March 30, 2022

1894 Views

Working as a Travel Nurse

Posted on March 30, 2022March 30, 2022 by Diane Wong

See the Country and Earn a Living at Same Time

A travel nurse has the option to choose almost anywhere she desires to live – then has all employment, housing, and moving preparations made for her.

Many nurses and other healthcare professionals, with the freedom to travel, and the propensity to explore new sites and surroundings, enjoy travel positions. Moving without the daunting duties that accompany, is made simple and may even be an exciting experience.

Registered nurses are medical health professionals who have completed at least two years of training in the field of nursing at a school of nursing or community college. Graduates must then pass state licensing exams. Once a nurse has earned her state license, she can look for a job in the many varied fields of nursing. One of the most popular employment areas of nursing is known as travel nursing.

Travel Nurse Jobs

Traveling nurses work in many parts of the country. They help deal with the medical effects of short-term disasters such as hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. Travel nurses also help hospitals and nursing homes fill staff shortages. A travel nurse may assist workers helping people dig after their homes have collapsed, fill in for a nurse on maternity leave, or help a busy urban hospital deal with an influx of patients for some time.

A travel nurse might spend a month in a hospital in a burn unit in Florida during December and then head to Texas for three months or California for six months.

Benefits & Bonuses

Travel nurses are paid by their staffing agency – not the facility or hospital. She may receive direct deposit payments and benefits provided by the agency. Bonuses are another perk that is dependent upon the agency – and may include referral bonuses and completion bonuses (paid upon completion of the employment term). Considering the many advantages such as paid travel expenses, furnished and fully paid apartment living, and free standard utilities – those employed by such agencies may fare better (financially) than those employed directly by the hospitals and facilities.

Disadvantages

Individuals with family ties and tight-knit friendships may find it difficult to travel. Relationships may be strained when communication is stretched. For those who seek permanence and stability – a transitory lifestyle may be intimidating and unsettling. In addition, those who have forged friendships with co-workers may find it disheartening to leave upon completion of the temporary employment assignment. A definite resilience to new situations and settings should be a prerequisite to travel nursing. Those inquiring about a position should be sure to weigh the advantages against the disadvantages and not make a hasty decision.

Travel Nurse Agencies

A travel nurse agency is a company that specializes in the employment of traveling nurses. Agencies vet candidates for employment, create contracts, set up assignments, and act as a middleman between the travel nurse and her assignments.

Most traveling nurse agencies require candidates to have completed their education and training. Nursing agencies also require most registered nurses to have at least two years of full-time employment in a hospital setting. A potential travel nurse may also be required to have specific training and certifications such as neonatal resuscitation to work in a NICU or experience with kidney patients to work on a dialysis unit.

Many travel nursing agencies have contracts in different states. A traveling nurse must have a valid state license for each state where she wants to work. A travel nursing agency owner will work with her to earn any additional state licenses so that she has as many working opportunities as possible.

Benefits of Travel Nursing

Working as a traveling nurse can have many benefits. Travel nurses often earn a higher hourly wage than their on-staff counterparts. A travel nurse can decide to work for six months and then take the next month off. Many travel nursing agencies provide travel nurses with additional benefits such as health insurance, a housing allowance, and a completion bonus if they full all the requirements of their contracts.

Travel nurses are expected to be quick learners. Some hospitals will provide the nurse with a few hours of onsite orientation. Many expect the nurse to be fully ready to work in a position within a short period of her arrival.

A job as a travel nurse can be fun and exciting. For a registered nurse with the right credentials, travel nursing can be the perfect way to see many parts of the country and advance their careers.

We hope you found this article on working as a travel nurse helpful. Do you have any advice or tips to share with those considering this career? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your first travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for your assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

About the author:

Diane H. Wong is a content writer at essaywriter.nyc and a family coach. So she prefers to spend her spare time working out family issues solutions. In this case, she has an opportunity to share her experience with others and keep up with advancing technologies.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Titan Medical

March 8, 2022

2462 Views

Lucky Tips For Starting as a Travel Nurse

Posted on March 8, 2022March 7, 2022 by Titan Medical

Titan Medical Group provided this article.

Are you feeling nervous about taking on your first assignment as a Travel Nurse? Here are a few tips for setting you up for success!

Get and Stay Organized

If you are getting ready to take on your first assignment as a traveling nurse, you need to stay organized every step of the way. You need to make sure your paperwork and information are updated. Prepare for your phone interview and bring copies of any necessary documentation to your first day. Being organized will help you out tremendously in the long run!

Stay in contact with your recruiter

When you get a recruiter, they will be your best friend on your journey. They are on your side to make sure you are placed in the perfect fit for you. Once you start your assignment, be sure to check in with your recruiter to update them to help you with future assignments.

Keep an open-mind

Going to an unfamiliar place away from the people you love can be overwhelming and hard to adjust to. When going into your assignment, always have an open mind and a positive attitude. Getting to know people you will be working with will help you open up to new opportunities and growth in your career!

Ask questions

When taking on a new assignment, you will be encountered different situations and people. If you are unsure about a task, don’t be afraid to step up and ask questions. It is better to ask questions as soon as possible instead of being hesitant about a situation.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

We hope you found these lucky tips for starting travel nursing helpful. Have you recently started travel nursing and have tips to share with those considering travel nursing? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming travel nurse assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are ready for your next travel assignment, give Titan Medical a call today at 866-332-9600, and we’d love to assist in finding your next adventure!

By Brandy Pinkerton

February 24, 2022

2042 Views

Scared to Take the Leap into Travel Nursing? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Be!

Posted on February 24, 2022February 20, 2022 by Brandy Pinkerton

There is no doubt that travel nursing has been a trendy topic and more popular than ever due to the pandemic and nursing shortages. You may have met some travel nurses in your unit or have seen their adventures on social media. However, travel nursing may have been a goal and dream of yours for quite some time. For me, travel nursing had been my intention long before it gained such popularity, so you can imagine how scary the unknown was for me personally. Unfortunately, I had to learn some things the hard way and wish I had someone to guide me to the process. There are also a lot of misconceptions out there, so I wouldn’t want those to keep you from travel nursing. If you are scared to take the leap into travel nursing, I am here to help you through this transition and help set you up for success. Trust me when I tell you, the rewards will be worth it!

Debunking a Few Common Myths

If you are one of the many nurses considering a career in travel nursing, you’ve probably heard some horror stories or, at the minimum, some misconceptions. From being “too old” to start travel nursing, being assigned to the worst patients on the unit, floating, having no control over your schedule, being bullied by co-workers, or feeling like you don’t fit in. I’d like to share my perspective, both as a travel nurse and as a charge nurse.

You’re Too old to Try Travel Nursing:

My friend, you are never too old to set a new goal or have a new adventure. There is no set way you have to live your life; travel nursing isn’t just for young nurses. I will tell you one thing, you do not want to have regrets, and as I’ve gotten older, thinking about that has helped give me a new perspective on every decision in my life!

Travel Nurses always get the worst assignments and patients:

First of all, the charge nurse isn’t familiar with your skill level, and core staff often need the experience with higher acuity pts. No matter how many years of experience you have as a nurse, there’s always a chance to grow and learn while traveling. Being in a new environment requires you to adapt and be flexible. You’ll need to know your resources because with each new contract; there are new policies, new people, and new technology.

Travel Nurses are first to float:

While in many facilities, this may be true, you should not be asked to float to a unit that you are not comfortable with unless being asked to be “helping hands” to take vital signs and help answer call lights and phones, etc. Learning to float and be flexible is a skill; a skill that is only mastered by a few. During your interview, make sure to discuss floating with the unit manager. Make sure to get the units you are required to float to in your contract. It is very likely that after a few assignments, you likely won’t care as much because you have learned to be flexible and adaptable. Step out of your comfort zone and remember your purpose as a travel nurse is to fill a hospital’s needs.

Travel Nurses get the worst schedule:

The units I chose to work on have had self-scheduling with a weekend and holiday requirement, which was the same for staff nurses. Your schedule may not be exactly as you asked, but it’s usually close. If you know you need some time off during your assignment, it’s important to have those dates ready when you interview and make sure they are written in your contract.

Travel Nurses are bullied:

Unfortunately, this is a very real thing both as a staff nurse and traveler. Here are my “two cents.” If you go into your new unit with a positive, helpful attitude, you are much more likely to be well received by staff. Choosing a unit that already has a few travel nurses always seemed to be better for me. The nurses are less stressed, the on-boarding process is more thorough, and the management is generally more supportive.

Don’t let these common myths prevent you a travel nursing career— and enjoying the many perks that come with it: a great compensation package, professional development, and adventure! My Call to Action to you is to try it at least once!!!

Take the leap!

Check out TravelNurse101.com for more tips and education about Travel Nursing. Schedule your complimentary 1:1 mentoring session with Brandy today!

We hope you found this article on debunking myths and why you should take the leap into travel nursing helpful. Did you take the leap into travel nursing? Please share your story below.

Are you looking for your first travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for your upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Medical Solutions

February 4, 2022

2742 Views

Charting Your Journey: Experience Required for Travel Nursing – Years and Criteria

Posted on February 4, 2022December 19, 2023 by Medical Solutions

Medical Solutions provided this article.

Article was written by: By Sarah Wengert

Our expert team of travel healthcare recruiters gets a lot of great questions from aspiring travelers, including the very common: How much experience is necessary to be a travel nurse?

The experience requirement for travel nurses is typically 1-2 years. However, this question ultimately depends on each unique facility, specialty, and other such factors. But overall, if you want to know how to get started travel nursing, there’s more to it than that. So, let’s take deep dive into travel nurse experience requirements and a couple of closely related topics that will help you become a travel nurse!

Experience requirements or necessary for travel nurses

There’s no formal, industry-wide time requirement. However, the current industry standard is that travel nurses should have at least 1-2 years of recent, in-hospital, or in-facility experience to be hired as a travel nurse. Various facilities and/or units may require more experience, but such enhanced experience requirements are usually specified on a job posting. It’s also the kind of info your recruiter would share with you before you apply for a travel healthcare job.

Why Do You Need Experience to Work as a Travel Nurse?

If you already worked your tail off in nursing school, did clinical rotations, passed the NCLEX with flying colors, and can land a perm nursing job, why wouldn’t you be able to hit the road as a traveler? It’s a fair question, but there are several good reasons why, and the bottom line is that it’s ultimately about protecting you, facilities, and patients.

Travel nurses are expected to hit the ground running when they arrive at a new assignment. Orientations are often short, and there’s a lot to learn when you start at a new hospital — like meeting your colleagues and understanding the hierarchy, learning hospital protocol, navigating a new charting system, and simply finding your way around in a new space. To provide excellent patient care from day one while also finding your way in a new facility, your clinical skills must be road-tested and rock solid.

For you, travel nurse experience requirements help protect your license, pad your resume, and facilitate a successful travel nursing experience. You don’t want to have a negative first experience, overstress yourself, or let your patient care suffer because you rushed into a travel healthcare career. For hospitals, experience requirements help reassure them that their travelers will reliably provide great care from day one of an assignment they need to depend on. It’s why they’ve already hired additional healthcare professionals, after all! And most importantly, travel nursing experience requirements ensure better patient health outcomes and better overall patient care.

So, while it can seem like a pain to have to wait to become a travel nurse when you feel like you’re ready to start traveling ASAP, it’s all for good reasons, and it only benefits you in the end. Be patient and practice your skills; the time will come soon enough. Now is the time to study the travel nursing industry and prepare! Research travel nurse companies, explore travel nursing benefits and join online travel nurse groups so you can learn all the ins and outs in the meantime.

How Many Years Does It Take to Become a Travel Nurse?

Including nursing school, it takes approximately 3-6 years to become a travel RN. But, if you’re already a practicing nurse with the commonly required 1-2 years of in-hospital experience under your belt, then good news: You can start looking for your first job and become a travel nurse ASAP!

Let’s break this all down further into the different preparation phases and how many years it takes to become a travel nurse.

First, there’s the education you’ll need to become a travel nurse:

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) takes about 2-3 years to earn.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) takes about 4 years to earn.

Typically, ADN and BSN are the two main degrees most travel RNs. However, other degrees travel nurses might have are CNA and LPN.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs take about 4-12 weeks to complete.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs take about 1 year to complete.

Of course, aside from travel nurses, many travel allied health professionals start their journey with various education requirements depending on their roles. Nonetheless, experience requirements for travel allied health professionals also tend to be 1-2 years in-facility experience. While Medical Solutions offers many allied health jobs to choose from, we’re focusing on travel nurse experience requirements in this article, so we’ll mostly leave that discussion for another day.

After you earn your nursing degree, pass your NCLEX, and secure the necessary licenses and certifications, there’s the gaining experience part of answering the question: How many years does it take to become a travel nurse? As mentioned before, the common requirement to become a travel nurse is 1-2 years of in-hospital experience. But this standard can vary depending on your specialty and each facility’s requirements.

Add the education and experience requirement totals together, and you’re looking at:

About 3-6 years to become a travel nurse if you’re an RN,
About 1-3 years to become a travel nurse if you’re an LPN,
And about 1.5-2.5 years to become a travel nurse if you’re a CNA.

How Do I Become a Travel Nurse?

Suppose you’re entirely at square one of your nursing/travel nursing journey. In that case, you may still be thinking, “Great, now I understand how much travel nurse experience I’ll need after nursing school, but where do I start in the first place?!” Because it can be helpful to consider the big picture when you’re just starting, we’ve outlined the basic steps to becoming a travel nurse or travel allied health professional in this previous blog.

Or, if you’re already a nurse and looking to travel, you’ll need to have one to two years of recent in-hospital experience under your belt before you can apply and get hired as a traveler!

Final Thoughts on Travel Nurse Experience Requirements

As you can see, it’s not beneficial to you or anyone else to start your travel nurse career without the required experience. But, whether you’re currently in nursing school or already working your first perm job to gain the necessary experience to travel, it’s never too early to search for jobs to get a feel for what kind of assignments are currently available. You can also contact our team to get connected with your recruiter, who can start to understand what type of assignments and locations you’d like to pursue. That way, once you have the experience, you’ll be ready to pounce on the perfect first travel nurse assignment.

Whether you were wondering how much experience is necessary to be a travel nurse, how many years it takes to become a travel nurse, or how to get started travel nursing at all, we hope this article was a helpful resource for you. Good luck in your career journey — remember, we’re always here to help you or answer any more questions!

We hope you found this article on the experience requirements for travel nursing helpful. Do you have any other advice for those considering a career as a travel nurse? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your first travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Medical Edge Recruitment

December 29, 2021

4982 Views

Tap into your Inner Gypsy: How to Decide if 2022 is Your Year to Travel

Posted on December 29, 2021December 21, 2021 by Medical Edge Recruitment

This article was provided by Medical Edge Recruitment.

Written By: Brittany Davie, Recruitment Consultant, Medical Edge Recruitment

The year is almost over. You’ve probably already created your New Year’s Resolution list and plan to publicly announce each resolution on social media. On that list are probably a few things that would make 2022 YOUR year. Making more money, traveling, and making new friends are likely at the top of the list. Are you ready to start scratching a few things off? Keep reading to discover if you should tap into your inner gypsy, take your career on the road, and become a Travel Nurse in 2022.

Desire to Seek New Adventures

Gone are the days where you get only one week to visit another city or state. If you desire to seek new adventures, you can decide where you want to visit and for how long as a travel nurse. With an 8+ week travel contract, you can ski in Colorado Springs, walk down the strip in Las Vegas, visit Disney World in Orlando, or see the Statue of Liberty in New York. In one year, you may be able to visit all four of these places and then some. You get to determine where your next adventure lies and how long you want to enjoy it.

Want To Make Connections

When experiencing new places, new people come into the picture, and who wouldn’t want more friends? If you want to make meaningful and memorable connections, not only should you see the world, but you should also meet its people. If we didn’t learn anything else during the Pandemic, one thing we did is that we humans need real live, personal connections. Talking through a screen is not enough. Traveling allows you to meet new people with a variety of backgrounds and cultures. The locals will tell you where all the “hot spots” are and inform you of the best their city has to offer. Your visit will be more memorable by being connected to people. You will return home with stories to tell of the people you’ve met and the places you’ve seen. The next time your friends want a break from their city, you will be their new go-to guy or gal for their next adventure.

You Love Your Freedom

There is nothing better than having the freedom to choose when and where you want to be at any given moment. If the weather, facility, or overall environment is not necessarily your cup of tea, you can always change your scenery. You can determine how long of a commitment you want to make, whether that is as little as 8 weeks or as much as 24 weeks. If you would like a break before starting the next assignment, there is no need to put in a request for time off and cross your fingers that it is approved. You can decide to take a week or two break before the start of your next assignment.

You want to Build your Resume

Gaining experience in different facilities increases your knowledge and earning potential. For every facility you contract with, you will gain useful skills, exposure to new systems, experience with state-of-the-art equipment, awareness of additional procedures, and familiarity within other sectors of health care that you may not otherwise become familiar. All the above will give you bragging rights that will make for an exceptional resume. As a travel nurse, you will show the next hiring manager you are full of industry knowledge, are adaptable, dependable, and an overall asset to the facility.

Desire to Make More Money

Can you use some extra cash? Maybe you have your eye on a new car, want to pay off debt, or just want to see your bank account grow. According to Travelnursing.org, you can make as much as 30% more than if you stayed local as a travel nurse. Some people can even double their current hourly rate by providing care in CRISIS facilities. If you are concerned about the potential cost of traveling, keep in mind that most staffing agencies offer some form of stipend or incentive to assist you in your travels, including transportation and housing, which allows you to take home as much money as possible.

Conclusion

Take another look at your New Year’s Resolution list and see if this list aligns with yours. I bet that at least three of the above are resolutions you have for 2022. If that is the case, tap into your inner gypsy by becoming a travel nurse, and make 2022 YOUR year!

Medical Edge Recruitment is the premier travel nursing recruitment agency specializing in providing top talent to clients in the healthcare industry. We connect clinical and allied providers to their ideal opportunities, focusing on building long-lasting relationships through honesty and transparency. Adventure awaits; let us show you where you can go in 2022!

We hope you enjoyed this article on tapping into your inner gypsy. Have you recently tapped into your inner gypsy? Was the experience good? Are there any tips or pointers you would give others thinking of tapping into their inner gypsy? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Works Cited

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.travelnursing.org/why-travel-nurses-make-more-money/

Brusie, C. (2021, July 28). Travelnursing.org. Retrieved from https://www.travelnursing.org/why-travel-nurses-make-more-money/

By Gifted Healthcare

February 3, 2021

11265 Views

8 Things Every First-Time Travel Nurse Should Know

Posted on February 3, 2021May 19, 2021 by Gifted Healthcare

This article was provided by Gifted Healthcare.

Travel nursing is an excellent way to see new places, meet new people, and gain valuable clinical experience.

If you’re an RN that wants to become a travel nurse, GIFTED Healthcare wants to help you prepare for your first assignment. That’s why we’ve created a list of things that every first-time travel nurse should know.

Read on for 8 tips to help you have an amazing start to your travel nursing career!

Organize & Prepare

Finding a great travel assignment is much easier if you’re organized and prepared. Make sure your records, license, and any other relevant documents are up to date.

All travel nursing companies interview and screen their applicants. Being prepared for your interview will increase your chances of getting the assignment you want.

Note: Most travel nursing companies do not place RNs with less than one year of clinical experience.

Be Flexible

Many RNs choose travel nursing so that they can practice nursing on their terms. However, due to their lack of experience, first-time travel nurses don’t always get the assignment at the top of their list.

Try to remain open-minded about the locations, environments, and facilities in which you’re willing to work. You can be more selective once you have travel nursing experience under your belt.

Communicate with Your Recruiter

At GIFTED, your recruiter is here to help you with any issues you have related to your assignment.

Before your assignment begins, your recruiter can help you find housing. During your assignment, call your recruiter immediately if any serious problems arise regarding living arrangements, your paycheck, or your schedule.

Feel free to check in to let your recruiter know how things are going during your assignment. You are not alone – we are here to support you!

Avoid Too Many Distractions

Travel nursing is a fantastic way to get out of your comfort zone and experience new things. But it’s important to set yourself up for success on your first assignment.

Consider choosing a location close to home or a place where you already have a network of friends or family. Ensure your living arrangements won’t expose you to stressful circumstances, like a lack of sleep or safety.

Do your best to minimize distractions so that you can perform well and enjoy your first assignment.

Packing: Be Strategic

Packing for any trip can be stressful. But there are plenty of ways to make packing for your assignment easier.

Keep in mind that most travel nursing assignments are 8 to 13 weeks long. Make a list of the essentials, and try to stick to it. Think about items you can buy once you arrive at your new location, like shower curtains, trash cans, and other household items.

Packing efficiently will make it easier to settle into your new home, giving you more time to prepare for your first day.

Day One: Make a Great First Impression

Making a great first impression will help you excel during your first assignment.

Arrive early on your first day to show initiative and familiarize yourself with the facility. Or, go the extra mile and ask to tour your unit before you’re scheduled to start your assignment.

Making the right first impression will help you make a smooth transition into your new environment, benefitting both you and your coworkers.

Be Friendly

Before you arrived, the staff may have been pushed to their capacity. Remain aware of this when you enter your new assignment, and do what you can to show you’re there to help.

As a first-time travel nurse, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If a coworker is helpful, show gratitude. Talk to your teammates about their hobbies and favorite restaurants in town. Or, bring everyone snacks or coffee before your shift.

While some staff members will be happy for the extra help on the floor, others might take longer to warm up to you. Whether you love all your coworkers or get along with a few of them, treat everyone with the same level of respect.

For more strategies on settling in, read GIFTED’s tips on adjusting to new facilities as a travel nurse.

Give It Everything You’ve Got

Travel nursing requires commitment. Once you’ve settled into your new assignment, prepare yourself to give it your all.

No matter where you travel, the location of your new assignment is worth exploring. Be open-minded, learn about the local culture, and get involved in local activities that you truly enjoy. Plan a day trip, invite your loved ones to visit, and make new friends!

Also, dedicate yourself to learning everything you can at work. Hone your skills as a travel nurse and take advantage of the fantastic opportunities that travel nursing offers.

Do you have any tips for first-time travel nurses? Comment them below.

Begin Your Travel Nursing Adventure with GIFTED Healthcare

From travel to per diem assignments, GIFTED Healthcare provides nurses with exceptional, high-paying career opportunities.

Apply now to join the GIFTED Family today!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Jessie Leasure

January 3, 2021

8105 Views

The City That Opened The Doors To A Whole New World

Posted on January 3, 2021May 19, 2021 by Jessie Leasure

New Orleans was my very first of 6 travel nurse assignments. Almost 4 years ago now.

At the age of 23, I had moved over 1,000 miles away from home, on my own– my car packed to the brim– to a place where I truly didn’t know a soul. I had 2 years experience as a medical surgical nurse, and was headed to a hospital where they told me not to linger around outside..

I knew nothing about NOLA.

[Mind you, I grew up in the middle of nowhere with virtually no neighbors, surrounded by amber waves of grain, and had never really left] I was TERRIFIED. I had cried for an entire week before my departure date. Dramatically saying goodbye to everyone and everything as if I were being shipped overseas against my will.

Constantly wavering back and forth over my decision to dive into the unknown.

I remember gripping the steering wheel down the driveway with the most exhilarating feeling I’ve ever had. I pretended to cry one last time, but I couldn’t. It was just me, myself, and the open road– My fears suddenly shifted to pure adrenaline and excitement! I was going to be a travel nurse in New Orleans!

To say that New Orleans completely changed my life would be an understatement.

I had never felt so free. I got my first apartment on my own. I met many incredible people that became lifelong friends. I fell in love with jazz and the southern storms. I danced like nobody was watching. I learned the streets like THAT was my job. I immersed myself into the food and culture, and learned as much as I could.

New Orleans was also the first place I forced myself to go to a restaurant by myself; shaking with my heart beating out of my chest– I ordered a glass of red wine, drank it fast, and left. I learned so much as a travel nurse in New Orleans.

But I did it.

What I’m getting at is this:

I can’t imagine what kind of person I’d be today if I had never made that first move to be a travel nurse in New Orleans. All it took was taking one easy step, saying “what’s the worst that could happen?” Picking up the phone.. and letting go. Suddenly, a whole new world was opened up to me. One that I literally couldn’t even imagine before. I was hooked. There was no going back to my previous way of merely existing.

When I finally left for my next destination, after 6 months of learning, growing, expanding through the challenges (and a whole lot of memorable nights).. I cried all the way through Louisiana and Mississippi. Being a travel nurse in New Orleans had been such a profound experience.. I couldn’t even describe it. I didn’t know whether to be happy or sad.

I even remember my Facebook post:

“Until next time New Orleans “

No picture. No real words. I was speechless. Funny, it’s taken me 4 years to put this all into words, but sometimes you don’t even realize the impact something, or someone, or some moment has on you– until you’re able to look back with a new set of eyes.

Now here’s why I’m sharing today–

For the past few weeks, the thought of New Orleans has been popping up DAILY for me, (there’s a reason they say NOLA lives in you forever)..

And NOW I’ve figured out why.

It’s the feeling of absolute freedom.. of exhilaration.. of feeling SO alive in the moment I could cry.

My soul remembers.

It’s a personal guidance call to face my fears AGAIN. To level up. To just take one step into the unknown, to remind myself why I’m here, and what life is supposed to feel like. It’s a challenge to get to a whole new world and way of life that I can’t even imagine right now.

The best part is– every time I’ve ripped the band-aid off and just done whatever it is.. It’s ALWAYS paid off.

And what I’ve come to find is this:

The fears are always going to be there. The reasons NOT to do something are going to outweigh the reasons to do it when you’re skeptical or scared or doubtful.

It’s important to remember that your brain WILL try and stop you. That’s it’s job.. to protect you from straying from your personal status quo and level of comfort.

Wavering back and forth over a big decision..? Totally normal. That’s your heart and brain arguing over what’s best for you.

But when and if you can push past those thoughts and have COURAGE.. THAT’S when YOU take control and when the REALLY GOOD stuff flows in. That’s when you learn more about yourself and grow.

That’s when LIFE happens.

You then teach yourself that it’s ok to follow desires, it’s ok to take risks, it’s ok to listen to the heart once in a while..

And you’ll wonder why you waited so long to live.

P.s I’m simply sharing in the hopes that someone who is on the fence of choosing between comfort and something big and scary… that they choose the scary one. Take the chance. Opportunities don’t remain the same forever.

Are you searching for a GREAT Paying Travel Nurse Position?

Check out these HOT Travel Nurse JOBS

By Soliant Health

September 4, 2020

7757 Views

Tips for First Time Travel Nurses

Posted on September 4, 2020May 19, 2021 by Soliant Health

This article was provided by: Soliant Health.

Being a travel nurse is one of the most exciting things you can do in your career, but the idea of working away from home can be overwhelming, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. If you’re ready to embark on your first assignment but aren’t sure what to do next, here are some tips to help first time travel nurses.

1. Get organized.

Travel nursing is an amazing way to see the county and learn a lot of new skills, but to make sure everything goes off without a hitch, you must have all your paperwork in order. Make sure your license, CPR, and any certifications are up to date and that you have all the required documentation.

2. Think about where you want to go.

There are so many wonderful places to be a travel nurse, but if it’s your first time, it’s best to pick a place that you know. It should be the next town over or a city you’ve traveled to in that past, but any sense of familiarity makes working away from home for the first time a little bit easier.

3. Be flexible.

You may not get your first choice, but your recruiter can help you figure out which jobs are available in your specialty. Sometimes, being more general about what you want helps. For example, if you’ve spent some time in Florida and know you’d be comfortable working there, instead of insisting on Miami, open up to the possibilities of Tampa or Daytona Beach, too.

4. Pack carefully.

Most travel nursing assignments are 13 weeks, so consider what you’ll need in that time. Remember, you’ll spend your days off exploring your new city, so come prepared. If you’re an outdoor lover, bring your hiking boots and backpack. Are you looking forward to exploring the city’s art and culture scenes? Bring along some comfortable walking shoes and your camera.

5. Don’t forget to make arrangements for the stuff at home.

For example, is someone going to get your mail for you? What about packages and other deliveries? Should you cancel the cable for the amount of time you’re going to be away? It’s essential to take care of these things so, when you come home, you don’t have a stack of bills or other problems to deal with.

6. Be confident in your skills.

It’s not easy being a travel nurse on a floor where everyone else has worked together for years. Most nurses are welcoming and ready to help travelers as they learn the ropes, but remind yourself that you deserve to be there and are a valuable part of the team.

7. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

You’ll have orientation at the beginning of your contract and learn all about the policies and procedures of where you’re working, and you’ll probably have a lot of questions. And that’s okay! It’s always better to clarify questions, especially when you’re new.

8. Be friendly.

Making friends with your co-workers is a great way to get comfortable with a new city and makes your time there more enjoyable. You can make lasting friendships through travel nursing that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Ask coworkers for recommendations about where to go and what to see while you’re in town, and ask them to join you for dinner or a night of dinner and drinks.

9. Where are you off to next?

Thirteen weeks might sound like a long time, but it flies by. Keep in touch with your recruiter to know what your options are. If you love where you’re working, see if you can extend the assignment for another 13 weeks. Or, maybe you’d rather try something completely different. Don’t wait until the last week of your contract to work it out.

10. Choose your travel nursing company wisely.

Soliant has thousands of travel nursing jobs in many specialties, all across the United States. To learn more, check out their website and get started on the next chapter of your nursing adventure.

We hope you found this information for first time travel nurses helpful, do you have any tips for first time travel nurses to share? Comment them below.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

December 20, 2019

8984 Views

How to Maximize Your New Travel Career

Posted on December 20, 2019February 3, 2023 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

This article provided by: TNAA

With the holidays in full swing, it can be nearly impossible to think about how to prepare to start the new year off with a bang. And make no mistake, travel nursing requires a lot of preparation. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. Walk into the new year on the right foot. Let’s reflect and refocus.

Take on 2020

Maybe you’re clocking in for your staff position and thinking that you want to do more, experience more, and try something new. You’ve been thinking about travel nursing and looking at different review sites. Now it’s time to decide if the gypsy life is for you in 2020. The autonomy of travel nursing is attractive to many and provides nearly endless options. Here are our top tips to make the most of your new career as a travel nurse.

Determine Your Motivations

It’s essential to understand what you want to get out of travel nursing before signing a contract and heading out on the open road. Determining your motivations will ensure you get the best experience. Do you want to travel for the experience? Maybe your goal is to work at a prestigious hospital or perhaps in a Level-I Trauma Center. Is your primary motivator for travel nursing to pay down debt or for financial freedom? If so, your research will focus on pay rates for your specialty. Maybe you want to embark on the gypsy life so you can travel, making assignment location a top priority. Ask yourself, why do I want to do this?

Find an Agency That Complements Your Motivations

After you’ve determined what you want to get out traveling and what you need from a potential schedule, you’re prepared to find an agency that complements your motivations. Meaning, your agency should pair perfectly with your goals and add little extras that make your travel experience exceptional. Let’s break down what that would look like:

Money: Going for the Green

A lot of nurses look to travel nursing for the financial opportunities it affords. Understand that the financial benefit doesn’t necessarily come from crazy-high hourly pay. Your hourly wage is only a part of the equation, and it’s crucial to look at your pay package as a whole. Some travelers will tell you that the tax-free stipend is the best way to profit from travel nursing, while others will focus on OT rates. Accept that everyone’s situation is a little different when it comes to taxes, debt, and dependents. So what do you do?

Look for agencies that place a premium on your financial wellness.

Ask if your agency and recruiter understand travel taxes. A good agency will keep you tax compliant. This article breaks down an organization called NATHO and what those “tax-free stipends” mean to the IRS.
Ask your agency how low census call-offs or missed shifts due to illness will impact your check. What happens if you need to call in sick? Look for an agency that protects your pay.
Ask your recruiter about pay frequency. A lot of agencies now offer weekly pay. Looking at review sites can be helpful, but may contain outdated information. Find out for yourself.
Ask your agency about premium rates. From OT to holiday, be sure you understand how these work if the pay is your primary motivator. Remember that phrase about assumptions? No one wants to be surprised on a paycheck. A great agency will have experienced payroll staff that will take the time to explain how it all works if you need them to.
Think about your financial future. What does retirement look like? 401(k) and retirement used to mean working 30+ years as perm staff, but it’s 2020, and agencies are recognizing that their travelers deserve the same benefits as full-time employees. Ask if they have 401(k), when you qualify, and how much they’ll match.

Experience: Chasing Career Goals

Many nurses look to travel nursing to get the experience they need to move forward in their careers. Bolstering your resume is a big perk of travel nursing. Understand that each assignment will teach you something new, whether that’s a skill that will move you closer to your goal or it’s something you now know isn’t for you in the future. Look for an agency that understands how to maximize your travel career so you can reach your goal.

Ask your recruiter about their expertise. Your recruiter isn’t just your front-line teammate; they should also function similar to an academic advisor. The best agency will have a roster of recruiters who can look at the big picture of your career and be able to guide you to assignments that will help you reach your goals, not just fill an immediate need.
Ask your agency about clinical support. A good agency will ensure you have RNs in your corner who will act as a liaison for you when needed, provide you with career coaching, and ensure you can ace any skills tests a facility may require. Maybe you’re an OR nurse but have only circulated but want to scrub. Your clinical team can help you develop a path and plan to get there.
Ask about licensure. California, compact states, fingerprinting, and fees — licensing can be a multi-step, time-sensitive, and costly process. Your agency should simplify it for you. Do they pay for it? Do they turn in necessary paperwork on your behalf? The best assignments get booked quickly. Overlooking this aspect can mean missing out on your dream assignment.
Think about your nursing future. What does your career look like after you hang up your gypsy scrubs? Just like perm staff, your employer should make it easy for you to get the CEUs you need to maintain licensing, but you want to expand your career and resume. Look for an agency that offers more. Do they provide RN-to-BSN tuition reimbursement? Will they help you get certifications that lead to higher pay?

Travel: Aiming for Adventure

If experiencing new things excites you, then you’re in good company as adventure comes with every new travel nurse assignment. Going to specific locations of your choice is a perk of the gypsy nurse lifestyle. Understand that working in popular areas comes with challenges. Look for an agency that supports you in your quest for flexibility and adventure.

Look for top-notch recruiters who understand the industry. Your recruiter should have extensive market knowledge and be able to leverage that to get you to the destinations that are on your bucket list. Everyone wants to go to Hawaii. Winter assignments in warm locations fill up quickly. Your recruiter should guide your career to get your profile on top in hard-to-book locations and know when to submit.
Ask your agency how they get jobs. Does your agency have exclusive access to jobs in desirable areas? Their internal teams should be working behind-the-scenes to offer a variety of locations. Their business relationships should benefit their travel nurses.
Ask about benefits. From hiking to shopping, it’s essential to consider if your agency’s benefits fit your lifestyle. What happens if you break your leg on a trail and can’t work? Are you insured if you take a vacation between assignments?

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

See the Country and Earn a Living at Same Time

Disadvantages

Benefits of Travel Nursing

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts

Transplant Nursing and Travel Opportunities

Characteristics of a Great Travel Nurse Recruiter

How Do Travel Nurses Get Licensed?

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Get and Stay Organized

Stay in contact with your recruiter

Keep an open-mind

Ask questions

Related Posts

Navigating the Shifting Tides of Travel Nursing Pay

Pros and Cons of Being a Nurse

Travel Nurse Gift Ideas

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Debunking a Few Common Myths

You’re Too old to Try Travel Nursing:

Travel Nurses always get the worst assignments and patients:

Travel Nurses are first to float:

Travel Nurses get the worst schedule:

Travel Nurses are bullied:

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts

The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Nursing

Travel Nurse Stories From the Road: Caring and Doing What Feels Right

Where Will You Go? Locations That are Great for Travel Nurses

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Experience requirements or necessary for travel nurses

Why Do You Need Experience to Work as a Travel Nurse?

How Many Years Does It Take to Become a Travel Nurse?

First, there’s the education you’ll need to become a travel nurse:

Add the education and experience requirement totals together, and you’re looking at:

How Do I Become a Travel Nurse?

Final Thoughts on Travel Nurse Experience Requirements

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts

Ask A Travel Nurse: Will my Age effect my Ability to work as a Travel Nurse?

Starting Life as a Travel Nurse

Ask A Travel Nurse: Continuing Education

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Desire to Seek New Adventures

Want To Make Connections

You Love Your Freedom

You want to Build your Resume

Desire to Make More Money

Conclusion

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts

Everything Your QA Department Can Help You Do

Top Travel Destinations for Summer

What Travel Nurses Can Expect During This Year’s Post-COVID Flu Season

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Organize & Prepare

Be Flexible

Communicate with Your Recruiter

Avoid Too Many Distractions

Packing: Be Strategic

Day One: Make a Great First Impression

Be Friendly

Give It Everything You’ve Got

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts