Word travels fast, that’s for sure. As with any profession, it’s common for myths and misconceptions to be floating around the travel nursing industry. It’s easy to believe what you hear through the grapevine, but many times, what you’re hearing isn’t true! So, it’s important to make sure you know what’s true and what’s false, especially when it comes to travel nursing. Continue reading as we debunk some of the most common myths about travel nurses.
Common Myths about Travel Nurses
1. Travel Nursing Looks Bad on a Resume
We’re often told that working at the same place for many years looks good on a resume. Since travel nurses usually only work in a hospital for 13 weeks before moving to another, doesn’t this look bad on a resume? The answer is no! Employers know that travel nursing positions are temporary and that you’re not just jumping from job to job. In fact, travel nursing looks GREAT on your resume! It shows that you’re able to quickly adapt to working in new places with new people.
2. The Permanent Staff Treats Travel Nurses Poorly
Another one of the common myths about travel nurses is that they are treated like outsiders by the permanent staff. This is also false! Travel nurses usually come to a hospital to help out due to a shortage of staff. That way, the permanent staff isn’t as stressed and overworked. If anything, travel nurses are the permanent staff’s saving grace, and the permanent staff is grateful to have the extra help. As long as you have a positive attitude and a good work ethic, expect a warm welcome!
3. All Travel Nursing Assignments are in Big Cities
The fewer people there are in a town, they’ll need fewer nurses, right? Well, not exactly. It’s true that there are more opportunities in urban areas with a large, more condensed population. However, when it comes to rural areas, hospitals often struggle to retain nurses, so there is a high demand for them. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that there is a “higher share of employment than average” in rural states like South Dakota and West Virginia. With that being said, travel nurses are the perfect solution to nursing shortages in rural towns.
4. Travel Nurses Need to be Young
There is no age limit on travel nursing! Whether you’re 28 or 68, travel nursing is a great way to explore the country. For older nurses whose kids are grown and independent, travel nursing is the perfect way to visit different places, since they don’t need to worry too much about leaving their children. Not only that, but travel nursing is perfect for nurses who are nearing retirement, but aren’t ready to stop working entirely. As a travel nurse, they can still do what they love while working at their own pace.
5. Travel Nurses Must Fly Solo
Many people assume that travel nurses can’t bring their family or pets with them on assignment. Luckily, that’s not the case. Most companies will accommodate a travel nurse’s family very well. Some even offer additional rooms for travel nurses and their families. When it comes to pets, you may be required to pay a small pet deposit, but it’s a small price to pay for your furry friend to come with you on your adventure!
6. LPNs Can’t be Travel Nurses
Another common misconception is that travel nurses must be registered nurses. While it’s true that the majority of travel nurses are RNs, there are plenty of positions for LPNs as well! In fact, travel LPNs earn around 15 percent more than those who have permanent positions. Learn more about your opportunities as an LPN in the video below!
Well, there you have it! We’ve officially debunked six of the most common myths about travel nurses. So, the next time someone tries to downplay travel nursing, you’ll know the facts. What are some other myths about travel nurses that you’ve heard? Let us know in the comments below!
