As a nurse, you’re an essential part of the American healthcare system. Nurses are in demand all over the country which is why so many nurses today are choosing opportunities with travel nursing jobs. Travel nursing offers more adventure and variety than a standard full-time role. You’ll gain the opportunity to work with facilities that need nurses for specific periods of time. If you’re interested in taking on travel assignments, here are a few steps on how to become a travel nurse.
Earn Your Degree & License
The first requirement of becoming a travel nurse is earning your nursing degree. With any nursing career, you must first complete and receive an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited university. Having a BSN is typically preferred for travel nurses as it provides more opportunities with different facilities and health systems. You’ll also need to pass the NCLEX and become licensed in your state of practice.
After you become licensed you can update it to have an NLC (nurse licensure compact). The NLC was designed to give nurses the ability to practice in any NLC state without having to obtain a new license. States that participate in the Nursing Licensure Compact have given nurses the power to provide the best possible care. Nurses have the ability to move from state to state or even provide telehealth services. As of February 2022, there are 36 states in the compact.
Gain Experience in Your Specialization
Experience is one of the most important elements of becoming a travel nurse. Most hospitals and facilities require nurses to have at least two years of practical work experience before applying for travel nursing contracts. Depending on your specialization, you may require additional certification, which can also help set you apart.
Important characteristics for a travel nurse are displaying a strong clinical background, leadership skills, adaptability, and flexibility, as well as good communication, organization, and critical thinking skills. Hospitals and facilities are always looking for experienced nurses with certain specializations and advanced training for specific positions. Take a look at some of the most in-demand nursing specialties here.
Find a Travel Nurse Recruiter
Once you have your education, licensing, and experience it’s time to choose a travel nurse staffing agency to begin working with a recruiter. A recruiter is your greatest resource in helping you find a travel assignment. They are the link between what you’re looking for in a travel assignment and the hospital or facility that you’ll be placed in.
Choosing a great recruiter is important for having a successful travel nursing experience and helping you achieve your goals as a travel nurse. Asking the right questions can help you find the best recruiter for you.
At CareerStaff, we know that your career is more than a job. You’re dedicated to helping others, and you deserve to get the most out of the work you do. When it comes to choosing a travel nursing recruiter, it makes sense to select a partner who’s fully dedicated to your career, offering hundreds of opportunities across the country every day. We’re known for the quality of our travel nursing recruiters. They’re dedicated to making sure you’re connected with the job that’s the best fit for you and your personal and professional goals. They’ll be available to support you during your assignment with 24/7 availability, responding to individual requests and needs, and answering any questions you may have.
Find Your Next Travel Nursing Job with CareerStaff
We value the devotion and commitment nurses give every day. We are committed to helping facilities provide the best patient care possible and would love to have you join our team. If you’re in the market for a new career opportunity, or interested in exploring different horizons, we welcome you to learn more about our best-in-class nursing jobs.
We offer hundreds of nationwide opportunities for placement at the top facilities, dedicated recruiters to help every step of the way, and great bonuses. Click here to find the best travel nurse assignment today!