What to Expect in Your First Travel Nurse Assignment?

Jumping into your first time travel nursing gig is exciting! You’ll work in new hospitals, explore cool cities, and enjoy a flexible lifestyle. 

But what to expect in your first travel nurse assignment can feel like a mystery. From signing your contract to rocking your first day of nursing, this guide keeps it simple and easy to skim. On assignment travel nursing brings awesome opportunities, but also some challenges, like getting used to new places. 

No worries, we’ll cover the basics, like travel nurse contract length and settling in, to help you start strong. Get ready to shine in your first travel nursing adventure!

Get the Scoop on Your Contract 

Your travel nurse contract is your roadmap. Most travel nurse contract lengths are 6 to 13 weeks, with 6 week travel nurse assignments being super common. 

A travel nurse contract example spells out your pay (like $30–$40/hour), housing (stipend or provided), travel costs, and shift schedule.

Skim your travel nurse contract template to catch key details, like overtime rules or cancellation terms. 

Got questions? Ask your agency, “What’s covered in this travel nursing contract length?” Knowing this stuff upfront makes on assignment travel nursing stress-free. 

For example, a contract might include a $500 housing stipend and 36-hour workweeks. Read it carefully to avoid surprises and kick off your assignment with confidence.

Quick Tip: Double-check your contract before signing.

Prepare for Your Adventure

Getting ready for first time travel nursing is straightforward with some planning. First, check the state’s licensing rules. 

Some states use the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) for easy licensing, while others need a separate application. Your agency can help.

Pack smart for 6 week travel nurse assignments, scrubs, comfy shoes, and a few personal items. If your agency handles housing, confirm it’s near the hospital and has what you need, like a bed or Wi-Fi. If not, look up rentals in the area. 

Get a feel for your new city’s vibe, think weather or local spots to settle in fast.

For on assignment travel nursing, flexibility is key. Chat with other travel nurses online or check out your hospital’s setup to feel prepared. A quick search or forum post can give you the inside scoop.

Quick Tip: Join travel nurse groups for handy tips.

Nail Your First Day

Your first day of nursing might feel big, but it’s your chance to shine. Expect orientation, learning hospital rules, charting systems, and meeting your team, like charge nurses and staff.

Show up early, grab a notebook, and ask questions. Every hospital’s different, so stay open to new ways of doing things. 

This is huge for first time travel nursing. You might deal with new software or routines, but asking for help shows you’re on it. A friendly vibe helps you click with coworkers, making your day smoother.

Nervous? Totally normal. The first day of nursing can be a lot, but you’ll get the hang of it fast. You’re a pro, just dive in!

Quick Tip: Be friendly and ready to learn to fit right in.

Tackle Challenges, Enjoy the Fun

Travel nursing has its ups and downs. New systems or equipment can be tricky in 6 week travel nurse assignments. 

Ask staff for help and practice when you can. Feeling homesick? Explore your new city, hit up a local diner or park or video-call friends.

Make the most of on assignment travel nursing. Use days off to check out cool spots, like hiking trails or museums. It’s a great way to recharge. Connect with coworkers for job leads down the road. 

To avoid burnout, balance shifts with downtime, maybe a movie night after work.

Travel nursing grows your skills and lets you see new places. Stay open and organized, and you’ll love it.

Quick Tip: Explore your city to make work feel like an adventure.

Conclusion 

Your first time travel nursing gig is a chance to grow and explore. Know your travel nurse contract length, prep for your first day of nursing, and you’ll start strong. New systems or homesickness might pop up, but the perks of on assignment travel nursing—new skills, new places—are worth it. Check your travel nurse contract example, stay flexible, and jump in. You’ve got this! Plan now and enjoy your first travel nurse assignment.

FAQs

How long are contracts for travel nurses? 

The majority of travel nurse contracts are between 6-13 weeks long. Shorter assignments, such as 6-week contracts, are typical for quickfill needs. Your agency can also help to pair you with an appropriate length given your availability and the hospital’s needs.

What Is Included in a Travel Nurse Contract Example? 

A travel nurse contract can cover such things as pay, housing, travel reimbursements, shifts, and more. Make sure you read the contract carefully so that you know the coverage. Ask your agency for whatever is unclear.

What’s the first day of nursing like?

Your first day will focus on orientation. You’ll meet staff, learn about hospital systems, and get familiar with procedures. Feeling nervous is normal, especially for first-time travel nurses. Give yourself time to adjust and ask questions when needed.

What are travel nurse first time tips? 

Get your licenses sorted out, figure out housing and familiarize yourself with your new city. Your agency can advise you on how to prepare. It also can be effective to reach out and join groups with other travel nurses or local groups in the area to which you are traveling, prior to your assignment start date.

Can I take a travel nursing contract longer than three months? 

Yes! Should you be interested and the hospital still needs help, often you can extend your contract. Tell your recruiter early whether you might be open to staying on longer so that they can get all of the paperwork and approvals in place in time.