The healthcare industry is always on the lookout for young, enthusiastic individuals who are committed to giving their all in patient care. When it comes to patient care, one profession stands out: nursing. Nurses are the backbone of patient care, ensuring that patients receive the best care and recover as quickly as possible. They provide constant updates to doctors, ensure patients receive their meals and medicines on time, and maintain their hygiene. If you’re considering a career as a travel nursing assistant and are curious about the benefits this job can bring, this blog is the perfect guide for you.
What is a Travel Nursing Assistant?
A travel nursing assistant is a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or medical support professional who accepts short-term contracts at different healthcare facilities across the country. Just like travel nurses, travel nursing assistants fill staffing gaps in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. These professionals assist with daily patient care tasks such as:
- Taking vital signs
- Assisting patients with mobility and personal hygiene
- Recording health updates
- Supporting nurses and doctors in delivering quality care
Why the demand for Travel nursing assistant high?
COVID-19 has underscored the crucial role of travel nurses in filling staffing shortages in the U.S. healthcare system. However, the demand for travel nursing assistants, who provide essential support in these challenging times, is also on the rise.
Benefits of Travel Nursing Assistant Jobs
So why consider this career path? Here are some of the most significant advantages.
- Exposure to Diverse Work Environments - As a travel nurse assistant, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of locations, from remote settings to bustling hospitals in metropolitan areas. Each location will present its own unique challenges and experiences, making every assignment an exciting opportunity for growth.
- Career Growth Opportunities - Many professionals use these roles to gain experience before advancing into travel nurse positions or other specialized healthcare careers. Exposure to various care settings provides valuable insights into where you may want to specialize in the future—geriatrics, paediatrics, critical care, or rehabilitation.
- Flexibility and Control Over Your Schedule - The best benefit you will get from working as a travel nurse assistant is the flexibility, as you have the option to work as per your conditions, where you want to work, how long you want to work, what your timings will be, and much more.
- Competitive Pay and Benefits - These roles are often used to fill urgent needs, and as a result, the compensation can be higher than that of permanent, local positions. The contract usually includes a range of benefits, such as competitive hourly wages, housing stipends, and even travel reimbursements, providing you with financial security and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need special training to become a travel nursing assistant?
A. No additional training beyond your CNA certification is typically required. However, keeping your credentials current and being licensed in multiple states can make you more competitive.
Q. How long do travel nursing assistant contracts usually last?
A. Most contracts last between 8 and 13 weeks, though some can be as short as 2 weeks or as long as several months.
Q. Are housing and travel expenses covered?
A. Yes, many staffing agencies provide housing stipends or free accommodations and may also reimburse travel expenses.
Q. Can I choose where I want to work?
A. Yes. While availability depends on staffing needs, agencies allow you to choose from various assignments in different regions.
Q. Is pay better than a regular CNA job?
A. In many cases, yes. Travel nursing assistant jobs often come with higher pay rates and additional benefits, especially when working in high-demand areas.
Q. Can I take time off between contracts?
A. Absolutely. One of the benefits of this career path is the ability to control your schedule. You can rest, recharge, or pursue personal projects between assignments, giving you the freedom to manage your time as you see fit.
Q. Are short-term contracts worth it?
A. Yes, especially for those who want to gain experience, travel, or maintain flexibility. Two-week or short-term contracts are also a great entry point into the field.
How to Get Travel Nursing Assistant Contracts
The process of securing contracts through a trusted staffing agency like EmpowerCare is straightforward. They can help you create your profile and look at the travel nurse assistant job listings on the portal. To qualify for travel nursing assistant jobs, you must post your credentials and maintain an active CNA certification, as well as meet any state-specific requirements. Agencies like EmpowerCare keep job listings updated with the latest opportunities. Reviewing these listings regularly helps you stay ahead and apply for contracts that fit your preferences. Be open to new opportunities that you might come across. You might want to start with the Metro City Hospital, but if you have the chance to start with the remote location, grab it and get that exposure first.
Final Thought
As an aspiring travel nurse assistant, if you are compassionate and ready to explore every opportunity that comes your way, whether it is in a remote location or in a metro city, you have the right communication skills along with the proper degree nd certifications. You can create your profile at EmpowerCare. Becoming a travel nursing assistant is about more than just finding a job—it’s about creating a career that adapts to your lifestyle. From competitive pay and professional growth to the chance to explore new places, this role offers benefits few traditional jobs can match. With EmpowerCare, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Their expertise in staffing ensures you get the best contracts, whether you’re seeking short-term assignments or long-term commitments. If you’re ready to explore travel nurse job listings and see how these opportunities can fit into your life, the time to start is now.
Explore your future today. Check out EmpowerCare’s latest travel nursing assistant job listings and take the first step toward a flexible, rewarding career.