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Transition Back from Crisis: The Future For Travel Nurses After COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted and continues to impact everyone worldwide. It’s no surprise that healthcare systems and travel nurses still are being impacted and experiencing significant changes. But how has the pandemic changed the world of travel nursing? Let’s discuss the state of travel nursing during the pandemic, the future of travel nursing , and ways to transition for travel nurses.

The State of Travel Nursing During COVID-19

Travel nursing has always been a high-in-demand field. During the pandemic, the state of travel nursing changed worldwide. Let’s explore how the pandemic affected the state of travel nursing.

Demand For Travel Nurses

The demand for travel nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic exploded. The average hours that travel nurses worked increased to over 23% in January 2022 . This number reflects the total number of travel nursing hours worked as a percentage worked by nurses in hospitals. This is a tremendous increase compared to less than 4% hours pre-pandemic numbers.

Hospitals were experiencing and continue to experience nursing shortages due to a variety of reasons. Reasons include staff nurses contracting COVID-19, patients needing a higher acuity of care, or a lack of safe nurse-to-patient ratios. Also, a large number of staff nurses left their full-time jobs. Staff nurses were seeking higher wages, scheduling flexibility, and the opportunity to travel, all of which travel nursing offers .

Changes to Safety Protocols

Safety protocols have also changed during the pandemic. Nurses have always needed to wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Pre-pandemic, PPE most of the time included only surgical masks and gloves. However, since COVID-19 is an airborne illness , this changed PPE and safety protocols worldwide. Travel nurses now additionally wear surgical gowns and N-95 masks or respirators , which protect against airborne droplets.

Sick leave protocols changed because of the pandemic as well. If nurses were experiencing any flu-like symptoms or had a mild headache, they called out sick. This is because COVID-19 symptoms present differently in everyone. Nurses were required to receive a negative COVID-19 PCR test before returning to work. These return-to-work protocols are still changing and vary per healthcare system.

In addition to COVID-19 testing, hospitals have been more lenient on sick time for nurses. Before the pandemic, it was more often than not that travel nurses worked when they were sick. Now, it has become more accepted that it’s ok to not go to work when you are sick-even if it’s not with COVID-19.

👉 Read more: Trusted Benefits

Changes in Pay and Incentives

Travel nurses made approximately $1,673 per week before the COVID-19 pandemic . During the pandemic, travel nurses saw an increase in hourly wages. Sometimes wages were up to three times their pre-pandemic salary. They were also offered sign-on and assignment completion bonuses. Travel nurses were willing to work longer hours due to better benefits and hourly pay. This helped fill the gap with hospital staff nursing shortages.

👉 Read more: Trusted Guide to Nurse Pay

Adaptations To Work and Living Conditions

Travel nurses also had to learn to quickly adapt to the ever-changing work conditions. Early pandemic safety protocols were changing daily, which travel nurses had to keep up with.

Most travel nurses were afraid to visit or go home to family members and friends. This is because, in the early stages of the pandemic, much was still unknown about safety and transmission. Many travel nurses opted to not return home or waited 14 days in quarantine after completing their assignments for fear of transmission to loved ones. 

Many travel nurses have worsening stress levels and burnout rates . Nursing can be a stressful career, but COVID-19 added another layer of stress. Many nurses are seeking counseling from mental health professionals.

👉 Read more: The State of Mental Health in Nursing in 2022

How Will Travel Nursing Change as We Move To a Post-pandemic World?

Now that it appears the pandemic is winding down, it continues to impact the future of travel nursing . There are several ways travel nursing will change as we move post-pandemic.

For instance, healthcare systems are now transitioning back to hiring permanent, full-time nurses, instead of travel nurses. Some travel nursing contracts are being canceled . During the pandemic, many travel nurses were asked to extend their contracts. Now, it’s becoming rarer that healthcare facilities are asking for contract extensions.

Pay rates for travel nurses are starting to decline as well and are returning closer to pre-pandemic numbers. While the demand for travel nursing will decrease, travel nursing contracts will still exist. Many travel nurses will likely return to permanent, full-time positions for more stability. However, they may ask for higher wages, sign-on bonuses, and benefits.

Most likely, healthcare facility and mask safety protocols will not change. While masks are optional outside of healthcare facilities , it’s unlikely this will change inside hospitals for quite some time, if ever.

Call-out and sick protocols have also been impacted by the pandemic. If travel nurses are sick, it requires a negative COVID-19 test to return to work. If they are positive for COVID-19, an isolation period is required before returning to work. Due to the high transmission rate, this protocol will unlikely change in the years to come.

How Can Travel Nurses Adapt to This Transition

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted travel nurses pre- and post-pandemic. During the pandemic, travel nurses have overcome unforeseen challenges. Now that we are slowly transitioning into a post-pandemic workplace, let’s review how travel nurses can adapt to this transition and the future of travel nursing .

Prepare For Financial Impacts

The need for travel nurses will never completely go away. However, travel nursing contacts are beginning to decline when compared to mid-pandemic numbers. This can have a large impact on travel nurses financially . While salaries are still higher than pre-pandemic numbers, travel nurses should expect to receive less pay.

To prepare, make sure you are saving at least six months of living expenses. 

Another way to prepare is to accept a lower-paying contract that is guaranteed for a longer time frame. This way, it may help you financially prepare and give you a long time to find another contract after your current one ends. Always have a backup contract in mind and voice this to your travel nursing recruiter. Voice your concerns for financial stability to your Nurse Advocate , and most likely, they will help you create a backup plan in case something goes sour.

Lastly, see if your travel nursing agency offers local assignments. As most local assignments have a 50-mile minimum radius, this will allow you to work closer to home. The pay and stipends may be slightly lower than a true travel nursing assignment. But your wages will still be higher than accepting a permanent staff nurse position. Also, if you work closer to home, then you may be able to work another part-time job or find another local assignment.

Update Your Resume

Since some travel nursing contracts are being canceled, it’s also a good idea to start updating your resume . There are several resume writing companies that specialize in travel nursing that can help you update it.

Consider adding new skills to your resume. For example, maybe you are a medical-surgical nurse but floated to the cardiac step-down unit several times. Make sure to add that you cared for COVID-19 patients. Including these shows versatility, commitment to nursing, and learning new skills. 

Also, consider obtaining certifications for your nursing specialty . Certifications will make you stand out amongst other travel nursing candidates. It shows commitment to and advancement in your field of nursing.

Take Care of Your Mental Health

During the pandemic, mental health declined and burnout rates increased amongst travel nurses. Since we are transitioning to life after a pandemic, remember that it’s important to take care of your mental and physical health. Set aside time for self-care activities that you enjoy, such as reading, getting a massage, or meditation. Promoting self-care can improve your mental health and stress levels. 

Since the pandemic, many have reflected on the importance of interactions with family and friends. Talk and plan events with your friends and family to help boost your mental health. If you have a busy schedule, plan phone dates with family and friends. Maintaining healthy relationships can help provide a strong support system. Strong support systems are often needed amongst travel nurses since you’re often far away from home.

If you feel like you are struggling with your mental health, seek support from a licensed therapist or counselor. They can listen to your concerns and improve your mental health. If you feel like you don’t have time to see a mental health professional, there is also Telemedicine. Telemedicine connects you with mental health professionals via smartphone apps.

Take Care of Your Physical Health

It’s also important to take care of your physical health. It can be difficult to take breaks while on shift, making it that much more imperative to take care of your physical well-being. Make sure you are eating healthy. Consume the required amount of vitamins and nutrients in your diet to boost your immunity. Exercise at least 30 minutes five times a week to boost your cardiovascular health. Try activities like walking, riding a bike, or doing yoga.

Remain Flexible

Travel nurses are prime examples of flexibility. It’s crucial to remain and communicate your flexibility when considering nursing assignments. Remaining flexible may help you land your next travel nursing assignment over other candidates. While floating to other areas of the hospital is not always ideal, still, be open to the idea. 

Stay Positive

It’s also imperative to keep a positive attitude. Staying positive can help boost your mood and the moods of those around you. If your travel nursing contract isn’t going as planned, remember that it’s only a few weeks. You will get through it!

Practicing gratitude is another great way to stay positive. Remember that a lot of coworkers and travel nurses are under the same pressures as you. Express your gratitude to them whenever possible by writing them a thank you note or offering to pay for their lunch. A little gratitude goes a long way!

Trusted Health is here to help you navigate the future of travel nursing

If you’re looking for your first or next travel nursing assignment, try Trusted Health . They offer many travel nursing resources, guides, and articles. Trusted Health’s many job listings and travel nursing recruiters will help you navigate the post-pandemic future of travel nursing .

‍ Sign up or log in to get started today!

Amanda Marten NP-C, MSN has been a certified nurse practitioner for over three years. With eight years of nursing experience, she has worked in a variety of specialties including urgent care, travel nursing, post-surgical, and intensive care.

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The Future of Work Issue

‘Nurses Have Finally Learned What They’re Worth’

As the coronavirus spread, demand for nurses came from every corner. Some jobs for travelers paid more than $10,000 a week. Will the boom last?

Chris Detten earned enough as a traveling nurse to make a down payment on a home in Lubbock, Texas. Credit... George Etheredge for The New York Times

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By Lauren Hilgers

• Published Feb. 15, 2022 Updated June 15, 2023

Listen to This Article

In the early morning on Mother’s Day in 2020, Solomon Barraza walked into an intensive-care unit in Amarillo, Texas, and, with the fluorescent lights clicking on above him after the night shift, flipped through the stack of papers attached to a gray clipboard — his roster of patients and nurses for the day. Barraza, who was 30 at the time, had only recently become a charge nurse at Northwest Texas Healthcare System hospital. He was technically still a “baby nurse”: Just over a year earlier, he started working his first shifts in the I.C.U. Now he was responsible for overseeing the care of everyone there, making sure his nurses and patients had whatever they needed, answering questions and directing care in case of an emergency. As he looked through his roster, he saw that there were 11 patients on his floor; eight had Covid-19, and five of those were intubated. Then he looked at the other sheet of paper. There would be four nurses working for the next 12 hours. He needed at least six.

He could see the day play out: a cascade of emergencies, a cacophony of beeping alarms and running feet, disasters that ended with overwhelmed nurses and patients crashing alone. And so for the first time, Barraza made the decision to call for “safe harbor” under a Texas law that can be invoked to protect nurses’ licenses while working in conditions that are potentially unsafe for patients. Barraza grabbed a form from the nurses’ station, and one by one, they all signed it.

Almost immediately, the emergencies began. “You need to get over to 18!” someone shouted. Barraza grabbed his mask and ran. He started hand-pumping air into the patient’s lungs with a ventilation bag while two other nurses hooked the bag up to oxygen. They stabilized that patient, and Barraza jogged down the hallways to check on the other seven. One person’s blood pressure was dropping precipitously, and Barraza was preparing to go inside the room when he thought to check on another patient, one door down. That patient’s blood-oxygen level had dropped into the 40s, far below the normal range of 95 to 100. “So what do I do?” Barraza said. “Who do I help first? There are multiple people’s lives at stake at the same time. What if I pick wrong and someone dies?”

A year and a half later, Barraza was sitting on the desk in the middle of the cardiac-intensive-care unit, or C.I.C.U. — which handles both coronary and Covid patients — looking around the group of nurses, remembering those first months of an ongoing crisis. “There were some funky things going on with staffing back then,” he told the group. Nurses were leaving the hospital to take traveling jobs in New York. The rest of the hospital was shut down, so the I.C.U. floor was the chaotic heart of a ghost town. The hospital had yet to hire traveling nurses to pad its local staff, and Mother’s Day felt like a turning point. It was the day Barraza recognized that the pandemic would be defined by twin emergencies, two figures that he would watch anxiously as they rose and fell: the waves of patients on ventilators in his I.C.U., and the number of nurses available to take care of them.

In 2020 alone, Northwest lost 185 nurses — nearly 20 percent of its nursing staff. In the I.C.U., that number was closer to 80 percent. Many of those nurses left to take jobs with travel-nursing agencies, which placed them, on a temporary and highly lucrative basis, in hospitals throughout the country. When the nurses at Northwest quit, the hospital eventually hired its own travelers, who flowed onto Barraza’s floor to work for weeks or months at a time. There have been days when the unit was barely staffed and days when 20 travelers showed up unexpectedly. Barraza has watched friends burn out and retire. He has watched nurses leave for better pay or less stressful jobs. He has welcomed the strangers who have come to take their place — befriending them, folding them into his I.C.U. team and then watching them leave all over again.

Bedside nursing has always been, as one hospital chief executive put it, a “burnout profession.” The work is hard. It is physical and emotional. And hospitals have built shortages into their business model, keeping their staffs lean and their labor costs down. When the pandemic hit, shortages only increased, pushing hospitals to the breaking point. Nationwide, the tally of nurses with both the skills and the willingness to endure the punishing routines of Covid nursing — the isolation rooms, the angry families and the unceasing drumbeat of death — is dwindling. In a survey of critical-care nurses last year, 66 percent of respondents said they were considering retirement.

Sitting on the desk that day, Barraza didn’t know why he kept reflecting on May 2020. He had stabilized those two patients that morning, but that would not always be the case. For the most part, he said, the days bleed together in his mind. Sometimes it felt as if he had spent the last two years running the world’s longest marathon, his adrenaline pushing him from patient to patient, watching people die and trying his best to pause for a moment, just enough time to recognize each as an individual without being overwhelmed by emotion.

“That was the first time we called for safe harbor,” said Matt Melvyn, a veteran nurse who has stayed with Barraza throughout the pandemic. “But it was definitely not the last.”

In the flood of resignations, retirements and shortages that have redefined workplaces across industries these past two years, nothing has been as dramatic or as consequential as the shifts taking place in nursing. The scramble for bedside nurses is tied to everything from how we run our hospitals to the way we value the work of caring for others to our understanding of public health and medicine. And if our health care system has faltered under the weight of the pandemic, it will need hundreds of thousands more nurses to build itself back up.

For at least three decades, hospitals across the United States have followed a model that aims to match nurses precisely to the number of occupied beds. It’s a guessing game that has charge nurses performing daily tallies and hospital administrators anticipating the seasonal movements of illness and people — winter flus and migrating retirees. Many hospitals don’t offer nurses clear paths toward career advancement or pay increases. Depending on demand, they may trade nurses between units. When there are shortages throughout the hospital, they will send out emails and text messages asking nurses to come in and take an extra 12-hour shift. And when the shortages are too great, hospitals turn to travelers.

Even before the pandemic, there were many reasons to hire travelers. Nurses would be brought in for a season, a maternity leave or the opening of a new department. This kind of gig work grew increasingly common, and from 2009 to 2019, according to data from Staffing Industry Analysts, revenue in the travel industry tripled, reflecting a work force that was already in flux. There are hundreds of staffing agencies in the United States — national agencies, regional agencies, agencies that specialize in bringing in nurses from other countries, agencies that send American nurses abroad. In mid-March 2020, there were over 12,000 job opportunities for traveling nurses, more than twice the number in 2019.

Then, as the coronavirus spread, demand came from every corner. By December 2020, there were more than 30,000 open positions for travelers. And with the help of federal dollars — from the CARES Act Provider-Relief Funds and the American Rescue Plan — their salaries started climbing. Job listings in Fargo, N.D., advertised positions for $8,000 a week. In New York, travelers could make $10,000 or more. The average salary of a staff nurse in Texas is about $75,000; a traveler could make that in months.

Nurses often refer to their jobs as a calling — a vocation that is not, at its core, about money. At the same time, nurses have spent years protesting their long hours and nurse-to-patient ratios. In 2018 alone, there were protests in California, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania and several other states. When the pandemic hit and travel positions opened up in hospitals all over the country, nurses suddenly had more options than ever. They could continue serving patients, continue working grueling hours in frantic conditions, but they would be paid well for it. Travelers were valued. Their work was in demand. The money would be enough that after a few weeks or months on the job, they could go home and recover.

Hospital associations were already beginning to see the steep costs of these workers, but they had little choice in the matter. The shortages were too severe, and they would only get worse. In July 2020, Texas established a statewide emergency staffing system, coordinated by select regional advisory councils. The state has put $7 billion in relief funds toward supplementing staffing, which has allowed hospitals like Northwest to attract travel nurses without shouldering the full cost. “The problem is that their salaries were so much higher than our employee salaries,” said Brian Weis, the chief medical officer at Northwest. “Our employed nurses were doing the same job, but they’re saying, ‘Why are we getting paid a fraction of what these nurses are?’”

The following year, the demand for travel nursing broke loose from Covid. In April and May 2021, as case counts dipped, hospital requests for travel nurses only grew exponentially. “They now know what pent-up demand does to a health care system, and it’s not healthy,” said April Hansen, the group president at Aya Healthcare, one of the largest providers of travel nurses in the country. “If you look at our demand today, it looks like our demand pre-Covid in terms of specialties: med surge, telemetry, I.C.U., emergency room, surgical. It’s just the volume that is being asked for in every specialty.”

It isn’t the traveling-nurse boom alone that has transformed the market. There are also more job opportunities beyond the bedside than ever. Nurse practitioners treat patients in doctors’ offices; insurance companies employ thousands of nurses; Microsoft and Amazon have hundreds of open nursing jobs. Today, only 54 percent of the country’s registered nurses work in hospitals. “There was competition for talent before the pandemic,” Hansen said. “But the pandemic took a small crack and made it as wide as the Grand Canyon.”

To make things worse, the nursing shortage is part of a worker shortfall that spans the entire health care industry. “This is labor across the hospital,” said Rose O. Sherman, an emeritus professor of nursing at Florida Atlantic University. “This is respiratory therapy. This is lab. This is dietary, environmental services. They have not been immune to having an Amazon warehouse open up and losing a significant chunk of their staff.” If labs are backed up, patients have to wait for a diagnosis. If rooms aren’t cleaned, nurses step in to do the work themselves. Barraza has been known to empty bedpans when the housekeeper is too busy.

Even as hospitals have scrambled to hire travel nurses, many have been chafing at the rising price tag. A number of states are exploring the option to cap travel-nursing pay, and the American Hospital Association is pushing for a congressional inquiry into the pricing practices of travel-nursing agencies. Sherman, however, believes that the problem will not be solved until hospitals start considering how to make bedside jobs more desirable.

After two years, nurses have borne witness to hundreds of thousands of deaths. They have found themselves in the middle of a politicized illness and faced countless angry, grieving family members. Many, now, are moving on. They are looking for jobs outside the hospital. Others are simply uprooting themselves — leaving their homes and their families and continuing to do their jobs for a higher salary. “Nurses have finally learned what they’re worth,” Nora Shadix, one I.C.U. nurse, told me. “I don’t think they’re going to go back to the way it was before. I don’t think they’re going to settle.”

One of the nurses who has cycled through Barraza’s staff is Kulule Kenea, who was furloughed from her job as a nurse practitioner in Minneapolis in March 2020 as part of the city’s initial lockdown. She spent her early years working in I.C.U.s and trauma wards. Her uncle was a registered nurse, as was her cousin. It was something she had always wanted to do. Kenea, who is 33, liked her job. She never had that itch to travel or move. Even before starting her furlough, she got text messages from travel agencies looking for nurses willing to fly to New York. She wasn’t sure how the agencies got her number, but the offers kept coming. “I saw and heard other nurses too,” she said, “just getting mass texts out of nowhere.”

Many nurses like Kenea started traveling in the early months of the pandemic. They were nurses who had also been furloughed, nurses whose personal circumstances allowed them to travel, nurses who felt the call to help people in an emergency and nurses who were drawn by the salaries. Ivette Palomeque, who lives in Texas, traveled to Florida during her divorce. Shadix, who was working at BSA Health System in Amarillo, the hospital across the street from Northwest, decided to travel for six months starting in the summer of 2020 after her boyfriend at the time gave her the number for a staffing agency. Susie Scott, a charge nurse in Abilene, Texas, left her job in the fall of 2020, after 19 years at the same hospital; it had become so short-staffed that Scott was doing the jobs of two or three people. Traveling was an escape. “Now, what I do,” Scott told me, “I go in, I take care of my patients and that is it.”

“People were so desperate for this particular skill,” Kenea told me. “My only responsibility at home is to water my plants. I don’t have kids. I don’t have any other responsibilities. It felt wrong. It felt unfair to be able to just sit at home in the comfort of my house when other people are suffering.” Kenea took a contract to travel to New York and was on an airplane within days — there were only a handful of other people on her flight. She spent a night in a hotel, woke up the next morning and boarded a bus heading to a hospital in Harlem. She was assigned to a medical surgical unit and, on her first shift, was given 11 patients, compared with the typical four or five. It was, Kenea said, unreal. “It did not feel like America.” She worked 14 days in a row, 12-hour shifts, compared with the three-day-a-week standard before the pandemic. She did chest compressions on one patient while another was in the room, watching her, terrified.

Kenea’s father sent her text messages daily, asking her to come home and to stop risking her health. “He would send me all these statistics,” she said. “And I would be like: ‘I’m in the hospital. I know.’” A few months later, in July 2020, Kenea contracted with a traveling agency called Krucial Staffing, which specializes in emergency disaster response. She knew her assignment would be in Texas but had to call in to learn which city — the agency was working primarily with nurses who were willing to go anywhere at a moment’s notice. Kenea would have about a day to get her bearings, taking quick tours of I.C.U.s, notebook in hand. The alarms in each I.C.U. have their own sounds. The charting systems change from place to place. “You need to know the pins for certain doors and a telephone number or email for a manager or somebody who can make stuff happen for you quickly,” Kenea said. “You need to get those things down pat first within the first couple of hours: eyes wide open, ears listening sharp, constantly aware of things.”

Kenea was sent to Corpus Christi and assigned to an older part of the hospital that had been reopened to help accommodate the influx of Covid patients. Not long afterward, she was transferred to another ward, where many of the nurses were younger than she was. Kenea worked a relatively manageable five days each week, although the job was still grueling. “I am not afraid of running toward the fire,” she told me. And the staff nurses were welcoming. Some stopped to ask Kenea for advice on how to start traveling themselves.

Barraza’s unit sits on the fourth floor of a tower on the north side of Northwest. It is brightly lit and wide, and most doors have a yellow sign alerting everyone to the need for personal protective equipment. The medical intensive-care unit, or M.I.C.U., where Shadix has been working as a staff nurse after her stint as a traveler, is separated from the C.I.C.U. by a bank of elevators. There, the lights are dim, and most of the patients have been medically paralyzed so the ventilators can work without resistance. Alarms beep, and monitors are facing the glass, the oxygen levels of each patient blinking toward the hallways.

I.C.U. nursing demands a particular set of skills. Nurses here monitor life-support equipment, track patients’ reactions to medications and respond quickly in an emergency. It can be physical work — it takes multiple people, for example, to turn a patient without unhooking any equipment. I.C.U. nurses are trained to titrate several medications and drips. Good nurses can anticipate when a patient is about to crash. They’re expected to handle situations that are unpredictable and patients who are unstable. “If you don’t use those skills,” Kenea said, “you lose it.”

In December 2020, Kenea arrived in Amarillo for an assignment on Barraza’s team. By that time, the hospital had already seen waves of travelers come and go. Before the pandemic, potential travel nurses were carefully vetted by agencies for expertise and good standing. They were required to have clocked at least a year in their specialty, sometimes two or three. Kenea, for her part, had eight years of nursing experience under her belt. During the early days of the pandemic, however, with hospital staffs suffering from shortages and looking for immediate relief, many local nurses and administrators had doubts about the level of experience of some of the travelers who were landing in their I.C.U.s.

When groups of travel nurses started arriving in Amarillo, Barraza barely had time to connect with them before they disappeared. Their contracts didn’t stipulate how long they needed to stay in any particular hospital, and some would be gone within weeks. Barraza worked shifts in which he was the only member of the core staff, unsure of who had the experience to handle an emergency. “There were some travelers that came, and they were amazing,” he told me. “They were some of the best nurses I’ve worked with. But then there were the ones who shouldn’t have been there.”

If the challenge for travelers, before and during the pandemic, has been to do their job in an unfamiliar environment, the challenge for the nurses who stayed was to offer consistency amid the chaos. Barraza knew early in the pandemic that he would stay. He took on the job of keeping up morale and arrived at his shifts with the energy of a favorite aunt. He started taking in baskets of candy and snacks. He knew the moods of his nurses and which patients were feeling scared and in need of company. He knew who needed a break and who could keep going.

As time went on, the work of boosting morale became more difficult as nurses found themselves facing an unprecedented level of hostility from the outside world. A majority of Covid patients now in the I.C.U. at Northwest are unvaccinated — the region hovers below a 50 percent vaccination rate — and restaurants and malls are filled with unmasked people. Melvyn, the veteran on Barraza’s team, said that one of the most difficult parts of the job is walking outside the hospital into a world where it seems that the pandemic is already over. “You are here and it’s a war zone, and you walk outside and there’s no war,” he said. “My whole life we’ve been preparing for a pandemic, but in none of those meetings, in none of those drills, did anyone say, ‘What if there’s a pandemic, and nobody believes it’s a pandemic?’”

Families of patients now yell at staff daily, asking for unproven treatments or accusing nurses of doing harm. They oppose intubation or refuse to wear masks. Shadix still remembers the time a family blamed her for the death of their loved one. “I will always have compassion for my patients,” she said. “But I’m running out of compassion for the families.”

Nurses have compassion fatigue, fatigue fatigue and alarm fatigue, becoming desensitized to the beeps of monitors. Nurses at Northwest have nightmares about crashing patients, nightmares that they’re being intubated themselves, nightmares that wake them up doing chest compressions on their mattresses. Shadix turns on cartoons while she falls asleep to drown out the soundtrack of alarms that plays in her head. A lot of nurses are stoic, she said. They hold it in. They make jokes. “Surely the Lord is going to bless me for putting up with all of this crap,” one nurse told me.

On bad days, Barraza holds the nurses’ hands while they cry. “We have a pretty well versed nurse that has been a nurse for a long time,” he told me. “But there was a day when her patient was going to be intubated, and she was in the hallway crying, saying that this isn’t fair and she couldn’t do it. I hugged her, and I said: ‘It sucks that it is this hard, but you’re here for a reason. I am here for you, and you’re here for me, and we’re here for these people.’” He went on: “I’m still trying to keep holding on to that aspect of my personality and who I am. If I start losing that part of me, then I need to get out.”

When Shadix was traveling, she left her daughter in the care of her mother and ex-husband and struggled to leave her work at work, she said. For months she took it back to her hotel rooms and Airbnbs — the faces of the patients she lost, the feeling of doing chest compressions, the fear in people’s eyes when they came in. Now when she loses someone, she counts to 10 and allows herself to feel all her emotions. Then she takes a breath and does her best to put them aside.

But for many other travelers, the exhaustion and the hostility they regularly face is blunted by their ability to do something staff nurses can’t: leave. Kenea thinks that moving around has helped her navigate the emotional toll of the pandemic without losing hope — she has witnessed death firsthand, but in episodes, each hospital providing a change of scenery. And when she “decommissions” from an assignment, she allows herself a break before she takes a new job. She feels overwhelmed at times but never burned out. At the end of each shift, she assesses her day, and if she feels she has done everything she can, she lets go of it as soon as she leaves the parking lot.

Then, of course, there’s the pay. Kenea has made enough money to help cover the tuition to become a nurse anesthetist. Shadix’s six-month stint as a traveler allowed her to put a down payment on a house. Chris Detten, a traveler at Northwest, was also able to afford a down payment. Adrian Chavira, Detten’s friend and another traveler at Northwest, said the money has made it possible for his partner to stay at home with their new baby. “Money is a very good motivator,” Detten said. There’s a sense that all the hard work is being rewarded. “You don’t have to worry about the politics of the hospital you’re in.” The power plays, the interoffice dramas, the personalities you can’t escape — the travelers are insulated from it all.

“I appreciate that they’re here,” said Karen Hammett, a longtime charge nurse at Northwest. “Am I a little salty that they’re making more than me? Yes.” Hammett was a veteran of the hospital. She had made it through every wave of the pandemic. But last year was her hardest. “It’s having to deal with the secondary stuff that gets to me — the hate is what sucks. And it’s the worst it’s ever been.” She had her last shift at Northwest on Nov. 21. After nearly 20 years at the hospital, she quit.

As I.C.U. beds in city hospitals filled up and staff nurses started leaving in droves, another story of a precariously overextended health care system was unfolding in smaller hospitals across the country. Rural hospitals, which have long sent their most acute cases to larger hospitals, were left with patients they were ill equipped to handle. Many of these hospitals, with lower profits and wages, struggled to retain nurses and compete with the enormous salaries offered by travel agencies. With no padding, entire departments shut down. Only 40 percent of rural hospitals in Texas offer labor-and-delivery services, and with staffing shortages, many deliver babies only a few days a week. There are 71 counties in the state with no hospitals at all. Across the country, 22 rural hospitals have shuttered in the past two years. According to one 2020 study, 453 more are in danger of closing.

Hereford Regional Medical Center is roughly 50 miles southwest of Amarillo. Shortly before Christmas, hospital officials there declared an internal state of disaster — all the travelers had gone home for the holidays, leaving the remaining staff and administrators struggling to keep the doors open. Administrative staff took shifts over Christmas and New Year’s to avoid a complete shutdown. Nursing teachers from Amarillo drove in to help bridge the gap between the departing and arriving traveling nurses. The hospital had stopped performing surgeries and was sending its labor-and-delivery patients to other hospitals. It could no longer take referrals — serving only the people who showed up in the emergency room — and none of the larger hospitals nearby were able to take its acute cases.

Other rural hospitals are reeling from similar shortages. In Missouri, one rural hospital was unable to transfer a patient with acute pneumonia after contacting 19 different hospitals. A nurse saved the woman’s life by staying up all night, loosening the mucus in the patient’s lungs with a hand-held massager. Rural hospitals in New Mexico have reported calling 40 or 50 hospitals in order to find a bed for acute patients. Candice Smith, the chief nursing officer at Hereford Regional, said: “We need staff, we need supplies, we need medicines. We have spent multiple hours on the phone to try to get patients out of here. If they’ve had a stroke or a heart attack or a traumatic brain injury, we’ve been getting them to Dallas or Oklahoma.” Smith sent a request to its regional advisory council asking for more travelers, but she was unsure of when, or whether, they might show up. “As a rural hospital, we can’t pay for them forever,” she told me. “It will cripple the health care industry.”

“There has been an evolution in the travelers,” Smith continued. “Now they don’t come here or to any facility and say: ‘What can I do? I’m willing to work any day you tell me to.’ Now they say: ‘I’m only going to work Sunday, Monday, Tuesday. I’m going to take off for Christmas.’” When I asked Smith if there was anything else she wanted to share, she said simply, “Just tell people to pray for us.”

In light of the grim staffing numbers, both city and rural hospitals have tried to focus on retention efforts, in some cases mirroring the benefits of the travel-nursing industry. Northwest now offers higher overtime rates for nurses who take extra shifts, and BSA started offering better pay overall. In Florida, hospitals are hiring recent nursing graduates and placing them in nursing teams with more experienced personnel. UAMS Medical Center at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is offering a signing bonus of $25,000 to qualified nurses willing to stay for three years. At Parkland Health and Hospital System in Dallas, doctors have been helping ease the burden on nurses by performing some of their duties.

Ronda Crow is the chief nursing officer at Moore County Hospital District, a nonprofit that serves Dumas, Texas, and the surrounding rural areas. She has spent nearly 10 years working on hiring and retaining nurses, including implementing scholarship programs to help local students through nursing school. Everyone was paid a full salary throughout the pandemic whether they were scheduled to work or not — an incentive, Crow hoped, to stay. “We’re lucky here in Dumas,” she told me. The hospital has the backing of a foundation that helps with funding. During the pandemic, Crow has managed to increase her staff and now has the ability to open every bed in the hospital. “By staffing up, it gives me the opportunity to grow nurse leaders,” Crow said. “Is it an expensive gamble? Yes. Will it pay off in the end? Yes.”

Other rural hospitals, however, will continue to struggle. Without state support, many can’t afford to pay the higher wages that nurses are commanding. Fewer patients are insured, and many are older, their illnesses more severe. And experienced nurses are continuing to leave for other, lower-stress jobs. There are around 153,000 new nurses being licensed every year, but based on projected demand, it will not be enough.

For Barraza, each new spike in Covid patients seems to happen overnight. He may know a surge is coming. He may worry about families gathering for the holidays, but the influx always feels sudden. In the fall, Covid cases in Amarillo dropped, and the hospital was assigned fewer state-subsidized nurses. But the moment the travelers started to leave, a wave of new Covid cases began to fill the hospital’s beds. Northwest scrambled to bring in travelers again. Then the Omicron variant arrived. The hospital’s exhausted nurses went into overdrive. In late December, Shadix texted me a GIF of an exploding house.

“It’s bad,” she said. “But it’s fine. We’re fine.” There were new nurses in the medical intensive-care unit, people who had just graduated, and Shadix was watching them flounder. “It’s a sink-or-swim situation,” she said. “And you learn to swim really quickly, because otherwise, people die.” She had taken on many of the hard conversations with families — telling them that their loved ones would probably not make it. “They started calling me the hospice queen,” she said grimly. Families were allowed to enter the I.C.U.s, and Shadix let them, hoping that once they saw how bad things were — how low the quality of life was for their family members — they would start to let them go. Early in the pandemic, Shadix told me, nurses in the M.I.C.U. tried to stay positive, to offer family members a ray of hope until the end. Now they are more realistic. They need to set expectations.

By January, Northwest had made appeals to the regional advisory council and FEMA for more nurses. Covid patients were filling up the emergency room and surgical floor. At one point, Brian Weis, the chief medical officer, knew of 43 patients in rural hospitals waiting for a transfer. Around 75 staff members at Northwest were in quarantine. While travel and military nurses began arriving, core staff continued leaving. Dellani Spradling, a charge nurse in the M.I.C.U. who never anticipated leaving, abruptly resigned in early February. Another Northwest nurse took a traveling job that moved him to the hospital across the street.

Shadix hopes to be a traveler again. She loves the physicians she works with at Northwest — she knows what labs they need and what questions they’re going to ask. But staying doesn’t make sense. “Here you are, killing yourself for five days making pennies,” she said, “versus working four days or three days making three times what you’re making right now.” Once Shadix goes, some of the longest-serving nurses in the M.I.C.U. will be travelers.

Many nurses are hoping to move on from the I.C.U. entirely. Kenea is starting the nurse-anesthetist program in May. Shadix is taking classes toward her nurse practitioner’s license. “Maybe once this is all over and done with, I’ll come back to the I.C.U. and take my normal patients,” she told me. “But if I never have to see another N95 mask in my life, I will not be sad.”

Barraza is hanging on for now, providing as much continuity as he can. In December, he was working six days a week. The C.I.C.U. was so full of Covid patients that it couldn’t take transfers from the emergency room. “We have beds; we just don’t have the ability to staff them,” he told me. “If we do bring them in, we just overwhelm people even more and possibly push them out the door.”

Barraza has begun taking patients himself in addition to overseeing all the nurses in his unit. He tries to take his candy cart down to the nurses in the emergency room now — he knows they are tired, too. Emergency-department doctors are in such huge demand in smaller hospitals that Weis recalled at least one at Northwest who was contacted and told to name his price.

As the new year started, however, even Barraza was beginning to fray at the edges. He has been having trouble falling asleep. He passes out on his couch most nights. “I lay there, and I see the people that I saw all day and the people that I saw before. I try to keep myself centered and not dwell on it too long, because it puts me in a low place.” He thinks, instead, of his staff. He thinks of the nurses who have made it out. He thinks of a patient who recently recovered. He tries to relax, but sometimes his body won’t let him forget.

Lately, as he tries to fall asleep, he has been feeling the phantom pressure of a hand in his — the feeling of a patient about to be intubated, another frightened person on the edge of life and death. “You get all these sensations and feelings,” he told me. “Feeling them grasp you, and feeling their grasp letting go when the medication hits them.”

Lauren Hilgers is a writer based in New York. She is the author of “Patriot Number One: A Chinese Rebel Comes to America.” George Etheredge is a New York City based photographer raised in North Carolina. He was recognized as one of “The 30: New and Emerging Photographers to Watch in 2020.”

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Travel nurses raced to help during Covid. Now they're facing abrupt cuts.

Tiffanie Jones was a few tanks of gas into her drive from Tampa, Florida, to Cheyenne, Wyoming, when she found out her travel nurse contract had been canceled.

Jones, who has been a nurse for 17 years, caught up with a Facebook group for travel nurses and saw she wasn’t alone. Nurses had reported abruptly losing jobs and seeing their rates slashed as much as 50 percent midcontract.

“One lady packed up her whole family and was canceled during orientation,” she said.

Many career nurses like Jones turned to travel gigs during the pandemic, when hospitals crowded with Covid-19 patients urgently needed the help. Some travelers — who made double, sometimes triple, what staff registered nurses earned — gathered on TikTok and other social media platforms to celebrate payday , share tips on how to calculate net income from contracts , and boast about how much they were taking home weekly . So great was their good fortune that federal and state lawmakers considered capping their pay , mobilizing nurses in protest.

The tide has swiftly turned. As Covid hospitalization rates stabilize, at least for now , and federal and state Covid relief funding dries up, travel nurse contracts that were plentiful and lucrative are vanishing. And after the pressure cooker of the past two-plus years led to staff turnover and a rash of early retirements, hospitals nationwide are focused on recruiting full-time nurses.

Nationally, demand for registered nurse travelers dropped by a third in the month leading up to April 10, according to data from staffing agency Aya Healthcare, although openings have rebounded slightly in recent weeks.

When Oregon’s governor declared the pandemic emergency over April 1, state-level Covid relief money evaporated. Oregon Health & Science University Hospital in Portland lost funding for close to 100 travel nurses. That, along with lower Covid rates and more full-time hires, has led to “a bursting of the bubble,” said Dr. John Hunter, CEO of OHSU Health.

The health system had about 50 contractors of all kinds before the pandemic, compared with 450 at its height, when patients, many in need of close monitoring, flooded in and turned the hospital’s recovery room into an intensive care unit.

“It has been very expensive,” Hunter said. But things are turning around, he said, and in recent weeks the hospital has negotiated contract rates with its travel nurse agency down as much as 50 percent.

Staff nurses make far less than their traveling counterparts. Rates for a new staff nurse at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury, for example, start at $30 an hour — plus benefits and extra for night shifts. At the pandemic peak, the hospital paid staffing agencies about $175 an hour for each travel nurse. The rate remains well over $100 an hour, but the hospital is trying to negotiate it down. Because the hospital pays the agency directly, how much nurses pocket is unclear, said CEO Shawn Tester.

For some travel nurses, the abrupt drop in pay has been a shock. Since December, registered nurse Jessica Campbell had extended her 13-week contract at an Illinois hospital without any hiccups. In early April, a week into Campbell’s latest contract, her recruiter said that her rate would drop by $10 an hour and that she could take it or leave it.

“I ended up accepting it because I felt like I had no other option,” Campbell said.

The situation for some travel nurses has gotten so bad that a law firm in Kansas City, Missouri, said it is considering legal action against more than 35 staffing agencies. Austin Moore, an attorney at Stueve Siegel Hanson, said some agencies are “breaching their contracts” and in other cases “committing outright fraud” through bait-and-switch maneuvers on travel nursing contracts.

The firm opened an investigation in March, drawing comments from hundreds of nurses, Moore said. “Our phones are ringing off the hook,” he said. “Nobody has experienced it like this — historically, contracts have been honored.”

How much is a nurse worth?

Stephen Dwyer, senior vice president and chief legal and operating officer of the American Staffing Association, the trade group that represents the travel nurse staffing industry, said in an emailed statement that “as market conditions change, hospitals and other healthcare facilities may change the terms of travel nurse contracts.”

“For rate reductions or contract cancellations that take place mid-assignment, staffing companies often recommend advance notice,” he said.

Moore said that the fine print can vary but that when a staffing agency cancels a contract at the last minute or gives a nurse one or two days to consider a lower rate, the agency is often breaching a contract. According to the contracts, the loss should fall to the agency, not the nurses, when a hospital requests a lower rate, Moore added.

Pay rates have always fluctuated seasonally as the demand for nurses to plug staffing holes at hospitals changes, said XueXia Bruton, an ICU nurse based in Houston. She has traveled since 2018, drawn to the flexibility and financial freedom, and has no plans to return to staff nursing. Along the way, Bruton has cataloged her experiences on TikTok and Instagram, telling her more than 91,000 followers that, for instance, “it may make more sense to wait to take a contract until rates go back up.”

“It was very hard across the board during Covid when cases were really high,” Bruton said. “We were all burned out and exhausted, so it was important to be able to take as much time off as needed.”

Bruton saw crisis rates as high as $10,000 a week. Travel nurse rates now average about $3,100, according to online hiring marketplace Vivian Health . Still that’s higher than before the pandemic, and well above what a typical staff nurse makes.

Last year was particularly profitable for staffing agencies. Cross Country Healthcare, one of the few publicly traded companies that staff travel nurses and other health care workers, posted a profit of $132 million in 2021 , compared with a loss of $13 million the previous year and even bigger losses in 2019. Then-CEO Kevin Clark called the company’s 2021 financial results a “historic milestone for both revenue and profitability.”

Big profits across the nurse staffing industry have drawn the attention of lawmakers, including U.S. Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), who said he feared that private equity firms that were buying up staffing agencies were charging exorbitant fees during the pandemic, a pattern reported on by Stat . In January, Welch and U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-Va.) wrote the White House a letter requesting an investigation of possible “anticompetitive activity” by staffing agencies after receiving reports that they were “vastly inflating price, by two, three or more times pre-pandemic rates.”

Some travel nurses are returning to full-time gigs, drawn by hefty incentives and stability. Jones, whose contract in Wyoming was canceled in early March, considered a staff nurse position in Montana — swayed in part by a $10,000 starting bonus. But she ended up in a travel nurse contract in rural Kansas, where the pay is better than a staff job’s would be but not quite what she’d gotten used to during the pandemic.

Jones said her traveling stint raised a big question: How much is a nurse worth?

On the road, Jones said, she “could breathe financially for the first time in years,” at times making almost double what she made as a staff nurse.

“It’s a tough profession,” she said. “We love doing it, but we have bills to pay, too.”

Hannah Norman is a digital producer for Kaiser Health News. 

Questions? Call 800.798.6035 or contact us

Home > Blog > Assessing the Value: Was Travel Nursing Worth It in 2023, and What’s the Outlook for 2024?

Assessing the Value: Was Travel Nursing Worth It in 2023, and What’s the Outlook for 2024?

September 26, 2023 by Voyage Healthcare

Travel nursing, a profession that flourished with demands for healthcare flexibility and a growing trend of nomadic living, was undeniably a popular career choice in 2023. The pertinent question, as we step into 2024, is whether the pursuit was worth it for those who embraced this dynamic career, and what the future holds for travel nursing.

Travel nursing involves registered nurses taking up temporary assignments in various locations, often filling in gaps where nursing staff is in high demand. This career path offers an opportunity to explore different parts of the country or even the world, all while gaining diverse clinical experience. The profession offers a blend of adventure, learning, and financial rewards, making it a sought-after career choice for many nurses.

The Rising Trend of Travel Nursing

Historical Growth

Travel nursing, as an occupation, emerged as a response to nursing shortages and evolved significantly over the years. Historically, during the early 1980s, the concept of travel nursing originated to address regional shortfalls and cater to seasonal population fluctuations. The industry’s growth trajectory since then has been remarkable, underpinned by an ever-increasing demand for healthcare services and a need for specialized nursing skills across various geographical locations.

Current Demand and Supply Dynamics

Fast forward to 2023, the travel nursing sector is experiencing an unprecedented boom. The ongoing global health challenges, notably the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, have amplified the requirement for skilled nursing professionals across the globe. Hospitals and healthcare facilities are grappling with increased patient loads, and the specialized skills of travel nurses have become invaluable in ensuring that quality care is uncompromised.

Current market dynamics showcase a supply-demand mismatch, where the demand for travel nurses far outweighs the supply. This imbalance has led to competitive remunerations, enhanced benefits, and varied opportunities, making travel nursing a highly attractive career option. The flexibility and autonomy associated with this career are further fuelling its popularity among the nursing community, especially among those seeking diverse experiences and work-life balance.

Predictions for 2023 and Beyond

Analyzing the current trends, 2023 is poised to be a year of substantial opportunities and growth for travel nursing. The ongoing healthcare developments, demographic shifts, and increasing healthcare needs predict a sustained demand for travel nurses. Advancements in telemedicine and digital health platforms will likely further integrate travel nursing into the broader healthcare ecosystem, offering more diverse and remote opportunities.Looking ahead to 2024, industry analysts predict sustained demand for travel nurses. The ongoing evolution of healthcare needs, coupled with the desire for flexible staffing solutions, will continue to drive opportunities for travel nurses.

However, the transient nature of travel nursing also brought forth challenges, particularly concerning job security and work-life balance. Some travel nurses expressed concerns about the unpredictability of assignments and the potential impact on their long-term career trajectories. Balancing the demands of frequent travel with personal life and relationships was another area that required navigation and adaptation.

Why Consider Travel Nursing?

In a dynamic world, the allure of travel nursing comes from its unique blend of professional development, adventure, and financial incentives. But what makes it particularly appealing in 2023 and beyond?

Financial Rewards

One of the standout benefits of travel nursing is the financial reward. Travel nurses often earn competitive salaries, and the chance to work overtime can further boost income. Let’s explore some high-paying contracts with Voyage Healthcare:

• Pay: $2,495/wk (36 hrs)
• Duration: 13 weeks
• Shift: 3×12’s Flex
• Pay: Starting $2,336/wk (36 hrs)
• Shift: 3×12 Nights
• Pay: Starting $1,799 (36 hrs)
• Pay: Starting $4,880 (36 hrs)
• Shift: 3×12 Days

These contracts showcase the lucrative opportunities available, making the financial aspect of travel nursing quite enticing.

Flexibility and Adventure

Beyond the paycheck, travel nursing provides a sense of adventure and flexibility. The ability to choose assignments in various locations allows nurses to explore new cities, experience diverse cultures, and meet different people. This variety not only keeps the job exciting but also fosters personal growth.

Building a Diverse Skill Set

Travel nursing enables nurses to work in different healthcare settings, from large urban hospitals to rural community clinics. This exposure helps in building a diverse skill set, making travel nurses adaptable and highly sought after in the industry.

Real-Life Examples

Across the globe, many travel nurses have found fulfillment and success in their careers. They’ve explored breathtaking landscapes, immersed themselves in diverse communities, and have made a significant impact on the lives of their patients, all while advancing their nursing skills.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Like any profession, travel nursing comes with its set of challenges, such as adjusting to new environments and dealing with the uncertainty of temporary assignments. However, with the right mindset and preparation, these challenges can turn into growth opportunities.

Addressing Common Concerns

Job security.

Job security is a critical concern for individuals contemplating a career in travel nursing, given the contractual nature of assignments. However, the skyrocketing demand for healthcare services, especially post the global health crises, has made travel nursing one of the more secure professions in the healthcare sector. The ongoing shortages of skilled nursing staff across various geographical locations have led to a constant and increasing demand for travel nurses. While individual assignments may be temporary, the abundance of opportunities available means that travel nurses often have the next assignment lined up well before the current one concludes, contributing to consistent employment and income.

Work-Life Balance

Work-life balance is another common concern, given the variable and sometimes unpredictable working hours associated with nursing. Travel nursing, however, offers a unique advantage in this regard. The flexibility to choose assignments, control over the duration and location of the job, and the ability to take extended breaks between assignments contribute to a better work-life balance. Moreover, travel nurses can explore new locations, experience diverse cultures, and enjoy recreational activities that a traditional, stationary job might not permit, thereby enhancing life satisfaction and overall well-being.

Benefits and Compensation

In terms of benefits and compensation, travel nurses are often at an advantage compared to their stationary counterparts. Due to the high demand for their specialized skills, travel nurses typically command competitive salaries, often higher than permanent staff. In addition to this, many agencies offer comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, housing allowances, and travel reimbursements. These perks not only address the financial aspect but also cater to the holistic needs of travel nurses. Moreover, the opportunity to earn bonuses and overtime can further enhance their earning potential.

In conclusion, travel nursing in 2023 offers a plethora of benefits, from financial rewards with companies like Voyage Healthcare to the thrill of adventure and the chance to build a diverse skill set. And yes, while travel nursing presented its share of challenges in 2023, for many, the rewards and experiences garnered made it worth the journey. The outlook for 2024 remains positive, with continued opportunities and an evolving support landscape for travel nurses. The profession’s dynamism, combined with ongoing efforts to address common concerns, suggests that travel nursing will continue to be a valuable and rewarding career path in the coming year. If you’re ready to kick start or take on your next travel assignment in Tulsa or anywhere else in the US, Voyage Healthcare is here to help! Call them today at 800-798-6035 for more details about travel contracts.

• Registered nurses with at least one year of clinical experience are eligible for travel nursing.
• Typically, assignments last 13 weeks but can vary depending on the contract.
• Yes, travel nurses have the flexibility to choose their preferred assignment locations.
• Most travel nursing agencies offer housing stipends or assistance in finding accommodation.
• Yes, reputable agencies like Voyage Healthcare provide comprehensive benefits to travel nurses.

Read Another Blog Post: Explore the Best Books for Travel Nurses: Unlocking Knowledge and Inspiration

Don’t forget to follow Voyage Healthcare on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest news and information about travel nursing and healthcare. You can find Voyage Healthcare on:

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/voyagehealthcare/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Voyagetravel

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/voyage-healthcare/

TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@voyagehealthcare

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Why travel nursing will likely outlast the pandemic

Amid staffing shortages and rising hospitalization rates during the pandemic, many hospitals have relied on travel nurses to keep up with patient volumes—and while this practice is straining many hospitals' budgets, it's a trend experts believe will last beyond Covid-19.

The nursing shortage, discussed: A conversation with Advisory Board's top nursing experts

Hospitals are increasingly relying on travel nurses

Currently, there are more than 5 million nurses in the United States, including about 4.2 million RNs, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing . However, exhaustion, burnout, and other issues have led many to leave their full-time staff jobs to pursue less stressful careers during the pandemic. In addition, many have transitioned from full-time staff positions to travel nursing because of the increased pay and scheduling flexibility. 

Notably, the United States has enough nurses to fill the necessary full-time positions, according to Linda Aiken, a nursing and psychology professor at the University of Pennsylvania who researches workforce issues, but the issue stems from the harsh working conditions and inadequate pay that existed in full-time nursing since before the Covid-19 pandemic.

"This is not a failure of our supply of nursing," said Aiken. "It's really a failure of hospitals to invest enough of their resources, to have enough nurses working for them."

However, data from Indeed shows that interest in travel nursing continues to climb, with job searches now at more than five times the levels of pre-pandemic searches.

Zachary Shepherd, a 36-year-old ICU nurse, has worked as a travel nurse for the past four years. He has worked in ICUs in Covid-19 hot spots, including Newark, N.J. and Long Beach, Calif. Shepherd said he doesn't mind the uncertainty surrounding his work since he enjoys the flexibility associated with working as a travel nurse.

"I like the empowerment that I feel from being a traveler and having a lot more control over the direction of my career," said Shepherd.  

Meanwhile, hiring for staff nurses declined 3.2% in February 2022 compared with a year earlier, according to the U.S. Department of Labor .

"Everybody is searching for more staff, asking your staff to take on longer shifts," said Troy Clark, CEO of the  New Mexico Hospital Association . "That encourages them to go, 'If I'm going to do all this work, I might as well go become a traveler and get paid a heck of a lot more.'"  

The rise of travel nursing brings budget concerns and wage gaps

In 2021, travel nursing revenue tripled to an estimated $11.8 billion, up from $3.9 billion in 2015, according to  Staffing Industry Analysts . As a result, hospitals and health systems around the country have taken a financial hit from having to rely on highly paid travel nurses—with no clear fix in sight.  

According to ZipRecruiter , during the Covid-19 pandemic, wages for travel nurses surged as high as 3.4 times the wages of regular full-time nurses in January 2021.

In addition, ZipRecruiter in January reported a 15% increase in average monthly postings for open travel nursing jobs. According to Sinem Buber, ZipRecruiter's lead economist, the increase will likely continue as the backlog of patients who need elective procedures return to hospitals and the population continues to age.

"I don't see the trend going down or getting flat anytime soon, even if the pandemic wanes," Buber said. 

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the  University of New Mexico Sandoval Regional Medical Center  (SRMC) never had to rely on travel nurses. Now, their monthly payroll ranges up to roughly $1.5 million for around 60 travel nurses—almost half as much as the payroll for its full-time staff of 580, who receive around $3.3 million.

During the pandemic, SRMC lost almost a third of its 200 nurses to traveling positions, forcing them to increase staffing levels further to meet the increased demand of Covid-19 patients, said CEO Jamie Silva-Steele. With potential travel nursing costs of $18 million in 2023, Silva-Steele plans to replace 40% of the center's travel nurses with full-time staff by the end of June.

"We are not budgeted for another $18 million in compensation, so we have to have those strategies to gradually reduce those types of staff in the organization," Silva-Steele said. 

To reduce the financial strain brought on by travel nursing, many hospital administrators are making efforts to reduce the number of travelers—and some are considering not renewing travel contracts, Bloomberg reports.

Ultimately, "[w]e want our nurses and all of our clinical staff to be paid fairly, but we have to be able to keep the doors open," Clark said. (Gooch, Becker's Hospital Review , 3/16; Adegbesan, Bloomberg , 3/15)

Workers are feeling overwhelmed by the demands of Covid-19 and are increasingly concerned about pay and staffing shortages. With resignations and even labor strikes on the rise, what can you do to recruit, support, and retain your workforce? We've uncovered the most important insights and turned them into actionable items for you. Whether you are trying to recruit a nursing workforce amid a shortage or simply trying to keep your existing staff, we have curated multiple pieces of expert guidance.

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Posted on March 18, 2022

Updated on March 18, 2023

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Is Travel Nursing Dead? A Look at the State of Travel Nursing

Hospitals are phasing out travel nurses . Meanwhile, travelers are complaining that their contracts have been cut short. Signs point to major challenges in the industry — but is travel nursing dead ?

Travel nursing has long been a stellar opportunity for nurses to explore the country while gaining valuable experience. However, the pandemic caused a dramatic surge in demand for nurses willing to travel. As a result, many first-time contractors were attracted to the field. Now, many people are questioning what is going on in travel nursing, as facilities return to pre-pandemic staffing levels. This post explores the current state of travel nursing and how nurses are affected.

Looking for open travel nurse assignments? Speak with a recruiter today!

The Demand For Travel Nurses in 2023

Source: Unsplash

According to Timothy Landhuis, vice president of research at Staffing Industry Analysts, there were approximately 50,000 US travel nurses pre-pandemic — approximately 1.5% of the country’s registered nurses. That pool doubled to at least 100,000 as COVID spread.

However, complex factors have contributed to a decline in travel nursing positions over the past year.

Most clearly, the cost for hospitals to bring in travel nurses is prohibitively expensive. Contract labor expenditures soared by more than 500% in 2022, as hospitals sought out travel nurses to help with pandemic staffing shortages.

Rather than depending on travel nurses for temporary solutions today, hospitals are increasingly looking for permanent, full-time nurses. Large health systems are developing new programs that allow employed nurses to travel to different facilities within their network. The drop in demand has meant there are fewer opportunities for travel nurses and lower pay rates.

St. Charles Health System in Oregon is a prime example. A recent report showed they ended last year in the red. In response, the hospital is cutting back on travel nurses . One man complained to a local news station after his surgery was canceled. His doctor told him that he should seek care elsewhere due to the travel nurse layoffs.

Despite the decline there are still openings for all specialties , particularly in rural and underserved areas. These settings often lack permanent staff or rely on travel nurses to replace vacancies in their bare-bones workforce to meet the community’s needs. Likewise, some medical facilities continue to lean on travel nurses for short-term staffing needs.

According to Becker’s Hospital Review , the highest-paying jobs for travel nurses have been in intensive care units, emergency departments, medical surgery, and home health. Contract labor rates are expected to stabilize at 15% over pre-pandemic levels in 2023.

Find available, high-paying travel nurse opportunities.

Travel Nurse Salary Drops to $3k Per Week

The coronavirus and successive variant waves exacerbated hospital staff shortages, resulting in exorbitant contract nursing fees.

As the average travel nurse salary rose across the country in 2020, so did the number of nurses who quit their full-time employment to travel . More nurses abandoned staff employment, and the turnover worsened shortages.

During the omicron surge in the winter of 2022, national rates for travel nurses rose to $150 per hour . This was three times more than the national average for full-time staff nurses. One of the most profitable professions quickly became even more lucrative. Some accused travel nurse staffing companies of price-gouging . Legislators even discussed options to cap nurses’ pay .

Source: Healthcare Dive

Three years later, many travelers are returning home for stable staff positions. NBC News announced last fall that “ the travel nurses’ gold rush ” is over. Hospitals are now negotiating down contract rates with travel nurse agencies by as much as 50%. Though not what it once was, travel nursing is far from dead, and the pay is still above average. The mean travel nurse income has stabilized at around $3k per week in 2023. Given that compensation has fallen since the unprecedented pandemic pay, so have the number of travel nurses, making jobs less competitive.

Still, a number of factors, such as whether a hospital is dealing with a natural disaster or strike, as well as market demand in that region, can cause assignments to attract higher prices. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual travel nurse salary in the United States is $105,021 or $50/hr as of May 2023. This is much higher than the national average for registered nurses, which is $77,600 per year or $37.31 per hour, according to the BLS .

Find open positions today for your specialty.

Source: Nurse.org

Unexpected Contract Changes

NBC News reported that demand for travel nurses fell 42% in 2022. It seems that many nurses have had their contracts cut short as a result.

Fierce Healthcare told the story of Tiffanie Jones, who was on the road from Florida to Wyoming when she found out her travel nurse contract was canceled without warning. The same article mentioned another nurse who relocated her entire family to find out her contract was canceled during orientation. Cancellations or pay adjustments mid-contract have become so common that nurses are taking legal action against more than 35 staffing companies.

“We’re hearing from nurses all over the country who just felt absolutely taken advantage of,” said attorney Austin Moore, who has filed four lawsuits on behalf of 11 traveling nurses. The litigation targets Aya, Maxim Healthcare, NuWest Group, and Cross Country Healthcare. Moore also told Newsweek that over 100 companies had engaged in similar practices.

The attorney said he has over 400 cases of travel nurses reporting pay cuts from 25% to 70%. He reported that many staffing agencies were “ breaching their contracts ,” while others were “committing outright fraud.” Moore said that most staffing companies who participate in these practices have arbitration clauses in their contracts to prevent nurses from suing them.

Travel Nursing Is Still A Viable Option For Nurses

Travel nursing is still a viable employment choice for the nursing profession. Travelers can earn better salaries with stipends and bonuses than their counterparts, with benefits packages and affordable living arrangements . Another perk of travel nursing is schedule flexibility. Nurses enjoy the option to work 13-week assignments with breaks in between.

Another common attitude expressed by travel nurses is that contract work allows them to focus on patient care. They can avoid the bureaucracy of dealing with management and leadership that some face in staff roles. Travelers also choose which hospitals they will work in. They can refuse facilities that they’ve heard have dangerous conditions or too many patients per nurse. California is the only state to regulate nurse-to-patient ratios. It requires one nurse for every five patients in most departments and intensive care units to have a 1:2 ratio.

Travel nursing is perfect for those who want the freedom to choose the assignment and department that fits their lifestyle and interests. It allows nurses to obtain experience in a variety of settings while having the freedom to travel. Despite the current economic downturn, travel nursing remains a feasible employment option for healthcare workers with the right mindset and skills.

Internal Traveler Programs

An attractive option for nurses who enjoy traveling is internal travel nurse programs . These are contract positions offered by health systems that allow nurses to travel on a short-term basis to associated hospitals. The pay is often higher, but in some cases, benefits may be limited.

“These positions are enticing for anyone interested in a higher base pay, while foregoing many traditional health and wellness benefits — perhaps nurses who are still eligible for health insurance under their parents or guardians, or those who already have coverage through a spouse’s employer,” said Denise Neely, BSN, Senior Vice President and COO for Bronson Methodist Hospital and Chief Nursing Officer for Bronson Healthcare.

Source: Facebook Travel Nurse Community

Other facilities offering similar internal travel programs include:

• University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
• Mercy Health System
• Advent Health
• UC Health Colorado
• OSF HealthCare

These arrangements also relieve some of the pain points that travel nurses have, such as having to learn new policies and procedures, having to repeat new hire and HR orientation, and worrying that the hospital may cancel the contract.

What Does the Future Have In Store for Travel Nursing?

Industry analysis suggests that the US may face a shortage of up to 450,000 registered nurses by 2025. According to one nationwide assessment of the nursing workforce, nurses are retiring in greater numbers, with the typical nurse’s age rising from roughly 43 in 2000 to 52 in 2020. This reality, combined with the impending influx of elderly Baby Boomers who will require more care, is expected to exacerbate the situation. These facts suggest that there will always be choices for experienced nurses in all specialties who want to travel.

Technological advancements and virtual care will continue to have an impact on the ever-changing world of travel nursing. And while some features of travel nursing may evolve, traditional short-term assignments will remain a popular option to meet facility needs. Overall, travel nursing is very much alive and an attractive career choice for nurses with a promising outlook for the future.

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Travel nurse salaries are stabilizing in 2023 at about $3K per week

During the pandemic, hospitals, private practices, clinics, and other health care providers were hard-pressed for the resources they needed—and not just personal protective equipment (PPE) or masks. The demand for nurses and other health care professionals skyrocketed during the pandemic, which led to a greater need for travel nurses. And that unprecedented demand also helped drive extremely high salaries for travel nurses .

By December 2020, travel nursing salaries had reached nearly $3,500 per week, but the peak really came about a year later when that rate jumped to nearly $4,000 per week, according to data from health care recruitment platform Vivian Health . Between January 2020 and December 2021, average travel nurse pay had increased by more than 99%. As of December 2022, travel nursing salaries started to plateau at around $3,100 per week. 

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These rates reflect salaries for registered nurses (RNs), not nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioners typically must earn a master’s degree in nursing or have continuing education and be certified to practice. “Nurse practitioners generally earn higher wages due to their advanced schooling,” confirms Katelyn Harris, director of client development at Vivian Health. For reference, the median annual salary for nurse practitioners in 2021 was nearly $121,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

While weekly travel nursing rates may fall slightly during the first couple of months of 2023, these new salary trends will be the “new floor” of travel pay, says Tim Needham, senior vice president of product at Vivian Health.

“Despite wages stabilizing, we expect that temporary nursing contracts will continue to account for a significant portion of the health care labor workforce,” Harris adds. “While health systems eye labor as one of their costliest line items, clinicians will continue to seek out the higher wages, greater flexibility, and reduced bureaucracy associated with temporary contracts.”

The 4 highest-paying travel nursing specialties—and 2023 trends

During the past two years, the highest-paying travel nursing jobs have been with intensive care units (ICU), the emergency department (ED), medical surgery, and home health. 

Pay for these specialties dipped during summer 2021 when COVID-19 vaccines first became available, but then surged again in late 2021 and early 2022 during the spread of the Omicron variant. However, maintaining hospital staff will become increasingly difficult due to their financial solvency and budgeting, Harris explains. Last year, more than half of hospitals were projected to have negative margins through 2022, according to a survey by the American Hospital Association .

“With the COVID Emergency Order coming to a close in May, this means that hospitals will not have the additional federal funds to support the steep labor costs that they incurred from short term contractors during 2020 and 2021,” Harris explains. “Despite wages stabilizing, we expect that temporary nursing contracts will continue to account for a significant portion of the health care labor workforce.”

Is travel nursing still worth it?

The average annual base salary for registered nurses in 2021 was $77,600, according to the BLS. Assuming a rate of $3,100 per week for 52 weeks in a year, theoretically travel RNs could make more than $161,000. However, because travel nurses participate in contract work, their salary does not come from a stable source. Travel nurses can be out of work for weeks or months at a time, depending on demand and contract availability.

“Pursuing a career in travel nursing is not as lucrative as it was in the height of the pandemic,” Harris tells Fortune. “While travel nurses do have higher gross wages than permanent staff nurses, their weekly pay includes stipends for housing, meals, and other contract-related expenses incurred on assignment.”

Travel RNs also have to pay for housing in their home location (where they’re based), as well as where they’re completing their short-term contract, she explains, which is why it’s critical to evaluate the cost of living for a prospective contract location.

“Travel nurses may receive higher wages than their full-time counterparts because health systems are paying a premium to fill critical staffing needs,” Harris says. “However, travel nursing is generally only more lucrative than full-time staff roles when local cost of living is low relative to pay.”

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What the Travel Nursing Market will look like in 2024

• January 3, 2024
• Myah Christenson

If you’re missing the pandemic paychecks and plethora of high-paying travel jobs, you aren’t alone. So, what gives? Why did the Travel Nursing Market drop and what will the Travel Nursing Market look like in 2024? This past 2023, the market shrunk by 30% through a combination of lower pay and less jobs overall. And in 2024, more shrinkage is expected.

Why did this happen?

1. The pandemic took travel nursing from underground indie band to mainstream pop, growing 6 times over in just a few years. Desperate hospitals plus FEMA funding meant incentives to become a traveler were through the roof. Nurses saw a way to finally get paid their worth and not have to attend mundane staff meetings anymore where they’re chastised for not taking their breaks as if they wanted to skip them. 

2. Once the FEMA funding dried up, hospitals were left to foot the bill entirely, and so the next move was kind of predictable: hospitals have been trying their best to bring rates back down to pre-pandemic levels and force more nurses back into staff jobs.

3. But here’s the thing: there is no pre-pandemic level! That era of nursing is gone. Things are more expensive now and nurses more fully realize their value to the hospital.

4. While the travel nursing market is expected to continue dropping though not as drastically (see below), nursing has fundamentally changed forever. Nurses across the country are striking their hospitals fighting for better pay and safer working conditions. 

5. But one thing hasn’t changed: Hospitals still rely on travel nurses to sustain themselves. The market will eventually correct itself, but as this plays out, remember, you might not need them, but they need you.

What does this mean?

• The Market : For many years (even preceding 2016) the market remained unchanged…until the pandemic. We’re still in the midst of this turbulence. Expect more bumpiness.
• Allied Health:  Nearly tripled in size but also more enduring. It’s only about a third of the size of nursing, but with more stability.
• Travel Nursing : This grew 6x from 2019 to 2022(!), but then contracted by about 30% just in this last year. Estimates are Travel Nursing will shrink another 5% in 2024.

While the models show that 2024 will be less volatile than 2023, it will continue to be much more competitive than in recent years. The overall volume of job openings has decreased with about the same amount of clinicians searching. 

If you like your current contracts, consider renewing them (at least until we see how Q1 plays out). But if you do need a new contract, we’ve got your back. Although the pandemic rates are gone, that doesn’t mean there aren’t high-paying assignments anymore. Check out our job board or download our app to set job alerts for your dream contract.

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The Direction Of Travel Nursing Pay In 2022 And Beyond

Category: Travel Nursing

• In the peak of the pandemic, travel nursing pay reached up to $10,000/week. 
• As of February 2022 the average is closer to $3,300/week
• Pay will always fluctuate with supply and demand, but it’s unlikely for travel nursing rates to fall back to pre-pandemic rates.
• Remember to look beyond pay when choosing a staffing agency 

A Facebook post in a group for Traveling Nurses reads “Only making $3-4k a week?? Why not make $5-8k a week??”.

The nursing industry has definitely fallen on some challenging times. The work has become increasingly difficult, nurses are facing burn out at incredible rates, the debate on fair pay for nurses rages on, and there are even rumors of congressional pay caps .

There’s a lot to cover, but right now let’s focus on the money. 

History Of Pay For Traveling Nurses

Prior to the pandemic, traveling nurses earned about $1,800/week. 

The pandemic created a “perfect storm” of an insatiable demand for traveling nurses. We’ll cover that in a moment, but suffice it to say that rates reached an unprecedented high.

During the height of the pandemic (we consider this to be the Delta spike in 2021), salaries for traveling nurses reached $10,000/week for some assignments! Nurses could earn in 2-3 months what previously took a year to earn.

The payoff is those assignments were in places described as a “war zone”.

The average pay has fluctuated throughout the pandemic, but a travel nurse should expect to earn around $3,300/week (as of early 2022), knowing that figure may change a little as time goes on.

Why The Fluctuations In Pay?

Pay for traveling nurses is determined by many things.

For starters, traveling nurses will always earn more than staff nurses because the demands of the job are greater due to the nature of the position.

Traveling nurses have always alleviated staffing shortages in hospitals and facilities that were having a hard time finding nurses to fill their staff positions. 

Economics tells us that prices change based on supply and demand. If there are 10 nurses (supply) to fill 50 positions (demand), the pay rate for those nurses is going to get competitive in a hurry. Nurses would almost be able to name their rate (and in 2020 some did)!

In early 2020 there averaged around 8,000 open positions for traveling nurses. By September 2021 that figure grew by 6x to over 48,000 positions. Assignments have decreased to around 32,000 now.

When you track it, the pattern of open assignments follows the pattern for pay.

The Road Back To Normal

As the world gets back to normal (or closer to what we used to call normal), pay is likely to go down. Again, supply and demand.

Many of the staffing shortages were caused by sick nurses who were unable to work because they had Covid, or were caring for loved ones with Covid. Once they get back to work, the number of open assignments will decrease, and thus so will pay.

Although it probably won’t happen quickly or suddenly.

Burnout will most likely slow the nursing industry’s return to normal compared to other industries. When other industries figured out how to get people working remotely, nurses and others in the healthcare industry were in the thick of it.

This has no doubt added to the staffing shortage issue.

The increasing gap between pay for a staff nurse and a travel nurse is also causing some staff nurses to question whether they should quit and take travel assignments instead. 

Currently traveling nurses earn 3x more than staffing nurses. This is another issue that goes too deep to fully address here, but is a challenge nonetheless. 

Your Goals & What To Look For In A Staffing Agency

If you are looking for a $5,000/week assignment, you might find some. Just know what you’re getting yourself into.

Staffing shortages create chaotic work environments. 

The greater the shortage, the greater the chaos.

The greater the shortage, the greater the pay. 

If however you want to earn as much as possible, but realize that you have a specific set of requirements that make an assignment ideal for you—then give us a call.

MSG Staffing stands on three guiding principles. The life-saving acronym of CPR seemed fitting given our mission of resuscitating the life-work balance for the nursing industry.

1. Convenient

We believe your relationship with a staffing agency should be convenient for you, not the staffing agency. 

Assignments should be convenient based on your current and future life goals. Maybe higher pay is something you’re after right now, but later this year you’ll want to be closer to family. It’s okay if your requirements change, because we do everything in our power to find you assignments for the right pay, in the right location, with the right people.

Convenience also means working with us is simple. Onboarding is easy, so is submitting time sheets. Since we disclose everything we know about an assignment before you go there , you’ll also be able to choose if you only take assignments that use systems you’re already familiar with.

2. Personable

Too many of our travel nurses tell us they left their previous staffing agency because their recruiter wasn’t personable. 

When you speak, we listen. We ask questions to get to know you so we can help you find assignments that are the best fit for you. You are not a cog in the machine, but a human being with dreams and goals that we can help you accomplish.

If you look at our satisfaction rating you’ll notice that nurses and clients both enjoy working with us. If you’re dissatisfied with your staffing agency, that’s a blemish on them—not you.

3. Responsive

You deserve a quick reply if you need something. If you have a question, you deserve an answer. If you have a problem, you deserve a solution.

There really isn’t any reason a traveling nurse should show up for an assignment and be surprised by what they got themselves into. 

Not getting responses to emails and phone calls is unacceptable. We already have one of the most responsive teams of recruiters in the industry (you can expect responses between 7am-10pm EST), and are planning to offer an even greater level of support soon. 

It’s a winning combination when that support is provided by someone who cares about making life easier for you.

So what will pay look like for traveling nurses in the future? No one can say for certain, but we believe it will be directly linked to the number of available assignments. 

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Travel nurses saw an increase in pay during the pandemic. Now, they could lose those benefits

For the nurses who have witnessed the darkest moments of the pandemic under harrowing work conditions, the rise in demand for travel nursing has come as a welcome opportunity. 

Agencies that staff nurses around the country started paying as much as twice nurses’ regular salaries to those willing to travel to areas with a staffing need. Thousands of nurses have jumped at the chance. 

It made sense for people like Tammy Pender, a registered nurse in Florida who had racked up debt to care for her family. 

Pender’s father could no longer afford his house, so she took on a second mortgage and car payment to help him. Her sons, a 10-year-old and 11-year-old twins, were at home like most kids in virtual learning, and her husband left his job to help care for them. Pender, who was the higher wage earner, said the decision made sense at the time, but the debt caught up to them fast — and so did the burden of the frontlines of the pandemic. 

Pender said nurses were having to take on multiple roles, working as phlebotomists and techs while managing huge patient workloads. And then there was the mental toll. Nurses were being called heroes early in the pandemic for fighting the virus, but many were feeling like their pay and the working conditions were not commensurate with the difficulty of the work. 

“The amount of death that I have seen and the amount of patients I have watched breathe their last breath is something I don’t ever want to experience again,” said Pender, 45. 

Travel nursing gave her the chance to do work she loved but for pay that she said made it more worthwhile. For the past 16 months, she’s taken eight- to 13-week contracts as far as California and North Dakota. She’s away from her kids often, but she’s been earning about 50 percent more than she did as a staff nurse, money her family has used to cut down their debt and make some necessary renovations on her dad’s home.

But, in a twist that has sent the majority-women nursing community into an uproar in recent weeks, the benefits of travel nursing could be in jeopardy, and nurses are raising questions about whether the profession in general needs to raise its wages. 

In the last few months, several groups, including the American Hospital Association (AHA), the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living and 200 members of Congress, have called for an investigation into claims that agencies that place travel nurses around the country have been “price gouging” hospitals in need of staff. 

The AHA has requested the Federal Trade Commission investigate the agencies , and late last month, a letter signed by a bipartisan group of legislators also asked the White House to investigate the claims. 

Rep. Peter Welch, a Democrat from Vermont, and Morgan Griffith, a Republican from Virginia, wrote that they have received reports saying staffing agencies have inflated prices by “two, three or more times pre-pandemic rates” while taking 40 percent or more being charged to hospitals in profit. At least eight private-equity firms have bought at least seven staffing agencies since early 2021, according to a report in STAT News . 

“We urge you to ensure that this issue gets the attention from the federal government it merits to protect patients in dire need of life-saving healthcare treatment and prevent conduct that is exacerbating the shortage of nurses and straining the healthcare system,” they wrote .  

The White House did not comment on whether it was responding to the contents of the letter, and the Federal Trade Commission also declined to comment on whether an investigation was underway. 

A spokesperson for the AHA said in a statement that the goal is to determine whether the price hikes instituted by travel nurse agencies are “anticompetitive activity” and “price collusion,” which could violate consumer protection laws, result in higher healthcare costs for patients, and be a burden on taxpayers since the federal government has been stepping in to help cover staffing and other costs during the pandemic. 

However, “it is important to note that the AHA has not advocated in any forum for a cap on travel nurse wages,” said AHA spokesperson Colin Milligan. The association added that hospitals have tried to respond to staffing needs by offering referral and retention bonuses, as well as sign-on bonuses .

But many nurses are worried that these investigations could lead to caps on their pay.

In Pennsylvania, Republican state Rep. Timothy Bonner proposed a bill late last month that would cap how much agencies can charge hospitals at 150 percent of the average hourly rate for healthcare staff. 

There’s already some evidence that nurses ultimately feel the impacts of caps on agencies. In Minnesota , one of the two states that already caps what nurse staffing agencies can charge hospitals, pay increased for nurses in 2021 and 2022 but, for this year, is still capped at $62.36 an hour for regular pay and $107.25 in holiday pay for registered nurses. The median hourly wage for an RN in Minnesota was $38.24 in May 2020, the most recent month data is available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The gulf in pay between staff nurses and travel nurses has also raised a bigger question: Could all nurses be paid more? And why aren’t they? 

“That’s where nurses are starting to feel, ‘Are we being undervalued?’” said Bianca K. Frogner, the director at the Center for Health Workforce Studies at the University of Washington School of Medicine. “It’s become a bit more of an awakening where I think nurses may have felt undervalued before, but now it’s becoming much more front and center as they’re watching their peers come back” after earning higher wages doing the same work.

Almost 90 percent of registered nurses are women, and about 31 percent are Black, Latina or Asian, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Women make up 75 percent of the healthcare workforce, but lower pay for nurses has helped drive a gender gap in the industry. Nationwide, the median pay for a registered nurse in 2020 was $75,330, for example, while surgeons, 72 percent of whom are men, earn a median wage of $251,650 . 

Meanwhile, CEO pay has boomed during the pandemic alongside healthcare costs. An Axios analysis of filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission found that chief executive pay at 178 healthcare companies was up 31 percent during the pandemic compared with 2019.  Not a Modern Healthcare subscriber? Sign up today.

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Nurses have reported an increase in depression, burnout, workplace violence and heavy workloads (most states don’t limit how many patients a nurse can have) over the past two years. A September 2021 survey by National Nurses United, the country’s largest nurses union representing more than 175,000 members, found that about 31 percent of hospital RNs said workplace violence was slightly or significantly up during the pandemic. More than a third said they felt “traumatized by their experiences caring for patients,” and more than 57 percent reported that short staffing issues had worsened. 

The tension between hospitals and staff has intensified. In Wisconsin, health system ThedaCare asked a court to block a group of workers — four interventional radiology technologists and three nurses ​​— from leaving their jobs for positions at another hospital, ones they said offered a better pay and benefits package, until they could be replaced. A judge granted the restraining order at first before lifting it.  

All of those factors — short staffing, disputes about pay or lower pay and burnout — are driving people to leave the industry . A report published in Health Affairs last month analyzing national employment data through mid-2021 for registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and nursing assistants found that as the pandemic went on, nurse employment remained low and wages increased, suggesting a shortage of supply. While unemployment rates, which include people who quit their jobs to seek other employment, largely leveled off for White nurses, nurses of color were still experiencing higher rates of unemployment than pre-pandemic, the report found. 

Travel nursing has risen in that same time, with the job volume increasing from about 8,000 positions in early 2020 to more than 48,000 in September 2021, during the height of the delta wave of the coronavirus. Now, the job volume is at about 32,000, according to data from Aya Healthcare, the largest staffing agency. Aya declined to comment on the investigations into staffing agency rates, instead directing to comments made by the American Staffing Association, a trade group for the staffing industry. 

In a statement, the American Staffing Association said higher pay  for nurses hasn’t translated to substantially higher profits for agencies due to higher labor-related costs like employee screening and overhead costs, including rent. 

The group argued that the rates have fluctuated as certain areas have experienced more need than others. 

“Nurse staffing rate caps, which are costly and burdensome for states to administer, are not only unnecessary, but are counterproductive because they will distort the nursing market and reduce the availability of nurses in the control states,” the American Staffing Association said.

The average travel nurse is now earning about $3,334 a week on average, according to Vivian Health, a healthcare hiring marketplace. Contracts can last a couple of days or weeks, and nurses can choose how often they travel. Prior to the pandemic, average travel nurse salaries were about $1,800 a week in 2019. 

For travel nurses, the possibility of moves that could cap their pay feels like another slight. People like Courtney Cutrufello are reaching out directly to members of Congress for answers. She spoke to Welch, her representative in her home state of Vermont. 

“The fact that it is predominantly women does have a role,” she said. “Historically we have been underappreciated, we have been undervalued — we still have a gender pay gap.” 

Welch told The 19th that he does not support capping nurse pay and would support efforts by Congress to ensure a larger percentage of staffing agency fees go directly to nurses, for example. 

“I support increasing nurses’ pay and the right of nurses to decide if they want to travel or not. No one has endured more these past two years than nurses on the front lines of this brutal virus, and they deserve better working conditions and better pay,” Welch said in a statement. 

But nurses aren’t convinced. If the investigations move forward and agencies are capped, building in protections for nurses would require additional legislation. 

“These travel nurse agencies, they are not going to take a substantial decrease in their pay and they are just going to pass it on to the nurses,” said Cutrufello, who is part of a Facebook group of more than 185,000 travel nurses , many of whom are worried they will be directly affected.  

Cutrufello has been a travel nurse since March 2021, partially because of the impact of the first months of the pandemic. The memories of the early pandemic days are not distant: coming home and immediately taking her scrubs off to wash them, being worried that she’d get her family sick and experiencing profound burnout. The work hasn’t changed significantly, but at least she is more financially secure as a travel nurse, she said, though she is often away from home.

Many nurses The 19th spoke to said they felt the agency caps were a misdirected way to address the root of the problem, which is a supply and demand issue. Nurses are in high demand because so many have left the profession or reduced their hours. But if working conditions and pay improved, and the focus was instead put on student loan forgiveness or better patient ratios — policies that could support the nurses already staffed in hospitals — nurses would be more likely to stay in those positions. 

Michelle Mahon, the assistant director of nursing practice for National Nurses United, the nurses union, said focusing on agency caps that could hurt nurses instead of other fixes the workforce has been requesting for years is emblematic of larger structural problems in the profession. 

“I don’t know how many more ways the message can be sent that really we don’t value you — whether it’s through the pay, through the staffing, through devaluing the integrity of the work by providing safe staffing, or from protecting workers from workplace violence,” Mahon said. “If [nurses] have the ability to make more money while doing the exact same thing, then many people see this as an opportunity to at least, in this way, they are feeling valuable.”

While travel nursing has always been an option that has paid more, it has usually been used to fill moments of need in pockets of the country, or when natural disasters hit — not for something with the geographical breadth and longevity of a pandemic. Nurses who are doing it now through the pandemic are doing it for long periods of time. And for some who have other care responsibilities or young children, it’s not an option at all.

Even for those who can do it, it isn’t always the boost in pay it’s advertised to be. Anali Spradlin, an Arkansas-based travel nurse, said she’s had two contracts canceled on her in the past month alone, after she had already traveled to a location and paid for lodging. That’s money she can’t get back. 

She’s been a nurse for almost nine years and a travel nurse since last summer. She can do it because her kids are adults. But she has significant expenses, including her house and the travel (only some of which is reimbursed), covering her own health insurance and helping her daughter through school. Both of her daughters are nurses, and she worries how this year will affect the pipeline into the profession. 

Applicants to four-year nursing programs grew just 1.5 percent in 2020, the Health Affairs report found, compared with 4.5 percent and 8.5 percent the prior two years, suggesting that the pandemic has chilled what had otherwise been a growing sector.

Spradlin’s youngest daughter quit nursing school for six months because she was discouraged by the stories of nurses during the pandemic who were leaving the field. She’s since returned. 

But Spradlin said that even though she enjoys patient care, if her pay was capped, she would consider a case management job from home that wouldn’t subject her to poor staff conditions in the hospital. That’s what ultimately would take a hit if nurses saw their pay diminish, she said. 

More would leave the profession, and particularly older nurses would retire, taking years of experience with them. 

“We love what we do,” she said, “they are just pushing us to the edge where we are just going to jump off and say, ‘We’re done.’”

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TravelNursing

Travel Nursing FAQs: 7 Things Nurses Want to Know

By the TravelNursing.com staff

Travel nursing has been around for more than three decades, but many nurses are still unfamiliar with how it works and what they need to do to get started. So TravelNursing.com has pulled together the answers to seven of the top travel nursing questions to help you be in the know.

For answers to even more questions about travel nursing, check out our Travel Nursing FAQs page .

1. Do travel nurses have to sign a long-term contract?

No. The contractual relationship between you and your travel nurse company is on an assignment-by-assignment basis. You have the flexibility to choose travel nursing jobs that suit your personal and professional goals. Individual assignment contracts can range from 4 weeks to 13 weeks or more, with 13 weeks being the most common.

2. How much experience do I need to become a travel nurse?

The minimum experience required to begin travel nursing depends on your area of specialty, the facility and sometimes even the location. Employers have different requirements and preferences, but the majority that work with our staffing partners request a minimum of 10 – 18 months of experience for RNs; recruiters can start working with you even sooner to get prepared, however. (There are limited opportunities for LPNs/LVNs to travel, but when available they normally require at least six years of experience.)

3. Do I need a new nursing license for each state where I want to work?

Each state has its own regulations regarding nurse licensure, and some states take longer to process licensing requests than others. If your original nursing license is from one of the 25 states that participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) , the transition to practice in a new compact state will be fairly simple. Otherwise, your travel nurse recruiter or a licensing specialist should work with you to ensure you obtain the required state licensing well before your start date.

4. How long will it take before I can begin my first travel nursing job?

The start time will really depend on you: what is your specialty, when do you want to start and where do you want to go? After your application has been processed, travel nursing companies could immediately present you as a candidate to hospitals, if you’re ready and willing. Some quick-start assignments could begin in a couple of weeks, but most would be a few weeks or months after you apply. Recruiters can help streamline the process of becoming licensed in another state, when required.

5. What type of housing can I expect on a travel nursing assignment?

Most travel nursing companies provide free housing (and free utilities), including our staffing partners. Their standard accommodations include a clean, private, fully-furnished apartment or condominium close to your assignment facility. The choices and amenities will vary depending on location, and pet-friendly housing can usually be arranged upon request. You can also opt to arrange your own housing and receive a monthly housing stipend instead. But don’t assume every company is the same; always ask recruiters to confirm exactly what their travel nursing agency offers.

6. What types of facilities can I work in as a travel nurse?

You can choose to work in a variety of settings, ranging from large academic medical centers to children’s hospitals, outpatient clinics, rural facilities and more. Travel nursing jobs can be found in ANCC Magnet hospitals and others that have been recognized as some of the best hospitals in the country. Based on your preferences, your recruiter will match you with the healthcare facilities that suit your needs.

7. Will travel nursing jobs look good on my résumé?

Yes. Working short-term, travel nursing assignments shows flexibility in your clinical practice and an ability to excel in different environments. You can also work with your recruiter to find jobs that expand your experience and build key skills, including jobs at prestigious facilities and opportunities to learn the latest medical technology.

Additional articles and resources: 7 Simple Steps to Get Started as a Travel Nurse 6 Tips for Day One of Your Travel Nursing Job – Ask the Expert Blog 3 Signs You May Be Ready to Take the "Leap" into Travel Nursing Find current travel nursing jobs across the U.S. Travel nursing pay and benefits Apply to become a travel nurse

© 2016. AMN Healthcare, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

How Long Will Travel Nursing Last? Discover the Ultimate Timeline

Travel nursing assignments typically last between 8 and 26 weeks, depending on the specific contract and the needs of the healthcare facility. As a travel nurse, you have the opportunity to work in various locations across the country, experiencing different healthcare settings and cultures.

This flexibility allows you to choose the duration of your assignments based on your personal preferences and career goals. Whether you prefer short-term engagements to gain diverse experiences or longer assignments to establish roots in a particular location, travel nursing offers a range of possibilities.

So, if you are seeking a career that provides adventure, learning opportunities, and the ability to make a difference in different communities, travel nursing might be the perfect fit for you.

Credit: www.nytimes.com

Introduction: Understanding The Duration Of Travel Nursing Careers

What is travel nursing.

• Travel nursing is a unique branch of nursing where professionals take short-term assignments in various locations.
• It provides an opportunity for nurses to explore different cities, hospitals, and healthcare systems.
• Travel nurses work on a contract basis and are employed by staffing agencies that help them secure assignments.

Benefits And Challenges Of A Travel Nursing Career

• Flexibility: Travel nursing offers the freedom to choose assignments and locations based on personal preference.
• Higher pay: Travel nurses typically earn higher salaries compared to their permanent counterparts.
• Professional growth: Working in diverse environments enhances skills and broadens clinical expertise.
• Adventure and exploration: Travel nursing enables nurses to discover new places, cultures, and experiences.

Challenges:

• Frequent relocations: Moving to different cities every few months can be emotionally and physically demanding.
• Adjusting to new work environments: Each assignment brings a new work setting, team, and protocols, requiring adaptability.
• Potential for loneliness: Being away from the usual support system and building new connections can be challenging.
• Lack of job stability: Travel nursing contracts have a set duration, which means job security is not guaranteed in the long term.

Exploring The Timeline Of Travel Nursing Assignments

Pre-assignment:

• Researching locations and facilities that align with personal and professional goals.
• Contacting travel nursing agencies to discuss assignments and preferences.

Assignment preparation:

• Completing necessary paperwork, including licensing requirements for the specific state.
• Orientation and onboarding processes with the healthcare facility.

Pre – Assignment duration:

• Typically, travel nursing assignments last from 8 to 13 weeks, though some can extend up to 26 weeks.
• Nurses have the option to extend or take some time off between assignments.

Assignment completion:

• Wrapping up responsibilities and transitioning patient care to the next nurse.
• Completing the necessary paperwork and evaluations for the travel nursing agency.

Post-assignment:

• Taking a break or securing another assignment based on personal preference.
• Reflecting on the experience and considering future travel nursing endeavors.

Remember, travel nursing offers an exciting career path with unique benefits and challenges. The duration of assignments can vary, providing flexibility to nurses seeking new experiences.

Advantages Of Travel Nursing: Why Professionals Choose This Path

Travel nursing offers numerous benefits that attract healthcare professionals looking for a dynamic and fulfilling career. The advantages of travel nursing range from flexible work schedules and location options, to the opportunity to explore new healthcare settings and gain diverse experience, as well as higher earning potential compared to permanent nursing positions.

Let’s delve into each of these advantages:

Flexible Work Schedules And Location Options

• With travel nursing, professionals have the freedom to choose their assignments and customize their work schedules according to their preferences.
• Nurses can select contracts that align with their desired duration, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
• Travel nurses also have the luxury of exploring various locations and experiencing different cultures while they work, allowing them to satisfy their adventurous spirit.

Opportunity To Explore New Healthcare Settings And Gain Diverse Experience

• Travel nursing provides professionals with the chance to work in different healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers.
• By working in diverse settings, nurses can expand their skill set, gain exposure to various patient populations, and enhance their adaptability and problem-solving skills.
• This exposure to different healthcare practices and environments can contribute to professional growth and make travel nurses highly sought after in the job market.

Higher Earning Potential Compared To Permanent Nursing Positions

• Travel nursing offers attractive financial incentives, allowing professionals to earn a higher income compared to permanent nursing positions.
• Travel nurses often receive competitive pay rates, along with benefits such as housing allowances, travel reimbursements, and health insurance coverage.
• The ability to choose high-paying assignments and benefit from additional compensation packages provides travel nurses with the opportunity to save money, pay off debts, or invest in their future.

Travel nursing presents healthcare professionals with a rewarding and stimulating career choice. The flexibility in work schedules and location options, along with the chance to explore new healthcare settings and gain diverse experience, as well as the higher earning potential, make travel nursing an attractive path for those seeking a dynamic and enriching professional journey.

Getting Started: Preparing For A Travel Nursing Career

Are you considering a career in travel nursing? It’s an exciting and rewarding field that allows you to combine your passion for nursing with your love for exploring new places . But before you embark on this adventure, there are several important steps you need to take to ensure you are fully prepared.

Here are the key points to keep in mind as you begin your journey:

Obtaining The Necessary Education And Certifications

Research the educational requirements:

Start by understanding the educational requirements for travel nursing. Typically, you will need to have a nursing degree and be a registered nurse (rn). Some positions may require additional certifications or advanced degrees, so be sure to research these requirements as well.

Pursue additional certifications:

To increase your chances of securing travel nursing assignments, consider obtaining certifications that are highly valued in the field. Examples include certifications in critical care, emergency nursing, or pediatric nursing. These additional certifications will make your resume stand out and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

Stay updated on licensing requirements:

Keep in mind that travel nursing requires you to be licensed as a registered nurse in the state where you plan to work. While there is a compact nursing license that allows you to work in multiple states, it’s important to stay updated on any changes or specific requirements for each state.

Building A Strong Resume And References

Highlight relevant experience.

Tailor your resume to showcase your experience in various nursing specialties. Emphasize any experience you have in travel nursing or working in different healthcare settings. This will demonstrate your adaptability and make you an attractive candidate to potential employers.

Include a comprehensive skills section

Create a separate section in your resume to highlight your skills relevant to travel nursing. This can include proficiency in electronic medical records software, experience with specialized medical equipment, or fluency in different languages if applicable.

Collect strong references

Reach out to colleagues, supervisors, or professors who can attest to your nursing skills and work ethic. These references will provide valuable insights into your abilities and professional demeanor. Ensure their contact information is up to date and readily available.

Researching And Selecting Reputable Travel Nursing Agencies

Look for reputable agencies:

Take the time to research and select travel nursing agencies that have a good reputation in the industry. Look for agencies that have been in business for a while, offer competitive compensation packages, and have positive reviews from other travel nurses.

Consider agency specialization:

Some agencies specialize in certain nursing specialties or geographical locations. Consider your preferences and career goals when selecting an agency. If you have a specific specialty or location in mind, choosing an agency that specializes in that area can increase your chances of finding the right assignments.

Review contract terms:

Before signing with an agency, carefully review the terms of the contract. Pay close attention to compensation, housing arrangements, and any additional benefits or incentives. Ensure you understand and agree to all the terms before committing.

Remember, preparing for a travel nursing career involves obtaining the necessary education and certifications, building a strong resume and references, and researching and selecting reputable travel nursing agencies. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to starting an exciting and fulfilling career as a travel nurse.

The Timeline Of A Travel Nursing Assignment: From Application To Completion

Embarking on a travel nursing assignment can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it’s important to understand the timeline and steps involved. From the initial application to the completion of your assignment, here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

The Application Process: Submitting Documents And Completing Interviews

• Begin by submitting your application and necessary documents to the travel nursing agency or hiring facility.
• Prepare for interviews, which may be conducted over the phone or through video conferencing.
• Highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications to stand out among other candidates.

Contract Negotiation And Acceptance

• After a successful interview, the agency or facility will offer you a contract.
• Review the terms and conditions of the contract, including pay, duration, and any additional benefits.
• Negotiate if desired, to ensure the contract suits your preferences.
• Once both parties reach an agreement, accept the contract and move forward.

Preparing For The Assignment: Housing, Licensing, And Travel Arrangements

• Secure housing arrangements. Options may include company-provided housing, stipends for finding your own housing, or extended stay hotels.
• Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications required for the specific assignment location.
• Arrange travel plans, including transportation to and from the assignment location.

Onboarding And Orientation At The New Healthcare Facility

• Complete orientation provided by the healthcare facility to familiarize yourself with their policies, procedures, and protocols.
• Understand the workflow, expectations, and specific tasks you’ll be responsible for during your assignment.
• Build relationships with colleagues and develop a rapport within the new team.

Working And Adapting To New Environments And Team Dynamics

• Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with working in diverse healthcare settings.
• Adapt to new technologies and systems used in the facility.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and patients, demonstrating your skills as a travel nurse.
• Remain flexible and open-minded as you navigate different work environments.

Completing The Assignment And Transitioning To The Next Opportunity

• As your assignment nears its end, start planning for the next step in your travel nursing journey.
• Notify your agency or facility about your availability and desired locations for future assignments.
• Reflect on your experiences and lessons learned during the assignment.
• Complete any necessary documentation and paperwork for a smooth transition.

Remember, each travel nursing assignment may vary in duration and specific requirements. Understanding the timeline and steps involved will help you navigate this exciting career path with confidence and ease. So, get ready to embark on your travel nursing adventure and make a positive impact wherever you go!

Factors Affecting The Duration Of Travel Nursing Careers

Travel nursing offers a unique opportunity to work and explore different healthcare settings while enjoying the perks of a travel lifestyle. However, the duration of a travel nursing career can vary for each individual based on several factors. Let’s delve into some of the key considerations that can influence how long a travel nursing career may last:

Personal Preferences: Length And Frequency Of Assignments

• Nurses who prefer shorter assignments may choose to work as a travel nurse for a limited period, allowing them to experience different locations and healthcare facilities.
• On the other hand, individuals who enjoy stability and wish to immerse themselves in a particular community may opt for longer assignments or transition to permanent positions.
• Some nurses may prefer working back-to-back assignments, while others may require breaks in between to rest and recharge before taking on their next adventure.

Market Demand And Location Choices

• The demand for travel nurses can vary across different regions and specialties.
• Nurses who are more flexible with their location preferences may have more opportunities available to them.
• Popular travel destinations may have higher competition for assignments, which can influence the frequency and duration of travel nursing careers.

Extending Or Transitioning To Permanent Positions

• Many travel nurses find that they enjoy a particular assignment or location and decide to extend their contract.
• Others may realize they have developed strong connections within a community and decide to transition to a permanent position at the facility.
• The option to extend or transition to a permanent role can impact the duration of a travel nursing career.

Work-Life Balance And Burnout Considerations

• Travel nursing can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring adaptability and flexibility.
• Nurses need to consider their work-life balance and potential burnout when determining the duration of their travel nursing career.
• Maintaining a healthy work-life balance, practicing self-care, and managing stress can contribute to the longevity of a travel nursing career.

While each nurse’s journey is unique, personal preferences, market demand, location choices, the potential for extending or transitioning to permanent positions, and maintaining work-life balance all play significant roles in determining how long a travel nursing career may last. By considering these factors and making informed choices, travel nurses can shape a fulfilling and sustainable career that aligns with their goals and aspirations.

Maximizing Success And Longevity In A Travel Nursing Career

Building a strong professional network.

Building a strong professional network is essential for travel nurses seeking to maximize success and longevity in their careers. Here are some key points to consider:

Networking with fellow travel nurses:

Connect with other travel nurses through online forums, social media groups, and professional organizations. This allows you to learn from their experiences, gain valuable insights, and exchange tips and advice.

Establishing relationships with recruiters:

Forge strong relationships with travel nursing recruiters who can help you find the best assignments and negotiate favorable contracts. Stay in touch with them regularly to stay updated on job opportunities.

Connecting with healthcare facilities:

Network with the staff, managers, and supervisors at the healthcare facilities where you’re assigned. Building positive relationships with these individuals can lead to repeat assignments and referrals, ensuring a steady flow of opportunities.

Continuing Education And Skill Development

Continuing education and skill development are crucial for travel nurses who wish to stay competitive in the field. Consider the following:

Pursuing additional certifications:

Seek out specialized certifications that are relevant to your area of nursing. This not only enhances your knowledge and competence but also makes you more marketable to potential employers.

Participating in workshops and conferences:

Attend workshops and conferences that focus on the latest advancements in healthcare and nursing. These events provide valuable learning opportunities and allow you to network with professionals in the industry.

Taking advantage of online learning platforms:

Explore online learning platforms that offer courses and certifications specifically designed for healthcare professionals. This flexible learning format allows you to continue your education while maintaining your travel nursing career.

Balancing Work And Personal Life

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is vital for the well-being and longevity of travel nurses. Here’s how to achieve it:

Set boundaries:

Clearly define your working hours and communicate them effectively to your supervisors and colleagues. Designate specific times for rest and relaxation to prevent burnout.

Prioritize self-care:

Nurture your physical, mental, and emotional well-being by engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Exercise, meditate, spend time with loved ones, and pursue hobbies to recharge and rejuvenate.

Efficient time management:

Develop effective time management skills to optimize your work hours and minimize stress. Use productivity tools and techniques to prioritize tasks, delegate when necessary, and maintain a structured schedule.

Transitioning To Other Healthcare Roles Or Specialties

While travel nursing can be a rewarding career, it’s important to consider opportunities for transitioning into other healthcare roles or specialties. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Explore diverse assignments:

Take advantage of the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings and specialties. This exposure allows you to discover new interests and passions within the healthcare field.

Seek out mentorship opportunities:

Connect with experienced healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and mentorship in your desired specialty. Their insights and expertise can help you navigate the transition smoothly.

Stay updated with industry trends:

Keep yourself informed about emerging healthcare trends and demands. This knowledge will enable you to identify new career paths and opportunities.

Common FAQs

How long does a travel nursing assignment typically last.

Travel nursing assignments usually last around 13 weeks, although some can be shorter or longer depending on the facility’s needs. It’s common for nurses to take on multiple assignments back-to-back, allowing them to travel and experience different locations while maintaining job security.

Can Travel Nursing Assignments Be Extended?

Yes, travel nursing assignments can often be extended if both the nurse and the facility are interested. This can provide nurses with the opportunity to further explore a location, build relationships with the community, and continue working in a familiar environment.

Is It Possible To Take A Break Between Travel Nursing Assignments?

Absolutely! Many travel nurses take breaks between assignments to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. They have the freedom to dictate their schedule and choose when to start their next assignment, allowing for flexibility and work-life balance.

How Often Can A Travel Nurse Change Locations?

Travel nurses can change locations as frequently as they wish, as long as there are job opportunities available. Some nurses prefer to stay in one place for an extended period, while others enjoy the adventure of exploring new destinations every few months.

It ultimately depends on personal preference and career goals.

Can Travel Nursing Turn Into A Permanent Job?

Yes, travel nursing can lead to a permanent job if desired. Some travel nurses find a location they love and decide to settle down permanently, accepting a full-time position at the facility. This can provide a sense of stability and the opportunity to build a long-term career in a preferred location.

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, travel nursing has become a popular career choice for many professionals seeking new opportunities. With its flexibility, competitive compensation, and chance to explore different parts of the country, it’s no wonder why travel nursing has gained such traction.

As the demand for healthcare professionals remains high and travel nursing agencies continue to expand, it is safe to say that this field will persist. The variety of available assignments and the ability to choose the duration of each assignment provide nurses with the autonomy to tailor their career to their liking.

Additionally, as healthcare needs constantly evolve, travel nursing offers a unique chance to keep up with these changes and remain at the forefront of the industry. Whether you are a seasoned nurse looking for a change or a new graduate exploring your options, travel nursing can be a fulfilling and exciting career path.

Embrace the opportunities, embrace the adventure, and embark on a long-lasting journey as a travel nurse.

How Long Will Travel Nursing Last?

Travel nursing has become an increasingly popular career choice in recent years. With the opportunity to explore new places, gain valuable experience, and earn a competitive salary, it’s no wonder that many healthcare professionals are drawn to this unique profession. If you’re considering a career in travel nursing, you may be wondering how long it can last. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, let’s take a closer look at the factors that can influence the duration of your travel nursing journey.

1. Contract Length

One of the main factors that determine how long travel nursing assignments last is the contract length. Typically, contracts can range anywhere from 8 to 26 weeks, with most falling in the 13-week range. However, some assignments may be shorter or longer depending on the facility’s needs and your preferences.

2. Facility Needs

The duration of your travel nursing career can also be affected by the needs of the healthcare facilities you work with. If a facility has an ongoing need for travel nurses, you may have the opportunity to extend your contract or accept multiple assignments in the same location.

3. Personal Preferences

Your personal preferences and goals can also play a role in how long you choose to pursue travel nursing. Some nurses may only want to experience travel nursing for a short period, while others may see it as a long-term career path. It ultimately depends on what you’re looking to achieve and how it aligns with your professional and personal goals.

4. Lifestyle Considerations

Travel nursing offers a unique lifestyle that allows you to explore different cities and regions. However, this nomadic lifestyle may not be suitable for everyone in the long run. Factors such as family commitments, personal relationships, or the desire to settle down in one place can influence how long you choose to continue traveling as a nurse.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability

Being flexible and adaptable is key to thriving as a travel nurse. Healthcare professionals who are open to new experiences and can quickly adapt to different work environments may have more opportunities available to them. This flexibility can enable nurses to extend their travel nursing career and take on assignments in various locations.

6. Market Demand

The demand for travel nurses can fluctuate based on various factors, including location and time of year. While the need for travel nurses remains high, certain regions or specialties may experience higher demand than others. Being open to different locations and specialties can increase your chances of finding assignments and prolonging your travel nursing career.

7. Continuing Education and Certifications

Continuing education and obtaining certifications in specialized areas can enhance your travel nursing career. By expanding your skill set, you can become a highly sought-after travel nurse, increasing the likelihood of securing longer assignments and extending your career in this field.

8. Networking and Building Professional Relationships

Networking and building professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities in travel nursing. By connecting with other healthcare professionals, recruiters, and travel nursing agencies, you can gain valuable insights and access a wider range of assignments. Building a strong professional network can help extend your travel nursing career.

So, how long will travel nursing last? The duration of your travel nursing career depends on a variety of factors, including contract lengths, facility needs, personal preferences, lifestyle considerations, flexibility, market demand, continuing education, and networking. While there’s no definitive answer, with the right combination of these factors, you can enjoy a fulfilling and extended travel nursing journey. Whether you choose to embark on a short-term adventure or make travel nursing a long-term career, the opportunities and experiences that await you are boundless.

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