December 22, 2025

723 Views

What the 2026 “Safe Staffing” Standards Mean for Travel Nurses

Posted on December 22, 2025December 1, 2025 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

How new Joint Commission requirements could shape your assignments next year!

The 2026 Safe Staffing Standards are set to reshape how hospitals staff their nursing teams—and travel nurses will feel the impact first. With the Joint Commission introducing Safe Staffing as an official National Performance Goal, hospitals will now be evaluated on how well they meet these requirements.

Beginning January 1, 2026, the Joint Commission will introduce new National Performance Goals (NPGs), and one of the biggest additions is NPG 12: Safe Staffing.

For the first time, staffing won’t just be a recommendation. It will become a measured performance standard that directly impacts hospital accreditation surveys and outcomes. And yes—travel nurses are part of the equation.

Here’s what you need to know and how these updates could affect your travel assignments in 2026.

2026 Safe Staffing Standards: What Travel Nurses Need to Know

1. Safe Staffing Becomes a Measurable Requirement

In the past, staffing expectations lived within broader HR and leadership standards. Now, Safe Staffing stands on its own—and hospitals will be required to prove they’re staffed appropriately.

For travel nurses, this could mean:

More structured staffing plans
Clearer nurse-to-patient ratios
Fewer chronically understaffed units

These changes aim to reduce burnout and support safer patient care.

2. Travel Nurses Are Officially Part of Staffing Compliance

One of the biggest shifts in 2026: hospitals must now include all nursing staff types—including travel, float, per-diem, and agency nurses—in their staffing data.

This means travel nurses will be fully incorporated into:

Staffing plans
Timekeeping accuracy
Documentation of “planned vs. actual” staffing

Instead of being treated as a bonus resource, travelers will be part of the official staffing structure from day one.

3. Stronger Orientation & Competency Requirements

Safe staffing isn’t just about numbers. Competency matters.

Under the new standards, hospitals must ensure every nurse—permanent or travel—is competent and prepared for their assigned unit. That means:

More complete unit-specific orientations
Documented skill validations
Clear requirements for floating to other units

This shift should help prevent travelers from being placed in unsafe situations without proper training or support.

4. Increased Leadership Accountability

Hospitals will need to designate a nurse executive (often the CNO) responsible for staffing outcomes. This creates:

Clearer lines of responsibility
Faster response to staffing concerns
More visibility into unit-level issues

Travel nurses may see more engagement from leadership when escalating staffing challenges.

5. More Transparency Through Data

Hospitals will now track and review data related to:

Overtime and agency usage
Staffing variances
Missed or delayed care
Vacancy and turnover rates

Over time, this transparency may help agencies and travel nurses better evaluate facilities and choose assignments with more confidence.

6. Improved Plans for Surges & Staffing Support

Facilities will be required to maintain written contingency plans for situations like:

Flu season
Sudden spikes in patient volume
Unexpected staffing shortages

These plans aim to reduce unsafe staffing situations and ensure travel nurses aren’t left carrying overwhelming patient loads.

7. What This Means for Travel Nurses in 2026

Overall, the 2026 Safe Staffing standards point toward safer, more structured, and more supportive assignments.

Travel nurses can expect:

More consistent ratios
Better onboarding and competency validation
Stronger leadership involvement
Reduced burnout
A more empowered role in staffing discussions

These changes reflect long-standing concerns from nurses nationwide—and turn them into measurable expectations hospitals must meet.

Looking for Your Next Travel Assignment?

If you’re planning for 2026, The Gypsy Nurse can help you find assignments at facilities committed to safe staffing and supportive work environments. 👉 Explore current travel nurse jobs on our job board.

By Titan Medical

December 16, 2025

414 Views

Why You Should Book Your Assignment Now for After the Holidays

Posted on December 16, 2025December 10, 2025 by Titan Medical

Every year, travel nurses face the same post-holiday scramble: contracts expire, winter census rises, and suddenly every traveler in the country is fighting for the same handful of assignments. If you’ve been in the game long enough, you already know… January is one of the most competitive months in healthcare staffing.

Yet even with that pattern repeating itself annually, thousands of travelers still wait until after Christmas or New Year’s to look for their next assignment… and many end up frustrated, underpaid, or stuck with limited options.

Here’s why right now is the smartest time to get your next contract on the books and why booking early is one of the easiest ways to protect your income, your flexibility, and your stress levels!

1. January & February Are High-Demand, Low-Supply Months

Historically, the first 6–8 weeks of the year see some of the heaviest facility needs due to:

Increased winter illness (flu, RSV, pneumonia spikes)
Holiday burnout among staff
PTO requests rolling over
Seasonal traveler shortages
Higher patient volumes in the Midwest, Northeast, and mountain states

But here’s the catch:
Hospitals post these needs early.
They want travelers locked in before the holiday chaos begins.

If you wait until January to start looking, you’re now competing with travelers who already submitted in November or December.

2. Early Birds Get the Higher Pay Packages

When needs are first released, pay packages are typically at their best:

Less competition = higher rates
More unfilled needs = more aggressive offers
Greater facility urgency = faster onboarding
First-come travelers get first pick

As assignments start to fill, many hospitals adjust rates downward because their urgency drops.

Travelers who book early often secure:

–Higher weekly pay
–Better locations
–Preferred specialties
–Nicer housing options

Waiting = settling.

3. Credentialing Goes Much Smoother When You Start Now

The holiday season slows everything down:

HR teams
Background check processors
Compliance departments
License boards
Testing centers

If you wait until December 26th to start onboarding, you may not clear in time, even if you want a January 2nd start.

Booking your assignment now means you can get through:

Credentialing
Drug screens
References
EMR modules

…before the seasonal slowdown hits.

4. Waiting Until After the Holidays = Fewer Options

January is notorious for being the time of year when travelers have:

Fewer specialties available
Fewer shift options
Fewer “bucket list” locations
Fewer day-shift jobs
Fewer flexible managers
Fewer chances to extend

Because by January, many of the best postings have been snatched up.

Travel nurses who secure their assignment early have the full menu — not the leftovers.

5. Booking Early Means You Can Actually Enjoy the Holidays

Imagine this:

Your contract is signed.
Your start date is set.
Your badge photo is ready.
Your housing is secured.
Your first-day instructions are in your inbox.

Now imagine the alternative:

Scrolling job boards on Christmas Eve.
Submitting to 12 listings on December 27th.
Panicking when your license verification is delayed.
Begging HR to process your paperwork before Jan 1.

Booking early gives you peace of mind, and that peace of mind makes the holidays better for you and your family.

6. Winter Weather Travel is REAL, and It Delays Start Dates

If you’re taking an assignment in the Midwest, Northeast, Rockies, PNW, or upper Great Plains… you already know what winter can do to your travel schedule.

Booking now allows:

Better route planning
Buffer days for storms
Earlier arrival windows
Safer travel conditions

Facilities love travelers who show up prepared, not stuck in an airport.

7. Extensions Become Easier When You’re Strategic

If you get into a great facility in early January, you’re perfectly positioned for:

A longer stay
A possible extension
A contract bump if needs increase
Stability during spring’s unpredictable market

Starting late often means your contract ends at a time when hiring temporarily slows down (March/April), which leaves travelers scrambling again.

If you want the best pay, the widest range of locations, and the smoothest onboarding experience, booking your after-holiday assignment now is one of the smartest moves you can make.

You’re not just choosing a job.
You’re choosing your January peace of mind, your winter income, and your 2026 momentum.

A Small Note from an Agency That Gets It

At Titan Medical Group, we see this every year. Travelers who lock in their next assignment early tend to:

Get the highest rates
Land their ideal locations
Have the easiest onboarding
And enjoy their holidays without stress

If you need help strategizing your next assignment or just want a realistic look at what the market will look like after the holidays, any of our recruiters would be happy to walk you through it!

No pressure.
No hard sell.
Just honest guidance from people who want you to start 2026 strong.

Don’t wait—book your travel nurse assignment early to get the best pay, top locations, and stress-free onboarding. Explore openings now!

Written by Phoebe Lyman, for Titan Medical Group

By trustaff

August 3, 2025

1938 Views

10 Essential Steps a Travel Nurse Should Take Before Accepting an Assignment

Posted on August 3, 2025July 24, 2025 by trustaff

Travel nursing offers an exciting opportunity to explore new places, gain diverse clinical experience, and enjoy competitive pay. But before jumping into a new assignment, it’s crucial to take a thoughtful and strategic approach. Here are ten essential steps every travel nurse should take before accepting a new contract to ensure the experience is rewarding, safe, and professionally beneficial.

1. Understand the Contract Details Thoroughly

Before signing anything, read the contract carefully. Pay close attention to:

Start and end dates
Guaranteed hours
Cancellation policies
Overtime rates
Housing stipends
Travel reimbursements

If anything is unclear, ask your recruiter for clarification. Contracts are binding, so understanding every clause is critical.

2. Research the Facility and Unit

Not all hospitals or units are created equal. Look into:

Facility reputation (check reviews on sites like Glassdoor or Indeed)
Unit culture and staffing ratios
Technology and charting systems used
Patient population and acuity levels

Talking to other travel nurses who’ve worked there can provide invaluable insights.

3. Evaluate the Location

Location can make or break your experience. Consider:

Cost of living (especially if you’re taking a housing stipend)
Safety and accessibility
Weather and climate
Local attractions and lifestyle fit

Use tools like Numbeo or local Facebook groups to get a feel for the area.

4. Confirm Licensing Requirements

Each state has its own nursing license requirements. If you’re not already licensed in the state of your assignment:

Check if it’s part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Apply for a temporary or permanent license if needed
Factor in processing time to avoid delays

Your agency may assist with this, but it’s ultimately your responsibility.

5. Assess Housing Options

Whether you choose agency-provided housing or take a stipend, make sure your living situation is secure and comfortable. Consider:

Proximity to the facility
Safety of the neighborhood
Lease flexibility
Furnished vs. unfurnished options

Short-term rental platforms like Furnished Finder or Airbnb can be helpful.

6. Clarify Pay and Benefits

Beyond the hourly rate, understand the full compensation package:

Taxable vs. non-taxable income
Bonuses (sign-on, completion, referral)
Health insurance and retirement plans
Reimbursements (scrubs, licensing, travel)

Ask for a pay breakdown to see exactly what you’ll be earning and spending.

7. Prepare for Credentialing and Onboarding

Hospitals often require specific documentation before you start. Be ready to provide:

Immunization records
Certifications (BLS, ACLS, etc.)
Background checks and drug screens
Skills checklists and references

Start gathering these early to avoid delays in your start date.

8. Plan for Transportation and Logistics

Will you be driving, flying, or taking public transit? Make sure you:

Budget for travel costs
Understand parking availability and costs
Know your commute time
Have a backup plan for emergencies

If you’re bringing a car, check for insurance coverage across state lines.

9. Review Your Agency’s Support System

A good travel nursing agency should offer strong support. Ask about:

24/7 clinical support
Emergency contacts
Assignment extensions or early terminations
Help with housing or licensing issues

Knowing you have a reliable team behind you can make a big difference.

10. Reflect on Your Personal and Professional Goals

Finally, ask yourself:

Does this assignment align with my career goals?
Will I gain new skills or certifications?
Is the location somewhere I’ll enjoy living?
Am I mentally and physically prepared for the demands?

Taking time to reflect ensures you’re making a decision that supports both your well-being and your professional growth.

Final Thoughts

Travel nursing is a unique and rewarding career path, but it requires careful planning and consideration. By following these ten steps, you’ll be better equipped to choose assignments that are safe, fulfilling, and aligned with your goals. Remember, every assignment is a stepping stone—make sure it’s one that moves you forward.

Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel healthcare assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Titan Medical

October 30, 2024

2840 Views

Leveling Up: How Strategic Travel Assignments Build Your Nursing Expertise

Posted on October 30, 2024October 25, 2024 by Titan Medical

Titan Medical Group provided this article.

One of the greatest advantages of travel nursing is the opportunity to develop specialized skills by working at top-tier facilities across the country. Each hospital, clinic, or specialty unit offers unique learning experiences that allow travel nurses to deepen their expertise and expand their knowledge in ways that a single permanent position might not provide. By choosing travel assignments strategically, every stop along the way can serve as a stepping stone toward advancing your career.

4 strategic travel assignments to build your nursing expertise:

Neuro-Heavy ICU Travel Assignments

For instance, working in a neuro-heavy ICU can sharpen your understanding of stroke care, neurotrauma, and advanced brain monitoring systems. This can give you an edge when applying for future roles. Facilities with comprehensive stroke centers or brain and spine institutes provide hands-on experience with critical neurological conditions, offering significant opportunities to grow in this area.

Similarly, if cardiac care is your passion, targeting cardiology-focused units can take your skills to the next level. Nurses in these environments gain exposure to advanced procedures like heart transplants, post-op cardiac care, and technologies such as LVADs. For example, at Titan Medical, we often refer travelers with strong cardiac backgrounds to the University of Louisville. They are a leading cardiac center with a variety of opportunities for nurses to work alongside top specialists and deepen their expertise.

Level I trauma center assignments

Travel assignments at Level I trauma centers are another excellent way to build skills, especially for nurses who thrive in high-pressure environments! These facilities expose nurses to critical situations, from gunshot wounds to severe motor vehicle accidents, refining their ability to make quick decisions and apply trauma protocols effectively. On the other hand, rural hospital travel assignments may seem less glamorous but provide unparalleled experience in autonomy and critical thinking. With fewer resources and staff, rural nurses manage a wide range of cases independently, often juggling multiple specialties within a single shift. This type of experience builds confidence and clinical versatility, making it a valuable addition to any nurse’s resume.

Academic medical centers offer yet another path for growth!

These institutions are often on the cutting edge of medical research and innovation. Travel nurses assigned to these hospitals benefit from access to ongoing education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship opportunities. Many academic hospitals, such as Mayo Clinic or Johns Hopkins, encourage nurses to attend lectures, participate in medical rounds, and engage with complex cases. This allows for both learning and leadership development. For those interested in family-centered care, travel assignments at pediatric hospitals or maternal health units offer experience in areas like neonatal care, labor and delivery, and pediatric intensive care. Facilities such as Cincinnati Children’s Hospital or Texas Children’s Hospital are ideal for nurses looking to specialize in these fields!

Travel assignments at magnet-designated hospitals

Working at Magnet-designated hospitals can also be a game-changer for travel nurses, as these facilities prioritize excellence and evidence-based practices. Magnet hospitals not only foster professional growth but also provide leadership opportunities. Nurses working at institutions like Cleveland Clinic or New York Presbyterian gain exposure to innovative practices and benefit from a collaborative environment that emphasizes professional development.

At Titan Medical, we understand that every travel assignment is more than just a paycheck—it’s an opportunity to grow and learn. That’s why we guide our travelers toward travel assignments that align with their goals, whether they want to develop neuro expertise, build cardiac skills, or gain trauma experience. With our knowledge of the industry and strong relationships with top facilities, we help nurses find the right travel assignments to match their ambitions. No matter where you want your career to go, there’s a travel assignment that can help you get there. At Titan Medical, we’re here to help you strategically build your skillset, one travel assignment at a time.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Furnished Finder

August 29, 2024

3724 Views

Fall Travel Assignments: Small Town, Big City, or Something In Between

Posted on August 29, 2024August 26, 2024 by Furnished Finder

When planning your fall travel assignment, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to go. One way to help you narrow it down is to ask yourself: do you want a small town, a big city, or something in between? Each has its own unique benefits.

Fall Travel Assignments: Small Town, Big City, or Something In Between:

Small Town

As days start to cool and leaves start to change, the first thought that might come to mind is a cuddly sweatshirt and pumpkin décor. Choosing a small town for your next assignment can give you the full fall experience of a Hallmark movie with apple orchards and pumpkin patches. There are countless rural hospitals throughout the United States looking for nurses. Working in a small-town hospital might provide a nice change from the hustle and bustle of a big city.

An extra benefit, if you enjoy the outdoors, is that working in a rural area can put you closer to the great outdoors, where you can experience the changing of the season firsthand. So, if you want a small-town experience in the Midwest, Mountain regions, or anywhere else with fall festivals and corn mazes, use Furnished Finder to find a place to stay that will put you in the middle of all the small-town activities.

Big City

If small-town life is not your cup of tea or cup of pumpkin spice, you can look to a big city for your fall travel nurse assignment. Many of the nation’s largest and most prestigious hospitals can be found in big cities, such as Boston’s Children’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, or Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. Working at one of these facilities can surely boost your resume and your nursing skills. On your days off, you will never be short of places to explore or things to see.

The big city may not have pumpkin patches or corn mazes nearby, but if you are looking for a haunted experience this fall, big cities such as Portland, New Orleans, and Chicago are full of ghost sightings. Just use Furnished Finder to ensure your newest housing location is not a nightmare.

Something In-Between

If the hustle and bustle of the city is too much for you, but a small town is too quiet, a midsize town might be perfect. A midsize town like Raleigh, North Carolina, or Colorado Springs, Colorado, has the best of both worlds. You are still in a metropolis area with all the shops and convenience of a big city, but less traffic. Plus, you are conveniently closer to small towns and outdoor areas. Nursing opportunities are still abundant in midsize towns and may offer the opportunity to work in a larger medical facility or something smaller.

A midsize town can also be close enough to a big city that you can easily drive to see and experience all the big city has to offer without the hassle of driving through the traffic to work every day. Small-town experiences can be just outside a midsize city as well, allowing you to enjoy the best small-town fall festivals without having to live in solitude. Furnished Finder can help you find the perfect place between a small town and a large city.

Conclusion

Fall is one of the most exciting seasons. There is so much to do and experience. When you are searching for your next fall travel assignment, think about what type of experience you want to have: a small town, a big city, or maybe even both. Midsize towns are a great way to experience the best of both worlds. Whatever you choose, Furnished Finder has a vast availability of rentals that will suit your travel nurse needs.

We hope you found this article on fall travel assignments: small town, big city, or something in between helpful. Do you have any preference for housing during your fall travel assignments? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Uniti Med

June 10, 2024

5465 Views

Top 5 Summer Travel Destinations for Your Next Adventure

Posted on June 10, 2024June 10, 2024 by Uniti Med

Uniti Med provided this article.

Uniti Med recruiters have curated a list of top destinations to consider for your next summer assignment. From stunning natural landscapes to vibrant cultural hotspots, get ready to embrace the summer with these five summer travel destinations.

Top 5 Summer Travel Destinations for Your Next Adventure

1. Marquette, Michigan (Upper Peninsula)

Summer in Marquette is perfect for nature lovers. Nestled on Lake Superior, this charming town offers scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Hike Presque Isle Park, kayak the coastline or explore the lush forests. Don’t miss Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views. Marquette is an ideal summer getaway with vibrant local culture and stunning landscapes. Explore jobs in Michigan.

2. Rapid City, South Dakota (Black Hills, Deadwood, Sturgis)

Experience summer in Rapid City, where the Black Hills meet Wild West history. Visit Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, or drive through Custer State Park to spot wildlife. Explore Deadwood’s historic charm and enjoy the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Rapid City offers adventure, history, and natural beauty. Explore jobs in Rapid City.

3. Boise, Idaho

Boise, Idaho’s capital, is a summer paradise with warm weather and outdoor activities. Bike along the Boise River Greenbelt, hike the foothills, or paddleboard on the river. Boise’s cultural scene includes festivals, art galleries, and farm-to-table dining. Whether downtown or in nature, Boise offers urban charm and outdoor adventure. Explore jobs in Idaho.

4. Portland and Bangor, Maine

Maine, in summer, is a coastal wonderland. In Portland, stroll the historic Old Port, enjoy seafood at waterfront restaurants, and ferry to Casco Bay islands. Bangor, rich in history and culture, provides access to Acadia National Park. Hike Cadillac Mountain, explore fishing villages or kayak the rugged coastline. Portland and Bangor together offer a quintessential Maine summer experience. Explore jobs in Maine.

5. Louisville, Kentucky

Summer in Louisville is a celebration of culture, cuisine, and southern hospitality. Known for the Kentucky Derby, Louisville boasts a lively arts scene, beautiful parks, and a scenic riverfront. Explore historic neighborhoods with art galleries and boutiques. Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum or cruise the Ohio River. Louisville offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore jobs in Kentucky.

Each of these summer travel destinations offers unique charms and attractions for travelers seeking a memorable summer experience. Pack your bags, embrace adventure, and let Uniti Med help you find your next dream assignment.

Safe travels!

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Medical Solutions

September 16, 2023

15474 Views

How Long Do Travel Nurses Stay at One Assignment?

Posted on September 16, 2023September 25, 2023 by Medical Solutions

Medical Solutions provided this article.

By Sarah Wengert

If you’re a new or aspiring traveler, you’ve probably wondered about the length of travel nursing assignments. Are travel nurses constantly on the go, or can they unpack and stay awhile? What is “awhile” anyway?

Travel nursing jobs vary in length, and that variance depends on each facility’s staffing needs. When choosing the right assignment length, travelers should consider things like original contract length, the possibility of extending an assignment, and other factors that will be unique to them and their needs.
There are also important IRS tax compliance considerations that impact your ability to receive lodging, meals, and incidental per diems on a non-taxable basis. Your staffing agency will have its own internal policies that align with several important IRS rules that ensure you are eligible to receive non-taxable travel benefits.

How long can You remain in the same general location while on a Travel assignment?

If you wish to continue to receive non-taxable per diems (and nearly all traveling clinicians do!), the short answer is that you cannot remain in the same general assignment location for more than one year. While many IRS rules are unclear, this is one that’s fairly straightforward: Among other requirements, working in any particular assignment location must be “temporary” in order to receive non-taxable per diems. The IRS rules state that if your assignment lasts, or is expected to last, more than one year, then the assignment is not “temporary”. And as a result, you are not entitled to non-taxable per diems. The months at the assignment location do not have to occur consecutively to hit the 12-month limit.

What is the Average Length of a Travel Assignment?

Most travel nursing assignments last 13 weeks, but they can come in many other lengths. Other common travel nurse assignment lengths include 8, 4, or even 1-2 weeks on the shorter side. On the longer side, sometimes travel jobs last 20 or even 26 weeks.

That brings us to the next important thing to know about how long travel nurses stay in one location: Travel nursing assignment extensions!

Can You Extend Your Travel Nurse Assignment?

Yes, you can extend your travel nurse assignment if both you and the facility agree to an extension.

Many facilities like to extend a travel nursing assignment when they still have the staffing need and are happy and familiar with a traveler. Many travelers like to extend their assignment when they’re happy with the facility and location.

When it works for both a facility and a traveler, travel nurse assignment extensions provide a smooth transition into a longer-term arrangement for both parties!

Remember that you can always ask your recruiter for a specific length of assignment if that’s what you need. You might not be able to choose your exact travel nurse assignment length, but it never hurts to ask your recruiter so they’re looking out for you and your unique needs. A good recruiter will always do their best to get as close as possible to your request from the current pool of available travel nursing assignments — so make sure you openly communicate your needs to them.

Again, the duration of your travel nursing job depends on the facility’s staffing needs and their particular interest in you. So, some assignments may last for an irregular time span if that’s what’s needed. Ultimately, a travel nurse can safely stay in one place for as long as the facility needs them and agrees to rehire them for up to 12 months. And, of course, when a traveler agrees to stay in that facility and location!

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

February 20, 2023

2602 Views

5 States For Your Spring Travel RN Assignments

Posted on February 20, 2023February 20, 2023 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

It’s almost March, which means it’s time to start thinking about your springtime travel nurse assignment. As the ice and snow start to melt, it’s likely that your first-time traveler jitters are beginning to thaw as well. As you think about your next move, take a look at these five states with lots of jobs that would be great for your springtime travel nurse assignment.

Tennessee

Tennessee is known for its vibrant music scene, whiskey, and the Great Smoky Mountains. You can take an assignment in Nashville, home of country music, where you can attend outdoor concerts, visit music museums, and take part in lively street parties. Within a two-hour drive of Nashville, you can visit the Jack Daniel’s Distillery and book a tour. Or venture over to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can view lush greenery and colorful wildflowers blooming against a backdrop of majestic peaks during the spring.

Illinois

Illinois is a great place to welcome in spring. Fall in love with the Windy City as you venture down the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can see the river run green during St. Patrick’s Day festivities, hop on a river cruise to learn more about the city or rent a bike on a leisurely afternoon. Then, take a short drive to The Morton Arboretum, where you can get lost in a maze garden and learn more about the trees and plants as you take a hike on 16 miles of trails.

Michigan

Michigan is a great state to visit as the weather turns warmer. Michigan touches four of the five Great Lakes and has more than 11,000 lakes throughout it, so spending time on the water is a given during your travel nurse assignment. If you spend time in Michigan, Traverse City’s cherry blossoms are a sight to see, and the region’s wine-tasting tours are worth experiencing. You can also visit Mackinac Island in late spring to enjoy stunning views of Lake Huron, horse-drawn carriage rides, and fudge shops.

Massachusetts

Spring is a wonderful time to explore Massachusetts, and there are many exciting things to do.

Baseball fans should catch a game at Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox. Of course, you’ll also want to visit Martha’s Vineyard, a popular destination known for its beaches, lighthouses, and charming towns. With no chain stores or restaurants, it’s a great place to find unique shopping and dining. Finally, don’t miss the chance to set sail with Cape Ann Whale Watch, which will give you the chance to see several whale species in the wild.

Texas

Take a travel nurse assignment in Texas this spring and enjoy everything the Lone Star State has to offer. During spring, bluebonnet season is in full swing, so take a drive to the Hill Country for some amazing views of this state flower. In San Antonio, the River Walk is a popular destination with its shops, restaurants, and boat tours. You can also head to Austin for the live music scene or visit one of Dallas’ many museums and parks. While you’re in Texas, be sure to find a long weekend to visit Big Bend National Park, which offers beautiful scenery and outdoor activities like hiking and stargazing.

Preparing for Your Spring Travel Assignment

While Texas and Tennessee are compact states, you might need help getting a license for the others. Ask your travel nurse agency if they have a quality assurance department that can help assist you with getting your license. Your agency should have your back, helping you secure the nursing licenses you need to get ready for your spring assignment. Once you have everything you need, get ready to plan your springtime adventures!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By trustaff

December 15, 2022

3345 Views

Cali Dreaming – Top Reasons to Take Your Next Assignment in California

Posted on December 15, 2022December 13, 2022 by trustaff

Trustaff provided this article.

California has so much to offer to any traveler, let alone healthcare travelers. It’s a highly sought location to travel to for many great reasons specific to healthcare travelers. We’ve come up with this very appealing list of reasons why you should think about taking your next assignment in the Golden State of California!

Top reasons to take your next travel assignment in California:

Cali Dreaming – Top Reasons to Take Your Next Assignment in California

With the size of the state and many different hospital systems and facilities throughout, there are always many travel jobs available. California’s market for travelers is always consistent, and the need for travelers is always steady. Not only do they have a wide variety of assignments, but they also offer fantastic pay. Many assignments in the state are higher than in most other states. If you ever think there isn’t an assignment in the Golden State matching your specialty or modality, think again! California is full of high-paying assignments for healthcare travelers of all kinds.

On the topic of the size of the state, California offers an endless amount of tourist attractions whether you’re looking for adventures on your off days or just some fresh relaxation. Are you a fan of amazing year-round weather? Southern California may be your cup of tea. South Cali offers many of the staples for tourists, such as Hollywood, Disneyland, and the San Diego Zoo, (check to see if your agency offers perks or discounts on tickets!) Palm Springs and various vineyards if you’re into the wine life. Southern California is always a fan favorite. If you’re more of an outdoorsy adventurer, travelers love Northern California. Locations like Redwood National Forest, take a walk and explore the Golden Gate Bridge, find your new favorite restaurant in the extravagant dining in Napa, and we hear NorCal also has a large vineyard and wine selection. The adventures are absolutely endless in California.

One of the best parts of working in California is the state’s mandated nurse-patient ratio laws. In 2004, the state of California enacted mandatory ratios for the safety of healthcare workers. California is the only state to have such laws. In most hospitals, the mandated ratio of a minimum of one nurse for every five patients (1:5). In an ICU unit, the ratio is one to two (1:2). Many healthcare travelers love traveling to CA to work in a state where they can practice safely.

Don’t have a CA license yet? No worries! California has emergency licenses (EMSA) available until 2/28/23, and your agency can help you with applying for an EMSA license. California’s new temporary license process is much faster than previously – travelers are applying for their temporary licenses and receiving them in 2-3 weeks. If you have already applied for an EMSA, you’ll be ahead of the game when it comes to processing a temporary or permanent license. As an added bonus, many companies help cover the costs of your new licenses. This means you apply for the license (with help from your agency if needed), and they’ll reimburse you for the fees. Some companies are adding extra perks or benefits for getting a new state license – Trustaff offers a free iPad or Apple Watch!

The opportunities, adventures, and career experiences are endless in the state of California. Many travelers extend multiple times as CA has much to offer. So what do we think – are you ready to travel to California?

We hope you found this article on the top reasons to take your next travel assignment in California helpful. Are there any other reasons you think California is a great place to take your next travel assignment? Comment below.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

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