If you’re a nurse who loves to travel and wants to earn a good salary, then becoming an ICU traveling nurse might be the perfect job for you. As a traveling nurse, you’ll get to work in different cities and states, gain valuable experience, and earn a higher salary than most staff nurses.
What Is an ICU Traveling Nurse?
An ICU traveling nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who works in the intensive care unit (ICU) of different hospitals and healthcare facilities. They travel to different locations to fill short-term nursing positions, usually for 13 weeks or longer. Their job is to provide high-quality care to critically ill patients and support the staff nurses and doctors working in the ICU.
How Much Do ICU Traveling Nurses Make?
The salary of an ICU traveling nurse can vary based on several factors, including experience, location, and the staffing agency they work for. According to TravelNursing.org, the average salary for an ICU traveling nurse is around $2,200-$3,500 per week. This works out to be around $95,000-$150,000 per year, depending on the number of weeks worked.
The salary of an ICU traveling nurse can be higher or lower than the national average, depending on the state they work in. For example, ICU traveling nurses who work in California or New York tend to earn more than those who work in other states due to the higher cost of living.
Factors That Affect ICU Traveling Nurse Salary
Several factors can affect the salary of an ICU traveling nurse, including:
Factor | Description |
---|---|
Experience | The more experience you have as a nurse, the higher your salary will be. |
Location | The state and city you work in can affect your salary due to differences in cost of living and demand for nurses. |
Staffing Agency | The staffing agency you work for can affect your pay as they may offer different rates based on experience and location. |
Education and Certification | Holding advanced degrees or certifications can increase your salary and make you more competitive in the job market. |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about ICU traveling nurse salary:
What is the average salary of an ICU traveling nurse?
The average salary of an ICU traveling nurse is around $2,200-$3,500 per week or $95,000-$150,000 per year.
What factors affect the salary of an ICU traveling nurse?
Several factors can affect the salary of an ICU traveling nurse, including experience, location, staffing agency, and education/certification.
Is being an ICU traveling nurse worth it?
Many ICU traveling nurses find it to be a rewarding and fulfilling career that offers higher pay and the opportunity to travel and gain valuable experience.
Conclusion
If you’re considering becoming an ICU traveling nurse, it’s important to research the job market and understand the factors that can affect your salary. While the pay can be higher than staff nursing positions, you’ll need to be flexible and willing to travel to different locations for short-term assignments. With the right education, experience, and certifications, you can earn a good salary and enjoy the many benefits of being an ICU traveling nurse.