Travelers Plans How to Travelers Plans in The World
Travel nursing is a career option that allows nurses to work temporary assignments in different locations across the country. While many travel nurses choose to take assignments far from home, there are also opportunities for nurses to work closer to home. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of local travel nursing, and provide tips for finding and securing assignments in your area.
What is Travel Nursing?
Travel nursing involves working temporary jobs in different locations, typically for 13 to 26 weeks at a time. Nurses who travel for work are usually contracted through a staffing agency, which provides them with housing, travel expenses, and a competitive salary. Travel nursing is a popular career option for nurses who want to explore new places, gain experience in different healthcare settings, and earn higher wages.
The Benefits of Local Travel Nursing
While travel nursing often involves working in different states or even across the country, there are also opportunities for nurses to work closer to home. Local travel nursing can provide many of the same benefits as traditional travel nursing, such as higher pay, flexible schedules, and the chance to gain new skills and experiences. However, local travel nursing also allows nurses to stay close to family and friends, avoid long commutes or relocations, and maintain a sense of familiarity with their community.
Tips for Finding Local Travel Nursing Assignments
If you’re interested in pursuing a local travel nursing assignment, here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Research Staffing Agencies
Start by researching staffing agencies that specialize in travel nursing placements. Look for agencies that have a strong reputation and a track record of placing nurses in your area. You can also ask colleagues or instructors for recommendations.
2. Check Job Boards
Many staffing agencies post job openings on online job boards. Check sites like Indeed, Monster, and SimplyHired for local travel nursing opportunities. You can also create job alerts to get notified when new positions become available.
3. Network with Recruiters
Contact recruiters at staffing agencies and introduce yourself. Let them know what your experience and interests are, and ask if they have any local opportunities available. Building a relationship with a recruiter can help you stay informed about future job openings.
4. Consider Per Diem Work
If you’re having trouble finding a local travel nursing assignment, consider taking on per diem work instead. Per diem work involves filling in on an as-needed basis at local healthcare facilities. While per diem work may not provide the same level of benefits as travel nursing, it can help you gain experience and make valuable connections in your area.
Conclusion
Local travel nursing can be a great way for nurses to earn higher pay and gain new experiences without having to relocate. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding and securing local travel nursing assignments that meet your needs and interests.
| Resources | Links |
|---|---|
| Travel Nursing Staffing Agencies | https://www.travelnursing.com/ |
| Indeed Job Board | https://www.indeed.com/q-Travel-Nurse-jobs.html |
| Monster Job Board | https://www.monster.com/jobs/q-travel-nurse-jobs.aspx |
| SimplyHired Job Board | https://www.simplyhired.com/search?q=travel+nurse&job=JnMAy9DXpSfL-7vSgQ2J73s93sN4Nl4DlN4RyCtX9A9QgM8LYywFQw |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for becoming a travel nurse?
Most travel nursing positions require a minimum of one year of experience in a clinical setting, as well as a current nursing license. Some positions may also require additional certifications or training.
How much do travel nurses make?
Travel nurses typically earn higher wages than their permanent counterparts, due to the temporary nature of their assignments and the need for healthcare facilities to fill staffing gaps quickly. According to Payscale, the average hourly wage for travel nurses is $34.67.
What kind of housing is provided for travel nurses?
Most staffing agencies provide travel nurses with furnished apartments or housing stipends, depending on their preference. Housing options may vary depending on the location of the assignment and the agency you’re working with.
What kind of healthcare facilities can travel nurses work in?
Travel nurses can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. Some travel nurses may also work in non-clinical roles, such as healthcare educators or researchers.
What are the biggest challenges of travel nursing?
While travel nursing can be a rewarding career option, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Some of the biggest challenges include adjusting to new work environments, being away from family and friends for extended periods of time, and dealing with the stress of frequent travel.