When we talk about being a travel nurse, we often think about pay, flexibility, and how it works. While this is important, we should consider whether it is worth it.
Pay
Whether you’re looking for a new job or want to use your skills to build your resume, there are several reasons to consider becoming a travel nurse. It’s an excellent way to gain experience in various parts of the country and very lucrative.
The average pay for registered nurses ranges from $1,000 per week to $1,500 per week. However, travel nurses are often paid higher than their permanent peers. A typical travel nursing jobs in Ohio can last up to 26 weeks.
Nurses can also receive bonuses, insurance covers, and referral bonuses. In addition, many travel nurses are offered a retirement plan option.
Although the cost of living differs from state to state, the salaries for travel nurses are typically higher than those of staff nurses. In addition, depending on your location, your compensation may also include a stipend for travel. Despite these benefits, asking about guaranteed hours and the overtime you’ll be expected to work is still essential.
In addition, the bill rates for travel nurses vary from state to state. This means that agencies can bill hospitals for their services.
Flexibility
Having the proper flexibility as a travel nurse is essential. It allows you to have a good work/life balance. It also gives you the freedom to explore new areas. For example, you can travel to a new city and visit friends and relatives, or you can live in a new place and take on an assignment in a town close to your family. To make the most of your travel nursing experience, consider various travel nurse housing ideas. Options like short-term rentals, furnished apartments, or even recreational vehicles (RVs) can provide comfortable and convenient living arrangements during your assignments, ensuring you have a home away from home while you explore new locations.
Travel nurses have to exhibit flexibility in a variety of ways. They may have to work off-hour shifts or travel across the country for an assignment. They may have to learn a new charting system or handle various tasks. They must also be able to deal with a wide variety of patients.
Travel nursing is a great career choice for nurses who like variety. It allows you to work for prestigious healthcare organizations without committing to one organization. This also allows you to explore new opportunities and personal growth.
A good travel nursing agency will also provide comprehensive health insurance and education assistance. Some will even offer rental cars and Extended Stay hotels.
Forming Professional Relationships
Whether you are new to the profession or looking to expand your knowledge base, traveling nurses can meet and socialize with other healthcare professionals. This can improve patient care. In addition, travel nurses are a vital component in filling healthcare shortages across the country.
Travel nursing can be a fun and exciting way to expand your horizons and improve your career. But, it can take a lot of work to build and maintain professional relationships while on the road. Fortunately, a few tips will help you navigate this difficult transition.
The most important tip is to build relationships before leaving your old home. This will make staying in touch with your loved ones much more accessible. It may even help you make new friends.
When traveling, learning about the facility’s policies and procedures is essential. You can ask for “cheat sheets” to help you know what to expect. You can also ask your coworkers for tips and tricks.
You can also explore some of the local cultures. This will add a new and exciting element to your relationship.
Getting a Bad Schedule
Getting a lousy schedule as a travel nurse can be a real bummer. Not only does your new employer not give you a lot of notice, but you also only get paid if you miss a shift or two. The best way to cope is to plan your day to the last minute and to keep your morale up by taking care of your fellow travel nurses.
As you’re making your way around town, you may want to sample the local fare. Also, sign up for a gym membership and try homeschooling your children. This can help you get your bearings and make the journey less stressful.
If you’re lucky enough to find a job at a hospital or clinic that offers an extensive benefits package, you should take advantage of it. For example, travel nurses may get little paid time off during their contract, but they get some tax-free cash for expenses.
If you’re going to sign a contract, research before signing. Also, check the pay and benefits before signing. Some arrangements are a dime a dozen, while others may require you to take a pay cut.
Finding Time to Form Healthy Habits
Whether you are a travel nurse or just traveling for fun, it is essential to make time for yourself. This can include exercise, eating healthy foods, or simply spending time with family and friends.
When establishing a routine, start small. Set a goal for a week or two of healthy habits. Commit to exercise. Getting 150 minutes of exercise per week is recommended for healthy living. Find a gym. If you do not have a gym, consider bringing exercise equipment.
Choosing a buddy can help you stay on track. A buddy can be a family member or coworker. Sharing a daily exercise plan with your buddy can help keep you accountable.
Establishing an exercise plan is an essential part of being a travel nurse. You may not be able to get to the gym regularly, but you can sneak in a workout at your desk or during phone calls. You can also find free yoga workouts on YouTube.
Exercising is essential for physical and mental health. Travel nurses often have a hectic schedule and may find it challenging to make time for exercise. Start small and work your way up.
