Considering Traveling--- any advice??

[ER24]

Hello all! I am new to allnurses.com and this is my first post. I'm currently employed as an ED nurse in an 85-bed hospital (19 ED beds) with 2 years experience, no trauma. and NO OB! I've been considering travel nursing since I graduated school and I feel that now is as opportune a time as any, being as I can be rather flexible and I am very unhappy in my current position. But to be honest, I'm terrified. I would like to try some assignments in more "rural" settings. I'm just concerned with the job market these days--- giving up a secure position to take on this adventure. I've looked into a few companies including Cirrus Medical Staffing and American Mobile (although I've read a few posts regarding this company and am reconsidering that particular company). Any advice on what to look for--- what should be considered important vs. the "minor details"? Does anyone that has worked in more rural settings have any advice for what to consider or expect? Any tidbits would be greatly appreciated!

[loricatus]

Now is a terrible time for new travelers and many seasoned travelers have resorted to taking staff jobs to ride the recession out. For every one travel job, there are now numerous candidates submitted and the hospital can pick from the pile to find the most seasoned traveler. In addition, there are decreased wages and frequen cancellations of contracts, some even before the contract started but after arriving at the destination (leaving the traveler stranded). I am not saying it is impossible; but, it is difficult

You can try looking ant the association of traveler nurses, http://www.pantravelers.org for more specifics. There is also a travel nurse convention in Sept-I think links provided on pantravelers can get you info on that.

[goins004]

If I were you I would for sure not to start traveling in this market. It is not a good idea in my opinion to leave a secure job for a BRAND NEW travel position! It seems to be hard for even seasoned travelers. I have been traveling for 8 months and have been extremely lucky. I lot of the travelers, or ex-travelers I should say, have not been so lucky at all. And there are a lot of them. Not trying to scare anyone, just trying to be honest as this is a conversation about life! Its no joke when you are in a different place, work, town and your by yourself.... the travel market is bound to pick up at some time which gives us travelers more options