Travel Nursing
Travel nursing is an enriching and dynamic career path for nurses seeking diversity in their work environments, opportunities to enhance their skills, and the adventure of exploring new places.
Travel nursing is an enriching and dynamic career path for nurses seeking diversity in their work environments, opportunities to enhance their skills, and the adventure of exploring new places. This unique field of nursing offers the flexibility to work in various healthcare settings while experiencing different cultures and communities across the country or even globally. If you're passionate about nursing and love the idea of discovering new places, travel nursing could be the perfect fit for you.
What Does Travel Nursing Entail?
Travel nursing involves taking on temporary assignments in different healthcare facilities around the world. These assignments typically range from 8 to 26 weeks but can vary based on the facility's needs and your personal preferences.
Benefits of Travel Nursing
Discover New Places
One of the most exciting aspects of travel nursing is the ability to work and live in different areas, from bustling urban centers to quiet, rural towns. It's an excellent opportunity for those who love to travel and want to experience life in various parts of the country or the world.
Broaden Your Professional Experience
Travel nursing allows you to gain a wealth of experience in a short amount of time. You'll have the chance to work in diverse healthcare settings, from prestigious teaching hospitals to community clinics, enhancing your skills and expanding your nursing knowledge.
Flexibility and Freedom
Travel nursing offers unparalleled flexibility in your professional life. You can choose your assignments, take time off between them, and decide on the locations where you want to work, giving you control over your schedule and career path.
Competitive Compensation
Travel nurses often receive competitive salaries, housing stipends, and other benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans. Additionally, travel reimbursements can make this career path not only personally rewarding but also financially advantageous.
Getting Started in Travel Nursing
Ensure Eligibility: Verify that you have an active RN license and the necessary clinical experience, as required by most travel nursing positions.
Organize Your Credentials: Keep your resume, certifications, and professional references up to date to streamline the application process for new assignments.
Research and Apply: Look into various agencies and apply for positions that match your skills, interests, and desired locations. Many Travel Nursing Agencies post their jobs on The RN Network's Job Board.
Top 10 Resources for Travel Nurses
Here are 10 essential resources to support you in your travel nursing journey:
American Travel Health Nurses Association - https://www.athna.org: Focuses on travel health nursing and offers resources for professionals in the field.
TravelNursing.org - https://www.travelnursing.org: A comprehensive guide to travel nursing careers, including job opportunities.
The Gypsy Nurse - https://www.thegypsynurse.com: An online community that provides job listings, advice, and support for travel nurses.
Highway Hypodermics - https://www.highwayhypodermics.com: Offers reviews of travel nursing companies and additional resources.
BluePipes - https://www.bluepipes.com: A networking platform for healthcare professionals with career management tools.
NurseFly - https://www.nursefly.com: Helps find travel nurse assignments and compare different pay packages.
BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Registered Nurses - https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm: Offers insights into the nursing profession, including salary data and job growth projections.
American Nurses Association (ANA) - https://www.nursingworld.org: Provides resources and advocacy for nurses in various specialties.
Nomad Health - https://www.nomadhealth.com: A platform for finding freelance and travel nursing positions.
Nurse.org - https://nurse.org: Contains articles, job listings, and resources for nurses, including those interested in travel nursing.
Embark on Your Adventure
Travel nursing is more than a job—it's a lifestyle that offers the chance to grow both professionally and personally. By taking on new challenges and embracing the opportunities that travel nursing provides, you can enjoy a fulfilling and exciting career. With the right resources and a bit of planning, your journey as a travel nurse can lead to unparalleled experiences and lasting memories.