Eight Truths Travel Nurses Know

If you work as a travel nurse or a nurse in general, you know it can be a great way to earn a living. From having the chance to help someone to the security of the profession, it’s often a good career choice. You probably also know that although everyone is different, nurses share some similarities. If you have been a travel nurse for a few years, you might have discovered some of the following “you know you’re a travel nurse when” truths.

1. It’s kind of fun being the new person. Sure, it can be a little intimidating being the new kid in town. But it’s also kind of cool to be new. Now no one knows much about you. You’re starting with a clean slate. For example, if you were known for being shy, you can reinvent yourself when you start your new assignment.
2. Travel nurses and healthcare workers have a unique sense of humor. People who work in the medical field tend to find the humor in things others may not. It might seem strange or insensitive to laugh in certain situations, but a good laugh can help you deal with stress and make the job more enjoyable.
3. Working as a nurse is not like it looks on television. It would be awesome if working as a nurse was as it appears on TV. After all, nurses on popular television shows seem to have a lot of time on their hands to hang out at the nurse’s station and date doctors when they are not saving lives.
4. You never stop missing your friends and family. Even though it can be amazing to travel the country and meet new people, you’ll probably still miss your family and friends. Whether you’re new to travel nursing or have been doing it for years, you can still become homesick.
5. There is always more to learn. One of the great things about working as a traveling nurse is the opportunity to see how things are done differently. Travel nurses understand that there is still a lot to learn, even if you have years of nursing under your belt.
6. Never compare salaries. Sometimes nurses on staff want to know what you are getting paid. After all, you’re doing the same job as permanent staff, so it’s natural for them to wonder if you’re getting more money. Do yourself a favor and keep your salary to yourself. Not everyone’s background, personal situation, and company they work for is the same. Working as a travel nurse gives you the benefit to receive a customized package based on location, personal needs, and job details.
7. You will never know how many people’s lives you touched. Regardless of whether you work in the emergency room or labor and delivery, you have the chance to make a difference in people’s lives. Sometimes, the difference you make may be obvious. But there may be other instances in which you never know the impact you have had. Even just one hour of service can change – or even save – someone’s life.
8. Travel nurses are lucky. Everyone has good days and bad days. But if you work as a travel nurse, you know how lucky you are. You get to see the country, meet new people, learn new skills, and do it all over again in 13 weeks. That’s a pretty good way to make a living!