Are you a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) with a wanderlust spirit? Do stories of travel nurses exploring the country while advancing their careers intrigue you? You might be asking yourself: Can Lpns Be Travel Nurses?
Let’s dive into this exciting possibility and uncover how you can become a travel LPN, exploring the perks, responsibilities, and lifestyle that come with it. We’ll also highlight some of the most in-demand settings for LPN travel nurse jobs.
What Exactly is Travel Nursing?
If you’re new to the concept, travel nursing offers a dynamic and flexible career path for nurses. Instead of holding a permanent position at one facility, travel nurses take on temporary assignments, typically lasting 13 to 26 weeks, in healthcare facilities across the country. This provides the chance to experience different environments, learn new skills, and broaden your professional horizons. Travel nursing provides the freedom to choose assignments that align with your goals, discover new locations, and contribute your expertise where it’s needed most.
The Answer: Yes, LPNs Can Be Travel Nurses!
So, to definitively answer the question: Can LPNs be travel nurses? Absolutely! The opportunities for LPNs in travel nursing are growing rapidly.
Although there’s a common misconception that travel nursing is solely for Registered Nurses (RNs), LPNs (and LVNs) are increasingly finding rewarding and unique opportunities on the road. LPN travel nurse jobs allow you to experience different parts of the country, create lasting memories, and explore diverse healthcare settings.
Your Path to Becoming a Travel LPN
Now that we know the answer to “can LPNs be travel nurses” is yes, let’s discuss how to make it happen:
Education and Certification
The first step is to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). This involves:
- Obtaining a high school diploma or GED.
- Completing an accredited practical nursing certificate program (typically a one-year program).
- Successfully passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
- Optional: Consider obtaining a Travel Nurse Compact License to expand your opportunities.
Experience Matters
After completing your training and becoming certified, gaining practical experience is essential. Most agencies, including CareerStaff, generally require travel nurses to have at least 1-2 years of clinical experience before taking on travel assignments. This experience ensures you’re well-prepared for the challenges and demands of different healthcare settings. However, depending on the specific assignment and agency, some opportunities may be available for nurses with less experience.
The Application Process
Navigating the application process is a key step. Applying through a nurse staffing agency is one of the easiest ways to find LPN travel nurse jobs. After connecting with a recruiter, they can assist you in finding a position that aligns with your professional goals and personal preferences.
The Benefits of Travel Nursing for LPNs/LVNs
Professional Development
One of the most compelling benefits of LPN travel nurse jobs is the significant professional growth you’ll experience. Working in diverse facilities exposes you to different patient populations, medical challenges, and best practices, which will enhance your skills and knowledge.
Enhanced Earning Potential
Travel nursing jobs often provide higher pay rates compared to permanent positions due to the high demand for skilled nurses in various locations. LPNs can boost their income by traveling for work, with benefits like housing stipends, travel reimbursement, and bonuses. It’s crucial to carefully consider all benefits and bonuses when evaluating travel nurse job offers.
Schedule Flexibility
“Routine” isn’t a word in a travel nurse’s vocabulary! Travel LPNs have the freedom to create a work-life balance that suits their lifestyle. With assignments lasting from a few weeks to several months, you have the flexibility to choose a location and schedule that aligns with your preferences.
Personal Enrichment and Adventure
It’s not just about the work; it’s also about the adventure! As a travel LPN, you’re not confined to a single location. You can use your free time to explore new cities, immerse yourself in different cultures, and create unforgettable memories. It’s a unique blend of professional fulfillment and personal enrichment.
Responsibilities and Lifestyle of a Travel Nurse
Adaptability is Key
Moving between healthcare environments requires quick and seamless adaptation. As a travel LPN, your ability to adapt to new situations and protocols is crucial. Whether you’re administering medications, coordinating patient care, or collaborating with different teams, your adaptability will be your superpower.
A Dynamic Workday
Although the responsibilities of a travel LPN are similar to those of traditional LPNs, the diversity of settings ensures that each day brings new experiences and challenges. Your tasks will likely be familiar, but the dynamic nature of travel nursing keeps the work engaging and rewarding.
Work Hard, Play Harder
The lifestyle of a travel LPN offers a fantastic balance between work and leisure. While on assignment, you’re fully immersed in the healthcare setting. During your time off, the world is yours to explore. It’s a lifestyle that offers the best of both worlds.
Top In-Demand Settings for LPN Travel Nurse Jobs
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs)
Explore the benefits of long-term care jobs and build meaningful relationships with residents. SNFs provide an educational environment for LPNs to enhance their skills in patient care and establish meaningful connections.
Mental and Behavioral Health Facilities
Make a positive impact on patients’ lives in a fulfilling and supportive environment. Travel LPN jobs in psych/behavioral health settings contribute to the well-being of individuals in a meaningful way.
Correctional Facilities
Make a difference in communities by providing healthcare in correctional facilities. Contributing to healthcare within these facilities offers a unique perspective on healthcare delivery and plays a vital role in rehabilitation efforts.
Ready to Start Your Travel Nursing Journey?
If you’re ready to take the plunge, CareerStaff specializes in helping travel nurses find assignments throughout the country that align with their career aspirations and support their lifestyle.
Take the first step by completing a quick and easy application. This will connect you with experienced recruiters dedicated to helping you find your dream travel LPN assignment. You can also explore available travel nursing jobs online. Your next adventure awaits!
