As a travel nurse, you have the opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and advance your nursing career. However, being a travel nurse also comes with its own set of unique challenges and considerations. To help you make the most of your experience, we’ve compiled a list of 10 things you must know in order to be a successful travel nurse with TruMed:
- Understanding your contract: Before signing any contract, make sure you understand the terms and conditions. Read through the contract carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear. This will help you avoid any surprises or misunderstandings later on.
- Licensure requirements: Make sure you have the appropriate licensure to practice nursing in the state where you will be working. Each state has its own requirements, so be sure to research this ahead of time.
- Housing arrangements: Housing can be a major expense when you’re a travel nurse. Find out whether your agency provides housing or if you’ll need to make your own arrangements. If you’re responsible for finding your own housing, be sure to consider factors like safety, cost, and proximity to your work site.
- Per diem rates: Your per diem rate is the amount of money you’ll receive for meals and other expenses while on assignment. Make sure you understand what this rate is and whether it’s sufficient to cover your expenses.
- Travel expenses: Some travel nurse contracts include reimbursement for travel expenses. Find out what expenses are covered, such as airfare or rental car fees, and keep all receipts for reimbursement.
- Assignment length: Travel nursing assignments can vary in length, from a few weeks to several months. Make sure you understand the length of your assignment and whether there’s an opportunity to extend it if you’re interested.
- Clinical support: As a travel nurse, you’ll be working with new patients and new colleagues on every assignment. Find out what kind of clinical support your agency provides to help you adjust to your new surroundings.
- Cultural considerations: Each region of the country has its own culture and way of life. Be prepared to adapt to new social norms and customs, and be respectful of the communities you’ll be working in.
- Time management: As a travel nurse, you’ll be juggling new responsibilities in a new environment. Effective time management will be crucial to your success, so be sure to plan your days carefully and prioritize your tasks.
- Work-life balance: Finally, remember to take time for yourself and enjoy your surroundings. Travel nursing can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to maintain a healthy work-life balance in order to avoid burnout.
By keeping these 10 things in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling career as a travel nurse with TruMed.