A long time ago, nurses worked in one of three places when they graduated from nursing school. A new graduate could work as a bedside nurse, an office nurse, or as a school nurse. Today, nurses can find jobs in all areas of health care, and they are finding those jobs around the corner, as well as around the world. Travel nursing is a great lifestyle for nurses who love to explore new areas of the country while they are exploring their options in the health care marketplace. Are you thinking about hitting the road as a travel nurse? Learn more about travel nursing by taking this short quiz.

1) True or false: The nursing job market in exploding, and travel nurses are in high demand.

True: The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) projected that the nursing shortage will only to get worse over the next two decades. The demand for nurses is projected to grow by 40% by 2020, and as more nurses approach retirement, the nursing field is projected to have the second largest number of new jobs among all occupations in the United States. That’s good news for nurses who are looking for a fulfilling career. Rising job vacancies mean that you are in demand, and that you can find a job as a travel nurse that’s just right for you.

2) True or False: Travel nurse agencies don’t offer benefits.

False: Travel nurses get better than average pay, as well as many other perks. Travel nursing agencies pay for housing and travel expenses. They also offer nurses other benefits such as health insurance and 401(k) plans. Some agencies also offer continuing-education assistance, and most travel nurse companies will pay for state nursing licenses. If you like meeting new people while making great wages and benefits, then a travel nursing job is right for you.

3) True or False: Travel nurses are told where to work, and they must sign long-term contracts in order to find a job.

False: Travel nurses have complete control over the assignments that they accept, and job assignments are flexible. Work assignments can last anywhere between four weeks to one year. The travel nurse decides what contract suits their needs.

4) True of false: You’re never too old to be a travel nurse.

True: There is no age limit. Anyone can be a travel nurse. Travel nursing allows you to keep your health care benefits while going into semi-retirement. Travel with your spouse, your kids, or your pets. It’s up to you. Travel nursing let’s you do it all.

A travel nursing career is for those who enjoy life on the road. You can find Travel Nurse Jobs listed by state or job function on the NursingJobs.org website.

Ok, now it’s your turn. Are you a travel nurse? If so, I would love you to add your insights into the pros and cons of travel nursing. That will help make all of us a little smarter, and I’ll have something impressive to say next time I’m asked about travel nursing. Please contribute your experiences and opinions either in the comments section below or in the NursingVoices forum.