4 Reasons Why a Travel Nurse May Extend Their Contract
Opting for a career in travel nursing can open up new horizons for nurses as it provides an opportunity to discover novel places, gain a wide range of clinical experiences, and connect with diverse communities. Typically, travel nurses begin with short-term contracts lasting up to 13 weeks; however, many of them find themselves captivated by their current assignment, which encourages them to prolong their stay. In this blog, we will delve into four persuasive reasons why it would be advantageous to consider an extension of your travel nurse contract, focusing on the advantages of convenience, competitive compensation, the quality of nursing facilities, and the appeal of the location.
Convenience
One of the primary reasons travel nurses may opt to extend their contracts is the convenience it offers. With an extended stay at the same facility, you can settle into a routine, making your job more predictable and comfortable. You become familiar with the facility’s policies, procedures, and staff, reducing the learning curve and allowing you to focus on delivering high-quality patient care. Furthermore, extending a travel nurse contract offers the delightful benefit of avoiding several tedious processes that typically come with a new position. There’s no need for applications, phone interviews, physicals, or even orientations at unfamiliar facilities. Moreover, there’s no house hunting, city acclimation, or friendship building required. The travel nurse agency and the nursing facility both benefit from this arrangement as they can sidestep excessive paperwork and extra staff needed for orientation.
Competitive Pay
Travel nursing is renowned for offering competitive compensation packages, often including tax-free stipends, housing allowances, and a higher base pay rate. If you find that you enjoy your current assignment and the facility values your expertise, extending your contract can provide financial stability. With experience, you might even negotiate a higher pay rate for the extension. Many travel nurses find that staying in one place for a more extended period allows them to save more money and improve their financial situation..
Nursing Facility Quality
The quality of the nursing facility where you work plays a significant role in your overall job satisfaction. If you discover a facility that aligns with your professional goals and values, extending your contract may be the right choice. High-quality facilities often provide excellent support for their travel nurses, such as training opportunities, mentorship programs, and access to the latest medical technologies. Staying at a facility that prioritizes your professional growth and offers a supportive work environment can be immensely fulfilling.
Location
Location is a crucial factor in travel nursing, and it’s often the initial draw for many nurses who choose this career path. If you’ve fallen in love with the location of your current assignment, extending your contract can allow you to further explore and immerse yourself in the local culture. You can enjoy the natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unique experiences a particular area offers, whether it’s the mountains, the beach, a vibrant city, or a charming small town. Extending your stay lets you make deeper connections with the local community, giving you a richer and more authentic experience.
Travel nursing provides an opportunity for adventure, career growth, and personal development. While short-term contracts are common, extending your travel nurse contract can offer numerous advantages, including convenience, competitive pay, the quality of the nursing facility, and the appeal of the location. If you find yourself feeling at home in your current assignment, considering an extension may be a smart move to enhance your travel nursing experience. Whether you’re looking for financial stability, professional growth, or a deeper connection to a location, extending your contract could be the perfect choice for your career as a travel nurse.
Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse seeking your next assignment or you’re ready to dive into the dynamic world of travel nursing for the first time, our comprehensive job search portal is your gateway to exciting positions across the country. Connect with us today and take the first step toward fulfilling your next travel nursing adventure!
