What Does a Travel Nurse Do? 

What is a travel nurse?

A travel nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who fills short-term assignments in various locations to address staffing shortages in healthcare facilities.  

These roles, which last from a few weeks to several months, not only offer the chance to travel but also allow nurses to work in diverse environments and potentially earn more than they would in permanent positions. 

How to become a travel nurse 

• Step 1: Obtain a nursing degree
  • Earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from a community college, which takes about two years.
  • Alternatively, pursue a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree for a broader education over four years, which can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.
• Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
  • After graduation, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to ensure you have the necessary knowledge and skills.
• Step 3: Gain clinical experience
  • Most travel nursing agencies generally require one to two years of clinical experience. Gaining expertise in high-demand specialties like the emergency room (ER), intensive care unit (ICU), or labor and delivery (L&D) can increase your assignment opportunities and earning potential.
• Step 4: Obtain licensure in multiple states
  • To work as a travel nurse, you need to be licensed in the state where you’ll be working. Nurses can hold a multistate license because of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which enables them to practice in any of the participating states without obtaining additional licenses. For states that are not part of the NLC, you’ll need to apply for individual state licenses.
• Step 5: Partner with a travel nursing agency
  • Travel nurses typically work with staffing agencies that specialize in placing nurses in temporary positions. These agencies handle job placements, housing arrangements, and provide support throughout the assignment. Research and choose a reputable agency that aligns with your career goals and preferences. 

What do travel nurses do? 

Travel nurses perform the same duties as permanent nurses but in various healthcare settings and locations. Their responsibilities include: 

• Patient care: Assessing and monitoring patients, administering medications, and providing treatments
• Collaboration: Working with doctors, other nurses, and healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans
• Documentation: Keeping accurate records of patient care, treatments, and progress
• Education: Educating patients and their families about medical conditions, treatments, and post-hospital care 

Because of the temporary nature of their assignments, travel nurses must quickly adapt to new environments, policies, and procedures. This requires strong clinical skills, flexibility, and the ability to work independently. 

Do RNs need to be certified in multiple states? 

Many certifications are nationally recognized. Nurses certified in a particular area of practice should confirm with their credentialing organizations where in the U.S. that the certification is recognized. 

RNs need to be licensed in each state where they plan to work.  

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) simplifies this process by allowing nurses to hold one multistate license that enables them to practice in any participating NLC state.  

For states that are not part of the NLC, nurses must obtain individual state licenses, which involves meeting that state's specific licensing requirements. 

How much do travel nurses make?

Travel nurses typically earn higher salaries compared to permanent staff nurses. Several factors influence their pay, including location, specialty, experience, and the length of the assignment. 

Average salary 

According to various sources, travel nurses can expect to make between roughly $2,000 to $3,000 per week. This can translate to an annual salary ranging from around $75,000 to $110,000 or more, depending on the number of assignments taken per year. 

Additional benefits 

In addition to their base pay, travel nurses can often receive benefits, including: 

• Housing stipends or free Housing: Agencies typically provide housing stipends or arrange free accommodations. 
• Travel reimbursement: Costs associated with relocating to new assignments are often covered. 
• Health insurance: Many agencies offer health, dental, and vision insurance. 
• Bonuses: Completion bonuses, referral bonuses, and sign-on bonuses can significantly increase total earnings. 
• Retirement plans: Some agencies provide 401(k) plans with matching contributions. 

Travel nursing offers an exciting and rewarding career path for those who love adventure and flexibility. Obtaining the necessary education, gaining clinical experience, and partnering with a reputable travel nursing agency can help you embark on a journey that combines professional growth with the opportunity to explore new locales.  

Travel nursing is an excellent option for RNs seeking a dynamic and fulfilling career that offers competitive salaries and benefit packages. Travel nursing offers the perfect balance of professional growth and personal adventure, whether you envision yourself working in a bustling city hospital or a quiet rural clinic.