When it comes to the topmost in-demand travel nurse specialties, there are two things to look out for. One is the demand for nurses’ services in that field, and the second is how much they get paid. It follows the economic rule of “The higher the demand, the more the price.” This article brings you the top in-demand travel nurse specialties and what makes them so special.
5 Most Sought-After Travel Nurse Specialities
Travel nurses are registered nurses who work in short-term roles at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities globally. They help fill gaps in areas where there are nursing shortages. An independent nursing staffing agency employs them instead of a single hospital.
According to Trusted Nurse Staffing, knowing the nursing specialty in demand would help you choose the direction to take your nursing career. This is why we put together the best five options to help you decide.
1. Intensive Care Nurses
Intensive care (ICU) nurses are the most sought-after in nursing specialties. The need for ICU nurses increased due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Generally, the high demand for nurse practitioners in this specialty is because they have experience with:
- Severe accident cases
- Significant and delicate surgeries
- Trauma and other life-threatening situations
To become an ICU nurse, you must pass the NCLEX-RN and get licensed in the state where you practice. You must have at least one year of clinical experience and have BLS/CPR and ACLS certifications. Meeting these requirements qualifies you as a Critical Care Registered Nurse, and you can work in:
- Pediatric ICU
- Cardiac care unit
- Telemetry units
- Neonatal ICU
- Progressive care units
2. Telemetry Nursing
Due to the shortage of ICU beds, and the increased need for progressive care, there’s high demand for telemetry nurses. Nurses working in this specialty constantly monitor patients experiencing cardiac, respiratory, or renal issues. They are quick to act and communicate effectively with healthcare providers.
If you can accurately assess a situation and act accordingly, then consider telemetry nursing. To become one, you must possess:
- RN license
- ADN or BSN degree
- ACLS, BLS, and PCCN certifications
3. Emergency Room Nursing
This specialty is in demand because emergency room nurses are among the first to attend to trauma patients when they arrive at the hospital. Hospital ERs are always filled with diverse types of ailments and need proactive nurses. If you are not afraid of past-packed action and split-second decisions, consider this specialty.
To become an emergency room nurse, you must have the following qualifications:
- A year of experience in an acute care facility
- ACLS, PALS, and BLS certifications
- NIH Stroke certification
If you desire to distinguish yourself during the application process, it will help to have or take part in the following:
- Emergency Nursing in Pediatrics Course
- Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)
- Trauma Nurse Core Course
- Crisis Prevention Training
4. Labor and Delivery Nurses
There is an increased need for labor and delivery nurses. While many see it as a satisfying and fulfilling career choice, not everyone has what it takes to be one.
The required qualifications to become a labor and delivery nurse include:
- Possessing an ADN and BSN
- Passing the NCLEX
- Having BLS, ACLS, PALS, and NRP certifications
- Being experienced in electronic fetal heart monitoring
- Having a one-year experience in an acute care facility
5. Operating Room Nursing
Operating room nursing is both high in demand and offers a good salary. This is because they are needed in hospitals and surgical centers, day-surgery centers, and clinics. To be an OR nurse, you need to be highly skilled and keep operating rooms clean and sterile always.
Also, nurses working in this specialty are patient advocates and pay key attention to their safety. To qualify for this position, you must:
- Earn an ADN or BSN
- Obtain an RN license in the state you work
- Have clinical or OR experience
- Have BLS and ACLS certifications
Conclusion
The opportunities available to travel nurses are vast. Whether you are a specialty nurse looking to diversify or increase your pay, there’s something for you. All you need to do is find your perfect fit, such as with online dating. So, feel free to begin today.
