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If you have a passion for nursing and love to travel, becoming a travel nurse might be the perfect career for you. Travel nursing can provide you with unique opportunities to explore new places and meet new people while still doing what you love. However, becoming a travel nurse requires some preparation and planning. Here’s what you need to know.
Educational Requirements
The first step to becoming a travel nurse is to earn a nursing degree. You can become a registered nurse (RN) by completing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Once you obtain your nursing degree, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become licensed as an RN in your state. Some travel nursing agencies require a minimum of one year of experience before you can begin working as a travel nurse.
Get Experience
Before you can start working as a travel nurse, you will need to have some nursing experience. Many travel nursing agencies require at least one year of experience in your specialty area. To gain experience, you can work in a hospital, nursing home, or other healthcare facility in your local area. Some nurses also choose to work as a travel nurse within their own state before embarking on national or international travel nursing assignments.
Choose a Specialty
Travel nurses can work in a variety of nursing specialties, including emergency room (ER), critical care, labor and delivery, and medical-surgical. Choosing a nursing specialty that you are passionate about will make your travel nursing experience more fulfilling. It is important to research and understand the requirements, job duties, and salary expectations for each specialty before making a decision.
Research Travel Nursing Agencies
There are many travel nursing agencies to choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Some agencies specialize in specific nursing specialties, while others offer a wide range of assignments. Research agencies thoroughly before deciding on the one that’s right for you. Look for an agency that offers competitive pay, benefits, and support throughout your assignments.
Obtain Licenses and Certifications
Travel nurses must be licensed in the state where they work. If you plan to work in multiple states, you will need to obtain licenses in each state. Some states have a compact nursing license agreement, which allows nurses to work in multiple states under one license. Additionally, some nursing specialties require certifications, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). Having these certifications can make you more competitive in the job market.
Create a Resume and Portfolio
Craft a strong nursing resume and portfolio that highlights your education, experience, certifications, and skills. Your resume should be tailored to the specific travel nursing agency and job you are applying for. Your portfolio should include copies of your nursing licenses and certifications, as well as any letters of recommendation or awards you have received. A professional and well-organized portfolio can make a positive impression on potential employers.
Apply for Jobs
Once you have chosen a travel nursing agency and created a strong nursing resume and portfolio, you can start applying for travel nursing jobs. Be prepared to interview with the agency and potential employers. If you are offered a job, review the contract carefully and make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the assignment. Be prepared to relocate and adjust to a new work environment quickly.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is a travel nurse? | A travel nurse is a registered nurse who works on short-term assignments in healthcare facilities across the country or internationally. |
| How much do travel nurses make? | Travel nurse salaries vary depending on location, experience, and specialty. The average travel nurse salary is $74,000 per year. |
| What are the benefits of being a travel nurse? | Becoming a travel nurse can provide you with unique opportunities to explore new places and meet new people while still doing what you love. Travel nursing also offers competitive pay, benefits, and flexibility in scheduling. |
| What is the work schedule for a travel nurse? | Travel nurses typically work 13-week assignments, although the length of the assignment can vary depending on the facility’s needs. |
| Do travel nurses receive benefits? | Many travel nursing agencies offer benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, and retirement plans. Some agencies also offer reimbursement for housing and travel expenses. |