Traveling nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who work temporary assignments at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in different locations. This career path offers nurses the opportunity to explore new places, gain diverse experience, and earn competitive salaries. If you’re considering a career as a traveling nurse, here’s a breakdown of what it entails.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Traveling Nurse
Traveling nurses fill short-term staffing needs, often due to vacancies, seasonal fluctuations, or increased patient demand. Their responsibilities are similar to those of permanent staff nurses and include:
- Providing direct patient care
- Administering medications
- Monitoring patient conditions
- Collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals
- Documenting patient information
Traveling nurses must quickly adapt to new environments, learn facility protocols, and work effectively with different teams.
Education and Certification Requirements
To become a traveling nurse, you need to meet specific educational and licensing requirements:
- Nursing Degree: You must have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing program. A BSN is often preferred by employers.
- NCLEX-RN Exam: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse (RN).
- Registered Nurse (RN) License: Obtain an RN license in your state of residence.
Gaining Experience
Most travel nursing agencies require nurses to have at least one to two years of experience in their specialty. This experience is crucial for providing safe and effective patient care in unfamiliar settings. Common nursing specialties include:
- Emergency Room (ER)
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- Operating Room (OR)
- Medical-Surgical
- Labor and Delivery
It is important to gain experience in the specialty you desire while working full time as a regularly scheduled nurse. For example, a travel nurse with experience working in a neonatal intensive care unit is more competitive for NICU jobs.
State Licensure and the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Nurses must be licensed in the state where they practice. The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to hold one multi-state license, with the ability to practice in other compact member states. If you plan to work in non-compact states, you will need to obtain individual licenses for those states. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing keeps track of the states that have implemented the NLC.
Working with a Travel Nursing Agency
Most traveling nurses work through staffing agencies that specialize in placing nurses in temporary assignments. These agencies handle:
- Job placement
- Housing arrangements
- Licensing assistance
- Benefits (health insurance, retirement plans)
- Paycheck
Benefits of Travel Nursing
Travel nursing offers several advantages:
- Higher Pay: Traveling nurses often earn more than staff nurses due to the demand for their services.
- Travel Opportunities: Explore new cities, states, and regions.
- Career Growth: Gain diverse experience in different healthcare settings.
- Flexibility: Control your work schedule and choose assignments that fit your lifestyle.
Choosing a Travel Nursing Agency
Selecting the right travel nursing agency is crucial. Consider factors such as:
- Reputation: Research the agency’s reputation and read reviews from other nurses.
- Job Availability: Ensure the agency has a wide range of assignments in your specialty and desired locations.
- Benefits Package: Compare the benefits offered by different agencies.
- Support: Look for an agency that provides comprehensive support, including housing assistance and licensing guidance.
Is Travel Nursing Right for You?
Travel nursing is not for everyone. It requires adaptability, independence, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. If you are a skilled and experienced nurse who enjoys travel and variety, it could be a rewarding career path.
Conclusion
Becoming a traveling nurse involves meeting specific education, licensing, and experience requirements. By working with a reputable travel nursing agency, you can find fulfilling assignments, advance your career, and explore new horizons.
