Traveling nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who work temporary assignments at healthcare facilities in different locations. They fill short-term staffing needs, providing patient care while gaining diverse experiences.
Earn a Nursing Degree
The first step to becoming a travel nurse is to obtain a nursing degree from an accredited nursing program. There are several paths you can take to meet this requirement:
-
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree: A four-year degree that provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing theory and practice.
-
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree: A two-year degree that prepares graduates for entry-level RN positions.
-
LPN to BSN bridge program: Designed for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) who want to advance their education and become RNs.
-
LPN to ASN degree: Another option for LPNs looking to become RNs.
Pass the NCLEX to Become a Registered Nurse
After graduating with a nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse. The NCLEX-RN is a standardized exam that assesses your competency to practice nursing safely and effectively. Once you pass the NCLEX exam and meet the requirements of your state’s board of nursing, you will be eligible to become a registered nurse.
Gain Experience in a Specialty
To thrive as a travel nurse, it’s crucial to gain experience in a nursing specialty. Healthcare facilities often seek travel nurses with expertise in areas such as critical care, emergency medicine, or surgical services.
Aspiring travel nurses should proactively seek opportunities to gain experience in their desired specialties while working as a full-time nurse. For example, a nurse aiming to work in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) should gain experience in that specific setting.
Attain Licensure
Registered nurses must be licensed in the state where they work. The Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) allows RNs to hold a single nursing license that is valid in multiple states. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) maintains a list of states that participate in the NLC.
If you live in an NLC state, you may not need additional licensing to work as a travel nurse in other NLC states. However, if you plan to work outside the NLC, you will need to obtain a license in the specific state where you intend to work. Some states may offer temporary licenses for travel nurses.
Work With a Travel Nursing Agency
The final step to becoming a travel nurse is to partner with a reputable travel nursing agency. Agencies act as intermediaries between nurses and healthcare facilities, matching nurses with assignments that fit their skills and preferences.
The benefits offered by staffing agencies can vary significantly, including factors like hospital affiliations, geographic focus, and specialized opportunities within certain nursing fields. When evaluating agencies, consider the support they offer, their pay and benefits packages, and their reputation within the industry.
In conclusion, becoming a travel nurse requires a combination of education, licensure, experience, and strategic partnerships. By carefully planning your career path and taking the necessary steps, you can embark on a fulfilling and adventurous career as a travel nurse, providing essential care while exploring new places.
