Nursing students often get fascinated by the range of possibilities available to them after graduation. In addition to traditional nursing roles in hospitals and clinics, they can opt for careers as travel nurses. Travel nursing is ideal for nurses who want to explore different parts of the country and experience new cultures while still earning a good salary.
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What is a Traveling Nurse Called
A traveling nurse is sometimes referred to as a “travel nurse” or “traveling healthcare professional.” These professionals are certified nurses specializing in providing medical care to patients outside their local area. They often take assignments at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and other medical settings for a set period.
A traveling nurse must have the necessary credentials, skills, and experience to give quality care to their patients. They typically possess the same credentials as a registered nurse (RN) in their home state but may opt to obtain additional certifications or licenses depending on where they work. Traveling nurses provide care for various patients, ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics and everything in between.
Types of Travel Nurses
- Emergency Room (ER) Nurses– Specialize in emergency care, such as responding to traumatic injuries or life-threatening illness
- Operating Room (OR) Nurses– Assist with surgery by monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and providing support to the surgical team
- Pediatric Nurses– Provide care to children and infants, including but not limited to administering medication, performing medical procedures, and educating families
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurses– Provide support to clients with mental health conditions or drug and alcohol addiction
- Labor & Delivery Nurses– Provide pre and post-natal care, including but not limited to monitoring the mother’s vital signs during labor, administering medication, and providing emotional support.
- Oncology Nurses– Provide care to cancer patients by monitoring their condition, providing support during treatments, and educating them and their families about the disease.
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurses – Provide medical care to critically ill or injured patients by monitoring their condition and administering medication. They may also provide emotional support to patients and families.
- Telemetry/Med Surg Nurses – Provide medical care for patients recovering from illnesses or injuries. They may monitor vital signs, administer medication, and assist with patient assessments.
- Home Health Nurses– They provide care to patients in their homes. They may provide wound care and medication management and teach the patient and family how to manage the treatment plan.
- Specialty Nursing Positions (such as burn unit, wound care, etc.)– Provide specialized care to patients with specific medical needs. They may be responsible for monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and providing emotional support.
What Types of Travel Nurses Make the Most Money?
Travel nurses typically pay more than their permanent counterparts due to the nature of their job. The type of travel nurse that typically makes the most money are those with specialized certifications or experience in high-demand areas, such as operating room (OR) nurses or ICU nurses. Additionally, travel nurses who can work in different states can command higher wages due to their versatility and availability.
FAQs:
Qus. What credentials do I need to become a Travel Nurse?
Answer: To become a travel nurse, you must have the same credentials as a registered nurse (RN) in your home state. Depending on where you are working, you may opt to obtain additional certifications or licenses.
Qus. What types of patients do Travel Nurses work with?
Answer: Travel nurses provide care for various patients, varying from pediatrics to geriatrics and everything in between.
Qus. What makes Travel Nursing different from permanent nursing positions?
Answer: Travel nursing differs from permanent positions in that travel nurses are usually hired for short-term contracts and can work in different locations. This offers the chance to gain experience in various settings and to explore new places.
Final Thoughts
Travel nursing is a compelling and rewarding career path for those who want to explore different places while providing valuable medical care. With the proper credentials and certifications, travel nurses can command higher wages and gain practical experience to benefit them professionally. So, if you want a career that combines travel with providing medical care, Travel Nursing is worth considering.
Mrs. Marie Brown has been a registered nurse for over 25 years. She began her nursing career at a Level I Trauma Center in downtown Chicago, Illinois. There she worked in the Emergency Department and on the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. After several years, she moved to the Midwest and continued her nursing career in a critical care setting. For the last 10 years of her nursing career, Mrs. Brown worked as a flight nurse with an air ambulance service. During this time, she cared for patients throughout the United States.