How does travel nursing work?
Staffing shortages is not an uncommon problem for hospitals and facilities across the country. Travel nurses are hired to fill these shortages, which may be caused by a lack of qualified nurses in the area, seasonal population increases, or an expected leave of absence like maternity leave. To find skilled nurses to fill these often-short-term assignments, these facilities work with recruitment agencies
Who can become a travel nurse?
Travel nurses are Registered Nurses with typically 12-18 months of hospital-based RN experience in their field. Depending on the specialty or the specific requirements of the facility, the required work experience may be longer. Travel nursing assignments are available for multiple specialties, but some specialties like ICU and Oncology are more in demand.
How long are travel nursing assignments?
Standard travel nurse hours are five 8s, four 10s, or three 12s, though this will vary by facility. Your shift and hours should be written in your contract.
The standard travel nursing assignment is 13 weeks, anything between 8 and 26 weeks is common. Hospitals often offer to renew your contract — called extension assignments. Extension offers usually occur the last 3 to 5 weeks of your assignment, but if you’re interested in staying on longer, you should talk to your recruiterand manager. You don’t have to wait to be approached by the facility.
Where can travel nurses go?
Travel nursing jobs are available across the country, but available assignment locations will depend on current staffing needs. Ultimately, you decide where you want to go — chances are if your dream location isn’t available now, it will be in the future.
Many of our travelers enjoy going to the US Virgin Island and other such locations.
Also, to work as a travel nurse, you’ll need an RN license for that state. Ask your recruiter about Compact State licenses, which allow you to work in many states with one license. Many Government Facilities including Indian Health Services (IHS), Veteran Administration (VA),Correctional Facilitiesand military facilities only require an active Nurse License.
Can I take a travel assignment close to my home?
A common myth is that your assignment must be at least 50 miles away from your permanent residence — often called the “50-mile rule.” The truth is you can work a contract assignment at a hospital close to your home if you choose. If you do, though, you can’t collect the non-taxed housing stipend.
To collect the housing stipend, you must be duplicating expenses — rent or own a home in your home area AND rent a place in the area you’re working. Basically, you can’t work a contract and go home to your main residence at the end of your shift and receive a non-taxed stipend
What is salary like as a travel nurse?
Total compensation depends on multiple factors like your specialty, the contract, and the location of the hospital. Generally, travel nurses are often paid well, because of the high-demand for nurses. In addition to your hourly rate, you’ll often be eligible for medical benefits bonuses, and stipends for housing, meals, and travel expenses. Keep in mind, that when working as a travel nurse, you’re employed by the travel nursing agency and not the facility.
Am I eligible for benefits like health insurance?
PNS offers medical benefits — To maintain health insurance, though, you cannot take off more than 30 days. If your plan is to take extended time off between assignments, it would be wise to get your own health insurance.
Bottom line: In the world of travel nursing, if you don’t work, you don’t get paid.
“Can I take my husband, boyfriend, children, 2 dogs and my cat on my assignment with me?”
Absolutely! Traveling with your family or pets is a great way to share the fun and excitement of your travel experiences. If you choose to travel with your pets, please let your recruiter know before you confirm your assignment. Many, but not all, housing complexes allow animals and most have breed and/or size restrictions. We are happy to assist with finding pet friendly housing, however, we do not sign the leases for travelers with pets.
Am I Under Any Obligation After Submitting My Application?
No. Your application is simply used as a qualification for you to travel. You can choose to travel now or in the future. After your application is processed you can speak with a dedicated recruiter about assignment options available to you.
Are There Any Fees Associated With Your Services?
No, there are never any fees. Our experienced recruiters provide you with travel career information to help match you to the ideal job.