NICU - New to Travelling

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I am looking into getting started as a travel nurse and was wondering what it looks like for NICU Nurses. I am flexible on days or nights and there are many states I would be willing to go to. I am currently in Texas with a full time job and don't want to leave if the market is not great for us yet. I have 2 years of experience as a NICU nurse.

Also any advice on which agencies to stay away from as well as locations to stay away from would be helpful.

Thanks for your help!!!

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Specializes in NICU, Pediatric Urgent Care.

NICU nurse here. It's actually looking up. I'm unique that I want to stay in Central to East Texas and so far I had one contract in Houston for 13 weeks, was off for four weeks and am starting my next one monday in Dallas area. It wasnt hard to go between the two so if you're open to more than one state it shouldnt be a problem at all. I'd recommend getting a compact license if you don't have one.

Also - I've used Strategic Healthcare on my first assignment - the recruiter's name is Tosha - seemed like an ok company. This new assignment is through Nightingale Nurses. Never used them before and I guess I'll find out how they are this assignment. I WILL say Im not happy with the housing situation. They're putting me in an Extended Stay America when I asked repeatedly for corporate housing or a one bed furnished... They apparantly only do that for "proven" travelers... maybe.

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Thanks for responding. I'm glad things are looking better. I do have a compact license so I guess that will open me up to more possibilities. I thought they were suppose to put you in an apartment, not an Extended Stay. Did both of them do this?

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Specializes in NICU, Pediatric Urgent Care.

Yeah they both did but im not letting it happen again. Theres plenty that WILL do an apartment. Im getting my own probably after my first check or two then swapping to get the housing subsidy

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I actually talked to Nightengale and that is who they "contract" through. I think I would be more comfortable in an apartment too. It sounds like you make less money though if you don't go into the extended stay.

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Specializes in NICU, Pediatric Urgent Care.

Run from Nightingale.. far far away.

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I agree...several red flags went off when I spoke with them.

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Specializes in NICU.

Yes Nightingale is a noooooooo..lol. I encountered 4 nurses down here and they said run like hell. Yes, they tend to put you in extended stays.

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Specializes in NICU.

malenurse122879-

Where in TX have you worked NICU? I'm looking for my 5th travel assignment in TX and would love some insight!!!

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I have my compact license from TX and i'm currently in MD finishing an 8 wk contract. I have had many job offers from all over the country. So, basically decide where you want to travel first. I came to the east coast because I wanted to see the leaves change for fall. It is beautiful by the way I will come back soon.

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Specializes in NICU.

babynursey-

Have you worked anywhere in TX with your compact license?

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