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Being a PRN travel nurse is a popular career choice for many individuals who desire to travel while pursuing their passion in nursing. PRN means “as needed,” which means that travel nurses work on an on-call or as-needed basis, filling in for full-time nurses who are absent due to vacation, illness or other reasons. In this article, we will explore what it takes to become a PRN travel nurse and the benefits and challenges of this career path.
What is a PRN Travel Nurse?
A PRN travel nurse is a registered nurse who travels from one healthcare facility to another to fill short-term staffing needs. These nurses work on a temporary, contract basis, and are typically required to have at least one year of nursing experience before being considered for a travel nursing position. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare facilities.
How to Become a PRN Travel Nurse?
To become a PRN travel nurse, you must first obtain a nursing degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse. After gaining some nursing experience, you can then apply to travel nursing agencies or work with a recruiter who specializes in travel nursing. Once hired, the agency will work with you to find short-term assignments that fit your skills and qualifications. Some agencies may also offer travel and housing assistance, as well as other benefits, such as medical and dental insurance.
Benefits of Being a PRN Travel Nurse
Being a PRN travel nurse comes with many benefits, including the opportunity to travel and explore new places, meet new people, and gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings. You also have the flexibility to choose when and where you work, which can help you achieve a better work-life balance. Additionally, travel nurses may earn higher pay rates and receive other benefits, such as health insurance and 401(k) plans.
Challenges of Being a PRN Travel Nurse
Although being a PRN travel nurse offers many benefits, it also comes with its share of challenges. Travel nurses must be able to adapt quickly to new environments and work with different healthcare teams. They must also be able to manage their own schedules, finances, and travel arrangements. Additionally, travel nurses may experience feelings of homesickness and loneliness while away from friends and family for extended periods.
FAQs About PRN Travel Nurses
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the difference between PRN and full-time travel nursing? | PRN travel nurses work on an as-needed basis, while full-time travel nurses work on long-term contracts. |
| How long are PRN travel nursing assignments? | PRN travel nursing assignments can range from a few days to a few months, depending on the staffing needs of the healthcare facility. |
| What are the requirements to become a PRN travel nurse? | You must have a nursing degree, RN license, and at least one year of nursing experience to become a PRN travel nurse. |
| Do travel nursing agencies provide housing? | Some travel nursing agencies provide housing, while others offer stipends to help with housing costs. |
| How much do PRN travel nurses make? | PRN travel nurses can make higher hourly rates than full-time nurses, and may also receive bonuses or other incentives. |
Conclusion
Becoming a PRN travel nurse can be a rewarding career choice for those who enjoy traveling and working in different healthcare environments. While it comes with its challenges, the benefits of being a travel nurse can outweigh the difficulties. If you are interested in becoming a PRN travel nurse, be sure to research different travel nursing agencies and recruiters to find the best fit for your skills and qualifications.