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On a Travel Nursing Assignment

"The two keys to successful travel nursing are preparation and attitude," advises Rachel Crighton, a travel nurse who spent several years working in hospitals from Vancouver to Naples, Fla.

"It's really better to know everything before you get to a new place, from the realities of your housing to the policies of the hospital," continues Crighton. "The more you know, the more confident you can be in your decision to accept a placement."

First and foremost, your agency must be reliable and available. Find a good recruiter who will listen to and advise you appropriately, and who is upfront about the pros and cons of each assignment.

Your agency also should provide a good benefits package, as well as safe and pleasant housing. Everyone has different criteria for what this means, so be sure to discuss your likes and dislikes with your recruiter. A good agency needs to be familiar with your potential new area and should work closely with the hospital to provide you with a decent place to live.

Next, find out as much as you can about the hospital. There are a number of important questions to ask the nurse manager during your interview for a potential placement, from floating policies to patient ratios. For instance, hospitals use travelers in a variety of ways and may occasionally give them shifts outside their practice area. While this offers learning opportunities, be sure you aren't placed in a situation that's unsafe for you or your patients. Be upfront in the interview about your job concerns and ask lots of questions to ensure you avoid an uncomfortable or risky situation.

Once on the job, expect to jump in quickly and prove yourself each time you go someplace new. “Be assertive but not aggressive,” suggests Leann Harper, a traveling nurse and Canada native. She says if you keep an open mind, you’ll be amazed at what you can learn. A good attitude will win you friends and—more importantly—cooperation from your colleagues.

Have a good attitude about day-to-day issues. Travel nursing is great for those who love the excitement of exploring new living environments and cultural differences, but you also need to be flexible enough to not mind the occasional stress of trying to locate new grocery stores or doctors. Those who have health issues will have to ensure they get consistent healthcare as they move around.

Finally, take advantage of the opportunities and flexibility travel nursing affords you. Pick up a few per diem hours for extra cash and experience. Socialize with your fellow nurses after work. Explore the local culture. Appreciate all the area has to offer—after all, you’ll only be there for a short time. (And if you really love a placement, says Crighton, you always can talk to your recruiter about staying a few extra weeks or even months.)

That’s the beauty of travel nursing: It’s all up to you.