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Theresa
Student
Paducah, Kentucky
1
Question
Updated
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What did you wish you knew before becoming a travel nurse?
What are the secrets to succeeding in a travel nurse role? Tips and tricks to avoid unnecessary stress while traveling as a nurse? What are the pros and cons and is it worth it vs. staying in one institution? What did you wish you knew before becoming a travel nurse?
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Char Allen
Registered nurse
4
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Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Char’s Answer
Theresa, here are some tips I've gathered along my journey. I focused on travel nursing for Hemodialysis, but I wish I had explored other specialties too. If you can, try spending some time in areas like Med/Surg, psych, OR, and ICU. These fields are always in demand, and having experience in more than one area can help you stay financially secure.
Before you start traveling, make sure you have at least two years of experience, as most places require this. Think about where you'd like to go and what salary you're willing to accept. A recruiter once advised me to keep my options open regarding travel destinations. Initially, I chose places where I had family, and as I gained confidence, I explored new areas after researching them.
When I began, I relied on one recruiter who eventually stopped communicating with me. I learned that the application process often moves quickly, so it's crucial to have all your documents ready. Keep a folder with your nursing documents like BLS, ACLS, Nursing License, Resume, and 2-3 references. I usually express interest in three different areas, each with its own recruiter. Some recruiters work faster than others, so it's important to know what you want in terms of time and money. I prefer jobs with higher pay and a schedule that suits me. I often choose a blocked schedule and take on-call shifts during busy nights for extra pay. Always speak to the manager before accepting a contract to ensure it's a good fit.
I stayed with one institution for two contracts, but when the weather changed, I moved to a warmer place. There was one assignment I disliked, but I finished it to maintain my reputation. Remember, you can leave a contract if needed. Your well-being comes first. Most travel companies offer insurance, but if you get injured, you'll need additional coverage, as their insurance will stop unless it's a workman's comp issue.
When you start traveling, you work a week in advance, so have enough funds for travel, food, gas, and essentials. Look into housing options and ask your recruiter if other nurses in the area can offer advice. I usually arrive 1-2 days early to explore the area and see what's available.
I love travel nursing and would have continued if I didn't need to find a clinical placement. It can be a rewarding and exciting career path!
Before you start traveling, make sure you have at least two years of experience, as most places require this. Think about where you'd like to go and what salary you're willing to accept. A recruiter once advised me to keep my options open regarding travel destinations. Initially, I chose places where I had family, and as I gained confidence, I explored new areas after researching them.
When I began, I relied on one recruiter who eventually stopped communicating with me. I learned that the application process often moves quickly, so it's crucial to have all your documents ready. Keep a folder with your nursing documents like BLS, ACLS, Nursing License, Resume, and 2-3 references. I usually express interest in three different areas, each with its own recruiter. Some recruiters work faster than others, so it's important to know what you want in terms of time and money. I prefer jobs with higher pay and a schedule that suits me. I often choose a blocked schedule and take on-call shifts during busy nights for extra pay. Always speak to the manager before accepting a contract to ensure it's a good fit.
I stayed with one institution for two contracts, but when the weather changed, I moved to a warmer place. There was one assignment I disliked, but I finished it to maintain my reputation. Remember, you can leave a contract if needed. Your well-being comes first. Most travel companies offer insurance, but if you get injured, you'll need additional coverage, as their insurance will stop unless it's a workman's comp issue.
When you start traveling, you work a week in advance, so have enough funds for travel, food, gas, and essentials. Look into housing options and ask your recruiter if other nurses in the area can offer advice. I usually arrive 1-2 days early to explore the area and see what's available.
I love travel nursing and would have continued if I didn't need to find a clinical placement. It can be a rewarding and exciting career path!