Great news! No matter the reason for your decision, the current/ongoing NNP shortage ensures the need for your skills as an experienced NNP. It is both a blessing and a burden for travel NNPs to be able to pop into a new place, pick up the reins, and get to work quickly. I started travel NNP work with over 14 years of NNP experience under my belt but still had a lot to learn about the travel industry. Here are some tips I have found that have made the transition easier for me and hopefully for you too.
Find your best fit
First things first, do your research and find an ally in the industry that has your best interests at heart (like ENSEARCH). Tim and ENSEARCH have always made me feel like a friend and treated me like family, listening and advising with my needs first.
Get organized
You will need to have a file of digital copies of anything you need for credentialing (licenses, ceu’s, certifications, procedure logs, etc.). Depending on the assignment, licensing and credentialing may take awhile, but having these items ready will make the process much easier. Learn about tax deductions as a contract employee and organize your receipts for tax time!
How to travel
If you are new to traveling, learn as much as you can before you go. Create a “go” bag. Packing light is key but we all have a work bag with essentials we need for any given situation – know what you can and can’t take with you on airplanes, and set your bag up accordingly. Be flexible with travel arrangements but don’t be afraid to be specific with your needs. Also, sign up for different company’s travel rewards; after all, the perks of travel are earning points for more travel (to relax and get ready for the next assignment!).
New place, same work
Research the hospital where you are assigned. Most hospitals and university practices have a website where you can gain valuable insights into the unit and the providers.Just like at your home hospital, each unit will have “their” routine. Adjust to the new routine and make it your own. Don’t say “where I come from, this is what we do…” – no one cares, unless they ask you of course. What you can say is, “based on current literature/evidence” (and then bring the evidence).
Set your expectations
Don’t expect a lengthy orientation… in some cases, you orient on the job. Remember, you aren’t a brand new graduate NNP; you will be expected to be able to handle assignments while learning the unit specific processes. Finally, don’t get involved in the politics of the unit/group. You may make a few friends, but you will alienate others if you do so it’s best to be friendly and helpful, not political.
Please comment below with any of your questions, concerns, or feedback!
About the Author
Gayla Eppinger
DNP, NNP-BC, C-NPT, C-ONQS, C-NNIC
Gayla is a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with 32 years experience in NICU and 14 years experience in Locum Tenens travel assignments. When not traveling, she teaches BSN students at Baylor University in Dallas, TX.
