What is a Travel Nurse
Are you looking for a change of scenery? Maybe it’s a change of pace you need? Maybe you want to help people, but want to do something a bit different. If you’re looking for a new career, why not consider becoming a travel nurse?
A travel nurse is a healthcare professional who, instead of settling into one job, takes on 6 to 13-week assignments providing care in different locations. Travel nursing can bring a lot of personal fulfillment and purpose, but it also offers plenty of other benefits.
Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse
The first and probably most obvious benefit of working as a travel nurse is the ability to work anywhere. Whether it’s across the country or across the world, working as a travel nurse means you’ll experience amazing places and have amazing experiences.
Travel nurses also have the opportunity to spread knowledge. As a travel nurse, the knowledge you gain from each experience can be shared with other nurses and medical professionals, allowing them to grow as professionals while improving care quality on a wider scale.
Travel nurses can also benefit from higher salaries. A travel nurse usually earns more than a staff nurse, since travel nurses’ assignments aren’t always simple or easy. Plus, you’ll usually receive tax-free travel pay, free lodging, health insurance and an allowance for meals.
The duties of a Travel Nurse
Travel nurses may find themselves in a variety of clinical settings — from small clinics to large hospitals. Some assignments may involve an area of specialty, such as pediatrics or oncology, providing a new and different management experience.
Regardless of the setting or specialty, travel nurses will generally be responsible for:
– Assessing patients and developing a plan of care
– Evaluating results, resources and report to the health care team
– Medications, treatments and follow-up care
– Verifying that all documentation is accurate and complete
– Performing appropriate procedures according to the department’s established standards
– Assisting in teaching and training new personnel
– Ensuring stringent adherence to aseptic techniques and infection control
The travel nurse also has the added responsibility of taking initiative and staying organized. Changes in locations means changes in workflows and schedules so being able to learn and adjust quickly is essential.
Are you Ready to Become a Travel Nurse?
Travel nurses provide healthcare services on a short term basis in a variety of settings. It’s a great way to gain experience and support the healthcare system while the nurse enjoys freedom and travel.
Are you up to the challenge and ready to become a travel nurse? If you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey and join the ranks of our other great nurses, contact one of our healthcare recruiters for more information today!