Good opportunity or just getting screwed?

[MarySunshine]

Is there an experienced traveler here who is willing to help me think through this travel nursing offer?

I have 2.5 years experience in my current field. No certifications yet. I currently work at a local community hospital. We have fantastic nurse/pt ratios. I have trouble getting enough hours. They don't have any full-time jobs available, so I don't get any medical benefits. I'm going broke here.

I've been offered a 13 week travel assignment. It's a very, very busy unit (about 4 times bigger and busier than my current position). The nurse/pt ratios are not nearly as good (1:1 vs 1:2-3). It's an hour away plus bad traffic. They won't guarantee that my night shifts would be clumped together. It's a high-risk, teaching facility. I have no doubt that I have the aptitude and work ethic needed for the job. I am worried about finding myself "in over my head" just because the situation is inherently unsafe, kwim?

The manager said that she has LOTS of staff going on maternity leave at the same time and that's why she's needed travelers.

I would make almost double what I currently do (when I factor in housing, etc). I would also be getting decent medical insurance for the first time in a while. I would learn a lot. It's a well-respected hospital -- it would look great my "travel resume." I DO want to start traveling and a lot of other places haven't looked at my profile because of my lack of certifications.

I want to take on a challenge and be ambitious but I don't want to be a moron about it. Please advise me!.

[bagladyrn, RN]

Do you feel you are ready to "hit the floor running" at this facility with little to no orientation? That's what is expected of a traveler.

As for the money - if you are only an hour away from this facility you are not entitled to tax free status on your housing or meals and incidentals - in fact shouldn't be receiving that money under that heading at all if you will be returning home after work. Your agency should instead be paying you a higher hourly rate. No matter what a recruiter may say - you are NOT eligible for tax free money this close to home!

Yes, it could turn out to be a great learning experience if you are a really gutsy type, but I really would hesitate to see someone make the jump to that much higher acuity at the same time as learning the ropes to being a traveler.

Whatever you decide, go in with your eyes wide open.

[vroe83]

You only have to be 50 miles from home to get the living stipend...

[RNERHOUSESUPOR]

The 50 mile rule is open for discussion with the IRS. If it's 50 miles across a mountain and there is no feasable way to commute it daily then it could be only 30 miles. Then there are people who make a daily commute of more than 50 miles and they don't qualify. Speak with your tax preparer before taking any untaxed payments or be prepared to pay when you file.