
| What are the challenges of being a travel nurse? | Adapting to new environments, being away from home, and dealing with heavy workload. |
FAQs
What is the difference between an LVN and an RN?
The main difference between an LVN and an RN is the level of education and scope of practice. RNs have completed an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in nursing and can perform more advanced nursing skills, such as administering IV medications and developing care plans.
How much do travel nurses make?
Travel nurses typically earn higher hourly wages than staff nurses, ranging from $30 to $60 per hour depending on location and specialty area. Some agencies also offer bonuses and other incentives to attract nurses to high-need areas.
How long are travel nursing assignments?
Travel nursing assignments can vary in length from 4 to 26 weeks, depending on the facility’s staffing needs. Some assignments may be extended if the facility requires additional staffing.