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If you’re interested in combining your love of nursing with a passion for travel, becoming an LPN travel nurse might be the perfect career for you. As an LPN travel nurse, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, travel to different parts of the country, and earn a competitive salary.
What is an LPN Travel Nurse?
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) travel nurse is a healthcare professional who travels to different healthcare facilities to provide nursing care. LPN travel nurses typically work on a short-term contract basis, often for a few weeks or months at a time. They may work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, or other healthcare settings, and are responsible for a variety of nursing tasks.
LPN Travel Nurse Requirements
In order to become an LPN travel nurse, you must first become a licensed practical nurse. This requires completing a state-approved nursing program, which typically takes about a year to complete. You’ll need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) in order to become licensed.
After becoming an LPN, you’ll need to gain some experience in the nursing field before pursuing a career as a travel nurse. Most employers prefer LPN travel nurses to have at least one year of experience working in a healthcare setting.
LPN Travel Nurse Education
LPN travel nurses typically complete a diploma or certificate program in practical nursing. These programs are usually offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or technical schools. The coursework typically includes classes in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and clinical skills.
After completing an LPN program, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam in order to become licensed. Some LPN travel nurses also pursue additional education, such as an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN).
LPN Travel Nurse Job Responsibilities
LPN travel nurses are responsible for a variety of nursing tasks, including:
- Administering medication and treatments
- Taking vital signs
- Dressing wounds
- Assisting with daily living activities
- Providing emotional support to patients and families
- Charting patient progress
LPN travel nurses must be able to work independently and adapt to new environments quickly. They must also have excellent communication and organizational skills.
LPN Travel Nurse Salary
LPN travel nurses typically earn a higher salary than traditional LPNs due to the nature of their work. According to Payscale, the average salary for an LPN travel nurse is $25.69 per hour.
LPN Travel Nurse Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, LPN travel nurses may also receive other benefits such as:
- Travel reimbursement
- Housing stipend
- Medical and dental insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid time off
FAQs
| Q: What is the difference between an LPN and an RN? | A: LPNs and RNs both provide nursing care, but RNs have more education and training than LPNs. RNs must complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). |
| Q: Do LPN travel nurses need to be licensed in every state they work in? | A: LPN travel nurses must have a valid nursing license in the state they are working in. Some states have reciprocal agreements with other states, meaning that LPNs can work in those states without obtaining a new license. |
| Q: How long do LPN travel nurse contracts typically last? | A: LPN travel nurse contracts can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the facility’s needs and the nurse’s availability. |
| Q: What is the demand for LPN travel nurses? | A: The demand for LPN travel nurses is expected to grow in the coming years due to an aging population and a shortage of healthcare professionals in certain areas. |
Becoming an LPN travel nurse can be a challenging and rewarding career choice for those who love nursing and travel. By completing the necessary education and gaining experience in the nursing field, you can embark on a career that allows you to see new places, meet new people, and make a difference in the lives of patients.