Want to know how to start travel nursing? It starts with getting your nursing degree, passing the NCLEX-RN exam and gaining clinical experience. After that you connect with travel nursing agencies to find assignments that fit your skills and preferences. This guide breaks it down for you.
Key Points
- Travel nursing offers flexibility, competitive pay and opportunities across many healthcare specialties due to nursing shortages.
- Aspiring travel nurses must have an ADN or BSN, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, get RN licensure and typically have at least one year of clinical experience.
- Successful travel nurses can boost their career by getting specialized certifications, adapting to new environments quickly and connecting with reputable travel nursing agencies.
What is Travel Nursing
A travel nurse is a registered nurse who takes on short term assignments in various locations to fill staffing needs in medical facilities. This role addresses nursing shortages and prevents compromised patient care due to understaffing. Travel nurses can work in many specialties from pediatrics and emergency rooms to rural underserved areas.
One of the best things about travel nursing is the flexibility. Travel nurses can choose assignments based on their preferences, whether it’s the location, duration or type of healthcare setting. They also get competitive pay and avoid office politics that can come with permanent positions. As nursing shortages get worse the demand for travel nurses remains high and job security and many opportunities.
Travel nurses work in various healthcare settings, taking on staff nurse responsibilities and adapting to new EMR systems and workflows. Many travel nurses find that this adaptability and being able to work independently are key traits that make an ER nurse highly valuable in the healthcare industry during their travel nurse assignment and travel nurse positions.
Educational Requirements for Travel Nurses
Aspiring travel nurses must have at least an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These degrees provide the foundation of knowledge and skills to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and get RN licensure which is required to become a travel nurse and to become a travel nurse.
Many travel nursing agencies prefer candidates with a BSN because of its comprehensive curriculum and more opportunities. Here are the details of these educational paths.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An ADN, a two year program, is the entry point for many nurses. The ADN program teaches students the skills and knowledge to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and become a licensed registered nurse. This is a quicker entry into the nursing field making it popular among many nurses.
The ADN curriculum covers core nursing practices like patient care, disease prevention and basic clinical skills. ADN graduates are prepared for staff nurse responsibilities and can gain valuable clinical experience needed for travel nursing success.
Although an ADN provides a solid foundation many nurses pursue a BSN to boost their career and meet agency requirements.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The BSN degree provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing practices and healthcare principles. This four year nursing degree which is often considered equivalent to a bachelor’s degree includes coursework in advanced nursing concepts, leadership and specialized areas of nursing. Many agencies prefer BSN candidates because of its broader education scope and more competencies.
A BSN prepares nurses for more diverse roles and responsibilities in healthcare settings compared to an ADN. A BSN opens doors to advanced positions including leadership roles and specialized care areas. It also enhances adaptability to dynamic work environments making it valuable for travel nursing careers.
NCLEX-RN Exam
Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required to become a registered nurse and start a travel nursing career. This exam administered by the National Council Licensure Examination of State Boards of Nursing assesses the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective nursing practice. Both ADN and BSN graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN which is a prerequisite for RN licensure.
Preparing for the NCLEX-RN involves getting familiar with the question formats and content areas. Using NCLEX prep books, joining study groups and taking practice tests can significantly improve your chances of passing.
Make sure to get enough rest before the exam to stay alert and focused during the test. The NCLEX-RN is a computerized adaptive test that adjusts difficulty based on your responses so thorough preparation is key.
RN Licensure
To get RN licensure start by finding the application on your state nursing license board of nursing’s website.
Applicants need to:
- Verify graduation from an accredited nursing program
- Submit evidence of degree completion along with NCLEX-RN scores3. Complete a background check as part of the licensure process.
After completing all steps including paying the fee and background check, applicants submit their application, fingerprints and other documents to the state nursing board.
Note: State specific requirements may vary. If you want to work in multiple states a compact nursing license allows you to practice in several states without needing separate licenses.
Clinical Experience
Clinical experience is key to a successful travel nursing career. Most travel nursing agencies require at least one year of clinical experience before you can apply. Typically at least two years of nursing experience including education and hands on practice are needed to be well prepared for travel nursing. This experience helps nurses develop the skills to adapt quickly to new environments and work independently.
Travel nursing allows you to work with various patient populations and healthcare systems, enhancing your skill set and making you more competitive in the field. Specializing in high demand areas like ICU, ER or L&D can further boost your travel nurse career. Getting specialized certifications in areas like critical care or oncology nursing can also make you a more attractive candidate for travel nursing positions.
Connecting with Travel Nursing Agencies
Travel nursing agencies help nurses find temporary positions by acting as intermediaries between healthcare employers and nurses. These nurse staffing agencies, along with travel nurse staffing agencies and travel nurse agency, help navigate state specific licensing requirements, ensure nurses have their credentials in order. They also offer services like contract negotiation, helping nurses get competitive pay and benefits.
When choosing an agency research multiple options and read reviews from current or former nurses. Use networking sites like Indeed and LinkedIn or ask other travel nurses for recommendations to find the best nurse staffing agency most nurse staffing agencies.
After identifying a suitable agency do your due diligence to make sure it meets your needs and preferences. Once you sign a contract the agency will send you job opportunities and act as a mediator between you and the hospital.
Preparing for Your First Travel Nursing Assignment
Organize your essential documents like nursing licenses, certifications, immunizations and other paperwork for your first travel nursing assignment. Research the cost of living in the travel assignment area including housing, meals and transportation so you are financially prepared for your next assignment. Familiarize yourself with the assignment location so you can acclimate to the new environment before you start.Arrive a few days early to set up your living space and get acclimated to the new environment. Orientation at your new facility usually takes a few weeks and provides training and information to get you started.
Being positive and flexible is key to adapting to new work environments and a smooth transition.
Housing and Logistics
Travel nurses have several housing options including free or discounted corporate housing from the agency or a weekly housing stipend if they find their own housing. Websites like furnishedfinder.com can help find furnished apartments for travel assignments. Create a budget that includes housing costs and make sure the accommodation is safe and convenient.
Some agencies offer programs to help with the financial burden of housing including assistance with deposits and rent. Most agencies provide these resources to help individuals and families.
Consider your pets before accepting a travel nursing assignment. If you plan to bring pets research housing that allows them. If not arrange for a family member or friend to watch them while you’re on assignment.
Adapting to New Work Environments
Adapting to new work environments is crucial in travel nursing. Orientations for travel nurses usually last a few days and focus on unit workflow and supply locations rather than extensive training. Adequate clinical experience is key to adapting quickly and working independently in new environments.
Ask about policies and procedures proactively to make the transition into a new healthcare system including hospitals and healthcare facilities smoother. Build relationships with colleagues to create a support network in the new work environment. Embrace the cultural differences in each new location to enhance both personal and professional experiences.
Be flexible with changes in work routines is a key skill for travel nurses.
Benefits and Compensation
The financial benefits of travel nursing are huge. The average annual salary for a travel nurse in 2023 is around $116,923. Some travel nurses can earn over $3,000 a week, depending on bonuses and stipends. The average hourly rate for a travel nurse is $37.84. This is the typical rate for this profession. Housing and travel stipends for travel nurses are tax free, so take home pay is even higher. The travel nurse salary reflects these financial benefits.
Besides higher pay travel nurses receive medical benefits including health, dental and vision coverage. Many agencies offer 401(k) plans to help nurses save for retirement. Seasonal, referral and completion bonuses are also common in contracts and add to total compensation.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Travel nurses face job insecurity due to the temporary nature of contracts. Adapting to different protocols and systems in each facility can be tough. Maintaining multiple state licenses requires extra paperwork and ongoing education. Finding housing for short term assignments can be difficult due to high demand and cost in popular areas.
Balancing work and personal life is challenging with irregular hours and frequent relocations. Self care is key to well being while adjusting to new work environments.
Workforce issues like being understaffed or high patient loads can add stress for travel nurses and staff nurses especially with the nursing shortage. Develop stress management strategies and seek support from colleagues and professional networks to overcome these challenges.
Career Growth and Advancement
Career growth and advancement is key for travel nurses looking for long term success. Here are some common paths for career advancement:
- Get an advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
- Network through professional nursing organizations to open doors for growth and development opportunities.
- Move into management roles where they supervise clinical staff and lead nursing initiatives.
Having a personal management system for patient care is a valuable benefit gained through years of nursing experience. Travel nursing is a dynamic career path with higher pay and diverse experiences, so it’s a great option for many healthcare professionals.
Conclusion
In summary, travel nursing is a unique and rewarding career path with opportunities for growth, flexibility and adventure. By understanding the educational requirements, passing the NCLEX-RN, getting RN licensure and gaining clinical experience you can start your journey to a successful travel nursing career. Connect with reputable travel nursing agencies, prepare for assignments and adapt to new work environments to ensure a smooth transition. Embrace the challenges, enjoy the benefits and go for it and become a travel nurse.
FAQs
What is the minimum educational requirement to become a travel nurse?
To become a travel nurse you must have at least an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This foundational education prepares you for the diverse opportunities in travel nursing.
How much clinical experience is required before becoming a travel nurse?
Most travel nursing agencies require a minimum of one year of clinical experience, though two years is often recommended to be well prepared for the role.
What are the benefits of being a travel nurse?
Travel nursing offers many benefits like flexibility, new locations, high pay and professional growth without office politics. These are great reasons for many healthcare professionals to choose this career.
How do travel nursing agencies help nurses?
Travel nursing agencies help nurses by placing them in temporary positions, managing licensing, negotiating contracts and providing 24/7 support and resources for new environments.
What financial benefits do travel nurses get?
Travel nurses get financial benefits like higher pay, tax free housing and travel stipends and bonuses and comprehensive medical coverage. Overall these financial perks increase their earning potential and job satisfaction.
