Are you a licensed practical nurse (LPN) who loves to travel and explore new places? If you are, then a career as an LPN travel nurse may be the perfect fit for you. With LPN travel contracts, you can enjoy the benefits of both nursing and traveling all at once. In this article, we will discuss what LPN travel contracts are, how to become an LPN travel nurse, the benefits of pursuing this career, how to find LPN travel contracts, and some FAQs on the topic.
What are LPN Travel Contracts?
LPN travel contracts are temporary nursing assignments that allow licensed practical nurses to work in healthcare facilities in different locations throughout the United States. These contracts typically last between four to 13 weeks, depending on the facility and the assignment. LPN travel nurses can work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other medical facilities. As an LPN travel nurse, you have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings while exploring new places and meeting new people.
How to Become an LPN Travel Nurse?
To become an LPN travel nurse, you must first become a licensed practical nurse. This requires completing a state-approved LPN program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam. Once you have obtained your LPN license, you can start looking for LPN travel contracts with a staffing agency or travel nursing company. These companies will help you find available assignments, negotiate pay rates and benefits, and provide support throughout your assignment. It’s important to choose a reputable staffing agency or travel nursing company that has a good track record of placing LPN travel nurses in assignments that suit their skills and preferences.
The Benefits of Pursuing a Career as an LPN Travel Nurse
There are many benefits to pursuing a career as an LPN travel nurse. Some of these benefits include:
Benefits | Explanation |
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Travel Opportunities | LPN travel nurses have the opportunity to work in different locations throughout the United States, allowing them to see new places and experience different cultures. |
Flexible Schedule | LPN travel nurses can choose assignments that fit their lifestyle and schedule, allowing them to work when they want and take time off when they need it. |
Higher Pay and Benefits | LPN travel nurses typically earn more than regular LPNs and receive benefits such as housing, travel expenses, and medical insurance. |
Professional Growth | LPN travel nurses have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings, which can enhance their skills and knowledge as a nurse. |
How to Find LPN Travel Contracts?
To find LPN travel contracts, you can work with a staffing agency or travel nursing company that specializes in placing LPN travel nurses. These companies have a database of available assignments that they match with the skills and preferences of LPN travel nurses. You can also search for LPN travel nursing jobs on job boards such as Indeed and Monster or check with healthcare facilities directly to see if they have any LPN travel nursing positions available.
FAQs About LPN Travel Contracts
What is the difference between an LPN and an RN travel nurse?
An LPN is a licensed practical nurse who has completed a state-approved LPN program and passed the NCLEX-PN exam. An RN is a registered nurse who has completed a state-approved nursing program and passed the NCLEX-RN exam. While both LPN and RN travel nurses can work in different locations throughout the United States, RN travel nurses typically have more responsibilities and earn a higher salary than LPN travel nurses.
What kind of assignments can LPN travel nurses expect to find?
LPN travel nurses can find assignments in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other medical facilities. The type of assignment will depend on the needs of the healthcare facility and the skills of the LPN travel nurse.
Do LPN travel nurses need to obtain a new nursing license for each state they work in?
While LPN travel nurses do not need to obtain a new nursing license for each state they work in, they do need to obtain a nursing license in the state where they will be working. The process for obtaining a nursing license in a new state can vary, so it’s important for LPN travel nurses to research the requirements for each state they plan to work in.
What is the average salary for an LPN travel nurse?
The average salary for an LPN travel nurse can vary depending on the healthcare facility, location, and experience level of the nurse. However, LPN travel nurses typically earn more than regular LPNs due to the additional benefits they receive such as housing and travel expenses. According to Indeed.com, the average salary for an LPN travel nurse is $27.32 per hour.
LPN travel contracts offer a unique opportunity for licensed practical nurses to explore new places and gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings. Whether you are a new graduate or an experienced LPN, pursuing a career as an LPN travel nurse can provide you with the flexibility, professional growth, and adventure you are looking for in a nursing career.