The short answer is yes, LPNs can be travel nurses! But it’s important to know all about it before diving in. This guide helps LPNs learn about travel nursing. We’ll cover what it takes, the benefits, how to find jobs, and more.
Image Source: cloud.soliant.com
What is Travel Nursing for LPNs?
Travel nursing means working as a nurse in different places for short periods. Instead of staying in one hospital or clinic, you move around to fill temporary needs. These needs can be due to staff shortages, seasonal increases in patients, or special projects.
For LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses), travel nursing offers chances to see new places, gain experience, and earn more money. It’s a great way to grow your career and explore different healthcare settings.
LPN Travel Nurse Requirements
To become a travel LPN, you need to meet certain rules. These rules help make sure you’re ready for the job.
- License: You must have a current and active LPN license. It needs to be good in the state where you want to work. Some states are part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which lets you work in other compact states with one license.
- Experience: Most agencies want you to have at least one year of recent LPN experience. Some might want two years or more, especially for specialized jobs.
- Skills: You need to be good at basic nursing skills. This includes giving medicine, taking vital signs, wound care, and helping patients with daily tasks.
- Certifications: Having certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS) or IV certification can make you more attractive to employers.
- Background Check: You’ll need to pass a background check and drug screening. This is to protect patients and follow healthcare rules.
- References: Agencies will ask for references from past employers. These references help show you’re a reliable and skilled nurse.
Table: Common LPN Travel Nurse Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Active LPN License | Must be current and valid in the state of the assignment. |
| Experience | Usually at least one year of recent LPN experience is required. |
| Basic Skills | Proficient in medication administration, vital signs, wound care, and patient care. |
| Certifications | BLS, IV certification, and other relevant certifications are often preferred or required. |
| Background Check | Must pass a criminal background check and drug screening. |
| References | Positive references from previous employers are needed. |
Finding Travel Nursing for LPNs
There are many ways to find travel LPN jobs. Working with travel nursing agencies is a common and easy way to start.
LPN Travel Nurse Agencies
Agencies help you find jobs that match your skills and interests. They handle the details, like finding housing and getting you licensed in new states. Here are some steps to take when choosing an agency:
- Research: Look at different agencies and read reviews. Find agencies that focus on LPN travel assignments.
- Talk to Recruiters: Speak with recruiters from different agencies. Ask about their jobs, benefits, and support.
- Compare Offers: Compare the pay, benefits, and support from different agencies.
- Check Reputation: Make sure the agency is reputable and has good relationships with healthcare facilities.
List of Reputable LPN Travel Nurse Agencies
- AMN Healthcare: A large agency with many travel nurse jobs.
- Cross Country Healthcare: Offers a wide range of assignments and benefits.
- Maxim Healthcare Staffing: Specializes in healthcare staffing, including travel LPNs.
- Aya Healthcare: Known for its technology and support for travel nurses.
- Supplemental Health Care: Provides travel nursing and other healthcare staffing services.
LPN Travel Nurse Jobs
LPN travel nurse jobs can be found in many places. Some common locations include:
- Hospitals: Work in different departments like medical-surgical, emergency, or pediatrics.
- Nursing Homes: Provide care for elderly patients in long-term care settings.
- Clinics: Work in doctors’ offices or specialized clinics.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Help patients recover from injuries or illnesses.
- Home Health: Visit patients in their homes to provide care.
LPN Travel Nurse Contracts
A travel nurse contract is an agreement between you, the agency, and the healthcare facility. It explains your job duties, pay, benefits, and the length of your assignment. It’s important to read and comprehend your contract carefully.
- Length: Contracts usually last 13 weeks, but they can be shorter or longer.
- Pay: The contract will explain your hourly rate, overtime pay, and any bonuses.
- Benefits: It will detail your health insurance, housing, travel reimbursement, and other benefits.
- Cancellation: Know the rules for canceling the contract. There may be penalties if you leave early.
- Job Duties: The contract should list your job duties and responsibilities.
LPN Travel Nurse Salary
One of the main reasons LPNs choose travel nursing is the higher pay. Travel LPNs can often earn more than staff LPNs because of the demand for their services.
- Factors Affecting Salary: Your salary can depend on location, specialty, experience, and the agency you work with.
- Typical Pay Range: Travel LPNs can earn anywhere from $1,200 to $2,000 or more per week.
- Benefits: Don’t forget to add in the value of benefits like free housing, health insurance, and travel reimbursement.
Table: Example of LPN Travel Nurse Salary and Benefits
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Weekly Salary | $1,200 – $2,000+ (depending on location, experience, and specialty) |
| Housing | Free or subsidized housing, or a housing stipend |
| Health Insurance | Coverage for medical, dental, and vision |
| Travel Reimbursement | Money to cover travel expenses to and from assignments |
| Bonuses | Completion bonuses, referral bonuses, and other incentives |
LPN Travel Nurse Benefits
Besides higher pay, travel nursing offers other benefits. These can make your career more rewarding.
- Travel: See new places and experience different cultures.
- Career Growth: Gain experience in different healthcare settings and specialties.
- Flexibility: Choose when and where you want to work.
- Networking: Meet new people and build professional relationships.
- Personal Growth: Become more adaptable and independent.
LPN Travel Opportunities
Travel nursing can open doors to new experiences. It’s a chance to see the country, learn new skills, and grow as a person.
- Explore New Locations: Work in different states and cities.
- Learn New Skills: Gain experience in various healthcare settings.
- Meet New People: Build relationships with other healthcare professionals.
- Advance Your Career: Travel nursing can lead to new job opportunities.
Fathoming the Challenges of Travel Nursing
Travel nursing isn’t always easy. There are challenges to be aware of.
- Being Away From Home: Missing family and friends can be hard.
- New Environments: Adapting to new workplaces and routines takes time.
- Licensing: Getting licensed in new states can be complex.
- Uncertainty: Travel assignments are temporary, so job security can be a concern.
Coping Strategies
- Stay Connected: Use technology to stay in touch with loved ones.
- Plan Ahead: Research your assignments and prepare for new environments.
- Seek Support: Talk to other travel nurses for advice and support.
- Be Flexible: Be ready to adapt to changing situations.
Licensed Practical Nurse Travel Assignments: Is It Right For You?
Think about your goals, skills, and personality.
- Are you adaptable? Can you adjust to new places and routines easily?
- Are you independent? Can you handle being away from home and managing your own affairs?
- Do you like new challenges? Are you excited about learning new things and meeting new people?
- Are you organized? Can you manage your time, finances, and travel arrangements?
If you answered yes to these questions, travel nursing might be a great fit for you.
Key Considerations
- Financial Planning: Make a budget and save money for travel expenses and time between assignments.
- Health Insurance: Make sure you have continuous health insurance coverage.
- Taxes: Understand the tax implications of travel nursing. You may need to pay taxes in multiple states.
- Professional Development: Keep your skills up-to-date with continuing education courses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can LPNs be travel nurses?
A: Yes, LPNs can absolutely be travel nurses! There are many opportunities available.
Q: What are the common LPN travel nurse requirements?
A: The typical LPN travel nurse requirements include a valid LPN license, at least one year of experience, BLS certification, and passing a background check.
Q: What is the typical LPN travel nurse salary?
A: The average LPN travel nurse salary ranges from $1,200 to $2,000+ per week, depending on location, experience, and the agency.
Q: How do I find LPN travel nurse jobs?
A: You can find LPN travel nurse jobs by working with travel nursing agencies. Research different agencies, compare offers, and choose one that fits your needs.
Q: What are the benefits of being an LPN travel nurse?
A: The benefits include higher pay, free housing, health insurance, travel reimbursement, and the chance to see new places and grow your career.
Q: How long are LPN travel nurse contracts?
A: LPN travel nurse contracts typically last 13 weeks, but they can be shorter or longer depending on the assignment.
Q: What if I have a hard time adjusting to a new location?
A: Stay connected with loved ones, plan ahead, seek support from other travel nurses, and be flexible.
Q: Are there specialized LPN travel opportunities?
A: Yes, there are travel assignments that require special skills. Certain facilities or specific medical units may need LPNs with expertise in areas like geriatrics, wound care, or pediatric care. The more certifications and special skills you have, the more opportunities open up to you.
Q: What kind of support can I expect from LPN travel nurse agencies?
A: Agencies provide assistance with finding assignments, getting licensed in new states, arranging housing and transportation, and handling payroll and benefits. Good agencies also offer ongoing support throughout your assignment.
Q: What if I want to extend my LPN travel nurse contract?
A: If you enjoy your assignment and the facility needs you to stay longer, you may be able to extend your contract. Speak with your recruiter to discuss your options.
Travel nursing can be a rewarding career choice for LPNs. With careful planning and the right support, you can enjoy the benefits of higher pay, travel, and career growth. By knowing the LPN travel nurse requirements, salary expectations, and available opportunities, you can make an informed decision. Explore the options, and start your adventure as a travel LPN!
Hi, I’m Candace Wafford, a travel and food blogger based in Lexington, Kentucky. As a corporate traveler, I’ve had the chance to explore a lot of places, but now I’m on a mission to travel full-time. My goal? To figure out how to take my cat along for the adventure! Here at destinationdorworth.com, I share my experiences and tips on outdoor activities, travel, and of course, the best food spots I come across. I hope my blog inspires you to explore more and eat well on your journeys!