Travel nursing is a unique and rewarding opportunity for nurses who are looking to expand their skills, explore new places, and gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings. As such, travel nurse assignments can range from just a few weeks to several months or even years depending on the needs of the facility or organization.
In this article, we will discuss how long travel nurse assignments typically last and what factors determine the length of an assignment. But if you’re looking for nontraditional permanent positions, take a look at career options for nurses who want to leave the bedside.
What Is A Travel Nurse
As a travel nurse, you have the freedom to choose the time, and place where your want to work. Subsequently, a travel nursing assignment is a job opportunity for a nurse to work in a healthcare facility or organization on a temporary basis.
Also, contrary to popular belief, travel assignments aren’t just limited to Registered Nurses (RNs). Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) have vast opportunities as well.
The way it works is that you are typically contracted by staffing agencies and often fill in for staff shortages due to vacations, maternity leave, or other absences. You may also be hired to work in disaster areas or understaffed medical facilities, such as rural hospitals.
How Long Are Travel Nurse Assignments?
The length of these assignments can vary widely depending on the needs of the facility or organization. Most assignments are typically between 8-13 weeks, but they can be as short as one week or longer than a year. In some cases, travel nurses are able to extend their assignments for up to two years in certain facilities.
The factors that determine the length of a travel nurse assignment include:
– The needs of a facility or organization
– The location and duration of the assignment
– The availability of qualified travel nurses
– Government regulations related to travel nursing
– The nurse’s availability and willingness to extend their assignment
Alternative Pathways To Extend Nursing Contracts
If you are a travel nurse who is interested in extending your assignment, there are several options available. You may be able to negotiate an extension with the facility or organization that you are working for, or you may be able to apply for a longer-term assignment in the same facility. Additionally, there are staffing agencies that specialize in extended assignments for travel nurses. So, if you’re happy with your assignment don’t be afraid to talk to your recruiter.
Can Nurses Cancel A Contract?
While the majority of travel nursing assignments are fulfilled without issue, there may be occasions in which a nurse has to cancel a contract. Most staffing agencies have policies in place that allow for cancellations due to extenuating circumstances such as illness or family emergencies. In most cases, nurses will have to provide documentation of their situation and usually pay any applicable cancellation fees. In some cases, the nurse may be able to transfer their assignment to another travel nurse. Prior to accepting an assignment, ensure you converse with your recruiter and ask what the cancellation policies are.
Most Talked About Agencies For Travel Nurse Assignments
Conclusion
Travel nursing is a great opportunity for nurses to expand their skills and explore. All while still enjoying the flexibility of a temporary job. Though the length of a travel nurse assignment typically ranges from 8-13 weeks, there are some options to extend assignments. With some creativity and effort, you can find the right position that suits your needs.