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HEALTHCARE CAREER GUIDES

Travel Nurse Career

OVERVIEW

What is a Travel Nurse?


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Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who take on temporary nursing assignments at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Their profession involves moving from job to job, allowing them to combine their medical expertise with a love of adventure and exploration. These nurses work with recruiters and staffing agencies to connect with healthcare organizations that need extra help due to staffing shortages, public health crises, natural disasters, or higher-than-average patient loads. Travel RNs can work within the U.S. or internationally.

If you’re looking for a rewarding occupation that allows you to positively impact patients’ lives while exploring new places, travel nursing might be right for you. Travel nursing jobs involve long hours and hard work. However, this career path also provides a unique opportunity to care for patients while exploring diverse locations, cultures, and healthcare settings.Ìý

RESPONSIBILITIES

What Does a Travel Nurse Do?

Traveling nurses perform the same tasks and duties as registered nurses who stay in one location. They monitor patients’ vital signs, administer medication, manage medical records, and coordinate treatments with other healthcare professionals. Some nurses master unique specialties, practices, or skills during their professional journeys. For example, nurses working in tropical climates might learn specific skills for treating mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria and Dengue fever. Those called to assist with flu outbreaks could learn how to administer vaccines and provide inhaled medications and oxygen therapy. Travel nurses working with elderly patients can gain insights into chronic disease management, age-related issues, and palliative care. For a traveling nurse, each new assignment provides an opportunity to grow personally and professionally.ÌýÌý

Core Nursing ResponsibilitiesÌý

Like nurses on permanent assignments, travel nurses spend their workdays caring for patients. Some of their day-to-day duties include:Ìý

  • Assessing patients and recording crucial details about their symptoms, medications, and family medical history.Ìý
  • Cleaning, dressing, and inspecting wounds.
  • Ensuring proper medication dosage and timing.Ìý
  • Contributing to the development of individualized treatment plans.Ìý
  • Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to maintain continuity of care.
  • Updating and managing patient medical records.
  • Drawing blood and collecting biological samples.
  • Assisting with medical interventions such as dialysis, intubation, blood transfusions, and catheterization.
  • Explaining medical problems and treatment options to patients.
  • Supporting patients and their families as they navigate the healthcare system.Ìý

Adapting to New EnvironmentsÌý

Because they frequently switch job assignments, travel nurses must be willing and able to adapt to changing work conditions. One month, they might provide end-of-life care to patients in a hospice facility; the next, they could oversee critical cases in the pediatric ward. Some assignments may place travel nurses in massive city hospitals with the latest technologies, while other roles could be in rural private practices with minimal equipment. Travel nurses also work with a different medical team at each job. This requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport and adjust to new workplace cultures quickly.Ìý

Specializations in Travel NursingÌý

Nursing specialties offer travel nurses the opportunity to hone their expertise in specific domains. Travel nurses often concentrate their efforts on the following areas:

  • Intensive care unit (ICU). Critical care nurses attend to ICU patients with severe and life-threatening medical conditions. They handle various tasks, including evaluating patients, taking vital signs, ordering tests, and supervising patients on cardiac monitors and ventilators.Ìý
  • Labor and delivery. By providing medical assistance during and immediately after childbirth, labor and delivery nurses reduce the risk of health complications while creating safe, comfortable environments for mothers and their babies.
  • Pediatrics. Nurses who love working with children are often drawn to the pediatric specialty. Through compassionate emotional support and proficient treatment, pediatric nurses promote positive patient outcomes while helping families manage stressful health challenges.
  • Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). When infants are born with severe health problems, they stay in the NICU to receive round-the-clock observation. NICU nurses, or neonatal nurses, check babies’ vital signs, manage medication, and operate incubators, ventilators, and other equipment.Ìý
  • Post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Because anesthesia has inherent risks, hospitals and surgical centers rely on PACU nurses to monitor post-operative patients as they wake up.Ìý
  • Oncology. Travel nurses specializing in oncology focus on treating patients with cancer. They provide not only medical care but also emotional support, advocacy, and guidance.
  • Surgical. Maintaining a sterile environment and assisting surgeons during operations, surgical nurses are essential in facilitating patient safety and well-being.Ìý
  • Emergency room (ER). In this fast-paced and high-stakes work environment, traveling RNs quickly assess, triage, and treat patients suffering from a range of serious ailments.Ìý

EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES

How Do I Become a Travel Nurse?Ìý

If you’re interested in becoming a travel nurse, the first step is to become a registered nurse. You’ll need to complete an accredited nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to gain licensure. While you can become an RN without a bachelor’s degree, many nursing jobs require at least a bachelor’s—especially for specialized or traveling positions. Nurse managers, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and other senior-level roles require a master’s degree. While a college education will help you build essential skills and acquire domain knowledge, you’ll need ample on-the-job experience to learn how to apply these proficiencies to real-world situations.Ìý

Educational RequirementsÌý

Typically, the minimum education you need to become a registered nurse is a nursing diploma from an approved program or an associate degree in nursing (ADN). While not always mandatory, a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) can open doors to enhanced job opportunities and set you apart from the competition. Many employers prefer or require candidates to have at least a BSN. If you're an RN looking to earn your bachelor's or master's degree, ºÚÁÏ´«ËÍÃÅ offers flexible, online programs to help you achieve your goals while still maintaining your professional commitments. With ºÚÁÏ´«ËÍÃÅ, you can study when and where it's convenient for you. Our competency-based format also empowers you to finish your degree faster, potentially saving time and money.Ìý

Licensing and CertificationsÌý

To become a nurse, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet all state licensing requirements. The NCLEX-RN exam is a computer test that evaluates your understanding of nursing fundamentals like infection control, care management, pharmacological therapies, and patient comfort. State standards vary, but most states also require you to show proof of your nursing education, undergo a background check, and provide references from professors or nurse managers. To expand your employment opportunities, consider obtaining a multistate license through the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC). This will allow you to practice in 42 participating jurisdictions across the United States.Ìý

Gaining ExperienceÌý

While academic knowledge lays the foundation for an impactful nursing career, there’s no substitute for hands-on experience. Working as a nurse in a hospital, clinic, doctor’s office, or other setting allows you to put your skills to the test. As a practicing nurse, you’ll handle complex cases, overcome challenges, and master the art of patient care. Additionally, you’ll get to witness firsthand how your efforts improve your patients’ lives. After your clinical experience, you’ll be better positioned to transition to travel nursing.Ìý

Finding a Travel Nurse Staffing AgencyÌý

Working with a staffing agency such as or can help you find and apply for nursing jobs. By becoming an employee of a travel nurse agency, you can gain employment benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance. You may also qualify for sign-on bonuses and other incentives. Many travel nursing agencies provide a stipend for housing costs and other expenses. When choosing an agency, research and evaluate your choices carefully. Consider the assignments the agency offers, their benefits, financial perks, and contract requirements. Ask other nurses for their opinions and insights. Make sure to find an agency that can cater to your unique strengths, talents, and preferences.Ìý

Best Degrees for aÌýTravel Nurse

Health & Nursing
COMPARE

Nursing (Prelicensure) – B.S.

A one-of-a-kind nursing program that prepares you to be an RN and a...

A one-of-a-kind nursing program that prepares you to be an RN and a baccalaureate-prepared nurse:

  • Locations:ÌýDue to in-person clinical requirements, students must be full time residents ofÌýArkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin to enroll in this program. The coursework in this program is offered online, but there are in-person requirements.
  • Tuition:Ìý$8,755 per 6-month term for the first 4 terms of pre-nursing coursework and $8,755 per 6-month term for the remaining 4 terms of clinical nursing coursework.
  • Time:ÌýThis program has a set pace and an expected completion time of 4 years. Certain coursework may be accelerated to finish faster.
  • ºÚÁÏ´«ËÍÃÅ offers the prelicensure program in areas where we have partnerships with healthcare employers to provide practice sites and clinical coaches to help teach you and inspire you on your path to becoming a nurse.
  • If you don't live in one of our prelicensure states or don't qualify to apply, consider getting ourÌýBachelor's in Health and Human ServicesÌýinstead. This degree allows you to work inside the healthcare industry, while also working directly with patients who need help.

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Community Health
  • Women's and Children's Nursing
  • Pathology
  • Physiology
  • Research
Health & Nursing
COMPARE

Nursing (RN-to-BSN Online) – B.S.

An online BSN degree program for registered nurses (RNs) seeking the added...

An online BSN degree program for registered nurses (RNs) seeking the added theoretical depth, employability, and respect that a bachelor's degree brings:

  • Time:ÌýThe program is designed to be completed in 1 year.
  • Tuition:Ìý$5,325 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 23 total courses in this program.
  • Transfers: Students can transfer up to 90 credits.

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Healthcare Policy and Economics
  • Information Technology in Nursing Practice
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Applied Healthcare Statistics

If you don't currently have an RN and don't qualify for your nursing prelicensure program, consider getting our Bachelor's in Health and Human ServicesÌýinstead. This degree allows you to work inside the healthcare industry in a unique way.

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COMPARE

Nursing – Leadership & Management (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.

This program for RNs includes a BSN component and is a substantial leap...

This program for RNs includes a BSN component and is a substantial leap toward becoming a nurse leader.

  • Time: 62% of RN-to-MSN grads finish within 37 months.
  • Tuition:Ìý$5,325 per 6-month term during undergraduate portion and $5,035 per 6-month term during graduate portion.
  • Courses: 32 total courses in this program.

Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program:

  • Quality Outcomes in a Culture of Value-Based Nursing Care
  • Nursing Leadership and Management
  • Advanced Pathopharmacological Foundations
  • Informatics for Transforming Nursing Care

If you're driven to lead, this online nursing degree will provide you everything needed to make that career a reality. This program is ideal for current RNs who are interested in earning both their BSn and MSN in an accelerated program.

Compare degrees

This program is not the only degree ºÚÁÏ´«ËÍÃÅ offers designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.

Health & Nursing
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Nursing – Leadership & Management (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.

For registered nurses with a bachelor's degree who are ready for...

For registered nurses with a bachelor's degree who are ready for additional career opportunities.

  • Time:Ìý61% of grads finish within 23 months
  • Tuition: $5,035Ìýper 6-month term
  • Courses: 15 total courses in this program

This program is ideal for current RNs who have a BSN and are ready for the next step in their education.

Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program:

  • Quality Outcomes in a Culture of Value-Based Nursing Care
  • Nursing Leadership and Management
  • Advanced Pathopharmacological Foundations
  • Informatics for Transforming Nursing Care

Compare degrees

This program is not the only degree ºÚÁÏ´«ËÍÃÅ offers designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.

Health & Nursing
COMPARE

Nursing Leadership and Management – Post-Master's Certificate

A certificate for registered nurses with a master's degree in nursing who...

A certificate for registered nurses with a master's degree in nursing who are ready for greater responsibility in a leadership and management role.

  • Time:ÌýStudents typically finish this program inÌý12 months.
  • Tuition:Ìý$5,035 per 6-month term. The cost to sit for the NAHQ Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) exam is included in tuition.
  • Courses: 8 total courses in this program.

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Strategic Planning
  • Resource Management
  • Business Case Analysis
  • Evaluating Healthcare Improvements

How Much Does a Travel Nurse Make?Ìý

$101,132

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for registered nurses is . Because they’re in high demand, travel nurses often earn even more. ZipRecruiter reports that travel nurses earn an average annual salary of . Salaries vary considerably based on the location, healthcare facility, assignment duration, and several other factors. Consider looking at travel nurse salaries by state to estimate potential income based on your assignment location.

What Is the Projected Job Growth?

6%

The BLS reports a favorable job outlook for registered nurses in the United States. From 2023 to 2033, the employment of RNs is expected to grow by . This growth will result in an estimated 194,500 nursing job openings for registered nurses each year throughout the decade. The demand for travel RNs is also high. Some studies show that the travel nursing industry has increased by more than in recent years.Ìý

SKILLS

What Skills Does aÌýTravel Nurse Need?

To facilitate patient wellness and handle the complications associated with frequent relocations, travel nurses need a diverse skill set. Some of the most important proficiencies for travel nurses include:Ìý

  • Cultural awareness. Since travel nurses provide healthcare services all over the world, they must be respectful of diverse cultures and belief systems.Ìý
  • Medical knowledge. To deliver high-quality patient treatment, nurses need in-depth expertise regarding medical conditions, procedures, and interventions.Ìý
  • Emotional intelligence. Travel nurses deliver not only medical attention but also support and guidance to patients as they navigate health challenges.ÌýÌý
  • Critical thinking. Nurses use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to handle resource limitations, adapt to new work settings, manage emergencies, and resolve conflicts.Ìý
  • Flexibility. Because their assignments, schedules, and work expectations change frequently, travel nurses must be highly adaptable and willing to adjust their healthcare strategies as needed.Ìý
  • Communication. Skills in negotiation, active listening, empathy, and nonverbal communication empower travel nurses to discuss crucial information with patients, colleagues, and employers.Ìý
  • Love of traveling. Whether they are going from state to state or country to country, travel nurses are always on the move. A passion for travel is essential.Ìý

Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long

No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at ºÚÁÏ´«ËÍÃÅ year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!

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