Travel nursing is an exciting career path for those dedicated to nursing but who also crave adventure and the opportunity to explore new places. Nursing isn’t usually compatible with remote work, but travel nursing offers the chance to live in various locations while still doing the work you love. If you’re a first-time travel nurse and you’ve just landed a contract, you might be wondering what happens next. This guide will walk you through the process—including reviewing the contract, moving tips, and housing options—and help you get ready for your new assignment before you move to a new city.
What Is a Travel Nurse?
Travel nurses are registered nurses who take on short-term assignments at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in different locations. These assignments can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Travel nurses help fill in gaps due to nursing shortages, seasonal demands, or other temporary staffing needs. They often work through travel nursing agencies, which match them with available positions and provide support throughout the assignment.
Travel nurses perform the same duties as staff nurses, including patient care, administering medications, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals. The primary difference is that travel nurses work on a contract basis and move from one location to another. This can provide a broader range of experiences and the chance to work in various healthcare settings.
What Happens After You Get a Contract?
Landing a travel nursing contract is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a lot of questions about what to do before you move. Ensuring a smooth transition to your new assignment requires careful planning and preparation. Here are a few key steps to take after securing a contract:
Review Your Contract Thoroughly
Before taking any further steps, it’s crucial to thoroughly review your contract. Pay close attention to details such as start and end dates, work hours, pay rate, benefits, and any clauses regarding housing or travel reimbursements. Understanding all aspects of your contract will help you avoid any surprises later on and ensure that you are fully aware of your responsibilities and entitlements.
Coordinate with Your Travel Nursing Agency
Your travel nursing agency is there to support you through the transition. Contact your recruiter to discuss the specifics of your assignment, such as the facility’s expectations, dress code, and any required certifications or training. Your agency can also provide valuable information about the local area and any additional support services they offer.
Check Your Licensing and Certifications
Ensure that your nursing license is valid in the state where you will be working. Some states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in multiple states in the United States with one license. If your new assignment is in a state that does not participate in the NLC, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement. Additionally, make sure all your certifications are up to date and meet the requirements of your new employer.
How Do Travel Nurses Find Housing?
One of the first things to figure out is where you’ll live during your assignment. Do travel nurses get free housing? Well, whether housing is free depends on your contract and agency, but some contracts do include housing provided by the agency. On the other hand, some assignments offer a stipend that you can use to arrange your own accommodations. It’s essential to understand the details of your contract and discuss your housing options with your agency. If you need to look for housing on your own, there are several options for travel nurse housing:
- Agency-Provided Housing: Many travel nursing agencies offer housing as part of their contracts. This can be a convenient option since the agency handles the logistics, but it might limit your choices in terms of location and amenities.
- Stipend: Some agencies provide a housing stipend, allowing you to find your own accommodations. This offers more flexibility and the potential to save money if you can find affordable housing.
- Online Resources: Websites like ApartmentSearch, Airbnb, and Craigslist can be useful for finding short-term rentals. However, be sure to read reviews and verify the legitimacy of listings to avoid scams.
How Do You Settle Into Your New Role?
Starting a new assignment as a travel nurse can be both exciting and daunting. You’re stepping into a new environment with different protocols, colleagues, and possibly a new city. It’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation and nervousness. However, with a few strategies, you can smoothly transition into your new role and make the most of this enriching experience. Here are some tips to help you settle in.
1. Get Oriented
Attend any orientation sessions provided by your new facility. These sessions are crucial for understanding the workflow, meeting your colleagues, and getting acquainted with the environment. Orientation will provide you with essential information about the facility’s procedures, policies, and expectations. It’s also an excellent opportunity to ask questions and clarify any uncertainties you might have about your new role.
2. Be Sure to Network
Building relationships with your new coworkers can make a significant difference in how quickly you adapt. Introduce yourself, be friendly, and show a willingness to learn and collaborate—you might even consider throwing yourself a housewarming party to meet new colleagues.
Having a support system at work can provide you with guidance, support, and camaraderie, making your transition smoother. Networking is also beneficial for professional growth, as you can learn from others’ experiences and potentially open up future job opportunities.
3. Explore!
Take some time to explore your new city. Familiarize yourself with the local area, including grocery stores, restaurants, and recreational spots. Knowing where essential services and amenities are located can make you feel more comfortable and settled in your new environment. Exploring your surroundings can also be a fun way to unwind and make the most of your travel nursing assignment by discovering new places and experiences.
4. Practice Self-Care
Moving and starting a new job can be stressful, so it’s important to prioritize self-care. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, and socializing. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will help you stay positive and energized throughout your assignment.
Turn to CORT for Low-Stress Furniture Rental
Traveling nurses, turn to CORT for a low-stress moving experience! Enjoy the benefits of unique experiences and making new friends in different communities around the world, while we take care of your furniture needs.
Whether you’re moving for a travel nurse assignment or relocating for another job, embrace the convenience of CORT Furniture Rental. We provide furniture that fits your transitional lifestyle and makes your temporary living space feel like home. Now, with an exclusive 15% off your monthly lease using the discount code: NURSE15, there’s even more reason to choose us! (Offer only valid for Traveling Nurses.)
One of our satisfied customers says: “Love the flexibility to choose specific details for each space. I know a lot of travel nurses and they are always looking for furnished spaces. I will definitely recommend CORT as an alternative when searching for new places.”
Spread the word among your colleagues! For each nurse you refer to CORT who rents from us, you’ll both receive a $50 VISA Gift Card. There’s no limit to the rewards you can earn! (Terms and conditions apply.)
Choose from our ready-made Move-In Ready® packages or fully customizable sets. You can even let us know about your space and we’ll design a package that fits your needs.
Ready to begin your hassle-free move with CORT? Here’s how:
- Tell Us About Your Move: Share your new location and duration of stay.
- Choose Your Furniture: Pick a Move-In Ready™ package or customize your own.
- Schedule Your Delivery: Choose a delivery date that fits your schedule. We’ll handle the delivery and setup.
- Return: When you’re ready for your next assignment, just schedule your return. We’ll pick up everything, leaving you stress-free.
Start your journey with CORT Furniture Rental today – either in-store or online.
