After years of studying, you’ve finally reached the end of your nursing program and are set to embark on your journey as a registered nurse. However, you may be asking yourself, “What’s next?” One popular option among new nurses is to become a travel nurse. Travel nursing offers a unique opportunity to experience new places, meet new people, and gain valuable skills that will advance your nursing career. In this guide, we’ll give you the rundown on what it means to be a new graduate travel nurse, how to get started, and what to expect on your first assignment.
What is a New Graduate Travel Nurse?
A new graduate travel nurse is a registered nurse who has recently completed their nursing program and chooses to work on short-term assignments at various hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country. These assignments typically last between 8-13 weeks, during which the nurse will be responsible for patient care, charting, and other nursing duties. The main difference between a new graduate travel nurse and a regular travel nurse is that new graduates have less experience and are still developing their nursing skills.
How to Get Started as a New Graduate Travel Nurse
Before you can begin your career as a new graduate travel nurse, there are a few steps you’ll need to take:
- Get your nursing license: You need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse in the United States.
- Gain experience: Many travel nursing agencies require at least one year of experience as a registered nurse, so it’s a good idea to gain some experience before jumping into travel nursing.
- Find a travel nursing agency: There are many travel nursing agencies out there, so do your research and find the one that fits your needs.
- Apply for assignments: Once you’ve found an agency, you can begin applying for assignments. The agency will match you with assignments based on your experience, preferences, and availability.
What to Expect on Your First Assignment
Starting your first assignment as a new graduate travel nurse can be both exciting and intimidating. Here are some things to expect:
- Orientations: You’ll likely have a few days of orientation at the beginning of your assignment to get familiar with the hospital’s policies and procedures.
- Being the “new kid”: You may feel like an outsider at first, but don’t worry – everyone was new once!
- Learning new systems: Each hospital will have its own charting and computer systems, so you’ll need to get familiar with them quickly.
- Being flexible: As a travel nurse, you may be asked to work different shifts or float to different units. Be prepared to be flexible.
Benefits of Being a New Graduate Travel Nurse
There are many benefits to being a new graduate travel nurse:
- Experience: Travel nursing allows you to gain experience in different specialties and healthcare settings.
- Higher pay: Travel nurses typically make more money than regular staff nurses.
- Flexibility: You can choose the assignments that work best for you and take time off between assignments if needed.
- Adventure: Travel nursing allows you to explore new places and experience different cultures.
FAQs
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Do I need experience to become a new graduate travel nurse? | While some agencies require experience, there are agencies that cater specifically to new graduate travel nurses. |
Can I choose where I want to go for my assignments? | Yes! When you apply for assignments, you can choose the locations that interest you. |
How long are travel nursing assignments? | Assignments typically last between 8-13 weeks, but can sometimes be longer or shorter depending on the facility’s needs. |
What kind of housing is provided? | Most travel nursing agencies provide their nurses with fully furnished housing, but some agencies offer a housing stipend instead. |
Conclusion
Becoming a new graduate travel nurse is an exciting opportunity to gain experience, explore new places, and advance your nursing career. By following the steps outlined in this guide and working with a reputable travel nursing agency, you can start your journey as a new graduate travel nurse with confidence.