Travel nursing offers incredible opportunities for adventure and career growth. But the question on many aspiring travel nurses' minds is: Where do travel nurses actually go? The answer is diverse and exciting, spanning across the country and sometimes even internationally. This comprehensive guide will explore popular destinations, factors influencing assignment locations, and what you can expect from different types of assignments.
What Factors Determine Travel Nurse Assignments?
Before diving into specific locations, it's important to understand the factors influencing where travel nurses are assigned:
-
Hospital Needs: The primary driver is the demand for nurses in specific areas. Hospitals facing staffing shortages or needing specialized skills actively recruit travel nurses. This means locations experiencing high patient volumes, natural disasters, or seasonal surges in illness might see a higher concentration of travel nurse assignments.
-
Your Preferences: While agencies match nurses to available positions, you typically have a say in your preferred location, specialty, and facility type. Some nurses prioritize proximity to family, while others seek new experiences in different parts of the country.
-
Agency Relationships: Your chosen travel nursing agency plays a crucial role in securing assignments. They have established relationships with hospitals across the country and will work with you to find placements that align with your preferences and qualifications.
-
Specialization: Your nursing specialty significantly impacts where you can work. ICU nurses, for instance, might find more opportunities in larger metropolitan hospitals with specialized units, while labor and delivery nurses might be in higher demand in smaller communities with birthing centers.
Popular Destinations for Travel Nurses:
While any state can offer travel nursing assignments, certain areas consistently prove popular due to high demand and desirable living conditions. Here are some examples:
-
California: California boasts a large healthcare system with numerous hospitals and varied settings, from bustling city centers to coastal towns. The diverse landscape and warm climate attract many travel nurses.
-
Texas: Texas offers a wide range of healthcare facilities and a relatively lower cost of living compared to some other popular travel nurse destinations. The state's size and diverse geography provide plenty of options for exploration.
-
Florida: The sunshine state's climate and beaches attract many nurses seeking a warm and relaxing environment outside of work. Florida's large population also translates into a significant number of healthcare facilities.
-
Oregon and Washington: These Pacific Northwest states offer stunning natural beauty and a slower pace of life than many other popular travel nursing locations. However, the cost of living can be higher than in other parts of the country.
-
Colorado: Known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, Colorado offers a unique blend of professional and recreational activities, attracting travel nurses who enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor pursuits.
What Types of Travel Nurse Assignments are Available?
The types of assignments available can impact the location and duration of your work. Here are some common types:
-
Short-term assignments: These typically last for 8-13 weeks, offering flexibility and the chance to explore multiple locations.
-
Long-term assignments: These can range from several months to a year or more, providing stability and the opportunity to build deeper relationships with colleagues and the community.
-
Contract-to-hire assignments: These provide a pathway to permanent employment at the facility after a successful contract period.
-
Specialty assignments: Specialized nursing skills (e.g., ICU, OR, pediatrics) may limit or expand your location choices, depending on the demand for that specific expertise in certain regions.
What are the benefits of travel nursing assignments?
Travel nursing offers many benefits beyond financial compensation, which often surpasses the income of staff nurses:
-
Professional growth: Exposure to diverse healthcare settings and patient populations enhances skills and broadens experience.
-
Personal enrichment: The opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and experience different cultures greatly enriches personal life.
-
Flexibility and control: Travel nurses typically have greater control over their work schedule and location compared to staff nurses.
How to Find Travel Nursing Assignments?
Finding assignments involves connecting with reputable travel nursing agencies. These agencies handle much of the paperwork and logistics, acting as an intermediary between you and healthcare facilities. Research agencies thoroughly before signing on, checking their reputation, compensation packages, and benefits.
This guide provides a starting point for understanding the world of travel nursing assignments. Remember, your personal preferences and career goals will ultimately shape where you choose to go, making every journey unique and rewarding.
