Keeping track of travel nurse paperwork can be a nightmare! Last minute requests for items that you may or may not have easy access to while on the road can be annoying to both you and the recruiter. Avoid having any issues with your travel nurse paperwork by being organized and having everything easily accessible.
Build your Travel Nurse Portfolio
Over the years that I spent as a Travel Nurse, the one thing that consistently impressed my recruiters was my level of organization. Building your Travel Portfolio is an important step in becoming a successful Travel Nurse. At the beginning of each assignment, you will go through a travel nurse credentialing process, so be sure to update your files every so often.
Once you have selected which companies you want to provide with a profile, the next step is to start the application process. For the initial application, you will likely only need your work history and certifications. However, it is handy to have your health information on file for when you start the credentialing process.
EXPERT TIP: Save all of your Travel Nurse paperwork into a .pdf file and save as a .zip folder. This process, although time-consuming the first time, will make it a breeze to apply with new companies as well as making a lasting impression on your new recruiter. You can also use a Google Drive folder if you are comfortable with that. Remember to store this digital information on a secure, password protected site.
Checklist:
Completed Application
Many times this is online. I have had my recruiter complete the application for me in many instances from the information provided in my resume.
Resume
For the purpose of travel nurse paperwork, your resume can be simple and straight forward because your recruiter will usually have to input it in a generic system to submit you. Make certain to list the agency as well as the hospital for previous contracts. Your recruiter will need the agency information for employment checks. For additional tips on writing your resume check HERE
Immunizations / Physical
Tetanus Varicella Hepatitis B Most recent TB Test or Chest X-ray (if indicated)
Covid-19 Vaccine and Boosters Influenza (during Flu season, this is generally mandatory) Childhood immunizations
Annual physical forms will be provided by your agency once you secure a contract.
Licenses and Certifications
BLS ACLS Any other nursing certifications All active nursing licenses (if you have hard copies) Drivers License (for I-9 verification) Social Security Card or Passport (for I-9 verification)
Contact information for two or more references. Most recent job and 1-2 managers are preferred.
Staying on top of all of the travel nurse paperwork is a lot of work to begin but once it’s completed, keeping it updated regularly will save you tons of time and effort when applying for positions in the future.
If you have a company or recruiter ask for information or documents that are not listed on this file, please let us know in the comments!
Travel nurse paperwork organization is very simple in the age of technology and online storage. Stay organized as you go to help minimize frustration down the line!
Determine what travel nurse paperwork you need
We have covered most of the important items you will need access to, but now is a great time to review your checklist.
When organizing your travel nurse paperwork, make sure you have the following:
This post by Joseph Smith at Travel Tax answers many Frequently Asked Questions regarding travel nurse taxes and record keeping. For most travel nurses, itemizing tax deductions won’t be worth it, so talk to a tax professional about your unique situation before you drive yourself crazy keeping track of tons of paperwork.
Once you have determined what files you need access to, the next question is how do you organize travel nurse paperwork. There are many ways to organize your paperwork and many websites dedicated to organization that you can check out for recommendations. Perhaps you already have a system that works and need to make it mobile? Here are a few ideas on how to get organized:
Accordion Files
Having an accordion file is a nice, compact way to keep all of your important documents organized and safe.
Binder with Tabs
A three-ring binder with folders or tabs is another great way to store important documents. Keeping each tab organized by color can be helpful.
You can easily make a Google Drive folder to keep digital copies of all of your travel nurse paperwork handy. There are tons of free scanner apps that even let you convert pictures of important documents to PDF format.
Backup
When you are constantly on the move, theft or loss of documents can be more likely. No matter what method you use for travel nurse paperwork organization, be sure to have both physical and digital backup copies. For digital copies, having a portable hard drive is a great way to keep your documents safe without internet access. Consider keeping a safety deposit box or fireproof safe at home to store backup copies of physical documents.
Do you have a great suggestion or tool for staying organized while mobile? I want to hear them. What are your thoughts on the list/suggestions above?
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