Travel Nursing Stories

Stories From Other Travel Nurses

For those contemplating the travel nurse field: The best way to learn about the travel nursing field is from those who are actually in the travel nursing trenches. This form was created to give travel nurses a venue to post their experiences.

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For experienced travelers: Do you have a travel nursing experience? Share it by answering the travel nurse questionnaire!

Name: David
ResidentState: MN
Specialty: Tele
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 2
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: CCTC
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: CCTC
NonFriendlyHospital: NA
Favoritecity: San Fran
LeastFavoriteCity: Orlando
Date: 15 Nov 2007
Time: 10:21:31

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Good, busy.

TellAFirstTimer

Need positive attitude and be flexible. If not don't travel.

Name: Amanda
ResidentState: MO
Specialty: MICU
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 4
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: Onward Healthcare
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: PPR
NonFriendlyHospital: Not yet
Favoritecity: Danbury, Connecticut
LeastFavoriteCity: Midland, TX
Date: 19 Nov 2007
Time: 21:15:18

FirstTravelNurseExperience

PPR is a horrible company. My recruiter lied to me from day one then every other day until I was done with my assignment. My apartment was filled with roaches and then filled with mice when it became cold outside. My recruiter said I would be working in teaching hospital but that was a lie too. Then I got stuck paying utility bills and apartment fees when the apartment complex claimed they never received payment. Never work with PPR. When I complained to my recruiter he would either not take my calls or get very nasty with me. PPR is the worst travel company ever!!!!

TellAFirstTimer

Name: Joe
ResidentState: PA
Specialty: Acute/Chronic Dialysis
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: HPS Staffing, LLC
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: American Mobile (cheap), Foundation ( misinformation)
NonFriendlyHospital: Porterville Dialysis, CA & FMC Show Low, AZ
Favoritecity: Oroville, CA
LeastFavoriteCity: Porterville, CA
Date: 23 Nov 2007
Time: 21:54:04

FirstTravelNurseExperience

It was a 5. It was at Thomas Jefferson Hospital's outpatient unit. It was all RNs, no PCTs. We had to adjust ALL dialysis medications. The unit had a poor layout and had to hand carry each patient meds one at a time. I already had 10 years of acute/chronic experience as a non traveler and knew this was an inner city setting, tough! I was only 100 miles from home to "feel" the travel scene.

TellAFirstTimer

If possible call an RN who worked there. Never go to Porterville Dialysis, CA or FMC Show Low, AZ.

Name: Sherylen
ResidentState: GA
Specialty: OB
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 10+ years...
NOWTravelCompany: FreedomHCS
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: Fastaff!!!!!
NonFriendlyHospital: Beth Isreal, NYC
Favoritecity: Honolulu!
LeastFavoriteCity: Flint, MI
Date: 26 Nov 2007
Time: 04:53:44

FirstTravelNurseExperience

I was sent to NYC to work a 2 week assignment. The housing was at the Hotel Pennsylvania I was told by my recruiter that I would need to take the public transportation to get to work. So, my first objective when arriving in the city was to figure my route to work. The subway ended up being my best choice, therefore I went to ask an attendant at the ticket booth how to get to the hospital. Guess she thought I was the dumbest person alive, but she gave me directions and the next morning, off I went. I was very excited to be in "The City". At the hospital, I realized that not everyone was as open and friendly as I was used to. It was quite a culture shock for me, a girl raised in the S.W. who currently lived in the South! In addition, the orientation was more or less....LESS! I made it through that assignment with my head and neck/shoulders still attached and intact. I can certainly look back at that assignment and know that it was one of those that made me grow.

TellAFirstTimer

Do your homework. Understand WHERE you are going and for HOW LONG. It is best to do a telephone interview with someone from the hospital where you are considering working, preferably the manager of the department where you'll work. Find out in advance where you are going to be housed and how you are going to get to work. Make sure you know EXACTLY how you are to be paid, too. Many of these companies are paying "blended" rates that can get you in trouble with the almightly IRS. Get everything in writing!!!! Once you arrive at the city of your "host hospital", do some exploring. Drive around and find the best route to the hospital, grocery store and gas station. Then, explore the sights around the city/town where you now "live". After all, isn't that part of the reason you are a travel nurse? Most of all, make new friends and HAVE FUN!

Name: Teresa
ResidentState: Texas
Specialty: IVT, ONCOLOGY, POST-OP
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: cross Country
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: no
NonFriendlyHospital: TMH in Tallahassee
Favoritecity: Chicago
LeastFavoriteCity: Orlando
Date: 26 Nov 2007
Time: 17:13:48

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Disoriented. Felt like I was expected to perform miracles. Didn't know the Docs and was expected to know all the unspoken rules.

TellAFirstTimer

Name: Danielle
ResidentState: Ontario, Canada
Specialty: tele, trauma, transplant, outpatient
MoneyImportance: 3
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 3
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some
TravelingYears: 6-10 years
NOWTravelCompany: Medical Express
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: ProCare USA, Dependable Staffing
NonFriendlyHospital: Banner Good Sam, Phoenix
Favoritecity: Palo Alto, CA/ Santa Barbara, CA/Chapel Hill, NC
LeastFavoriteCity: Dunn, NC/Sun City, AZ/Phoenix, AZ
Date: 04 Dec 2007
Time: 05:28:09

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Scary :) I was a fairly new grad and was out of my home country. I learned the ropes fairly quickly, but if I had to do it again, I would have chosen a larger teaching hospital instead of a small community hospital for sake of resources and up to date equipment. A new nurse is still learning to feel comfortable as a nurse, which makes it difficult to adjust to the needed flexibility of being a traveler. Things worked out great, and 6 years later, still traveling and love it.

TellAFirstTimer

Do your research. Canadians: Find good tax resources, know the rules of TN visas/green card process, choose a company with a strong immigration department. Don't be afraid to ask for a new recruiter if you're having issues that are not being resolved. Know your contacts at your company (ie: quality management, payroll, immigration coordinator etc..) Go to cities that interest you/explore! Don't sign your contract until you're satisfied that it covers all the details you find important. Talk to fellow travelers and have fun!

Name: Cathy
ResidentState: Alabama
Specialty: Med/Surg, Oncology, Dialysis
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 2
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: Liquid Agents
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: Sunbelt Staffing and On Assignment
NonFriendlyHospital: no
Favoritecity: Panama City Beach, FL but pay is awful
LeastFavoriteCity:
Date: 26 Dec 2007
Time: 13:16:48

FirstTravelNurseExperience

It was in Jackson, MS in Oncology. The nurse manager was less than truthful about the patient ratio, but it only lasted 8 weeks. The staff was great and the hospital used alot of travelers.

TellAFirstTimer

Be flexible, but ask questions of the manager. Interview them while they interview you. They may still be untruthful, but have a good recruiter that can go to bat for you when you need them. If you can't trust your recruiter, find another company.

Name: lynetta
ResidentState: ga
Specialty: psych nursing
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: Under 1 year
NOWTravelCompany: emerald
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: no
NonFriendlyHospital: no
Favoritecity: Phoenix
LeastFavoriteCity: bakersfield
Date: 27 Dec 2007
Time: 01:43:33

FirstTravelNurseExperience

intially staff was unfriendlyanddidnt't want to help ; I just stayed to my self and observed and exercise safe nursing and gave my pts. the best care; I've been a nurse for 25 years and have worked in many stressful and passive aggressive environments but you have to get beyond that and be there for the patients all places have their issues you have to be driven and dedicated

TellAFirstTimer

Name: JILL
ResidentState: AZ
Specialty: ER
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 2
RecuirterImportance: 2
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: MEDICAL EXPRESS
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: Advantage RN & American Mobile
NonFriendlyHospital: UPH Keno in Tucson
Favoritecity: TUCSON, BUT AT NORTHWEST MC
LeastFavoriteCity: KILLEEN TX
Date: 01 Jan 2008
Time: 19:55:09

FirstTravelNurseExperience

My first travel experience was great. It was at Northwest in Tucson. All the primary staff were very friendly and of course the travelers seem to migrate to each other. I was very busy every day, but so was the primary staff. The ER was very busy. We wore pedometers for a few days and we clocked about 11 to 12 miles per day. No need for walking after work.

TellAFirstTimer

Just ignore the politics because we are not there to change it. We may see what goes on, but we are out of there in 13 weeks. That's what makes traveling nice. And you also get to make a few new friends both with travelers and core staff.

Name:
ResidentState:
Specialty:
MoneyImportance: 3
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 2
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: Two Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: nightengale nurses
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: american moble
NonFriendlyHospital: kindred hospital, or Phoenix St Luke's Behavioral health
Favoritecity: Phoenix, AZ
LeastFavoriteCity: chico, ca
Date: 04 Jan 2008
Time: 13:27:58

FirstTravelNurseExperience

It was a nightmare with American Mobile. They stranded me in Deleware (all the way from Mississippi) with no housing, and there were conventions in town so I had to backtrack 100 miles to find a room. They had no housing, and I waited until 3pm to check into my hotel each day while trying to do orientation at the hospital.

TellAFirstTimer

Ask, Ask, Ask before going with a nursing company. Ask other nurse travelers about who they are with and their experiences. They can offer a lot of good information and save you a lot of heartache with a "bad company" who will take advantage of you!! If they don't offer what you want, look for another company who will!! They need you, and will get you what you need if they can. If not, oh well... see ya!!!

Name: Joanne
ResidentState: Canada
Specialty: Med/Surg
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 4
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: Cross Country
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: American Mobile
NonFriendlyHospital: No horror cases yet, but USC University was my least fav
Favoritecity: LA & Tucson
LeastFavoriteCity: Oxnard -very dirty and run down
Date: 06 Jan 2008
Time: 11:14:34

FirstTravelNurseExperience

My friend and I travelled from Canada to LA for our first assignment at USC University. The agency kept losing our documents. I was out of my place on a Friday afternoon ready to cross the border when they called and needed new info yet again (they had 2 months to request this stuff). I crossed the border anyway not knowing if I would be able to start work when I arrived in LA 2 days later. The recruiter and her assistant continually misled us. We stayed on assignment 6 months not knowing we could renew for 6 weeks only. We were miserable, but we persevered and both of us jumped ship and signed with other agencies. I haven't looked back since.

TellAFirstTimer

Fight for what you want, if they say no see if someone else will get you what you want. If you don't like your recruiter change, you aren't married to them.

Name: Joanne
ResidentState: Canada
Specialty: Med/Surg
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 4
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: Cross Country
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: American Mobile
NonFriendlyHospital: No horror cases yet, but USC University was my least fav
Favoritecity: LA & Tucson
LeastFavoriteCity: Oxnard -very dirty and run down
Date: 06 Jan 2008
Time: 11:15:39

FirstTravelNurseExperience

TellAFirstTimer

Fight for what you want, if they say no see if someone else will get you what you want. If you don't like your recruiter change, you aren't married to them.

Name: CATHERINE PIYANAT
ResidentState: COLORADO
Specialty: CRITICAL CARE RN
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: JUST IN TIME STAFFING
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: RN NETWORK
NonFriendlyHospital: MAYO CLINIC HOSPITAL, SCOTTSDALE, AZ
Favoritecity: NAPLES, FL
LeastFavoriteCity: PHOENIX, AZ
Date: 07 Jan 2008
Time: 04:21:51

FirstTravelNurseExperience

My first assignment was at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Scottsdale, AZ. The hospital beautiful and filled with snobs: clients and staff alike. I was floated to every floor and they justified it by giving me one patient on telemetry. I was so freaked out about taking care of patients outside of the ICU, that I had called my recruiter @ Rn Network and she just blew me off by telling I'm more than qualified to take care of these people. Yeah!!! But not 5-6 people at one time.

TellAFirstTimer

Research your company and try to talk to other travelers about their experiences at hospitals and with travel companies.

Name: Nancy
ResidentState: Ohio
Specialty: ms/ortho
MoneyImportance: 3
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: Two+ Bedrooms, don't mind paying some
TravelingYears: 6-10 years
NOWTravelCompany: Intelistaf
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: no
NonFriendlyHospital: Palm Beach Gardens, Fla
Favoritecity: Daytona Beach, Fla, Tucson, AZ
LeastFavoriteCity: Palm Beach Gardens
Date: 09 Jan 2008
Time: 16:30:46

FirstTravelNurseExperience

I had been out of hospital nursing for almost 6 yrs and took an assignment in Lee Memorial Hospital, Ft. Myers, Fla. I had never computer charted before, and it was my first time working night shift. Needless to say, I was a basket case for the first several weeks, but every one there was great and helped me survive. I have since done 11 assignments and wouldn't trade it for the world.

TellAFirstTimer

Ask plenty of questions in your interview and get everything in writing. If you want special housing or have special needs, just ask, some recuriters are amazing at what they can help you set up.

Name: Jeri
ResidentState: MI
Specialty: SICU/MICU/NSICU/CVICU
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 3
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: CCTC
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: No
NonFriendlyHospital: No
Favoritecity: New Orleans/Oschner Cardiac ICU
LeastFavoriteCity: No
Date: 20 Jan 2008
Time: 19:53:51

FirstTravelNurseExperience

It was at Oklahoma City Baptist in the transplant ICU and delightful! The staff greeted me with open arms, they were always there to help, and the nurse manager was one of the best managers I've ever had the pleasure of working for.... I was a little scared at first, but the first day, we had a DIC patient and my orientation was cut short.... Fine by me cuz' I didn't look back. I had a wonderful 13 weeks in the facility.....Worked lots of overtime and did my best to be part of the team.

TellAFirstTimer

Be flexible!!!!! If you are not flexible, travel is not for you.

Name: Judy
ResidentState: Al
Specialty: PACU
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: CCTC
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: No
NonFriendlyHospital: No, have been very fortunate
Favoritecity: Tuscon, Portland, Or, Baltimore, Dartmouth
LeastFavoriteCity: Marshfield, wi
Date: 21 Jan 2008
Time: 20:02:40

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Went to a very busy unit that had a predominance of travelers. Staff was very good to work with and we had a good time hanging out after work. Made many friends and really sold me that traveling was the way to go.

TellAFirstTimer

Be open to new ideas and ways of doing things. "there is more than one way to skin a cat"

Name: Patrick
ResidentState: Virginia
Specialty: ICU
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: Two Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: Under 1 year
NOWTravelCompany: Back in school
SwitchCompanies: Select One
DisasterCompany: AUREUS
NonFriendlyHospital:
Favoritecity:
LeastFavoriteCity:
Date: 22 Jan 2008
Time: 10:32:25

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Do not work with Aureus Medical Group if getting paid is important to you. They refused to pay the full amount allowed for milage going from Oregon to Maryland. After repeated attempts to dismiss the claim the management finally acknowledged that they did owe money however four months later and they still have not paid. This company obviously does not care about nurses which seems odd since without us they no longer would have a business.

TellAFirstTimer

Make sure you keep track of all money owed to you because if you assume that your travel company will look out for you it may cost you.

Name: Fancy
ResidentState: Mo
Specialty: Acute medicine
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: Under 1 year
NOWTravelCompany: American Mobile
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: American Mobile
NonFriendlyHospital: Desert Regional Medical floor 3 east
Favoritecity: St. Louis
LeastFavoriteCity: Palm Desert
Date: 24 Jan 2008
Time: 06:19:43

FirstTravelNurseExperience

This i my first assignment in a small community hospital. The equpment is old and outdated, the floor is horribly unorganized. I was truly floored to find out that there are literally 7 regular staff members on that floor. I saw pts being over medicated, staff yelling at patients , CM leaving the floor and the hospital for lunch for hours without informing anyone. I can't describe to you the things that i saw, in such little space just beware.

TellAFirstTimer

Read your contract carefully before signing , make sure that its correct. Always remember that you make all the decisions and that you are number one priority. Never ever stay at a hospital that is unsafe. And last but not least, have fun travel nursing is an opportunity of a life time. Oh and try to stay away from small rural hospitals if you can.

Name: Bob
ResidentState: virginia
Specialty: Surgical Tech
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: I'll Take The Stipend & RV It
TravelingYears: 6-10 years
NOWTravelCompany: Medstaff
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: PPR
NonFriendlyHospital:
Favoritecity: San Francisco
LeastFavoriteCity: Anchorage
Date: 26 Jan 2008
Time: 22:15:55

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Be warned about PPR. I had an accident while working for them cutting all extensior tendons on my hand. Accident happened on Friday afternoon Health Insurance was termanated Wednesday.. I had PT,OT,Meds and no Insurance. I had to wait 3 and half weeks for Cobra to catch up .. Worst of all I was paying 150$ / month for my insurance coverage.....

TellAFirstTimer

Name: Jim
ResidentState: New York
Specialty: Critical Care
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 3
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 6-10 years
NOWTravelCompany: Supplemental Healthcare
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: Medical Express
NonFriendlyHospital: Buffalo General Hospital
Favoritecity: Fresno
LeastFavoriteCity: Buffalo
Date: 29 Jan 2008
Time: 21:47:09

FirstTravelNurseExperience

From New York city to California. It was a bit of a culture shock to me. Everyone was easy going and very helpful. My first assignment was a good one.

TellAFirstTimer

Gather as much information about the hospital and area you can. Most hospitals have web sites you can get some info from. Local chambers of commerce are also good resources.

Name: Robert
ResidentState: WA
Specialty: Surgical Tech
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: Advantage Rn
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: No
NonFriendlyHospital: Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ
Favoritecity: Seattle
LeastFavoriteCity: All Good So Far!
Date: 30 Jan 2008
Time: 23:53:08

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Different. The way people work, what they call things, techniques. You name, it was different. The thing is, its never different to them, just you. I learned fast that everywhere is going to do things differently, and have no clue that other place have their own way. Don't get to caught up in "Well, where I was before, they did it this way." Learn how the current facility does things, and look at as a learning experience. You can pick and choose what you think is worth remembering when you leave.

TellAFirstTimer

Stay positive! Keep a positive attitude, and learn how to work with the people there. Avoid making it you against the world, or else it could be a long assignment. And get out and explore!

Name: Lisa
ResidentState: TN
Specialty: LD
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 2
RecuirterImportance: 2
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: Liquid Agents
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: RSI
NonFriendlyHospital: All the hospitals I have been to have been very accomadating to travelers.
Favoritecity: Salinas CA
LeastFavoriteCity: Sparta IL
Date: 09 Feb 2008
Time: 16:55:29

FirstTravelNurseExperience

I was very nervous, but there were other travelers at the hospital who showed me the ropes. The problems were with the company I was traveling with not with the hospital.

TellAFirstTimer

Read your contract carefully before signiing it. Not all companies offer the same benefits. Also some things in the contract may not be the same as what you talked with your recruiter about. It helps tremendously to have a recruiter you can talk with and is easy to reach.

Name: Gloria
ResidentState: Florida
Specialty: ER
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 6-10 years
NOWTravelCompany: Nationwide Nurses
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: Yes
NonFriendlyHospital: Not as of yet
Favoritecity: Arizona or South Western Region
LeastFavoriteCity: Nebraska
Date: 13 Feb 2008
Time: 11:05:33

FirstTravelNurseExperience

I had my first travel experience with Nationwide Nurses and I will have my last until I retire that is. I did try two other travel companies in between assignments not because I was not happy with Nationwide but because I really wanted a state they did not have much in and OH MAN what a mistake. I wont name any names but the travel experience was horrible, both other companies actually! I went back to Nationwide Nurses and it has been smooth sailing. My recruiter is Awesome! She calls me back if I ever need her and most of the time can get right through to her. The housing is the best and I even take my dogs!

TellAFirstTimer

Be honest and open with what you want, ask questions and be sure to tell your agency any worries or concerns you have.

Name: Sylvia
ResidentState: AZ
Specialty: ICU and CCU
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$
TravelingYears: 10+ years...
NOWTravelCompany: Searching
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: The Right Solutions
NonFriendlyHospital: No
Favoritecity: TX, LA or FL
LeastFavoriteCity: MT
Date: 13 Feb 2008
Time: 11:11:42

FirstTravelNurseExperience

I have been traveling ten plus years all over the United States. I have traveled with several companies and Nurses I found the worst one! TRS or The Right Solutions! It's like Murphy's Law Whatver bad can happen will happen! The recruiter was pushy and rude and when the manager had to get imvolved it got worse. I was lied told, was threatened to be sued if I left my assignment which was horrible and my license was at risk there for many reasons. Part of their lie! My calls were not returned and they did not even remember my name! Never again!

TellAFirstTimer

Name: Michele
ResidentState: Ok
Specialty: ICU/CCU
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: Two Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: Medical Express
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: Premier Healthcare Professionals (PHP)
NonFriendlyHospital: NEVER go to Hopewell, VA
Favoritecity: Tucson, AZ
LeastFavoriteCity: Oakland, CA
Date: 13 Feb 2008
Time: 23:41:46

FirstTravelNurseExperience

My recruiter was wonderful! It was a challenge for me to leave my home and live on the road. If asked to do it again, I would in a heartbeat!

TellAFirstTimer

Listen to seasoned travelers...they have the experience on how to deal with companies, situations, and a lousy travel job. If you are not flexible and are not able to pick up new things quickly, it's not time yet for you. Always hook up with other travelers to hang out with when you're in a new city/town.

Name: Jesse
ResidentState: IL
Specialty: ER
MoneyImportance: 3
BenefitsImportance: 2
LocationImportance: 3
RecuirterImportance: 3
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: Cross Country/ Providence Health Care
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: not really company's fault
NonFriendlyHospital: LOVELACE in NM
Favoritecity: Medford, OR hospital- to live in Dover, NH, Asheville, NC, Tucson, AZ, Indi
LeastFavoriteCity: There has been things to like in every city
Date: 27 Feb 2008
Time: 02:41:49

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Medford, OR was the first. It was a great place to start out. Hospital was good... Oregon was great... Medford doesn't have much going on, but it's a great location as a home base to explore.

TellAFirstTimer

Do not base your decision on the pay... sometimes it's not worth the problems you run into while working there.

Name: Gay
ResidentState: Louisiana
Specialty: PACU
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: CrossCountry Travcorps
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: no
NonFriendlyHospital: none
Favoritecity: Albuquerque NM
LeastFavoriteCity: none
Date: 29 Feb 2008
Time: 21:25:59

FirstTravelNurseExperience

My first assignment was at Memorial in Modesto,Ca. Everyone was very friendly. They were especially sweet since I had just been through Katrina. The job was easy compared to the work to my pre travel job.

TellAFirstTimer

Go in with a good attitude. Be happy. It makes the staff feel good and they respond in a friendly manner. You also get good evaluations when they like you. Just don't sweat the small stuff. Although I think that this is easier said since I work PACU. You would never have more than two pts at a time in any reputable hospital. I think that other units could be much more difficult to travel to.

Name: Charlotte
ResidentState: Texas
Specialty: M/S, Pulmonary
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 1
Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$
TravelingYears: Under 1 year
NOWTravelCompany: Paragon Medical Staffing
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: Independent Nurse Consultants, Inc.
NonFriendlyHospital: no
Favoritecity: winslow arizona
LeastFavoriteCity: none
Date: 02 Mar 2008
Time: 19:34:59

FirstTravelNurseExperience

My first travel experience was great. I worked with the Native American population in Arizona on a research project.

TellAFirstTimer

Always have your contract 48 hrs before you are departing for your assignment. Make sure everything they said they would do and offer is in writing. Be flexible and do not get into the politics. Always know your options if you sign for more than 13 weeks and cannot finish.

Name: SHENA
ResidentState: PHILIPPINES
Specialty: CAKE
MoneyImportance: 4
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 2
Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$
TravelingYears: 6-10 years
NOWTravelCompany: NONE
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: NONE
NonFriendlyHospital: MY SISTER
Favoritecity: HOSPITAL
LeastFavoriteCity: NONE
Date: 30 Mar 2008
Time: 17:47:10

FirstTravelNurseExperience

SORRY NONE

TellAFirstTimer

NONE

Name: Emily
ResidentState: Michigan
Specialty: Labor and Delivery
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 2
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: Novapro
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: No, only been with one company
NonFriendlyHospital: No
Favoritecity: Denver Colorado
LeastFavoriteCity: Reno Nevada
Date: 31 Mar 2008
Time: 16:24:02

FirstTravelNurseExperience

My first travel experience was in Denver at Exempla Lutheran. This was a great hospital and very friendly to travelers. My experience in Reno Nevada....well lets just say I probably would not have chosen this hospital had I interviewed with the actual unit instead of my company and was given the correct information!

TellAFirstTimer

If you have found a good travel company and have started the interviewing process. PLEASE TRY TO INTERVIEW with the unit itself. I have found that if the travel company interviews you they may have information about the unit that is either old, wrong, or hasn't been updated. Sometimes this information can determine whether or not you choose the hospital.

FirstTravelNurseExperience

TellAFirstTimer

Name: Jasmin
ResidentState: FL
Specialty: CCU/ICU/PACU
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 2
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$
TravelingYears: Under 1 year
NOWTravelCompany: HRN Services
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany:
NonFriendlyHospital: CPMC Pacific Campus San Francisco
Favoritecity: San Francisco
LeastFavoriteCity:
Date: 03 Apr 2008
Time: 06:18:55

FirstTravelNurseExperience

I enjoyed my first travel assignment. If you're flexible, if you're outgoing, and you value teamwork, you're not going to be upset with travelers always floating, having the worst patients, etc. I had a great agency and great recruiter.

TellAFirstTimer

Don't always go with the bigger companies, such as American Mobile, Cross Country, etc. There are some great mid size to smaller companies. As a first time traveler, traveling to San Fran by myself, HRN provided me a great package. If I did ever get bored, I would always be able to pick up extra shift at the hospital I was assigned or they would provide other per diem at a same day surgery, school of dentistry, etc. Higher hourly wages does not always mean you're going to get the most out of your pay stub. Look at the whole PACKAGE!

Name: Sandra
ResidentState: Virginia
Specialty: Labor & Delivery
MoneyImportance: 3
BenefitsImportance: 4
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 2
Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$
TravelingYears: 1-2 years
NOWTravelCompany: Medical Express
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany:
NonFriendlyHospital: Virginia Hospital Center Arlington
Favoritecity: Charlottesville, VA
LeastFavoriteCity: Arlington, VA
Date: 19 Apr 2008
Time: 11:03:47

FirstTravelNurseExperience

12 LDRs and 5 nurses scheduled on days. In 6 weeks, only got a lunch break 3 days.

TellAFirstTimer

Get everything in writing!! Make your recruiter your first priority. She can make all the difference!

Name: MAry
ResidentState: AZ
Specialty: PICU
MoneyImportance: 2
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: 2-5 years
NOWTravelCompany: RNNetwork
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: AMN
NonFriendlyHospital: UNiversity of VA Charlottesville
Favoritecity: Salt Lake City
LeastFavoriteCity: Indianapolis
Date: 30 Apr 2008
Time: 05:15:07

FirstTravelNurseExperience

First assignment was San Diego CA in 1989 - I had a great experience both at work and off work. I stayed 6 months and only experienced 1 earthquake!

TellAFirstTimer

Take 1/3 of what you think you will need! Do remember to take a fw things that will help with homesickness...I don't care how old you are, a little something familiar is comforting on those odd "blue" days. Also, before you go - practice eating at restraurants and going to movies ALONE.

Name: Margaret
ResidentState: CA
Specialty: NICU
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 3
LocationImportance: 4
RecuirterImportance: 2
Housing: Give Me The $$MONEY$$
TravelingYears: Under 1 year
NOWTravelCompany: Procel
SwitchCompanies: Yes
DisasterCompany: Preferred Healthcare Staffing
NonFriendlyHospital: Long Beach Memorial
Favoritecity: Irvine, CA
LeastFavoriteCity: Long Beach, CA
Date: 06 May 2008
Time: 03:21:18

FirstTravelNurseExperience

It has been wonderful! I started at Irvine Regional Hospital, a small, close-knit facility. I was welcomed by managment and staff nurses alike. They have patiently answered all of my questions and there has always been someone around to help if needed. The equipment may not be the most up-to-date, but it is well-maintained and suits the purpose. Ancillary staff and volunteers are so nice and helpful as well. There doesn't seem to be an overwhelmig amount of P&P's to worry about and I don't feel as though someone is waiting just around the corner to write me up.

TellAFirstTimer

Get everything in writing! Just as the saying "If it isn't charted then it wasn't done" applies to a legal case, "If it isn't in the contract then it isn't guaranteed" applies to the assignment. Enjoy your assignment! Have fun in whatever city you're assigned in! You're only there for up to 13 weeks-go with the flow, don't try to change anything and for goodness sake, stay out of the politics! Don't worry if others don't like you or resent the fact that you make more money-if they wanted to make the same general wages then they can apply to a travel agency just like you did.

Name: Dawn
ResidentState: Kentucky
Specialty: Telemetry/ER/Psych
MoneyImportance: 1
BenefitsImportance: 1
LocationImportance: 1
RecuirterImportance: 4
Housing: One Bedroom Paid For
TravelingYears: Under 1 year
NOWTravelCompany: Staffing Medical
SwitchCompanies: No
DisasterCompany: No
NonFriendlyHospital: NWT
Favoritecity:
LeastFavoriteCity: Amarillo
Date: 09 May 2008
Time: 02:02:28

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Scarey....clueless and unsure on my first assignment. Learned the ropes fast after the initial shock of the first week. Stay out of the politics and enjoy the area.

TellAFirstTimer

Know and trust your recruiter!

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Scarey....clueless and unsure on my first assignment. Learned the ropes fast after the initial shock of the first week. Stay out of the politics and enjoy the area.

TellAFirstTimer

Know and trust your recruiter!

FirstTravelNurseExperience

Scarey....clueless and unsure on my first assignment. Learned the ropes fast after the initial shock of the first week. Stay out of the politics and enjoy the area.

TellAFirstTimer

Know and trust your recruiter!

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