Embarking on the compassionate journey of nursing involves not only caring for others but also navigating the many education paths. Obtaining certain degrees or certifications can make all the difference in your salary in many industries, but does the same apply to nursing? From LPNs to advanced practitioners, we’ll explore how different degrees can shape both your knowledge and compensation.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
To be an LPN, you typically complete a diploma or certificate from a one-year practical nursing program, which is a shorter and more focused education compared to RNs with higher degrees. While LPNs are invaluable contributors to healthcare, the scope of their practice is more limited to basic nursing care, which leads to a lower salary compared to other degrees.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An associate degree not only broadens the scope of practice but also offers a bump in salary compared to an LPN. Nurses with an ADN are better equipped to treat patients, administer medications, and perform diagnostics, and their increased responsibilities are reflected in higher compensation.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
While RNs with a BSN have the same main job responsibilities as those with an ADN, BSN-prepared nurses have a more extensive education, especially with leadership-focused classes, that help qualify them to take on nursing supervisor or nursing management roles. This opens up opportunities for more career advancement with higher earning potential.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Registered Nurses with a master’s degree often take on advanced practice roles in either a clinical setting or non-clinical setting. Some of these jobs include nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, nurse educator, and forensic nurse. The mastery of skill and ability to provide more specialized care—such as analyzing tests, prescribing medications, and diagnosing health issues—contributes to a higher salary.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The highest level of degree you can achieve within nursing is a DNP or Ph.D. Nurses with doctoral degrees are not only caregivers but also healthcare leaders, contributors to research, or educators for future nurses. With the ability to take on roles at the academic and executive levels, nurses with a doctorate tend to have the highest salary.
It’s crucial to note, though, that the type of degree you have is not the only factor when it comes to salary. Location, years of experience, certifications, specialization, and even healthcare setting are also major contributors to your salary. So, while continuing your education can create more opportunities for your professional and financial growth, the spectrum of earning potential as a nurse is vast. What’s important is making sure you know what you want to achieve in your career and finding a recruiter who will help get you there!
Our job board is the perfect place to look when you are ready for your next assignment or looking for your first assignment! Find both the role and the location that speak to you and your priorities.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
White blankets of snow, cozying up after a long shift, magical holiday events warmed by the fire, hot chocolate, and long-standing traditions – there are endless reasons to choose a cold weather destination for your next travel nursing assignment!
Not sure how to prepare or unfamiliar with packing for cold weather? Consider this a travel nursing essentials guide for your fun, frosty adventures ahead!
Benefits of Cold Weather Assignments
While they might not be as popular, there’s a long list of reasons to choose a colder climate for your next travel nursing assignment. Here are some of the highlights:
Better Pay & Opportunities
Let’s face it — almost everyone applies for positions in the warm-weather states during the winter months. Cut past the competition and embrace the opportunities in cold-weather states. With less competition and higher demand, you might just find more options and higher pay.
Seasonal Festivities & Events
Skip the long lines and crowds of tourists and explore the area’s top spots during the off-season.
Plus, cold-weather regions tend to be the best at holidays. See if the area has any holiday markets or events you can attend. Who knows — you might even get to try your hand at winter sports!
Tips for Preparing & Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Assignments
Ready to brace for the cold? With a bit of preparation and packing for cold weather, you’ll go from chilly to cozy in no time:
Research the Climate.
Look up the monthly weather averages in the city you’ll be living in, including the highs, lows, rainfall, and snowfall when packing for cold weather.
Invest in Warm Clothing
A quality winter coat, footwear, and gloves will be your best friends when packing for cold weather. However, if you need to pack light, remember you can purchase more winter travel nursing essentials once you get there.
Learn How to Travel in Snow & Ice.
If you aren’t used to driving in the snow, take some time to learn and practice safe winter driving techniques. Map out your driving, walking, or public transportation path to work.
Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Essentials
Throw on your sweater, blast your winter playlist, and grab a pen — it’s time to pack! Packing for cold weather is a whole different experience if you’ve never done it before. Here’s a list of travel nursing essentials to help you get started.
Remember: Some items may be better to get once you arrive. Use this as a packing and moving checklist of travel nursing essentials!
Clothing & Accessories
Winter-friendly scrubs and moisture-wicking base layers (Pro tip: Remember to layer your scrubs for cold weather!)
Warm, water-resistant winter coat
Insulated gloves or mittens
Scarves and/or neck gaiters
Sweaters and thermal tops
Thermal bottoms and/or fleece-lined leggings
Insulated, waterproof boots
Wool or thermal socks
Hats or beanies to cover your head and ears
Heavy-duty snow boots for extreme conditions (if necessary)
Sunglasses to protect your eyes from harsh winter glare
Waterproof, insulated backpack or tote bag for carrying travel nursing essentials
Personal Care
Sunscreen with a high SPF (Yes, you still need it in winter!)
Lip balm or chapstick with SPF
Travel-sized first aid kit with basic supplies
Medications and any necessary medical supplies
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
Recruiter and travel nursing agency contact information
Find Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment
Packing for cold weather assignments? From thrilling hotspots to chilly escapes, your career can be an endless journey of adventure. However, don’t forget one of the biggest travel nursing essentials: your recruiter!
Discover how travel nursing agencies like CareerStaff can guide you through the entire process of finding the right position, location, and healthcare facility that aligns with your career goals. Happy travels!
Are you a travel nurse eager to embark on a new professional journey but finding yourself challenged by the task of crafting a compelling cover letter?
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler in the healthcare industry or just starting your adventurous career, the cover letter is your gateway to making an impactful first impression. In the competitive world of travel nursing, where each assignment presents a unique opportunity, the cover letter serves as your personal narrative, a chance to convey your passion, skills, and dedication.
It’s more than just a formal introduction; it’s your story, a reflection of your adaptability, resilience, and commitment to thriving in dynamic healthcare environments.
From highlighting your broad skill set to demonstrating your ability to seamlessly transition between assignments while embracing new challenges, let’s explore the art of crafting a cover letter that resonates and distinguishes you in the competitive landscape of travel nursing.
#1 Personalize for Each Opportunity
Tailoring your cover letter for each application is crucial. Start by thoroughly understanding the job description and researching the facility. From there, identify keywords and specific requirements mentioned in the job posting. You can then use this information to craft a personalized introduction that captures attention. For instance, if the facility emphasizes the need for nurses with expertise in critical care, highlight your experience in that area and how it aligns with their requirements.
Furthermore, connect your experiences as a travel nurse to the facility’s needs, discussing how your adaptability and varied experiences have equipped you to thrive in their unique environment. Always address the cover letter to the hiring manager if possible, as it demonstrates your attention to detail and interest in the specific role.
#2 Highlight Your Travel Experience
Illustrate your travel nursing experience by describing the range of healthcare settings you’ve worked in. Discuss various patient populations you’ve cared for and the challenges you’ve navigated successfully. For example, share how working in different states or countries expanded your clinical knowledge, cultural competence, and ability to adapt in diverse environments.
Additionally, discuss how your experiences have honed your skills in handling unexpected situations, fostering resilience and resourcefulness as a travel nurse. By highlighting these aspects, you showcase not only your versatility but also your ability to excel in demanding and ever-changing healthcare settings.
#3 Show Off Your Skills
Identify the skills and achievements that directly correlate with the requirements of the travel nursing job you are applying to. Whether it’s specialized certifications, proficiency in certain procedures, or achievements in improving patient outcomes, highlight them concisely. For instance, if the job posting emphasizes the need for strong leadership skills, discuss a scenario where you effectively led a team in a challenging clinical situation.
Quantify achievements whenever possible. If you’ve reduced hospital readmission rates or implemented a successful protocol, provide specific statistics or percentages to underscore your impact. Moreover, don’t just list skills; demonstrate how you’ve applied them to enhance patient care. Use engaging storytelling to convey how your skills have positively influenced patient experiences, team collaboration, or workflow efficiency.
These tangible examples provide credibility and depth to your claims, showcasing your value as a potential asset to the facility.
#4 Use a Professional Tone
Maintaining a professional tone throughout your cover letter is essential as a travel nurse. Aim for a tone that strikes a balance between being friendly and formal. Avoid overly casual language or slang, maintaining a level of professionalism that aligns with the healthcare setting.
Use clear and concise language to express your qualifications and experiences without being overly verbose. Additionally, ensure the structure and formatting of your cover letter are polished and organized. Remember, a well-crafted cover letter with a professional tone not only conveys your capabilities effectively but also sets you apart as a competent and reliable travel nurse candidate.
#5 Keep it Concise
A concise cover letter respects the reader’s time, especially when hiring managers review numerous applications. Being brief ensures your most important qualifications stand out immediately, captivating their attention from the start. Short, impactful sentences maintain engagement, preventing the risk of losing the reader’s focus.
In the healthcare field’s fast-paced environment, concise communication reflects your ability to convey essential information efficiently—an invaluable skill in nursing where clear and quick communication is vital. Prioritizing quality over quantity lets you highlight key achievements and skills relevant to the job, making your cover letter focused, compelling, and memorable.
#6 Explain What Makes You The Perfect Fit
Articulating why you want the job and how you’re an excellent fit is a golden opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm and compatibility. Employers seek candidates genuinely passionate about the position, the facility, and its objectives.
Share your motivations clearly, highlighting what draws you to the role and the facility. Whether it’s their patient-centered approach, commitment to innovation, or the chance to contribute your skills in a specialized area, emphasize your alignment with their mission and values.
From there, demonstrate your suitability by aligning your skills, experiences, and professional goals with what the facility seeks. Discuss how your background uniquely qualifies you for the role and how your contributions align with the facility’s needs. It’s about presenting a compelling narrative that shows not just your qualifications but also how your strengths perfectly complement the organization’s goals.
#7 Proofread, Proofread, and Proofread Again
Proofreading your cover letter is the final touch that transforms it from good to exceptional. It’s crucial to meticulously review your writing for any spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, or typos. Even the smallest oversight can detract from your professionalism and attention to detail.
Take the time to read your cover letter aloud or ask a trusted friend or colleague to review it for you. Fresh eyes often catch mistakes that might have slipped your notice. Additionally, consider using online grammar tools or proofreading apps to help identify and rectify any errors.
In the dynamic world of travel nursing, crafting an outstanding travel nurse cover letter is a key step toward securing your dream assignments. Tailoring your message, maintaining a professional tone, and showcasing your unique fit for each role can significantly elevate your application.
At Host Healthcare, we understand the importance of standing out in a competitive field. Our dedicated team of recruiters is committed to supporting travel nurses like you on their journey, providing resources, guidance, and exceptional opportunities.
Whether you’re seeking a new adventure or aiming to enhance your career, Host Healthcare is here to help you find your ideal assignments and thrive in the world of travel nursing. Apply today to begin your journey with us and unlock a world of possibilities in nursing.
Looking for the ultimate apps for nurses? In today’s world, our phones are practically an extension of ourselves. If you’re only using your phone to check your social media, you’re missing out! Changing environments and challenging schedules can be a difficult transition for some so having the right tools at your fingertips is crucial! We’ve pulled together a list of the best mobile apps every travel nurse should consider downloading.
Best mobile apps for traveling healthcare professionals:
Apps for the Clinical Setting
Medscape: Stay up to date with the latest medical news, research, and clinical resources.
Epocrates: It’s like having a pocket-sized encyclopedia right on your phone!
Quick drug info
Dosing calculators
Clinical practice guidelines
Med Mnemonics: An app designed to help you memorize tricky medical concepts.
Catchy mnemonics
Topics ranging from Anatomy to Pharmacology
MediBabble: A portable medical interpreter in your pocket to decrease language barriers.
Languages included English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, German and Haitian Creole.
NurseGrid: Balance work and personal life like never before!
Carry your work calendar everywhere you go
Swap shifts with other nurses
Compare calendar with coworkers
Pedi Stat: Quick access to critical information when caring for pediatric patients.
Airway interventions
Cardiac resuscitation data
Age and weight-specific equipment
Age-specific vital signs
Apps for your Apple Watch
Medtimer: Monitor vital signs right from your wrist.
Monitor heart rate and respiratory rate
Counts the number of beats or breaths for you
Calculates BPM
Vital Values: Quick access to specific normal vital signs for pediatric patients.
Heart rate
Respiratory Rate
Blood pressure
GCS
Make sure your days off are just as incredible as your workdays! These gems will help you explore your new surroundings and make the most of your journey.
Apps for Nurses on the Move
PackPoint: Say goodbye to the stress of packing and hello to a hassle-free and organized packing experience! Just punch in –
Duration of trip
Destination
Weather at your destination
Activities you have planned
GasBuddy: Find the cheapest gas around and never pay full price at the pump again!
Gas map with best prices
Track driving habits
Get gas rewards
Log your fill-ups
Moovit: One-stop shop for all transit options during your assignment.
Buses, trains, subway
Scooters, bikes
Uber and Lyft
BarkHappy: Fur baby tagging along? Experience more with your best friend by your side.
Find dog-friendly places on the map and book dog-friendly hotels.
White Noise: It can be hard adjusting to a new environment – never get a bad night’s sleep again!
Wide range of sounds including air conditioner, beach waves, light rain pouring, and more
Alarms slowly fade in
Wake up feeling refreshed
These are just a few of the best mobile apps for travel nurses. There are many other great apps available, so be sure to explore and find the ones that work best for you.
Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), also known in California and Texas as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), are instrumental members of a healthcare team. Working under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) on the frontlines of patient care, LPNs, and LVNs take vital signs, administer medication, offer comfort, and educate patients and families on health conditions, ensuring that every patient receives the attention and care they deserve.
Want to make a positive impact in the lives of others? Here’s how to get your travel nursing career started as a licensed practical nurse.
How To Start Your Travel Nurse Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
1. Complete an accredited nursing program
Unlike most nursing professions, you don’t need a college degree to become a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse. Instead, you’ll need certification from a state-approved and accredited practical nursing program. Oftentimes, these training programs include a blend of classroom learning and hands-on clinical practice and take between one and two years to complete.
Graduating from an accredited nursing program is a critical step on the path to becoming a licensed practical nurse. Not only does it ensure you meet the rigorous standards set by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, but it also prepares you for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, otherwise known as the NCLEX-PN, and the next step in the process of becoming an LPN.
2. Pass the NCLEX-PN and get licensed
Once you’ve completed your nursing program, it’s time to take the NCLEX-PN. This standardized exam assesses your readiness to handle different patient scenarios in a real-world setting with up to 205 questions about patient care, health promotion and maintenance, safety and infection control, pharmacological therapies, and physiological adaptation.
Passing the NCLEX-PN is a regulatory requirement across all states and sets a standard of competency for those pursuing LPN licensure. And when the National Council Licensure Examination is in your rearview mirror (and licensure is in hand), you can officially start practicing as a licensed practical nurse.
3. Gain clinical experience
You’ve completed your nursing program and passed the NCLEX-PN. Now’s your time to shine and gain one to two years of real-life experience as a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse!
Collecting clinical experience as a licensed practical nurse will only set you up for success in your travel nursing career. Gaining experience gives you the practice you need to adapt to new settings, teams, and patient needs while allowing you to build a strong foundational skill set and a deep understanding of nursing practices to help you be successful as a travel nurse.
Plus, gaining experience as a licensed practical nurse provides a unique opportunity for you to discover your specialty areas and strengths, which can guide you in choosing the right travel nursing assignments in the future. Licensed practical nurses and licensed vocational nurses can expect the following responsibilities in the field:
Provide basic patient care, including bathing, dressing, and feeding patients
Monitor patients’ health by checking vital signs and noting any significant changes for the registered nurse or physician.
Administer prescribed medication on time and in the correct dosage
Assist in diagnostic tests and procedures to help collect samples for testing, assist in exams, and monitor patients during and after procedures
Document patient health status and update patient records
Before you hit the road as a travel nurse, gather first-hand exposure to various patient conditions, learn about diverse medical procedures, and understand how to interact effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals. With this experience under your belt, your problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and confidence will be enhanced.
4. Start travel nursing
Now that you have one to two years of nursing experience, you’re ready to start traveling as a licensed practical nurse. As a travel nurse, you’re able to explore new places, meet diverse individuals, and gain a breadth of experience in the nursing field.
With a high demand for nurses in the U.S., travel nurses can leverage their skills to travel to locations where they’re needed the most. This allows you to work in a variety of healthcare settings, from bustling city hospitals to remote rural clinics. Not only does this broaden your professional abilities, but travel nursing also enriches your personal life through new experiences and perspectives. Committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others, traveling licensed practical nurses are essential to the world of healthcare.
Whether you’ve always known you belong in healthcare or it’s a newfound love of yours, there are many advantages to travel nursing. With the chance to check out places unexplored by you, meet new people, and gain invaluable professional experience, there’s nothing quite like a career as a traveling licensed practical nurse. And there are many LPN jobs available to you that span the country. Start searching for LPN jobs now, and get your travel adventure started!
Providing care for individuals with severe medical conditions is an honorable and difficult undertaking that needs a profound comprehension of medical and social abilities. It’s a duty that caregivers and medical professionals alike carry out with extreme caution and empathy. So, here are some of the nuances of giving patients with severe medical conditions the best care possible, with an emphasis on the important factors that guarantee their comfort and well-being.
Understanding the Medical Condition
Understanding the nature of a patient’s disease is critical to providing them with appropriate care. This calls for in-depth investigation as well as a comprehensive comprehension of the diagnosis, available treatments, and any possible side effects, especially when dealing with global issues like the pandemic that can ruin everyone’s health status. Since medical knowledge is always expanding, healthcare practitioners need to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the area. Precise diagnosis and well-designed treatment regimens serve as the cornerstones of high-quality healthcare. Furthermore, by having this knowledge, patients and their families are better equipped to make decisions and take an active role in their own care.
Providing Emotional Support
A significant emotional toll is frequently associated with serious health issues. As they deal with the difficulties of the illness, patients and their families may feel dread, anxiety, and grief. Healthcare professionals must provide emotional as well as physical support. This entails providing a safe environment for patients to express their emotions and active listening and empathy. Psychosocial support can be very helpful in enhancing patients’ general health and assisting them in managing the emotional components of their illness. This emotional support includes techniques for assisting patients in developing resilience, managing stress, keeping a positive outlook, and consoling words.
Sustaining Improvement in Medical Services
The pursuit of perfection in the treatment of people with severe medical conditions never fully stops. In order to find areas where treatment may be improved, healthcare facilities should also give priority to quality improvement projects, evaluate patient outcomes, and ask patients and their families for input. This is why lots of people don’t mind thinking outside the box and looking for new solutions and ideas. Therefore, some of them might check out reputable dialysis clinics in Bali, for instance, and find out how people deal with these problems all over the world. In addition to helping patients, a culture of continuous improvement gives healthcare professionals the tools they need to provide the best treatment possible and keeps them at the forefront of medical developments.
Promoting Holistic Care
A comprehensive strategy that considers the patient’s social, emotional, and physical needs is known as holistic care. It involves a multidisciplinary team collaborating to address the patient’s various demands. In addition to providing medical care, holistic care takes the patient’s comfort, dignity, and quality of life into account. This method can include, among other things, counseling, physical therapy, pain management, and spiritual support, all of which add to a more comprehensive and successful treatment strategy. The combination of these components promotes comfort and a sense of well-being, which is vital for individuals managing significant medical conditions.
Fostering Hope and Resilience
For people dealing with severe medical issues, holding onto hope and perseverance is essential. When it comes to giving patients hope and motivating them to get past obstacles in their path, healthcare providers are critical. This can be accomplished by having honest conversations, establishing reasonable objectives, and giving patients the chance to contribute to their treatment decisions. Support networks and relationships with people who have had comparable difficulties can also be incredibly beneficial sources of motivation and inspiration. Developing hope and resilience is an ongoing process that involves the patient and the entire healthcare team. It builds a network of support that enables patients to face their health challenges head-on and with optimism.
Family and Caregiver Education
Providing patients with significant medical care often goes beyond the confines of a hospital or clinic. Caregivers and family members are crucial to the patient’s overall health. It is essential to inform them about the illness, possible side effects, and treatment options. This gives them the ability to make wise decisions, deliver efficient treatment, offer emotional support, and even deal with losses in the best way possible. Giving caregivers the tools and direction they need can result in more compassionate and smooth care, which is advantageous for the patient as well as their support system.
Providing comprehensive care to individuals with severe health issues is a complex undertaking that calls for a blend of medical knowledge, compassion, and an all-encompassing outlook on health. We can establish a supportive environment where patients with significant health concerns can receive the finest care possible and improve their quality of life by addressing these factors holistically. Providing care for these patients is an ongoing process that requires compassion, devotion, and a desire to improve their quality of life.
Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
Navigating the dynamic world of travel nursing can sometimes feel like a solitary journey. However, with the right connections and relationships, every travel nurse can amplify their career opportunities and enrich their professional experiences. Networking, an often-underutilized tool, is pivotal for personal and professional growth, especially for travel nurses. Whether you’re looking to expand your horizons, discover new job opportunities, or find camaraderie in shared experiences, networking can be the key.
Why Networking Matters for Travel Nurses
1. Unveiling New Opportunities:
Networking can open doors to travel nursing assignments you might have yet to encounter in your regular job search. It can offer exclusive insights into potential job openings, allowing you a competitive edge in application processes.
2. Knowledge Exchange:
With travel nursing spanning diverse healthcare settings, networking provides a platform to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss challenges. The collective wisdom of fellow nurses can help you prepare for diverse scenarios and enrich your professional skills.
3. Mentorship and Guidance:
For those newer to the travel nursing realm, networking can connect you with seasoned travel nurses. Their guidance can provide valuable insights into navigating assignments, understanding contractual nuances, and achieving work-life balance.
4. Emotional Support:
Travel nursing, with its unique set of challenges, can sometimes be isolating. Building a network of fellow travel nurses offers a support system, a sounding board, and a comforting presence of those who truly understand your journey.
Strategies for Effective Networking
1. Engage in Professional Associations:
Associations like the American Nurses Association offer platforms to connect with fellow nurses, attend events, and participate in mentorship programs. Being an active member can provide numerous networking opportunities.
2. Attend Conferences and Workshops:
These are hubs for meeting professionals from your field. Not only do they provide learning opportunities, but they also serve as platforms to connect, share experiences, and explore collaborations.
3. Dive into the Digital World:
Platforms like LinkedIn, specialty nursing forums, and even Facebook groups can be goldmines for networking. Engaging in discussions, sharing insights, and connecting with peers online can broaden your network effortlessly.
4. Embrace Local Communities:
While on assignment, engage with local nursing communities. It can be through volunteering, attending local workshops, or simply connecting with local nurses. Building local connections can enhance your assignment experience and offer a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.
5. Proactively Connect:
Take the lead in initiating conversations, whether introducing yourself to a fellow nurse in the breakroom or contacting someone online. Remember, every interaction holds the potential of a lasting professional relationship.
6. Continuous Engagement:
Networking isn’t a one-time activity. Continuous engagement is crucial to truly benefit from it. Keep in touch with your connections, share updates, and be there to offer support when needed.
In the realm of travel nursing, where every assignment is a new journey, having a robust network can be your compass, guiding you through challenges, offering support, and leading you to opportunities. As you continue to provide exceptional patient care and explore new horizons, remember that building and nurturing professional relationships can be a catalyst for unparalleled growth and fulfillment.
At Trustaff, we pride ourselves on understanding travel nurses’ unique needs and aspirations. With our extensive network of assignments, continuous support, and a commitment to your professional growth, Trustaff is your partner in every step of your travel nursing journey.
Explore the limitless opportunities and experience the Trustaff difference today. Discover, thrive, and let us be the bridge to your next great adventure.
Travel nursing is an exciting career choice that offers nurses the opportunity to explore new places, gain diverse clinical experiences, and earn competitive compensation. However, before you can embark on this rewarding journey, you’ll need to navigate the complexities of credentialing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations for obtaining credentials for travel nursing assignments.
Provider Credentialing: Your agency will work closely with healthcare facilities to verify your credentials, including your nursing license, certifications, and work history.
Background Checks: Background checks, including criminal and professional history, are standard components of the credentialing process.
Health Screenings: You may be required to undergo health screenings, immunizations, and drug tests to ensure that you are fit to work with patients.
References: Facilities may request references from previous employers or colleagues to assess your qualifications.
Orientation and Training: Some facilities may provide additional orientation or training to familiarize you with their specific policies and procedures.
Compliance: Ensuring compliance with facility-specific requirements and documentation is crucial for successful credentialing.
Tips for Success
Start Early: Initiate the credentialing processes well in advance of your planned start date for an assignment.
Stay Organized: Maintain all your documentation, licenses, and certifications in one place to streamline the credentialing process.
Effective Communication: Keep open lines of communication with your travel nursing agency to ensure that all requirements are met and you receive the necessary support.
Be Flexible: Be prepared for variations in licensing and credentialing requirements between states and facilities.
Record Keeping: Keep meticulous records of your licenses and credentials, including expiration dates, to ensure they remain current.
Conclusion
While credentialing may seem like a daunting task for travel nursing, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate these challenges successfully. Research state requirements, initiate the process in a timely manner, and collaborate closely with your travel nursing agency to ensure a smooth transition between assignments. By staying organized and proactive, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your travel nursing adventures with confidence, making a meaningful impact on healthcare across the United States.
‘Tis the season, travelers! January assignments are on the horizon, and it’s time to prebook to lock down the best contracts or find promos or bonuses. This year, many travelers aren’t happy with January assignment rates, especially considering the high cost of lodging and living arrangements. With a little strategy, paired with choosing the right agency and technology platform, travelers can find what they’re looking for.
The following is a guide for locking down your ideal January assignment.
Look out for bonus incentives.
Some agencies are stepping up and giving travelers a raise through promos. Are you determined to book an assignment someplace with a high cost of living? Find the highest rate for the job, and then see who tops that off with a bonus! Just make sure to pay attention to the promo rules to make sure you get the full amount.
Allied? Find an agency dedicated to Allied travelers.
Some agencies are more equipped than others to work with allied professionals and allied travelers especially. Find an agency that has an entire department dedicated to broadening their allied job board, as well as recruiting teams specifically dedicated to placing and advising allied professionals in all modalities.
Shop around for the highest pay.
Now is the time to compare what different agencies are paying for the same travel assignments. When it comes to pay, not all agencies offer the same rates, and not all agencies are as transparent about pay and benefits. There can be drastic differences in what one agency offers over another. Get on multiple job boards! Compare rates and find your best bet. Just make sure you know how much you’ll take home!
Find an agency that does it all.
The holidays are not cheap. Some agencies offer perm and per diem options in addition to travel and local assignments. If the agency you’re traveling with offers per diem opportunities, your compliance and credentialing are already on file, making you ready to pick up per diem opportunities available near your assignment. This is a great way to make some extra cash! You can also ask about an assignment’s overtime pay and opportunities.
Get out of complacency & search for a wild card assignment.
Travelers like to explore by nature. You’re bold enough to enter an entirely new work environment. Feed your inner wanderer by looking into assignments in locations or facilities you wouldn’t ordinarily consider. If you usually take a January assignment in a big city, where it’s warm, shake up your routine. Find a high-paying assignment in a location and facility that offers you a new experience. Sometimes embracing a true winter, with snow and overcast skies, hot chocolate, and skiing, is perfect for slowing down and reflecting.
Strengthen your resume/build your skill set.
In a travel job market, some seasons are better than others for finding assignments that have the pay you want in the locations and settings you want. Sometimes, an assignment that refines and sharpens your skill set or builds up your resume is a smart way to narrow in on what to look for in your next assignment.
Inquire within.
At the risk of sounding Zen, don’t forget to ground yourself in… well, yourself. Your time between assignments and when searching for your next assignment is exactly the right time to touch base with how you feel, not just about your career but in the broader scope of your life and all you hold dear. Sometimes, career takes the front seat, and sometimes, it’s good to reconnect with yourself before you make another big career decision. Where do you want to be? What is important to you right now? What kind of workflow or setting do you want or need in the coming months?
The assignment you truly want is out there, but time is of the essence! Start searching and applying today!
