Wanderlust and Nursing Skills: How to Prepare for Your First Travel Nursing Assignment

Researching your travel nursing destination is crucial to familiarize yourself with the location, climate, culture, and lifestyle. Learn about the cost of living, housing options, transportation, and amenities in the area. Scout the area, research the healthcare facilities, their reputation, and the type of patients they serve. This information will help you make informed decisions about your housing arrangements, budgeting, and lifestyle during your assignment.

Ensure that you have the appropriate licenses and certifications to practice nursing in the state where you will be working. Each state has its own regulations and requirements for nursing practice, and you may need to obtain a state-specific nursing license or certification. Check with the state board of nursing and Compound Healthcare to ensure that your licenses and certifications are in order before your assignment begins.

Housing is a critical aspect of your travel nursing assignment. Depending on your contract and preferences, you may have different housing options, such as company-provided housing, a housing stipend to find your own housing, or staying with friends or family. Research housing options in your destination, consider factors such as safety, convenience, and affordability, and make appropriate arrangements in advance to ensure a smooth transition.

Managing your finances is crucial when preparing for your first travel nursing assignment. Create a budget that accounts for your living expenses, including housing, transportation, food, utilities, and other miscellaneous costs. Understand your compensation package, including your base pay, stipends, bonuses, and benefits, and plan your budget accordingly. Consider setting up a separate bank account for your travel nursing earnings and expenses, and keep track of your expenses on a weekly basis to stay financially organized.

When packing for your travel nursing assignment, it’s important to pack wisely and efficiently. Consider the weather, duration of your assignment, and the type of activities you may engage in during your free time. Bring essential personal items, professional attire, scrubs, medical supplies, and any other items specific to your practice. Don’t forget important documents such as your nursing license, certifications, identification, and travel documents. Organize both physical and digital copies to have readily available if asked.

Most travel nursing assignments involve a period of orientation and onboarding at the healthcare facility where you will be working. Prepare for this by familiarizing yourself with the policies, procedures, and protocols of the facility. Pack any required documents or paperwork, bring necessary identification, and dress professionally for your orientation. Be open to learning and be prepared to adapt to new workflows and systems. Typical orientation lasts 1-3 days, which is why facilities requires 1-2 years of previous nursing experience.

Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself during this exciting yet demanding time. Travel nursing assignments can be physically and emotionally challenging, and self-care is crucial. Prioritize your health by getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying physically active. Practice stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or exercise, to cope with the challenges of a new environment and workload. Stay connected with loved ones back home and seek support from your fellow travel nurses or colleagues at the healthcare facility.