Three frequently asked questions about working as a travel nurse

If you're considering becoming a travel nurse, you likely have a lot of questions about the profession. It's important to have all of them answered as you work with a travel nursing agency and prepare for your first assignment so you can feel comfortable while discussing your contract. Take a look at some of these frequently asked questions and be sure to inquire about any other aspects of travel nursing you might think of.

Will I like a travel job? Many travel nurses, travel therapists and other traveling professionals have never before had jobs that required them to live in different places for assignments. However, most find this to be the most rewarding aspect of the profession because it allows you to explore different areas of the country, meet new people and learn new skills. Working in a new location for each assignment provides the opportunity to experience interesting cultures and visit places you've only dreamed of. If you like adventure, can maintain a positive attitude and are able to quickly adapt to new settings, a travel career might be perfect for you!

How long will I stay on each assignment? While it depends on the assignment and agency, most travel nursing assignments will be between 13 and 26 weeks. However, if you go to a place you absolutely love, or if you feel your services are in great demand at a particular post, simply contact your Account Manager and you may be able to extend your assignment. Don't worry about being homesick because you'll always know about your assignments ahead of time. This makes it possible to  plan to have friends and family come along or visit you in your new location. You can even bring your pet with you to make your assignment feel more like home.

Where will I live? The travel nursing agency will take care of your housing accommodations. Your Housing Coordinator and Account Manager will work with you to find a high-quality place to stay that is close to your job site and often comes fully furnished. Many housing providers even have amenities such as swimming pools and tennis courts available, so you can relax on your time off! Keep in mind that if you bring family members or pets, you'll be responsible for paying for additional rooms and pet deposits.