LPN Travel Nurse: What Are the Benefits of a Travel Nursing Career?
When you think of glamorous traveling careers, nursing probably doesn’t cross your mind. But think again, as according to Indeed.com traveling nurses can collect a salary as high as $109,000 per year. Also it is estimated that there are over 1.5 million traveling nurses currently employed in the United States. As a traveling nurse, you get to see new places while providing vital health care services.
And since the need for nurses is always high, you’ll always have plenty of opportunities to travel. So check out our tips on how to become an LPN travel nurse and start exploring the world today.
What Is A Travel Nurse?
Before we take a look at the benefits, let’s first briefly explore what a travel nurse is. A travel nurse is a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse who works in a temporary position at a healthcare facility.
This could be for a few weeks or months, depending on the needs of the facility. Travel nurses typically work 13-week assignments, although some assignments can be shorter or longer.
How to Become A LPN Travel Nurse
First, you need to obtain your LPN license. You can do this by completing an accredited practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
Once you have your LPN license, you need to find an agency that finds LPN travel nursing jobs for their clients. There are many agencies out there, so take some time to research different agencies and find one that is a good fit for you.
Finally, once you have found an agency, you need to apply for available LPN jobs. Many agencies will require you to submit a resume and cover letter. Once you have submitted your application, the agency will review your qualifications and match you with open positions.
Benefits of a Travel Nursing Career
The most obvious benefit is that you get to travel! As a travel nurse, you can choose to work in any state in the country (or even outside of the country). This is a great way to see new places and experience different cultures. You also have the opportunity to work with a variety of different patients, which can make your days very interesting.
Great Money
In addition to being able to travel, being a travel nurse also gives you the opportunity to make great money. Travel nurses typically earn 10-20% more than staff nurses. Additionally, many travel nursing agencies offer housing and travel allowances, which can further increase your earnings.
Choose Your Own Assignments
Another benefit of being a travel nurse is that you can choose your own assignments. This means that you can work in the specialty that you are most interested in and have the flexibility to take assignments that fit your lifestyle.
Avoid Office Politics
One of the best things about having a travel nurse career is that you don’t have to worry about getting involved in the politics of the workplace. Since you are only working in a facility for a short period of time, you can just focus on doing your job and enjoying your time off. This can be a great way to reduce stress and enjoy your job more.
Meet New People
Working in healthcare provides the opportunity to meet people from all over the country (or world). Nurses, physicians, and other healthcare staff are often stationed in hospitals or clinics in different parts of the country (or world), so it’s easy to meet new people and make new friends.
In addition, working in healthcare is a great way to network with other professionals. You’ll have the opportunity to meet people with similar interests and backgrounds, and you may even be able to find other interesting jobs through your network of contacts.
Grow Professionally and Learn New Skills
Travel nurses have the opportunity to work in many different types of healthcare facilities. This includes hospitals, clinics, long term care, and even home health agencies. Each facility has its own unique challenges and rewards, and by working in a variety of settings, you can gain a well-rounded experience.
In addition, you will have the opportunity to learn new skills and grow as a professional. For example, you may start out working in a hospital unit but then have the chance to work in a clinic that specializes in treating chronic illnesses. By working in different types of facilities, you can gain a broad range of experience that will help you to grow as a nurse.
Flexible Schedule
A flexible schedule is another great perk of being a travel LPN nurse. You can take time off when you want and don’t have to worry about vacation days or other time-off restrictions.
This means that you can travel and take advantage of opportunities as they come up. It also means that you can work around your family’s schedule and not have to worry about child care or other scheduling conflicts
Drawbacks of Being A Travel Nurse
Of course, there are also some drawbacks to being a travel nurse. One of the biggest drawbacks is that you are always moving around. This can make it difficult to form lasting relationships or put down roots in any one place.
Another drawback of being a travel nurse is that you may have to work long hours or odd shifts. This can be difficult if you are not used to working these types of hours.
Types of Employers
There are two main types of employers for travel nurses: hospitals and staffing agencies.
Hospitals are the most common type of employer for travel nurses. When you work for a hospital, you will typically be assigned to one unit and will work with the same staff during your entire assignment.
When you work for a staffing agency, you will usually have more flexibility in terms of where you work and what type of assignments you take. However, you may not have the same level of job security as you would if you worked for a hospital.
Start an LPN Travel Nurse Career
Becoming an LPN travel nurse is an excellent way to see the world while earning a great salary. If you are looking for a nursing career that offers excitement and adventure, then this might be the perfect choice for you.
Great Lakes has been educating residents of NWPA for over 50 years, so we know what it takes to provide our students with the education needed for success. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you launch your nursing career.
