Becoming a travel nurse is a wonderful way to see the country and gain professional clinical experience in different hospitals. The following are a few things you should know before starting this career path.
How to Qualify for California-Based Travel Nurse Jobs
Although you can be a travel nurse in any state, many nursing graduates are particularly interested in CA travel nurse jobs because this state has some of the best nursing jobs in the country.
You will need an associate’s degree or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. You must also be a registered nurse with an active state-issued license and at least one year of acute care experience.
It also helps to have strong interpersonal skills, be impeccably organized, and be fiercely committed to your work.
What Do Travel Nurses Do?
Travel nurses typically work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals and evaluate and treat patients. They also provide support to surgeons during operations.
Depending on the assignment, travel nurses can choose to work in their home state or travel to other locations. They must be able to acclimate quickly to new work environments and workflows.
It is typical for travel nurses to work on a contract basis, and they receive hourly pay and a non-taxable stipend. They can also take advantage of vacation time, which is often more flexible than regular employment.
The Benefits of Being a Travel Nurse
In addition to seeing new places and experiencing different cultures, registered nurses who travel can also enjoy competitive salaries and the chance to learn new skills as part of their travel nursing career.
Exposure to different medical environments and building your resume can be a massive benefit of working as a travel nurse. Your assignments also offer flexibility since they are usually shorter than traditional nursing positions.
Travel nurses receive standard benefits, including health insurance and accessible housing. They are also free to explore new cities, healthcare systems, and hospitals. You may even find yourself making new friends and learning new skills. You can even ask for a mentor to assist you with your career.
Travel nurses may also choose to stay in one location for a while before moving on. This arrangement is the perfect way to find the ideal place to call home.
This job is a unique way to explore the country and meet new people. You can also get valuable experience that will enhance your professional skills. For example, you may learn how to specialize in providing care to elderly patients.
What to Expect During Your First Few Assignments
You’ll want to do some research to prepare for your first assignment. You should find out what your rights are and what the hospital’s policies are. You can also learn about the hospital’s culture. Ask your recruiter about continuing education if you’re interested in pursuing specialty training.
It would help if you also thought about your housing in each new location. Moving to a high-cost city requires you to save money. Consider looking into affordable housing near the hospital. It’s possible to receive a housing stipend to help cover the cost of living in a new area.
On the job, you will need to make many decisions quickly. You’ll need to acclimate to your new location, meet new people, and adjust to unique procedures. It’s often necessary to be flexible when working with people of different backgrounds and personalities.
Why It’s a Rewarding Career
If you’re looking for a rewarding and exciting career, consider becoming a travel nurse. Staffing agencies often hire travel nurses for hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
