Last year, we noticed that hospitals became more and more particular with their requirements and experience levels for nurses. This year hospitals will continue to be choosy as they have more candidates to chose from and will continue to raise the bar with not only experienced RN’s but experienced travelers as well. So as a traveling nurse, what can you do to stand out if you don’t have numerous travel assignments under your belt? Cirrus Medical Staffing has a few tips for you.
- Obtain additional credentials. If you are a Medical Surgical RN, obtain an ACLS in addition to your BLS. Emergency department nurses can obtain a TNCC or ENPC which will cut down on your competition.
- Gain computer charting experience. More and more hospitals across the nation are requiring previous computer charting experience from travelers. Software systems such as Meditech, Mckesson and Cerner are the most popular.
- If you are thinking about becoming a traveler, ask your current hospital to float to other units to add additional experience to your resume. This doesn’t just apply y to the Step down units anymore, but ER nurses are being asked to have ICU experience as well.
- Maintain your records and keep all immunizations and certifications up to date. This speeds up your availability date which may make you a better fit for the hospital.
Above everything, remember to be flexible!
I think these are very helpful tips, especially for newer travellers! I am sure many will find this helpful!
By: Gail Kirkpatrick on February 4, 2010
at 7:54 pm