When nurses decide to embark on their first travel nursing assignment, some may not have a clear idea of what specialty they'd like to pursue. One of the benefits of travel nursing is that it also allows nurses to broaden their horizons and gain experience in multiple areas. While "job hopping" or switching jobs each year or so may be frowned upon in many fields, it is the expectation when you're a travel nurse.
There are many different positions you can take on as an RN or LPN when working in travel nursing jobs. One of the more niche areas of travel nursing is working in a skilled nursing facility. These facilities are nursing homes that are recognized by the Medicare and Medicaid systems. Some patients may be in SNFs for a short period of time while recovering from an illness or procedure, while others move into these facilities for the long term. According to Care Conversations, over 1.7 million people get their rehabilitative care in a skilled nursing facility each year. Patrice Smith is a travel nurse with healthcare staffing agency Aureus Medical Group who enjoys her current assignment in a skilled nursing facility.
"'Best decision ever,' said Patrice."
Patrice's travel nursing story
Patrice has been working in the healthcare field for quite some time. Before becoming a licensed practical nurse seven years ago, she was a phlebotomist and a nurse technician. Upon becoming an LPN, Patrice worked in the emergency room for three years and geriatric psychiatry for two years. She's been working in skilled nursing facilities as a travel nurse for the last two years. Currently, she's working at Trinity Nursing Home in Minot, North Dakota.
"Traveling was something I've always wanted to do and I figured I wasn't getting any younger, so I went for it. Best decision ever," Patrice said. "I like meeting new people and traveling to different locations. You can expect to meet people and have experiences you will always remember."
She knows this to be true, firsthand. It's been a while since Patrice took on a travel nursing assignment in another state, or even town. This is because she met her fiance while working as a travel nurse.
"We met at a Wal-Mart in Minot two years ago," she said. "I only planned on doing a 13-week contract, but I'm still here eight contracts later. My favorite place to be is where I am now."
Though Patrice enjoys her current location in North Dakota because her fiance is there, being able to work at Trinity Nursing Home has its own rewards. She likes the personal aspects that come with working with the same patients every day. The fact that she's exposed to different cultures and backgrounds also makes working at a skilled nursing facility a great opportunity to learn.
"You learn their routines and their likes and dislikes," she said. "They look forward to seeing you as I do them. That's why I love it."
Though skilled nursing facilities encourage friends and family members to come visit the residents, some patients have family members that live too far away for regular get-togethers – something they have in common with travel nurses. Though travel nurses are able to bring their family members on assignment with them, many embark on a solo journey. A skilled nursing facility is a great place for residents and nurses to interact with each other.
Advice for new travelers
Patrice believes an assignment at a skilled nursing facility is a great opportunity for new travel nurses because you're often able to work a routine schedule. It's important to go into any travel nursing assignment with an open mind and the ability to adjust to change. The decision behind whether to pursue travel nursing, in a skilled nursing facility or otherwise, or stay in place isn't always an easy one. However, many people who do decide to give it a shot are happy that they took the leap.
"[Travel nursing] isn't for everyone, but if you are adventurous and outgoing or would like to break out of your shell, then this is a great way to do so," she said. "Get excited about traveling. It's rewarding and you will not be sorry. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner."
I am a cna and I have for about 10 years