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Step 1
Enjoy the benefits of a long term job without a long term contract. Benefits include medical and dental coverage, even though the contract may be for as short a term as 4 weeks. There is often a premium wage for travel nurses as well, because the areas of work are in higher demand.
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Step 2
Contact a traveling nurse staffing company, which advertise in nursing journals and online. The initial contact will be by phone, so call and ask to speak to a recruiter. The recruiter will be able to give you information such as openings, pay rates and benefits available. Most travel nurse contracts are for 13 weeks, with some being shorter and some being renewable.
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Step 3
Expect the highest demand in the retirement states such as Florida, Arizona and southern Texas. These areas have a higher demand seasonally, as many "Snowbirds" spend the winter months in a warmer climate. Other areas in high demand are Alaska, Minnesota and California.
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Step 4
Research current openings and apply online at sites such as Nurse Zone, where you can send your resume and application to one or all of the top travel nurse staffing companies nationwide (see Resources). They will want to know your work experience, education history and certification details and specialties.
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Step 5
Upon employment, you will be assigned a recruiter, who will work with you throughout your travel nurse career. The recruiter will help you choose a destination and give you resources for city and state guides as well as pay rates. The recruiter will also make housing and utility arrangements once you've accepted a position.
Working Nurse
