Tips to Travel Nursing in North Carolina
1. Research the Facts About Your Community
Learning about your community and your new medical facility will make your relocation smoother.
Visit North Carolina: Check out travel tips, activities, hot deals and attractions
Stay safe: Learn about crime statistics in the state.
City Information: Find out about the different cities in North Carolina and what each community has to offer.
Traffic Alert: Keep up to date on current traffic patterns throughout North Carolina.
2. Prepare Your Records and License
Good communication skills are essential to travel nursing. Maintain regular contact with your recruiter and send him/her all of the necessary documentation in a timely fashion. Licenses vary from state to state and your recruiter will be a valuable resource in learning how to obtain a license, complete the necessary testing and find classes to ensure you are ready and prepared for your new working environment. Be sure that you retain copies of all you contracts and assignment paperwork for future reference.
3. Understand Your Travel Assignment Package
Before you sign your contract, make sure that you have prepared the right questions so that you are fully informed about all the details of your assignment:
Pay Rate: For many travel nurses, this is the most important issue, so be sure you understand rate information (e.g. hourly pay, overtime rate, holiday rate and bonus pay).
Float Policy: If you have a variety of clinical skills, you may be asked to float to different departments during your assignment. It is important to state in your contract if floating is acceptable and in what specialties you are comfortable to float.
Benefits/Health Coverage: Be sure to find out who your insurance provider will be and which nearby healthcare facilities you can attend.
Housing: Ask questions regarding community safety, crime, traffic patterns and school systems.
4. Take Advantage of Your Free Time
North Carolina has loads of fun activities to offer and exciting places to go. Whether it’s rafting, fishing, shopping, dining, entertainment, horseback riding or relaxing, it’s always best to plan out activities and explore your new location. Here are links to some helpful sites:
Restaurant Reviews: Great reviews and suggestions about restaurants for every city in the state.
Shopping Guide: Shop till you drop with the help of this directory.
North Carolina: Explore your new city with great outdoor activities.
What to Do: Top destinations, reviews and activities
5. Maintain a Positive Outlook
A positive outlook and an eager and flexible approach are essential for the challenges of travel nursing. As a valuable team member, you will need to utilize your communication skills fully with your colleagues and clients. This will ensure that your travel nursing experience is as enjoyable as possible.