7 Perks for Travel Nurses Working Holidays
By Anita Wong, contributor
While families are gathering to celebrate the holidays, many healthcare professionals are working as usual to keep hospitals and other medical facilities running smoothly. Travel nurses working holidays are among those rolling up their sleeves and pitching in, filling in staffing gaps so others can be with their loved ones. It may be the festive season, but there are still sick patients, women in labor and medical emergencies requiring attention.
It can be hard to be away from family at this time of year, but by embracing the opportunities at hand, travel nurses can find many things to be merry about.
1. More travel assignments to choose from
Travel assignments during December are often plentiful as nurses take extra time off around the holidays. This gives you a better opportunity to choose just the right assignment for you.
Take on a shorter-term contract for flexibility and visit your family in January. Or choose an assignment that extends into the new year so your work plans are already in place.
2. Overtime pay and bonuses
Travel nurse pay tends to be higher than that of permanent staff RNs, and once you add in overtime and holiday pay, you're earning a premium by covering these shifts. Some facilities may even offer an additional holiday bonus. Enjoy the gift of higher compensation and tuck your extra earnings aside to treat yourself to something special.
3. Getting to know your coworkers
There's often extra camaraderie flowing among staff during a holiday shift, whether you're wearing reindeer antlers to make patients smile, sharing delicious treats or exchanging secret Santa gifts. Travel nurses working holidays have a wonderful opportunity to make connections with new colleagues, build friendships and share some Christmas cheer.
4. Taking part in local celebrations
Traveling is an enriching experience at any time, but there's a little extra magic during the holidays. Be sure to check out local traditions that you won't find at any other time of year. Visit the bustling, open-air Christkindlmarket festival in Chicago, see the beautiful lights of the boat parades along the California shoreline or check out Christmas at Graceland in Tennessee.
You can play in the snow in the Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth, Washington, or discover the glowing luminaria displays in Santa Fe, New Mexico. If you're in southern Louisiana, experience some Cajun holiday traditions.
5. Build a reputation as a team player
Nursing is about teamwork, and by stepping up to play a part during the holidays, you're showing your managers your commitment to the profession. This strengthens your career network and keeps the door open for future opportunities. According to Forbes, working on a holiday may also give you a chance to problem-solve and be a leader.
6. Have your family come to you
Travel nurse pay includes free, furnished housing as one of the benefits. Take advantage of this provided accommodation and invite a friend or family member to spend Christmas with you. Your guests can save on hotel expenses, and you can explore local celebrations together.
Here are some tips on making your temporary digs feel more like home.
7. Caring for those who need holiday cheer
Some units tend to be quieter at this time of year. Patients well enough to go home are discharged, and fewer elective surgeries are scheduled.
It's a difficult time for patients remaining in the hospital. Travel nurses working holidays can brighten their days with a little extra care. It may mean making the pediatric ward shine with holiday spirit to bring joy to young patients or spending some quiet time sharing stories and listening. These may be some of the most rewarding moments of your career.
You may also need to care for those that are at their family's bedside. Tragic outcomes still occur and your top-notch support skills may be needed.
Most healthcare professionals expect to work some holidays during their career. It's a necessity of the profession, but it's also a unique opportunity — embrace your extended work family, create memories for your patients and find that spark of magic that makes your own holiday season rich and rewarding.
Check out our tips on making the best of working at this time of year!