As a travel nurse, you have the unique opportunity to combine your passion for nursing with the thrill of exploring new destinations, from the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest to the charms and cuisine of the South. It’s a life of adventure, flexibility, and high earning potential.
But before you start applying for jobs in your dream destinations, you’ll need to know what qualifications are required to work as a travel nurse. From licenses and certifications to experience and soft skills, each requirement is essential for your success in this career.
At AHS NurseStat, we’re not just another travel nursing agency—we’re your partner and cheerleader, helping you navigate the path to your dream jobs. We offer personalized support, competitive pay, and a network of top healthcare facilities across the country.
Reach out to one of our recruiters now for information on the qualifications, application process, and everything else you need to know to become a travel nurse!
Your Basic Nursing Qualifications
First and foremost, you’ll need an active and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license. This means your license is in good standing with no restrictions in your state of residence. Keep in mind that license requirements vary between compact and non-compact states. In compact states, your license is recognized in all other compact states, making interstate travel a breeze. However, if your state isn’t part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), you’ll need to obtain a license in each state where you plan to work.
Next up is your nursing degree. While an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the minimum requirement, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is increasingly preferred by healthcare facilities. A BSN not only expands your knowledge and skills but also makes you a more competitive candidate in the travel nursing market. If you have an ADN, consider pursuing a BSN through an RN-to-BSN program.
Finally, you’ll need relevant nursing experience. Most travel nursing agencies require a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in a specific specialty. This experience demonstrates your competency and ability to adapt quickly to new environments. High-demand specialties for travel nurses include Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Emergency Room (ER), Medical-Surgical (Med-Surg), and Operating Room (OR).
Remember, these basic qualifications are just the starting point. To truly stand out as a travel nurse, you’ll also need advanced certifications, technical skills, and soft skills. Let’s take a closer look at these additional requirements.
Advanced Certifications and Skills Can Elevate Your Profile
While basic nursing qualifications get your foot in the door, advanced certifications and specialized skills are what make you a sought-after travel nurse. These credentials not only demonstrate your expertise but also open doors to higher-paying assignments and a wider range of opportunities with a travel nursing agency.
Let’s start with certifications. In addition to your RN license, you’ll need to maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. This is a standard requirement for all nurses, regardless of specialty. However, travel nurses are often expected to have Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification as well. Depending on your desired specialties, other valuable certifications include Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) for pediatric care and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) for neonatal care.
Beyond these general certifications, consider pursuing specialty-specific certifications. For example, if you’re interested in critical care, obtaining the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification can significantly boost your credentials. Specialty certifications validate your expertise in a particular area and make you a more attractive candidate for relevant travel nursing positions.
Technical skills are equally important in the fast-paced world of travel nursing. Proficiency with electronic health records (EHRs) is a must-have, as you’ll be working with different systems in each new facility. Additionally, adaptability is key. You’ll need to quickly learn new procedures and protocols while maintaining a high level of care.
But it’s not just about technical skills. Soft skills play a crucial role in your success as a travel nurse. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for building rapport with patients, families, and colleagues. You’ll also need to be a self-starter who can work independently and collaborate effectively as part of a team. And since you’ll be working in diverse environments, cultural competence and sensitivity are vital for providing respectful and inclusive care.
Non-Nursing Qualifications to Thrive in Travel Roles
Beyond your nursing expertise, a unique set of non-nursing qualifications are essential for thriving as a travel nurse. These qualities help you embrace the travel lifestyle, navigate new environments, and excel in diverse healthcare settings.
First of all, a sense of adventure is extremely important. Travel nurses are constantly on the move, embracing new cities and states This nomadic lifestyle requires adaptability and an open mind. You’ll need to be comfortable with change, excited about exploring new places, and ready to create a temporary home wherever your assignments take you.
Flexibility is another crucial trait. Travel nursing assignments often involve varying shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. You may also be asked to float between different units or departments, depending on the facility’s needs. Being adaptable to different schedules and responsibilities is essential for success.
Organization and documentation skills are also vital for travel nurses. You’ll need to keep track of your licenses, certifications, credentials, and travel-related expenses. Maintaining meticulous records ensures compliance with state regulations and simplifies reimbursement processes for your travel nursing agency.
In addition to these practical skills, certain personal qualities can contribute to your success. Being a good communicator and collaborator helps you build strong relationships with colleagues and patients, even in short-term assignments. Resilience and the ability to manage stress are crucial for navigating challenges that may arise in unfamiliar environments.
Get Started with a Top Travel Nursing Agency
While the qualifications may seem extensive, remember that each requirement serves a purpose in ensuring your success and safety as you embark on this exciting journey.
As a travel nursing agency, we understand that navigating the path to becoming a travel nurse can be daunting. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced recruiters are ready to answer your questions, help you prepare your application, and connect you with rewarding travel nursing assignments that match your skills and preferences.
Contact one of our helpful recruiters at AHS NurseStat today and take the first step to a fulfilling travel nurse career!
