Dialysis Travel Nurse in California

[Cholieb]

I'm interested in doing a dialysis travel nurse gig in California. I've researched and it seems that Quik Travel Staffing has a pretty good program. After reading some of the post I became really apprehensive, because I never considered the fact that a contract may be cancelled and you may go with out a job for about 6-8wks. I just wondered if that happened often and is this something I should reconsider to think over and save for. I am single without kids, so I was really prepared to jump in feet first. I know it doesn't take much time or effort to get a license in California, so I don't see that as being a set back. Anyways, any input would be great.

[Chisca, RN]

Are you talking about crossing a picket line or are contracts so uncertain they can be cancelled at any time? If it's the former I can't really help you.

[NurseRies, BSN, RN]

I would suggest saving some money before you go so that this wont be something you worry about. I haven't heard of it happening. I work for Quik Travel and have had no problems. The important thing is to be prepared for such a scenario. It's rare, but it could always happen. Hopefully, QT could at least put you up in a hotel room while they find you another assignment. It's not like you will be out thousands of dollars. One thing with traveling is to always be prepared. Last minute stuff usually doesn't go over well. In my personal opinion, the same goes for licensing too. I don't like the idea of a walk through license or waiting til I get to an assignment to apply, I like I have it in hand when I start my travels to that state. It is important to have a savings because there are lots of costs that may not be reimbursed to you right off the bat, if at all. You will get half your travel reimbursement with your first check and half with the last check. You may not see licensure reimbursement at all. What if your orientation gets postponed a week due to hospital paperwork being late? It probably won't happen, but don't head out on your journey with an empty bank account! What If you have car problems or an unexpected illness? There's not much tolerance in travel nursing. An excuse no matter how legit, will get no empathy. The way I see traveling is that no one is really looking out for you except you! So make sure you're always ready for anything.