Travel Nursing: Explore The World, Save Lives

International travel nursing is a career path that allows nurses to travel the world and deliver care where it's needed most. Nurses who choose this path can gain exposure to different cultures and medical procedures, treat a wider range of patients, and develop valuable new skills. To become an international travel nurse, you'll need a nursing degree, an active RN license, and possibly additional certifications. You'll also need to be flexible and adaptable, as working conditions may differ from those in your home country.

The benefits of being a travel nurse

Being a travel nurse comes with a host of benefits, from career advancement to personal development. Here are some of the key advantages of pursuing a career as an international travel nurse:

Diverse Nursing Experience

Exposure to diverse nursing experiences is one of the most significant advantages of becoming an international travel nurse. By working in different countries, you will encounter a wide range of medical conditions, patient populations, and treatment strategies. This broadens your nursing abilities and enhances your adaptability. For example, you may gain hands-on experience treating issues that are uncommon in your home country, such as diseases more prevalent in other regions. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to work with patients from various backgrounds, including different races, ethnicities, classes, and religions, fostering greater empathy and communication skills.

Expanded Professional Network

International travel nursing allows you to build a global network of medical professionals rapidly. As you work in different facilities and locations, you will collaborate with new practitioners, learning from them and contributing your own expertise. This expanded network can not only enhance your resume but also provide valuable connections for future career opportunities.

Improved Communication Skills

Living and working in a foreign country often requires learning a new language, which is incredibly valuable for nurses. Being multilingual enables you to communicate with and treat a wider range of patients. Moreover, you will develop cultural communication techniques, improving your ability to read nonverbal signals and body language, which are often used differently across cultures.

Enhanced Cultural Awareness and Empathy

Travel nursing provides a unique opportunity to develop cultural awareness and empathy. By living and working in different parts of the world, you will gain a deeper understanding of and respect for diverse cultures, traditions, and customs. These experiences can make you a more well-rounded and compassionate nurse, enhancing your candidacy for future nursing roles, especially those with leadership responsibilities and diverse patient populations.

Flexibility

International travel nursing offers a level of flexibility that is hard to find in traditional nursing roles. You can often choose the length of your placements, the distance you're willing to travel, and the regions you want to work in. Additionally, many agencies allow for time off between assignments, giving you the opportunity to explore and recharge.

High Compensation and Comprehensive Benefits

Travel nurses can often command high salaries, with an average annual income of over $100,000. On top of this, comprehensive benefits packages may include housing stipends or provided housing, travel stipends, food and leisure stipends, medical and dental insurance, and even bonuses.

In conclusion, a career as an international travel nurse offers a wealth of benefits, including diverse professional experiences, expanded networks, personal development, flexibility, and competitive compensation. It is a unique opportunity to blend career advancement with a passion for travel and cultural exploration.

How to prepare for the role

If you're interested in becoming an international travel nurse, there are several steps you should take to prepare for the role and increase your chances of success. Here are some key considerations:

Education and Licensing

• Obtain a nursing degree: Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). The BSN is the preferred degree for international travel nursing and provides a more comprehensive education.
• Pass the required exams: Ensure you pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) or its equivalent in your country to obtain your nursing license.
• Gain relevant experience: Aim for at least two years of clinical experience, preferably in a specialty area such as pediatric nursing, surgical nursing, intensive care nursing, or emergency room nursing.
• Obtain additional credentials: Ensure your passport is valid, obtain a work visa, stay up to date with vaccinations, and consider taking a language test, especially if you plan to work in a non-English speaking country.

Skills and Attributes

• Flexibility and Adaptability: Be prepared to adjust to different working environments, facilities, and societal healthcare norms in the countries you visit. Embrace new experiences and be open-minded.
• Communication Skills: Develop strong communication skills, including learning the local language, to effectively collaborate with colleagues and provide care for patients from diverse backgrounds.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect and embrace the cultural differences you encounter. Be empathetic and willing to learn about new traditions and customs.

Practical Considerations

• Work with a reputable agency: Utilize the services of a professional organization or recruiting agency that specializes in placing nurses in international roles. They can guide you through the process and help with placements, housing, and travel arrangements.
• Understand the requirements: Research the specific requirements of the countries you wish to work in, including any additional documentation, certifications, or language proficiency tests that may be needed.
• Plan your finances: Analyze the economics of each assignment, including salary, housing, food, and other expenses. Understand the exchange rates and be prepared for any tax implications.
• Gain domestic experience: If you are a new graduate, consider gaining initial experience in your home country before applying for international roles. This will help you develop your skills and build confidence in your abilities.

Qualifications and requirements

To become an international travel nurse, you must first obtain a nursing degree. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the standard educational benchmark for this career path, but you can also pursue an advanced nursing degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), to further enhance your knowledge and skills.

After earning your degree, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN). This is a crucial step, as it demonstrates your expertise in patient care practices and ethics. The specific requirements for licensure may vary depending on your state or country.

Once you have your nursing license, it is recommended to gain some clinical experience. Most travel nursing agencies and international positions require nurses to have at least one to two years of experience. This experience will not only help you develop your nursing skills but also allow you to pursue a specialty within the nursing field, such as pediatric nursing, surgical nursing, intensive care nursing, or emergency room nursing.

In addition to your nursing license and experience, you will need to obtain additional credentials specific to the country or countries you wish to work in. These credentials may include a valid passport, a work visa, up-to-date vaccinations, and a language test. It is essential to research the requirements of each country you are interested in working in, as they can vary significantly.

Another important step is to gain specialty certifications. Certifications such as Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) or Certified Critical Care Nurse (CCRN) can increase your competitiveness and qualify you for more specialized roles. Some in-demand specialties include emergency room, medical-surgical, pediatric nursing, intensive care, anesthesia, and labor and delivery.

Lastly, it is recommended to join a professional organization for travelling healthcare practitioners, such as the National Association of Travel Healthcare Organizations. This will provide you with valuable resources, including access to travel nursing placement agencies, open travel nursing roles, and training opportunities.

By following these steps and meeting the necessary qualifications and requirements, you can set yourself up for a successful career as an international travel nurse.

Finding work

• Volunteer work: One of the best ways to get started as a travelling nurse is to sign up for volunteer work. There are many organisations that offer volunteer nursing placements abroad, and this can be a great way to gain experience in a new setting. For example, you could try Workaway, Worldpackers, or Hovos. However, be aware that some organisations charge a lot of money for these placements.
• Research opportunities: It is important to research the opportunities available to you as an international nurse. You can do this by browsing job openings on specific company websites or by using an international nursing recruiting agency. There are also job boards, such as Health Carousel, that advertise travel nursing roles.
• Networking: Networking is a valuable way to find work as a travelling nurse. You can connect with other nurses and agencies through networking websites, rating services, and peer referrals.
• Educational Requirements: To work as a travelling nurse, you will need a nursing degree and an active RN license. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the most common educational benchmark, but you can also gain an advanced nursing degree such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). You will also need to pass the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Some countries may require additional credentials, such as a valid passport, a work visa, and up-to-date vaccinations.
• Specialise: Gaining a specialty certification can increase your chances of securing an international travel nursing contract. In-demand specialties include emergency room, medical-surgical, pediatric nursing, intensive care, anesthesia, and labor and delivery.
• Join a professional organisation: Organisations such as the National Association of Travel Healthcare Organisations can help connect you with travel nursing placement agencies and open travel nursing roles.
• Understand the requirements: Each country will have its own requirements for travelling nurses, so it is important to do your research. For example, you may need to take a test proving you can speak the local language. You will also need a passport, a visa, a work permit, and any necessary sponsorship.
• Be prepared to adapt: Travelling nurses need to be flexible and adaptable. You will likely encounter unfamiliar facilities and societal healthcare norms, so it is important to be open-minded and willing to learn.
• Understand the logistics and budgeting: Make sure you understand the length of your assignment and the associated costs, such as housing and food. Analyse the economics of each assignment and be prepared for taxes and exchange rates.
• Weigh the pros and cons: It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each opportunity. If the challenges outweigh the benefits, it may be wise to pass on the opportunity.
• Explore multiple opportunities: Don't settle for the first role you find. Seek details on a wide range of potential travel jobs to find the best fit for your knowledge and skills.

Remember, finding work as a travelling nurse can be a daunting task, but with research and preparation, you can navigate the process efficiently and find rewarding work around the globe.

Living abroad as a travel nurse

When packing, keep things simple. Furniture and other household items will likely be provided by your agency, so you'll only need clothing and personal care items.

Give yourself plenty of time to settle into your new home before you start work. Get a rental car if needed, and familiarise yourself with the local area and your daily commute. It's also a good idea to arrange a visit to your workplace before your start date, so you can talk to your manager, get a tour of the unit, and ask any questions related to orientation or your day-to-day duties.

Once you start work, you might have a day or two to get to grips with the procedures and protocols, but you'll likely be expected to jump right in. Take the initiative and ask questions whenever needed. If you have the experience and certifications to back up your skills, you should be able to walk in confident that you can work under pressure and with any patient.

International travel nursing is a great opportunity to learn the trade and explore the world, so take it all in!

Tips for Living Abroad as a Travel Nurse

• Be prepared for a culture shock and be willing to adapt to a new environment and a different way of working.
• Learn the local language so you can communicate effectively with your patients and colleagues.
• Be aware that working conditions and the scope of practice may differ from the standards you are used to in your home country.
• Understand the logistics and budgeting of your assignment. Analyse the economics of each placement to ensure the salary is satisfactory and that you can comfortably handle expenses like housing and food.
• Take advantage of the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with treating issues that are uncommon in your home country.
• Gain exposure to different work environments and treatment strategies, and learn about new medical techniques.
• Develop your communication and language skills by interacting with patients and colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Take time off between assignments if you can, but be aware that this could affect any benefits you receive.
• If you're feeling overwhelmed by the testing, licensing, and other requirements of international travel nursing, consider using a recruiting agency to help you find placements and navigate the process.

Frequently asked questions