Getting a travel nursing job is more complicated than you think. You can use many factors to increase your chances of getting the position of your dreams. You can apply for a license, work as a contractor, and extend your contract, and you can also learn how to cope with stress.
Cost of Living for a Travel Nurse
The cost of living for a travel nurse can be expensive. This can affect how much money a nurse makes. In addition, there are other expenses that a travel nurse must account for. Knowing the costs of living in an area is best before deciding to accept an assignment.
Travel nurses can find a variety of options for housing. Some agencies will provide their employees with fully furnished rental properties. Others will rent a room in someone’s home. However, most agencies do not cover the costs of housing outright.
Most experienced travel nurses, such as travel nursing jobs in Ohio, recommend spending at least one-quarter of their income on housing. That amount allows for safe, comfortable living and additional savings.
Although the price of housing can be high, there are ways to minimize the expense. For example, some agencies will pay for cable and internet. Another option is to purchase used furniture. You can also bring your furniture to save money.
Some cities have more expensive housing than others. For instance, a private room in San Diego can cost between $1,500 and $2,000 a month. But you can also find affordable housing in Seattle.
The most popular cities for travel nurses include Boston, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York. These cities have a high amount of job opportunities.
Obtaining a License
You will need to obtain a license if you plan on going into travel nursing. You must meet several requirements and apply for a permit as soon as possible.
The most common way to acquire a license is through a written exam. However, there are other methods as well. Some state boards require continuing education credits or a background check.
Another popular way to obtain a license is through an endorsement. An endorsement allows you to practice in more than one state.
A multistate license is a good option for travel nurses. It allows you to work in any state with a contract with your agency. However, you must maintain your permanent license in your home state.
Obtaining a license for travel nursing can take time and effort. But if you are proactive and use a credentialing specialist to help guide you through the process, you can avoid any licensure issues.
Some states offer a temporary license that is valid for a few months. While these licenses are helpful, they are better than a permanent license. They also take longer to obtain.
Travel nurses can qualify for a master’s or doctoral degree. This will make them more competitive and give them an edge in the job market.
Extending a Contract
If you are a travel nurse, you may wonder whether or not extending a contract is a good idea. After all, why extend if you can’t find a good position? But there are several reasons to extend your warranty.
One of the benefits of extending is the flexibility it provides. Exploring a new city or a different clinical setting can be fun. You can take time off for personal reasons or simply a change of scenery.
If you have a good relationship with your manager, they may be willing to negotiate on your behalf. Ideally, you want to have this approval in hand before you start talking to your recruiter.
It may also help to ask for a schedule that aligns with your personal needs. For example, consider taking a week off every three months. Or, consider shifting your tax home to your hospital location.
While there are numerous factors to consider, the decision to extend your contract is ultimately up to you. Doing your research will help you decide if it is the right move. Remember, though, that it is best to make the most of your current assignment.
When deciding if a contract extension is right, you should consider why you were initially assigned to the position. This is an excellent opportunity to improve your skills and develop your career.
Coping With Stress
If you are considering applying for a travel nursing job, you should be prepared for the stresses you can encounter while working. You can do several things to minimize your stress, such as scheduling time to exercise, getting enough sleep, and talking to people.
It would help if you also tried to schedule a time to relax. Try taking yoga classes or meditation. Some hospitals offer quiet rooms with soothing music or artwork. Others have outdoor gardens.
Make sure you get a good night’s rest and drink plenty of water. This is essential for a healthy body and mind. In addition, keep a schedule for your time off and try to be as proactive as possible.
You should also build a support system. Reach out to coworkers and friends and tell them about your experiences. Ask for a break if you are feeling stressed. The American Psychological Association points out that chronic stress has physical effects.
During your breaks, you should try to find some time to walk outdoors. This will boost your feel-good hormones. It will also help your brain function more effectively.
When you arrive in a new city or hospital, it is essential to establish a routine. It would help if you got a few days’ worth of sleep before your first day at the hospital. And it’s best to arrive a couple of days before the first day of orientation.
