Understanding the various kinds of assignments that are accessible is crucial if you’re thinking about working as a travel nurse. Travel nurses are paid a salary and live in hotels. Their jobs may be in emergency or high-risk areas. They may need to be open to start work within 48 hours. In addition, the work environment can vary significantly from one place to another.
They live in a hotel
Most travel nursing agencies will lease a studio or one-bedroom apartments for their nurses and rotate them so that no one has to stay in the same place. These accommodations often include full kitchens, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and premium television channels. Suppose the travel nursing agency does not offer this type of housing.
Housing can make or break a travel assignment, and a nurse should feel comfortable and settled in her new surroundings. Not only will she make new friends, but she will also want to feel safe in a new place. Having a place to live while on assignment is necessary for many traveling nurses. Most travel nursing agencies provide housing and are very helpful with securing a place to live. However, it is essential to note that some agencies have different housing options and will have different prices.
When choosing a housing option, it’s essential to understand the terms of the housing stipend. Some travel nursing agencies will assist nurses with finding housing and will pay a housing stipend to help them find an apartment. However, smaller, mid-size agencies will need more access to the discounts that larger agencies can obtain from furnished apartment companies.
They are paid a salary
Travel nursing agencies pay nurses a salary, and the rate can differ from state to state. Some nursing agencies pay a higher rate for specialty nurses than others; in some cases, a specialty certification will earn you a higher rate. Specialties in cardiology, oncology, neonatal intensive care, and pediatrics can lead to a higher salary. Many agencies help nurses pay their licensing fees, and some will reimburse them. Travel nurses can earn more by working additional or local per diem shifts.
Many travel nursing agencies also provide bonuses to nurses. Sign-on rewards are given after a nurse accepts an assignment, while completion bonuses are given after a nursing assignment is completed. Some agencies also offer referral bonuses, ranging from $100 to $2,000 depending on the nurse’s number of referrals. The compensation should be independent of the travel nurse’s salary.
Travel nursing pay is often higher than the pay for full-time nurses, as they can move between different locations at will. However, it is essential to consider the additional costs of travel and housing when determining your take-home pay. Some agencies provide housing, and others pay a weekly stipend to cover housing costs. Travel nurses should also consider the cost of travel to and from the assignment. Travel expenses are occasionally covered, although the contract usually determines the repayment schedule.