As a nurse, you can choose from various travel nursing jobs. You’ll learn about these positions’ benefits, locations, and credentials in this article. These positions are typically unpaid, and most nurses will find them appealing. However, there are some common problems with these jobs.
Benefits of working as a travel nurse
The travel nursing jobs in Michigan are an excellent opportunity for nurses who want to experience different places and environments. This job allows nurses to live like a local for up to 13 weeks. It also allows nurses to learn and develop life skills. Many travel nurses go on to find permanent jobs in their new destinations. They also know how to get along with different people and situations. Lastly, they aren’t subjected to the politics and issues at their current workplace.
Although travel nursing is an excellent opportunity for nurses who enjoy working with different people, there are also a few downsides. One major drawback of this job is that it’s difficult to obtain paid time off. Even when travel nursing companies offer paid time off, these benefits are often small and irregular. Another drawback of this job is that it can be challenging to collect unemployment benefits, as you are a temporary employee. Lastly, travel nursing companies often have more work than they can handle.
Pay of travel nurses
One of the benefits of working as a travel nurse is that you get to choose where you work. Typically, agencies list possible destinations and ask you to select the one best suits you. Some people work near their family and friends, while others like to explore new places. In addition, travel nursing is usually contract work, lasting from several weeks to several months. This flexibility means you can work when it suits you and decide how long you want off.
In addition to the base pay, many travel nurse companies offer bonuses. These bonuses can include sign-on bonuses and completion bonuses. Sign-on rewards can be as high as $1,000, and completion bonuses can be up to $5,000. These bonuses are meant to encourage nurses to take on more assignments with the company.
Locations of travel nursing assignments
There are several places to work as a travel nurse. Depending on your specialty and area of interest, you may find positions in the west or south. In both cases, there are many benefits to travel nursing. The cost of living is low, and you can enjoy various activities in each location. You can find assignments in small towns, fast-paced cities, and natural settings.
Credentials required for travel nurses
The educational credentials required for travel nursing positions vary according to the employer and job requirements. A BSN is a minimum requirement for many positions, but some facilities may require an ADN or an associate’s degree. Other credentials may benefit a particular role, such as a certification in advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or pediatrics. Travel nurses are also required to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Additionally, they must complete continuing education units and complete minimum contact hours.
A Real ID is also required for some travel nurse positions, including a state-issued photo ID and a passport. A passport provides greater flexibility to travel abroad and serves as a backup ID. Lastly, having your credentials in order before starting a new position is beneficial. These credentials will prove helpful at orientation and onboarding and will also come in handy when applying for travel nurse jobs in the future.
Common problems with general job boards for travel nurses
Travel nurse agencies often publish their jobs on general job boards. These sites list jobs across all industries, and you should be aware of their common drawbacks if you want to find work as a travel nurse. First, many general job boards contain irrelevant information and misleading job listings.
Secondly, you need to use keywords to narrow your search. While some general job boards have good search functionality, these websites have several significant problems. For example, searching for a specific job by location, agency, or start date will return many irrelevant listings.
The career outlook for travel nurses
The career outlook for travel nurses is positive, and work is abundant. Unlike staff nurses, travel nurses have a flexible schedule, although they are expected to meet their contracted hours. A great benefit of working as a travel nurse is the ability to choose a particular specialty or type of facility. This flexibility allows nurses to develop a variety of skills and to be more versatile. If you’re considering a career in travel nursing, prepare yourself with the documentation and skills you’ll need to succeed.
One factor contributing to the career outlook for travel nurses is the current nursing shortage. Many hospitals have been feeling budget constraints and are trying to reduce their expenses, which will lead to an increased demand for travel nurses. In addition, the growth in the aging population is also driving an increase in the need for nursing staff.