What Is Contract Nursing?
A contract nurse is a professional who completes all the duties and responsibilities of a staff nurse but for a temporary amount of time. Contract nursing, including travel nursing, has been around for years, and continues to grow in popularity as the demand for qualified nurses continues to grow.
Contract nursing can include project-based assignments, such as electronic medical record (EMR) upgrades; response to natural disasters; new unit or wing openings; leaves of absence by staff members; and vaccination clinics. Contract nurses can be found in different types of healthcare facilities where they help fill in during periods of high patient volume or other staffing gaps. These temporary contracts can last anywhere from several days or weeks to multiple months.
Read on to get an in-depth understanding of contract nursing and the unique perks of choosing a contract nurse lifestyle.
Advantages of Choosing Contract Nursing
There are countless benefits to contract nursing, such as a higher earning potential, increased flexibility, travel opportunities, professional development, and exposure to diverse healthcare settings and patient populations. Contract nurses have the opportunity to learn new skills and best practices, get trained on the latest equipment, and become proficient with various EMR systems and other technologies.
One of the main draws to contract nursing is the ability to earn above-average compensation. Contract nurses are often needed urgently, which increases the pay rates. Nurses who work with NurseChoice can also get guaranteed hours, free housing, and travel reimbursements, among other benefits. They can also earn bonuses for referring their colleagues.
Contract nurses have control over their careers, including where and when they work. They can plan back-to-back assignments or take time off in between contracts for some rest and relaxation.
Qualifications and Skills Needed by Contract Nurses
Contract nursing requires the utmost clinical skill and some on-the-job experience, as well as certain essential qualifications. Requirements and experience levels are generally determined by the facility in which a nurse chooses to take an assignment. However, your recruiter will ensure you are qualified for a position before the interview process begins.
A strong clinical background, adaptability and flexibility are critical to finding success as a contract nurse. There are also additional certifications and credentials that nurses can earn to enhance their ability to land their ideal assignments. Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Basic Life Support (BLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN)®, and Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) are all examples of extra credentials you can earn to boost your stature as a contract nurse.
Finding Contract Nursing Opportunities
Finding contract nursing assignments is now easier than ever, thanks to nurse staffing agencies and online platforms that can connect nurses with endless opportunities. Many leading agencies such as NurseChoice have proprietary job search platforms that can be leveraged to find nursing contracts in specific areas. In fact, NurseChoice offers a wide variety of short-term nursing jobs, including crisis response positions, project-based assignments, and some traditional travel nursing contracts.
Networking and relationship-building is an effective way to uncover contract nursing opportunities that may not be advertised online or available to the general public. Fostering a strong professional network—including connecting with a nurse recruiter—can help you learn about assignments sooner and even get recommended for open positions.
Apply Now for Contract Nursing Jobs
NurseChoice, an AMN Healthcare company, gives you access to a wide variety of contract nursing assignments at top hospitals and other healthcare facilities across the country. And our experienced team is ready to guide you through every step of the process.
APPLY TODAY to get started on a rewarding career as a contract nurse!
