How to Complete Your RN to BSN as a Travel Nurse?
If you like to explore new places, then RN to BSN as a travel nurse could be your ideal field. You indeed want to become a nurse and provide the best care to those in need. Still, your dreams of traveling the world would not shatter anymore, as you can open the door to a world of travel, adventure, and rewarding nursing experiences.
Give yourself a fresh start after being a bookworm for a long time and become a travel nurse. A question arises: how do you complete your RN to BSN as a travel nurse? Don’t worry when nurspaper.com is here. In this article, you will walk through the steps to complete your RN to BSN and start your journey as a travel nurse.
What Is a Travel Nurse and What Is Their Main Role?
A travel nurse works with healthcare staff just like ordinary nurses. The only difference is that travel nurses don’t work in a specific healthcare organization. Instead, they work with a nursing staff agency. These nurses could work locally, nationally, or internationally.
Travel nurses mostly don’t have specific roles. They have to switch from one role to another to improve situations. It is up to your skills, interests, and the recruiter’s permission to adjust to stabilize the ongoing condition.
Why Do You Need an RN to BSN to Become a Travel Nurse?
Many nurses think it is simple to become a travel nurse, but it isn’t very easy nowadays. Back then, obtaining an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) was possible. However, many hospitals and nursing agencies now prefer or require an RN to have a BSN degree.
Over the years, nursing has become a competitive field. A BSN degree can give you an advantage when applying for these positions. It shows that you have advanced nursing knowledge, which is crucial when working in different and often fast-paced environments.
Steps to Become a Travel Nurse with an RN to BSN
Travel nursing students have to pass the NCLEX-RN exams. If you’re ready to leap into travel nursing, here is a complete roadmap to follow and ensure 99% success. The remaining 1 % is your hard work.
- Enroll in an RN to BSN Program
The first thing to do is enroll in an RN to BSN program. Many universities offer online RN to BSN programs. Most universities also allow students to pursue a BSN while working as a nurse. Some travel nurse staffing agencies provide tuition reimbursement or partner with nursing schools. This will enable students to complete their degrees in an affordable way.
It is vital to choose an accredited program as it offers flexibility. Here are some universities that offer online RN to BSN programs.
· Capella University
· WGU
· Herzing University
· Fitchburg State University
· University of Texas at Arlington
· Northern Kentucky University
- Gain Clinical Experience
Almost 1-2 years of clinical experience is mandatory for travel nurses. This is because they need proper training to jump to new roles. Thus, the clinical experience acts as a training and experience session for travel nurses. To land high-paying jobs, specialize in ICU, ER, or surgery.
- Find a Travel Nursing Agency
Once you’ve completed your BSN and gained enough experience, it’s time to find a travel nursing agency. Agencies have many connections in international healthcare sites. Thus, they can quickly help freshers land jobs. Research the agency’s reputation, benefits, and contracts carefully before signing on. Some popular agencies in the US include:
- Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA)
- Cross Country Healthcare
- Get the Right Licensure
As everything is sorted, there is still one last step to complete, and you are all ready to work. Travel nurses work in different states and regions, so a proper license is required to work in that region. You should check with your agency to see what the requirements are for your destination.
The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to practice in multiple states with one license, but not all states participate. If your assignment is in a state outside the NLC, you’ll need to apply for a state-specific license.
How Can You Balance Work and Study?
When students enroll in RN to BSN as travel nurses and also work, their lives become miserable. It becomes harder to cope with studies, clinical rotations, and work. In these situations, most students prefer online courses. Online RN-to-BSN programs like Capella allow students to study at their own pace, whenever they want. However, these programs set strict deadlines for assignment submission, which is crucial for the overall nursing curriculum.
Instead of disturbing your nights and stressing out, you can get help from a professional. Hire a nursing paper writing service online and hand over all your assignments to professionals in the nursing field. We at nurspaper.com also provide similar services. Check out our website for more fun and helpful tips.
Bottom Line
If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, now is the perfect time to enroll in an RN to BSN program and become a travel nurse. With higher pay, more job opportunities, and the chance to explore new places, travel nursing offers a unique and exciting career path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is a registered nurse who works on short-term contracts at various locations, filling staffing gaps in healthcare facilities.
Do I need a BSN to become a Travel Nurse?
Many travel nurse agencies prefer nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for better job opportunities and higher pay.
How can I complete my RN to BSN while working as a Travel Nurse?
You can enroll in online RN to BSN programs, which allow you to study flexibly while gaining clinical experience as a travel nurse.
What are the main benefits of becoming a Travel Nurse?
As a travel nurse, you can earn a higher salary, receive stipends for meals and housing, and explore new locations while gaining diverse nursing experiences.
What experience do I need to become a Travel Nurse?
Most agencies require at least 1-2 years of clinical nursing experience before you can become a travel nurse. Specializing in areas like the ICU can be beneficial.
How long does it take to complete an RN to BSN program?
An RN to BSN program typically takes 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether you’re studying full-time or part-time.
Can I work as a Travel Nurse with my RN license in any state?
Suppose your state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). In that case, you can work in other participating states without getting a new license. Otherwise, you need to apply for a state-specific license.
What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?
The NLC is an agreement between U.S. states that allows registered nurses to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses.
Do Travel Nurses get benefits?
Yes, travel nurses often receive benefits like health insurance, housing stipends, and travel allowances, though this can vary by agency.
How do I find a travel nursing agency?
Research reputable travel nurse staffing agencies online. Look for agencies that offer competitive salaries, benefits, and flexible job placements.
