New graduate

[pumasoccer_89]

I am currently in the last semester of my ADN program and have always wanted to experience travel nursing. I am 24, single, with no kids. I have a goal to go to as many places as I can. I have heard that with many companies they require 1-2 years of experience on a floor. What advice would you give me that might have helped you? What are some benefits of travel nursing? And what isn't beneficial? I would like to hear everyone's opinion on travel nursing in general.

[lemur87]

Definately get 2 years experience in your chosen specialty. Even with 2 years finding a good position was a bit tough, so any less would be very difficult.

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

Two years of experience should be an absolute minimum. When a hospital hires a traveler, they want you to be able to hit the ground running with minimal orientation. Sometimes as little as one shift -- or less.

The benefits of travel nursing include getting to see many different cities up close and personal. You'll have time to go see the sights, and to experience a bit of the city the way the locals do. You can figure out if you want to make the new city your permanent home, or maybe keep traveling. You'll see a lot of ways of doing things at work, too. Some that work really well and others that don't. You can adapt your practice, incorporating the things that you've learned work well for you. You'll meet a lot of people -- some of whom may become lifelong friends. (Or babyMamma/Daddy if you're not careful.)

Travel nursing works best if you're outgoing and make friends easily. I'm not, and I had difficulty. Once you've been a nurse long enough to have developed some expertise, it may not be recognized because you're the "Rent-a-Nurse." And you have to get used to having your hair cut and your teeth cleaned by strangers -- or else schedule all your appointments for between travel assignments.