The world of travel nursing is rich with potential…if you can get past the myths and misconceptions surrounding this oft-misunderstood profession. Read on to learn the real scoop on what to expect from a career as a travel nurse.
Myth #1: Travel nurses are constantly relocating.
Fact #1: As a travel nurse, you determine how much or how little you want to travel. Want to transition straight from one assignment to the next? That’s up to you. Looking for a job during your child’s summer break? That’s possible, too.
While most contracts last 13 weeks or so, they can be longer or shorter. In some case — if there is availability — you can even opt to extend an assignment or move between hospitals in the same city.
Myth #2: Travel nurses are at the mercy of their agency.
Fact #2: This couldn’t be further from the truth. Not only will you have autonomy in deciding where you want to work, but your recruiter will work diligently to identify available assignments which meet your needs and preferences.
There’s no pressure or up front obligation and you’ll never be forced to accept a job in a location or at a hospital which doesn’t appeal to you.
Myth #3: Travel nursing is only for the young and the unencumbered.
Fact #3: While the perception may be that all travelers are under 30 and free of familial obligations, the truth is that a broad range of demographics are represented within the profession. Many travel nurses are “empty nesters” with comprehensive work experience looking for a new challenge. Others choose to share the traveling experience with their partners and/or children. If you’re concerned about the prospect of leaving Fido behind, meanwhile, rest easy: pets are welcome in most travel nurse settings; in fact, they make terrific traveling companions.
In short, travel nursing is a great choice for anyone who loves to travel and explore new career opportunities. Whatever your age, stage of nursing career, or family status, your agency will work with you to find the ideal arrangement. Just be sure to let your recruiter know your needs in advance.
Myth #4: Travel Nursing doesn’t provide a stable income.
Fact #4: Not only is travel nursing a great source of steady, reliable income, but travel nurses are increasingly in demand as hospitals continue to experience massive nursing shortfalls. In fact, the travel nurse industry is only expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
In addition to a generous paycheck, travel nurses also receive great benefits, including travel reimbursement, housing, bonuses for referrals, completion and locality, and even per diem allowances! You can get more out of your money by accepting assignments in areas with low costs of living.
Myth #5: Permanent nursing staff is unwelcoming to travel nurses.
Fact #5: If you’ve ever worked in a busy or understaffed hospital, how did you feel about a capable extra set of hands? Exactly! Travel nurses offer valuable relief for overworked permanent staff. As long as you have a positive attitude, a competent skill set, and are willing to pitch in as needed, you can expect to receive a warm welcome.
Now that the record’s been set straight, isn’t it time you gave travel nursing a second look?
If you have additional questions about travel nursing myths, or you’d like to debunk another misconception based on your own experiences, please post in the “Comments” section below.
Have something to add? Please share your Comments below.
Leave A Comment