11 Steps To Become a Mobile Nurse

A career as a mobile nurse offers flexibility, adventure, and the opportunity to provide healthcare in diverse settings. Mobile nurses, often referred to as travel nurses, work in various locations, providing care wherever it's needed�whether in hospitals, clinics, home health settings, or remote areas.

If you're interested in what travel nurses are and how you can become one, we outline the essential steps to help you start this exciting and rewarding career. Additionally, we'll address common questions and provide insights to help you navigate this career choice effectively.

How To Become a Travel Nurse

Becoming a travel or mobile nurse requires several years of commitment to schooling and earning certifications. Follow each of the steps we explain below.

1. Obtain a Nursing Degree

The first step to becoming a mobile nurse is earning a nursing degree. There are two types of nursing degrees you can earn at different levels.

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) typically takes two years to complete and is offered at community colleges and some universities. An ADN allows you to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and start working more quickly.

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program usually takes four years and is offered at universities and colleges. While a BSN requires a longer commitment, it provides more comprehensive training and can open up more opportunities, including higher pay and advanced roles.

Learn more: Completing Your RN to BSN To Become a Travel Nurse

2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

After completing your nursing degree, the next step is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This standardized exam is required to obtain your RN license and practice nursing in the United States.

The exam tests your knowledge and skills across various areas of nursing, including patient care, safety, and ethical practice.

3. Gain Nursing Experience

Before becoming a mobile nurse, gaining experience as a staff nurse in a hospital or other healthcare setting is crucial. Most travel nursing agencies require at least one to two years of clinical experience in a specialized area such as emergency room (ER), intensive care unit (ICU), medical-surgical (Med-Surg), or pediatrics.

This experience helps build the skills and confidence needed to adapt to different clinical environments.

4. Obtain Additional Certifications

While not always required, additional certifications can enhance your qualifications as a mobile nurse. Certifications in specific specialties, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), or Critical Care Nursing (CCRN), can make you a more competitive candidate for travel nursing assignments and increase your earning potential.

5. Research and Choose a Reputable Travel Nursing Agency

Finding a reputable travel nursing agency is crucial to a successful career as a mobile nurse. Agencies connect nurses with travel assignments, handle logistics, and provide support throughout the assignment.

Research different agencies, read reviews, and speak with other travel nurses to find an agency that matches your career goals, offers competitive pay, and provides strong support.

6. Obtain the Necessary Licenses

To work as a travel nurse, you must be licensed in the state where you plan to work. Some states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in multiple states with a single license.

For states not in the NLC, you must apply for a license by endorsement. Your travel nursing agency can assist you with the licensing process.

7. Apply for Travel Nursing Assignments

Once you have chosen an agency and obtained the necessary licenses, it's time to start applying for travel nursing assignments. Your agency recruiter will work with you to find assignments that match your skills, experience, and preferences.

Travel assignments typically last around two to six months, but shorter and longer assignments are also available. Be open to exploring different locations and settings to gain diverse experience.

8. Prepare for Your Assignments

Preparation is key to a successful travel nursing assignment. Once you accept an assignment, take the time to research the facility, the area, and the patient population you will be working with.

Prepare your travel arrangements and ensure you have all the necessary documentation, such as your nursing license, certifications, immunization records, and any required state-specific paperwork. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the local culture and healthcare practices to ensure a smooth transition.

9. Adapt and Thrive in New Environments

Being adaptable is crucial for mobile nurses. You will work in different healthcare settings with different teams and protocols, which requires flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new environments.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for building rapport with new colleagues and patients. Stay open-minded, be proactive in learning, and don't hesitate to ask questions when needed.

10. Maintain Professional Development

Continuing education is vital for all nurses, including mobile nurses. Staying updated with the latest nursing practices, technology, and healthcare trends enhances your skills and keeps you competitive in the job market.

Many travel nursing agencies offer continuing education opportunities and reimbursements for additional certifications.

11. Evaluate Your Experience and Plan Your Next Steps

After each assignment, take the time to evaluate your experience. Reflect on what you learned, what you enjoyed, and what challenges you faced.

Use this reflection to plan your next steps, whether seeking new assignments, pursuing further education, or exploring new specialties.

More Information About Becoming a Mobile Nurse

Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about becoming a travel nurse to give you more information about getting into this career.

What Is the Role of a Mobile Nurse?

A mobile nurse provides healthcare services in various locations, often moving between hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. The role requires flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to provide high-quality care in different settings.

Mobile nurses may be hired to fill temporary staffing shortages, assist during peak demand periods, or provide specialized care not available locally.

How Do You Choose the Right Travel Nursing Agency?

Choosing the right travel nursing agency is a critical decision that can significantly impact your experience as a mobile nurse. Consider the following tips when selecting an agency.

• Reputation: Look for agencies with positive reviews from other travel nurses. Speak with current or former nurses who have worked with the agency.
• Support: Ensure the agency offers strong support, including 24/7 access to recruiters, assistance with licensing and housing, and comprehensive health benefits.
• Pay and benefits: Compare pay rates, bonuses, and benefits between agencies. Some agencies offer higher base pay, while others may provide more extensive benefits.
• Assignment options: Look for agencies with a wide range of assignment options in locations where you're interested in working.

What Are the Key Benefits of Being a Mobile Nurse?

Being a travel nurse offers numerous benefits, including:

• Flexibility: Travel nurses have the freedom to choose their assignments, locations, and schedules, allowing for better work-life balance.
• Higher pay: Travel nurses often earn higher wages than staff nurses due to the temporary nature of their assignments and the demand for their services.
• Diverse experience: Working in different healthcare settings exposes travel nurses to various medical conditions, patient populations, and healthcare practices, enhancing their skills and experience.
• Travel opportunities: Travel nursing allows you to explore new places, experience different cultures, and meet new people, all while doing the job you love.

What Challenges Might You Face as a Mobile Nurse?

While being a mobile nurse offers many rewards, it also comes with some challenges that we list below.

• Constant adaptation: Moving frequently requires adaptability to new environments, teams, and protocols.
• Loneliness and isolation: Being away from family and friends for extended periods can be challenging.
• Uncertainty: Contracts and assignments may vary, and there can be uncertainty about where you will be working next.
• Licensing requirements: Navigating different state licensing requirements can be time-consuming and costly.

How Can Mobile Nurses Manage Work-Life Balance?

Maintaining a work-life balance as a mobile nurse can be challenging due to the constant movement and adaptation required. However, there are several strategies to help manage this balance effectively.

First, it's important to plan your time off by scheduling breaks between assignments to rest and recharge. Use this downtime to reconnect with family and friends, which can help maintain personal relationships despite frequent travel.

Staying connected through technology is also crucial; regularly using video calls, social media, and messaging apps can help you stay in touch with loved ones, even when you're far from home.

Additionally, prioritizing self-care is essential for preventing burnout. Make time for exercise, hobbies, and relaxation to maintain your physical and mental well-being.

Finally, setting clear boundaries between work and personal time, especially during longer assignments, can help you avoid overworking and ensure you have time to unwind and take care of yourself.

What Are Some Tips for Succeeding as a Mobile Nurse?

To succeed as a mobile nurse, consider these tips.

• Stay organized: Keep all necessary documentation, such as licenses and certifications, readily accessible. Use digital tools to manage your assignments, schedules, and travel plans.
• Be proactive: Take initiative in learning about each new facility's protocols and building rapport with your new colleagues.
• Stay positive and open-minded: Approach each new assignment with a positive attitude and an open mind. Be ready to learn and adapt to different healthcare settings.
• Network: Build a strong professional network with other travel nurses and healthcare professionals. Networking can provide support, advice, and information about future assignments.

Is Mobile Nursing Right for You?

Mobile nursing can be an exciting and rewarding career for those who enjoy flexibility, travel, and diverse work environments. However, it also requires adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to face new challenges. If you thrive in dynamic settings and are open to new experiences, mobile nursing could be a great fit for you.