Thinking about travel and have a few questions

[LatinoFlaRN]

Hello everyone!

I have been a nurse for 9 years now (8 as a LPN and 1 as a R.N.) work as a staff nure on a cardiac step down unit and also on my days off do staff relief in ICU, med-surg, tele, stepdown, ect ect. 2 jobs has me going crazy! Rent in florida is ridiculous! Im only 27 and i see myself just working to pay off my debt but not enjoying my young life in a well paid career!!!

I have been thinking about travel nursing. I am very adaptable to change as i do it almost on a daily basis going to differnet hospitals as staff relief. It will alos increase my hourly wage but it also gives me a chance to meet new people and see the U.S.

I have a few questions though. I know different agencies offer different things but my questions are regarding the actual travel.

If you fly and dont drive....how do you get to work? Do the companies place you a walking distance to the hosiptal or do they reimburse your cab fares? do you take the bus?

If you do drive...how long do they give you to get to you assignment?

Are the apartments furnished? Do they room you with another RN?

For the expierence Travlers, how do you like travel? Pros? Cons?

Any information extra would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and responses.

[nyteshade, BSN]

Hi there,

I'm gonna help you out since your question has gone unanswered. I'm on my 3rd travel assignment (2nd company as well), and I'm also from Florida, so here we go:

1. I drive to my assignment. (Ask about travel reinbursement, a good company offers this. Expect btw $500-$1000 roundtrip. They pay half your first week of work, and the other half after...generally.) Before I tell them my start date, I google how long my road trip will take. I tell the agency how long I'll take to get there. It would be a good idea to inquire if they will charge you for moving in early to your apt (if you choose their housing).

2. Yes, it is a private apartment. 1 BR apt is standard. They can be furnished. (This should not be extra $$$) Ask what your getting first before you sign your contract, ie, washer/dryer is extremely useful and saves $$$. Some companies can place you with another RN if you want. You can also take a S/O, wife, pet, etc. Inquire about extra deposit $ if you have a pet. You may also see about a living stipend that is tax free, google travel tax before you decide that route.

3. Pros: You see the country, learn diff equipment, systems, stop in cool places (while driving). Rent free living. Utilites paid for.

Cons: Pay may not be great. Benefits can suck. Some companies will try to nickel and dime you. The next assignment may not come along when you need it. The recruiter is deaf. The hospital may be on it's last leg.

4. Hope that helps some! PM me if anything.