I get asked daily how I got into travel nursing and what the process is like. The whole process can seem overwhelming and too good to be true. I can really travel the country (or world!) and get paid to do so? Yes, you can. But, there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes and specific things that you should be aware of if you are serious about getting started. Since this topic covers so much information, I am going to split it up into three blog posts.
Is this a right fit for you?
I was a nurse for almost three years before starting my travel nursing experience. I am not familiar with all nursing specialties, but from all of the travel nurses I have met and spoken to, one year seems to be the consensus for the amount of experience you need. I would personally recommend no less than one year of experience and practice with floating to other floors. This will help you get accustomed to learning the ropes at a new hospital, which can be intimidating! You have to be flexible, independent, and a quick learner. Usually, you get one (maybe two) days of training with another nurse before you are on your own taking care of a full assignment of patients. Some hospitals will give you a week of orientation before getting to the floor, while others will just send you an endless number of computer training modules to complete and set you free. You have to be resourceful and willing to ask for help once you are on the floor, but from my experience, other nurses and managers are willing to help how they can.
