Reasons to Become a Pediatric Travel Nurse
Why Become a Pediatric Travel Nurse? An Exciting Career Path to Consider
The world of pediatric nursing offers a highly rewarding career, filled with opportunities to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families. But what if there was a way to take your expertise on the road, explore new places, and expand your professional horizons? That’s exactly what pediatric travel nursing provides—a unique blend of adventure, flexibility, and purpose.
This blog dives deep into the benefits of becoming a pediatric travel nurse, explores the travel nurse lifestyle, and outlines how this career path can enrich your skillset and life experiences. Whether you're a seasoned pediatric nurse or new to the field, this guide will give you all the reasons to consider this dynamic career path.
What is Pediatric Travel Nursing?
Pediatric travel nursing combines the specialized care of pediatric nurses with the flexibility and exploration of travel nursing. Pediatric travel nurses are contracted to work temporary assignments—usually lasting from 8 to 13 weeks—at healthcare facilities across the country.
These nurses bring their expertise to new environments, helping hospitals meet short-term staffing needs in pediatric departments, neonatal ICUs (NICUs), or other child-focused healthcare units.
If you’re passionate about pediatric care and have a sense of adventure, pediatric travel nursing might be the perfect professional pathway.
The Benefits of Becoming a Pediatric Travel Nurse
1. Endless Professional Growth
When you work as a pediatric travel nurse, you gain exposure to a variety of healthcare settings, from rural hospitals to major urban medical centers. This diversity allows you to expand your experience, refine your skills, and grow as a healthcare professional.
You’ll learn to adapt quickly to new environments, work with diverse teams, and manage a wide range of pediatric cases. This adaptability strengthens your resume and sets you apart in the field.
Example: A pediatric travel nurse might work in a small community hospital in Montana one month and then transition to a top-tier children’s hospital in San Francisco the next. This varied experience is invaluable for career development.
2. Flexibility and Freedom
One of the most appealing aspects of the travel nurse lifestyle is flexibility. You can decide when and where you want to work, allowing you to create a schedule that fits your personal needs.
Want to take a break after completing an assignment? No problem.
- Always dreamed of working close to the beach? Accept an assignment in Florida.
- Prefer to stay near family during the holiday season? Plan your assignments accordingly.
This level of control over your career makes pediatric travel nursing a great option for those seeking work-life balance.
3. Travel and Adventure
The travel nurse lifestyle isn’t just about work; it’s also about exploring new places. Pediatric travel nurses get to experience the culture, food, and beauty of different regions while making a difference in the lives of children.
Fun Fact: Many travel nurses use their time off to explore iconic landmarks, hike national parks, or immerse themselves in new hobbies. Imagine finishing a shift and heading to the Grand Canyon or enjoying fresh lobster in Maine.
4. Competitive Pay and Perks
When it comes to financial rewards, pediatric travel nursing often surpasses traditional nursing roles. Travel nurses typically receive:
- Higher base pay
- Housing stipends or free accommodations
- Travel reimbursements
- Healthcare benefits
- Bonuses for completing contracts
Additionally, many agencies offer tax-free perks, meaning you can save more money while on assignment.
5. Building a Strong Professional Network
Every assignment introduces you to new colleagues, supervisors, and mentors. Pediatric travel nursing allows you to expand your professional network on a national scale. These connections can provide valuable recommendations, career opportunities, and lasting friendships.
6. Specialized Experience in Pediatrics
As a pediatric travel nurse, you can focus on your specialty while challenging yourself in new ways. Whether it’s caring for premature infants in a NICU or supporting children undergoing cancer treatments, each assignment sharpens your ability to provide top-notch pediatric care.
How to Start Your Journey as a Pediatric Travel Nurse
Step 1. Meet the Qualifications
To become a pediatric travel nurse, you’ll need:
- An active RN license
- Pediatric nursing experience (usually at least one year)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certifications
- Specialized experience in areas like NICU or pediatric intensive care units (PICU) can also make you a more attractive candidate for assignments.
Step 2. Choose a Travel Nurse Agency
Partnering with a reliable travel nursing agency such as AMN Healthcare is essential. Agencies connect you with assignments, handle logistics (like housing and travel), and provide support throughout your travel nursing contract.
Tip: Choose an agency with a strong reputation in pediatric travel nursing, as they’ll have better opportunities and resources tailored to your specialty.
Step 3. Set Your Goals
Determine what you want out of your travel nurse lifestyle. Are you looking to save money? Explore new cities? Gain experience in specific hospital settings? Having clear goals will help you choose assignments that align with your priorities.
Step 4. Pack Smart
Pediatric travel nurses often relocate for weeks at a time. Here’s what to pack:
- Comfortable scrubs and work essentials
- Personal items to make temporary housing feel like home
- A folder with important documents (like licenses and certifications)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Being prepared ensures a smooth transition between assignments.
Step 5. Stay Adaptable
Every new assignment comes with its own unique challenges. You’ll need to stay adaptable and open to learning. But rest assured, the experience will only make you a more versatile and skilled nurse.
The Travel Nurse Lifestyle: Is It Right for You?
Pediatric travel nursing isn’t for everyone. It requires adaptability, independence, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. However, if you love connecting with children and their families, thrive in new environments, and yearn for adventure, this lifestyle offers a deeply fulfilling career path.
Words from the Field: “Travel nursing has shown me parts of the country I never thought I’d see while giving me the chance to make a positive difference in children’s lives. It’s a lifestyle I wish I had embraced sooner!” – Sarah, Pediatric Travel Nurse
Why Pediatric Travel Nurses Are Essential
Healthcare facilities across the country rely on pediatric travel nurses for their specialized expertise. Whether a hospital is facing a short-term staffing shortage, expecting an influx of young patients, or looking for professionals with very specific skills, pediatric travel nurses provide critical support.
By stepping into this role, you’ll not only advance your own career but also serve as a vital resource for hospitals and patients alike.
Start Your Pediatric Travel Nursing Journey Today
Pediatric travel nursing offers the perfect blend of professional growth, flexibility, adventure, and financial rewards. It’s an opportunity to enhance your skills while exploring the country and making a difference in children's lives.
If you’re ready to take the leap, there’s never been a better time to begin your adventure. Start researching travel nurse agencies and kickstart your path toward a fulfilling, flexible career as a pediatric travel nurse.
