er travel nurse job description

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Exploring ER Travel Nurse Responsibilities

Table of Contents

In the dynamic world of Emergency Nursing, travel nurses have a significant role to play. These professionals not only need to shift locations often, but they also handle the immediate care needs of patients in emergency periods. This article delves into the roles, responsibilities, and challenges that these health workers face. We'll dive into an in-depth exploration of an ER Travel Nurse's duties and the skills they need, the unique position they hold in the healthcare system, and what it means to embark on a career in this field.

Understanding the Role and Importance of ER Travel Nurses

Emergency room (ER) travel nurses play a critical role in providing quality care to patients in emergency department settings across the country. As highly skilled and experienced nursing professionals, ER travel nurses bring specialized expertise and adaptability to hospitals and health systems in need of staffing support.

With the growing challenges of nurse staffing shortages and patient surges in ERs, the demand for travel nurses continues rising. Travel nurse jobs in emergency rooms offer nurses unique opportunities to gain experience in high-acuity settings while fulfilling important staffing needs.

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The Unique Embodiment of a Travel Nurse in the Emergency Department

The fast-paced nature of emergency nursing requires nurses who thrive under pressure and can adapt quickly to changing situations. As ER patient volumes surge while nursing shortages persist, temporary travel nurses help provide essential staffing support.

Travel nurses possess specialized ER experience and the ability to adapt their skills to new hospital environments. Their mix of expertise and flexibility makes them well-suited for the variable and high-stress conditions of emergency nursing.

Additionally, the temporary travel assignment structure gives nurses opportunities to expand their skills and gain exposure to different practices, protocols, and patient populations. This expanded perspective empowers them with greater knowledge to improve care.

Relevance of ER Travel Nurses in the Healthcare System

With increasing rates of emergency department visits each year, hospitals rely on travel nurses to meet staffing resource needs and maintain quality of care.

Travel nurses help fill gaps in the nursing workforce, providing relief to short-staffed hospitals struggling with recruitment and retention challenges. Their presence ensures adequate nurse-to-patient ratios are maintained for safe and effective care delivery.

During seasonal patient surges, travel nurses give permanent staff much needed support and prevent overburdening. Their flexibility helps hospitals scale up resources efficiently at peak demand times.

Comprehensive Outline of ER Travel Nurse Duties

The multifaceted role of an ER travel nurse involves specialized clinical skills, communication, collaboration, education, and advocacy. Key responsibilities span frontline care, team coordination, and enhancing the practice environment.

Frontline Patient Care: Assessing, Diagnosing, and Stabilising Patients

As expert clinicians, ER travel nurses triage patients, conduct assessments, order diagnostic tests, interpret results, diagnose conditions, and determine treatment plans. They provide interventions to stabilise crises and manage pain, seizures, bleeding, and other acute issues.

Strong assessment, critical thinking, and clinical judgement help travel nurses quickly identify life-threatening problems and deliver rapid, life-saving treatments. They monitor changes in patients' statuses and adjust care accordingly.

Travel nurses also educate patients and family members, explain diagnoses and treatments, provide discharge instructions, and ensure proper follow-up care is arranged.

Interaction with Health Care Teams: Collaborating and Coordinating for Quality Care

Smooth coordination between travel nurses, physicians, technicians, and other staff is crucial for timely, integrated care. Travel nurses communicate critical patient information for diagnostic and treatment decision-making.

They also help supervise and delegate tasks to supplementary nursing staff like nursing assistants. Strong leadership helps promote efficient workflow and optimal resource management during busy periods.

Additionally, travel nurses collaborate on quality improvement initiatives, providing valuable perspectives from their broad base of ER experiences at different hospitals.

Education and Advocacy: Roles Beyond Immediate Patient Care

Beyond clinical care delivery, travel nurses educate and mentor newer nurses, orient them to the ER environment, and foster their skills development. They share specialized knowledge from past training and diverse clinical exposures.

Travel nurses also advocate for safe staffing ratios, reasonable nurse workloads, and improved workplace policies. They provide an objective outsider's viewpoint to enhance the practice environment and support permanent staff.

Lastly, they act as positive representatives of the nursing profession, demonstrate its critical role, and inspire high standards of nursing practice through their clinical expertise and professionalism.

Necessary Skills and Qualifications for ER Travel Nurses

Travel nurses working in emergency rooms require a unique skill set to be effective in this fast-paced environment. Here are some of the key qualifications an ER travel nurse should have:

First and foremost, an ER travel nurse needs an active RN license and should have at least 2 years of recent experience working in an emergency room setting. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the clinical judgement and critical thinking skills needed to triage patients and respond quickly in emergency situations.

Strong assessment skills are vital. ER travel nurses need to be able to rapidly evaluate a patient's condition, take vital signs, collect information on symptoms, and determine the urgency of care needed. They also need to continually reassess and monitor unstable patients.

Excellent communication and teamwork are also essential. ER travel nurses communicate with everyone from patients to doctors to family members, often during very stressful situations. They need to collaborate with other ER staff and healthcare providers to deliver coordinated care, especially during medical emergencies when quick action is required.

Essential Credentials and Licensure for ER Travel Nurses

In addition to an active RN license, there are several other licenses and certifications that can help qualify an ER nurse for travel positions:

Having a BLS (Basic Life Support) certification is required for most ER travel nurse jobs. Since ER nurses frequently deal with life-threatening emergencies, they need to know how to perform CPR and use an AED. Many employers also require an ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certification.

Obtaining a CEN (Certified Emergency Nurse) credential demonstrates an ER nurse's specialized skills and training. While not always required, having a CEN certifies an ER nurse's expertise and can make them more competitive travel nurse candidates.

Some ER travel nurses also get certified in TNCC (Trauma Nursing Core Course) to prove their ability to rapidly assess trauma patients and intervene. ENPC (Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course) focuses on pediatric emergency care.

Critical Skills and Characteristics of an Effective ER Travel Nurse

In addition to clinical skills and training, some critical soft skills and personality traits contribute to ER travel nurses' success:

ER travel nurses need to thrive under pressure and adapt quickly to changing priorities. Emergencies are frequent in the ER, and nurses must respond calmly and effectively.

Strong problem-solving and critical thinking are essential to evaluate complex situations, identify issues, and determine solutions. ER nurses rely on their clinical judgement to make rapid high-stakes decisions.

Compassion and emotional intelligence allow ER nurses to connect with stressed, fearful, or difficult patients and family members. Providing empathetic care is key.

Being extremely organized and detail-oriented helps ER nurses juggle heavy workloads, multi-task effectively, and ensure no steps are missed in urgent cases. Keeping accurate documentation is also critical.

Advantages and Challenges in the ER Travel Nursing Field

Perks and prospects of being an er travel nurse.

There are many advantages and exciting opportunities associated with ER travel nursing positions:

ER travel nurses earn excellent pay, often significantly higher than staff nurse salaries. They also receive stipends for housing, travel, and other expenses associated with assignments.

Traveling allows nurses to explore new places and gain experience in prestigious, cutting-edge hospitals across the country. It provides exposure to different protocols and technology.

The contracts are flexible, often lasting 13 weeks. Nurses can choose assignments based on location, experience desired, and other preferences. It allows variety without long-term commitment.

ER travel nurses get to meet new people and build professional connections everywhere they go. The roles promote resilience, independence, and confidence.

The high-paced ER environment develops critical thinking and technical skills. The broad experience prepares nurses for advanced certifications and leadership roles.

The Flipside: Challenges and How to Navigate Them

Despite the many rewards, ER travel nursing also comes with unique challenges that nurses should be prepared for:

Frequent relocations can be disruptive and isolating. Building new relationships and gaining facility-specific knowledge during short contracts can be tough.

Contract requirements vary, so policies, documentation, equipment, and practices require adaptation at each new assignment. Onboarding is essential.

Working in understaffed, high-stress ERs with few support systems can be demanding. Strong coping strategies are key.

Securing housing, licensing, benefit plans, and other logistics takes time and organization. Travel nurses need to stay flexible and resolute.

Understanding hospital culture and politics quickly takes finesse. Diplomacy helps overcome initial outsider status.

Preparing for assignments, researching locations, packing efficiently, and budgeting for gaps take planning. ER travel nurses need resourcefulness.

Charting the course: Getting Started in ER Travel Nursing

Step-by-step guide to become an er travel nurse.

If you're a registered nurse interested in expanding your skills and seeing the country, becoming an ER travel nurse could be right for you. Here's a step-by-step guide to get started in this rewarding nursing career:

1. Earn a BSN degree and gain RN licensure. To become an ER travel nurse, you'll need at least an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), but earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred. You'll also need an active, unencumbered RN license in the state where you'll be working.

2. Gain at least 1-2 years of experience in ER or critical care nursing. Most travel nurse jobs require recent experience in your specialty area. Get this experience by working in a hospital emergency room, ICU, or other critical care unit.

3. Obtain ACLS, PALS, and BLS certifications. These advanced cardiac, pediatric, and basic life support certifications are requirements for most ER travel nursing jobs.

4. Join travel nurse associations like the American Traveler's Association of Nurses (ATAN). These groups provide education, networking, job boards, and more.

5. Research and choose a travel nurse agency to work with. We can help match you to the right assignments faster than other agencies and get you first in line. Get started today in On Demand , our powerful web app.

6. Update your resume and work with a recruiter to find assignments that fit. Highlight your ER experience, specialized certifications, and commitment to high-quality care.

7. Interview for and accept an assignment at your desired hospital. Ask about the patient population, typical diagnoses, charting system, preceptors, and more.

8. Obtain housing and transportation for your assignment location. Many agencies provide housing stipends or corporate housing options.

9. Arrange for your RN license in the new state. This may require applying for temporary multi-state licensure.

10. Review the hospital's policies, procedures, and charting system. Arrive early on your first day for sufficient orientation.

11. Work hard, learn new skills, and make the most of your travel experience! Be flexible, positive, and take advantage of the travel opportunities.

Proven Tips for a Successful ER Travel Nursing Career

If you decide to embark on an ER travel nursing career , follow these tips to set yourself up for success:

• Maintain excellent time management and documentation skills. ER travel nurses need to efficiently prioritize and manage high volumes of patients.
• Be professionally assertive. Advocate for your patients while respecting the primary team's treatment plan.
• Have excellent IV and phlebotomy skills. You'll start many IVs and draw considerable labs in the ER setting.
• Be comfortable working with limited information. ER work requires quick critical thinking with limited medical histories.
• Have superb communication skills. You'll interact with diverse patients, families, and providers while coordinating care.
• Be flexible and adaptable. ER nurses must manage changing acuity, census, interpersonal dynamics and new hospital workflows.
• Seek feedback and learn from preceptors. Adjust your practice to follow each hospital's procedures.
• Attend hospital orientations and trainings. Proactively learn each facility's preferences.
• Build trusted nurse-patient relationships. Use compassion, active listening, and clear communication.

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Travel as an Emergency Room Nurse

Browse travel ER nursing opportunities with LRS Healthcare.

Traveling as an ER Nurse with LRS Healthcare

As a healthcare staffing agency, LRS Healthcare’s specialized recruiters lead Emergency Room Nurses, like yourself, through your new career journey as a traveling healthcare professional.

If you crave excitement and the ability to dictate your schedule and work location, traveling is a great option for you. Our expert recruiters are committed to learning about you and your preferences to find your ideal location and role. They will act as a career guide to help you step by step through the entire process to ensure you begin your new assignment with smooth sailing.

Check out LRS Healthcare’s current traveling ER Nurse jobs and apply today to begin your next adventure. Once you apply, a recruiter will be in touch to help complete the application and go over important job details (like pay and start dates) while securing a healthcare travel assignment that lives up to your demands.

What to expect

Applying for er nurse travel jobs.

To start the next chapter of your career as a travel nurse, you will first need to apply for an assignment. Shortly after, a recruiter will find a time to meet with you and dive into job details, learn your geographical preferences, and secure your first assignment. Once all credentialing and background checks are finalized and if the facility extends an offer, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.

Download the Complete Checklist for Every New Healthcare Travel Assignment

of Traveling as  an ER Nurse

Now to the good stuff, the perks! As a LRS Healthcare travel ER Nurse, you will be able to take advantage of our wide range of benefits and perks, including control over your career. Break out of your comfort zone, explore new cities, and build your network as a travel ER Nurse!

Additional perks include:

Excellent Weekly Pay

Explore New Cities

Fun and Flexible Lifestyle

On-the-Job Experiences

Professional Growth

Extended Time Off Between Assignments

Meet New People

24-Hour Support

With all of this change and excitement, it may take some time to get comfortable in your new job and location. Don’t worry this is expected and your recruiter will be there at every step of your journey! Learn more about travel opportunities for Nursing Professionals.  

Asked Questions

01. Healthcare traveler requirements vary by facility and state. To ensure that the process is fast and stress-free, we recommend that: • All professional licenses and certifications are updated and ready to go before you apply. • Any additional licenses that may be required based on your assignment’s location. • You have at least 2 years of on-the-job experience as an ER Nurse. (This isn’t necessarily required, but we have found that these individuals are typically positioned better and will likely be more comfortable with the responsibilities).

02. The first step is to find a healthcare staffing agency that collaborates with you to secure the best destination and role for you while remaining open and transparent. Our recruiters at LRS Healthcare make it their responsibility to put their travelers in a position to succeed. We make quality care our priority.

03. Short answer: depends on experience. Pay packages vary by experience, job, facility, and agency. Sites and job boards that promote weekly pay either display the pay before or after taxes and include or exclude travel and housing stipends. These variables affect what your take-home pay could be and could potentially vary from the number promoted on the job post. To confirm that this information is accurate, reach out to your LRS Healthcare recruiter to go through your personalized pay package in depth.

04. Most ER Nurse travel assignments are 13 weeks, which allows you to fully experience your new destination and build your network. If you find that you aren’t ready to leave your current assignment, you can always   request an extension .

24/7/365 Benefits

Beyond-your-basic benefits.

Licensure Reimbursement

Certification Reimbursement

Traveler Experience Team

Referral Bonus

LifeWorks EAP

Clinical Team

Healthcare Traveler App

Learn more about our benefits .

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Why Choose LRS Healthcare?

Your success is our priority. That’s why we make the traveler experience easy, so you can spend more time living your life and caring for your patients. Here are just a few more reasons to travel with us.

Traveler First:

You’re never just a number to us. We take the time to learn about you, including your career goals and desired destinations. Your recruiter will guide you from one assignment to the next and be your advocate throughout your journey with us.

Responsive:

Submit your online application, and we’ll be in touch right away. Once we’ve gotten to know you and matched you to an ideal position, we’ll work together to collect the rest of the details.

Full Service:

Along with your recruiter, you’ll have access to our dedicated operations and traveler experience teams. They help take care of all the details to make your assignment the very best it can be. You won’t go it alone—you can contact us any time, 24/7/365.

Traveler App:

LRS Connect is our job search and employment app designed specifically for healthcare travelers. Start your profile to set up custom job preferences and we’ll notify you (in real time) as soon as your dream job becomes available! When you’re ready, you can apply with ease directly through the app with one simple click!

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Become an ER Travel Nurse: Learn the Details, Requirements, and How to Apply

by Trusted Nurse Staffing | Sep 4, 2021 | News

Are you an ER nurse who loves the fast-paced nature of the job, but is looking for something more? 

Maybe you’re a nurse who specializes in another field, and you want to switch your focus to ER nursing. 

Or possibly you’re simply looking for an exciting new job opportunity that also satiates your desire to travel. 

No matter your background, your goal is probably the same.

If you’re looking to break into the exciting world of an ER travel nurse, you’ve come to the right place. 

This guide will outline all the details, requirements, application procedures, and everything else you’ve been wondering about becoming an ER travel nurse.

Table of Contents

What do er travel nurse jobs entail, how do you know if being an er travel nurse is right for you, 3 pros to becoming an er travel nurse, how do i become an er travel nurse, 4 basic requirements for er travel nurse assignments, how much do er travel nurses make, where are the highest paying er travel nurse jobs.

• Trusted Nurse Staffing: How to Apply to The Best Travel Agency for Emergency Room Travel Nurses

Travel ER nursing is a specialized field of nursing that requires some very specific skills. 

Being an ER nurse requires an individual who can remain calm and collected in even the most stressful of situations. 

Additionally, ER travel nurse jobs require skilled nurses who can:

• Quickly stabilize incoming patients
• Immediately assess and prioritize patients based on the severity of their illness or injury
• Record and monitor patient vital signs
• Administer medications as prescribed by the attending physician 
• Assist in various treatment procedures such as intubation, tracheotomies, setting broken bones, and giving sutures
• Manage a large caseload of patients 

If this sounds like a career you’d like to pursue, Trusted Nurse Staffing can help you find the perfect ER travel nurse job that checks all of your boxes.

It takes a highly skilled individual to become an ER nurse .

But it takes a truly special person to be an emergency room travel nurse . 

In addition to being able to perform all the job duties and responsibilities, a successful traveling ER nurse needs to:

• Be an adventure seeker
• Enjoy being independent 
• Want to take the leap into full-time traveling
• Have a desire to learn new skills
• Be comfortable going with the flow
• Embrace change with an open and positive mind
• Be highly professional, organized, and reliable; and 
• Desire a higher level of work-life balance

Becoming an ER travel nurse will add to your life, both professionally and personally, in ways you never expected.

#1: ER Travel Nurse Jobs Are in Demand

Without question, emergency room travel nurses are currently in high demand.

Nurses, in general, are in demand due to a multitude of reasons, including:

• A shortage of licensed nurses
• The rapidly aging population; and 
• A large number of aging and retiring nurses

Nurses with specialty training are in even higher demand, and even higher still is a demand for highly skilled travel nurses. 

Emergency room travel nurses are among the most needed nurses across the country.

This high demand is an enormous benefit to you if you’re a trained ER nurse because it means that you can be picky and choose an ER travel nurse job that is the perfect fit for you.

#2: ER Travel Nurse Jobs Are Never Boring

Emergency Room nursing jobs are among the most exciting and rapidly changing nursing specialties out there. No one day spent as an ER nurse is ever the same as the next.  

Let’s face it, the daily life of an ER nurse is literally the thing that prime-time TV dramas are made of. 

In addition to the ever-changing tasks and high-pressure situations these nurses face daily, highly-trained ER nurses who choose to travel can also work in some surprisingly interesting settings . 

Besides the standard emergency room, traveling ER nurses might work as:

• In-flight nurses
• Members of search and rescue teams
• Emergency medics at popular theme parks
• On-site movie medics; and 
• Cruise ship nurses

#3: ER Travel Nurses Get to Check Off Bucket Lists

Beyond the obvious professional benefits that come from working ER travel nurse jobs, there are tremendous personal benefits you may not have considered. 

Does your personal bucket list include traveling, new experiences, and exploring different places? 

If so, becoming an ER travel nurse might be the perfect way for you to check these things off of your list.

Live in and Explore New Places

Have you ever wanted to …

• Make cross-country road trips
• Immerse yourself in the bright lights, loud noises, and excitement of the biggest cities in the country
• Travel so much that you forget which time zone you’re currently in
• Sip coffee on the quaint streets of Small Town, USA
• Dip your toes in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
• Have the ability to pack up and hop on a plane to a brand-new city at a moment’s notice
• Lose track of time hiking unknown mountain trails
• Experience the vastness and amazingly diverse scenery of the US
• Taste different cuisines and regional specialties

Working as a traveling emergency room nurse is the perfect way to explore new places and satiate your adventurous spirit.

Meet New Friends and Contacts

Meeting new people, be it fellow travelers, co-workers, or simply the people you come across in everyday life, is another huge benefit of becoming a traveling ER nurse.

Networking is key, and the potential with travel nursing is huge. 

Travel nursing exposes you to people you otherwise never would have met and gives you the chance to make some important connections and life-long friends along the way.

Boost Your Nursing Resume

An ER travel nurse gets to gain experience in different types of hospitals across the U.S. that can all contribute to a much more impressive and well-rounded resume . 

Working in different types of settings, some state-of-the-art and others low-income, can help an individual develop as a stronger, more experienced nurse for pursuing any future nursing jobs. 

An ER travel nurse is a registered nurse who is specially trained to treat patients who are seriously injured or ill, typically in hospitals or in transport. 

To become an ER travel nurse, one must:

• Become a registered nurse
• Pass the NCLEX
• Gain relevant experience
• Obtain additional certifications

If you want to become qualified for ER travel nurse jobs, you must first meet the initial education and training required to become a registered nurse. From there, you need to gain some additional experience and certifications to become a trained ER travel nurse.

#1: Become a Registered Nurse

The first requirement for ER travel nurse assignments is to become a registered nurse, which typically takes between 2 and 4 years. 

To become a licensed RN, you must earn one of the following:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree ( BSN ) from an accredited four-year college or university
• An Associate Degree in Nursing ( ADN ) from an accredited two-year technical college. 

#2: Pass the NCLEX

Simply completing your nursing degree is not the only thing required to become a licensed RN. 

Approximately 6 weeks before graduating from your nursing degree program, you should apply for licensure and register to sit for the NCLEX-RN . 

Passing this 6-hour, 75-question computerized test is required to become a registered nurse. 

After passing the NCLEX and fulfilling all other board of nursing requirements in your state, you will be eligible to become a licensed and registered nurse in your state. 

#3: Gain Experience in Different Areas

Once you’ve obtained your initial RN licensure, you’ll be able to practice in a variety of healthcare settings. Sorting through the options and landing your first nursing job can feel overwhelming, but you’ll need to start somewhere.

Most ER nurses don’t just jump straight into the ER. It’s a field that requires a multitude of skills, so experience in other departments is often required. 

Some great facilities in which you can begin to gain experience include:

• Local hospitals
• Nursing homes
• Rehabilitation centers
• Health insurance providers; and 
• Home health care agencies

If you’re already an experienced nurse, you’ll want to make sure that you create a stellar resume that highlights your background. 

#4: Additional Certifications May Be Required

Keep in mind that different healthcare facilities may require different certifications and training. 

While all of these certifications may not be required to land ER travel nurse jobs, the more you add on, the more comprehensive and impressive your resume will be. 

Some additional certifications that ER travel nurses may wish to obtain include:

• Certified Emergency Nurse ( CEN )
• Basic Life Support ( BLS )
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support ( ACLS )
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support ( PALS )
• Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course ( ENPC )
• NIH Stroke Scale certification ( NIHSS )
• Trauma Nurse Core Course ( TNCC )
• Critical Care certification
• Cardiac Care certification
• Ambulatory Care certification
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Care certification

While it varies based on assignment, ER travel nurse salary can be as high as $95,000 per year. On average, ER travel nurses make about $35/hour or $6,000/month.

Additionally, ER travel nurses typically receive:

• Insurance coverage
• Retirement options
• Free or reduced housing; and 
• Travel reimbursement

There is a wide range in pay when it comes to ER travel nurse jobs so, obviously, you’ll want to land the highest paying assignment possible.

But how can you do this?

The truth is, finding the highest paying ER travel nurse jobs can require a good bit of work and know-how. 

If you’re looking to land the highest paying job possible, you’ll want to focus on these types of ER travel nurse assignments:

• ER nurse strike jobs
• Rapid Response jobs
• Crisis Rate jobs
• ER travel nurse jobs with bonuses

These types of emergency room travel nurse assignments often come with much more pressure to perform well in high-stress situations . As such, they are positions that are usually harder to fill , and thus pay more to experienced nurses who are willing to put in the work that it will take to be successful in these difficult situations.

Trusted Nurse Staffing: How to Apply to the Best Travel Agency for Emergency Room Travel Nurses

If you’re struggling to find the highest paying job possible, are unsure how to get started in this field, or just want to make sure you’ve covered all of your bases, Trusted Nurse Staffing can help. 

If you’re ready to begin your adventure as an ER travel nurse, the first step is to create your free profile .

You’ll then be contacted by one of Trusted Nurse Staffing’s recruiters, who will provide exceptional and personalized service to you every step of the way. 

You can count on Trusted Nurse Staffing to:

• Always maintain the highest level of integrity
• Treat you with respect and compassion 
• Lead by example, striving to create a better future for all of our clients
• Keep our commitments
• Remain committed to continuous learning and improvement
• Move forward with passion, continuing to challenge the status quo

You can rest assured that, by working with Trusted Nurse Staffing, your ER travel nursing career will always be in the best of hands.

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Emergency Room (ER/ED) Travel Nurse Jobs

Emergency Room nurses (also called ER nurses or ED nurses) can help provide life-saving care to injured patients and those fighting acute and life-threatening illnesses. ER travel nurse positions can be found in hospital emergency departments around the country. Explore our ER travel nursing jobs, with opportunities for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses, and play a crucial role in stabilizing patients who need immediate medical attention.

347 Travel Nurse Jobs

• $3,179 /wk Open Job Details Page Waimea, HI Emergency Department RN Start ASAP ( 13 wks )  
• $3,102 /wk Open Job Details Page West Islip, NY Emergency Department RN October 23rd ( 8 wks )  
• $3,099 /wk Open Job Details Page Rochester, NY Emergency Department RN October 21st ( 13 wks )  
• $2,900 /wk Open Job Details Page Warwick, RI Emergency Department RN Start ASAP ( 13 wks )  
• $2,878 /wk Open Job Details Page Arcadia, CA Emergency Department RN October 14th ( 14 wks )  
• $2,839 /wk Open Job Details Page Belleville, IL Emergency Department RN October 7th ( 13 wks )  
• $2,617 /wk Open Job Details Page Plattsburgh, NY Emergency Department RN Start ASAP ( 20 wks )  
• $2,755 /wk Open Job Details Page Salinas, CA Emergency Department RN October 7th ( 13 wks )  

Emergency Room Travel Nurse Job Responsibilities and Salary

ED nurses’ highly specialized training prepares them to assess patients’ conditions, administer medications, perform diagnostics, and collaborate with ER physicians to implement care plans. Travel ER nursing jobs empower nurses to ensure patients’ emotional and physical comfort when many are in pain and under duress. Help patients and families understand their critical situations and communicate with their healthcare teams. The average ER nurse salary in the United States is $60,000 to $100,000 and varies based on advanced certifications and experience.

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Travel Nurse: Job Description, Salary, and How to Become One

Interested in becoming a travel nurse? Read more about the job description, responsibilities, salary, and steps to becoming one. Careers

• Travel Nurses
• Table of Contents:
• Job Description
• Responsibilities
• Benefits of Travel Nursing
• Salary Expectations
• Becoming a Travel Nurse

Are you an experienced nurse seeking adventure? Consider becoming a travel nurse. This informative guide offers valuable insights into travel nursing, including job responsibilities, benefits, salary expectations, and the necessary steps to begin your journey.

Travel Nurse Job Description

A travel nurse is an experienced and skilled healthcare professional who takes on short-term contracted assignments in facilities that require additional nursing staff.

If you are an LPN, RN, or NP with a license, you can search for contracts to work as a traveling nurse. You can expect to work 13 weeks on temporary contracts with a weekly requirement of 36-48 hours. However, travel nurse contracts can vary from two to 26 weeks.

Related: Best Registered Nurse (RN) Jobs and Salaries in 2023

Where Do Travel Nurses Work?

Travel nurses have the flexibility to work in a wide range of healthcare settings across the country and even internationally for the most adventurous. Below are some healthcare settings where travel nurses work:

• Intensive care (ICU)
• Emergency room (ER)
• Stepdown (PCU)
• Medical-surgical
• Labor and delivery (L&D)
• Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
• Cardiac care
• Long-term acute care hospitals (LTACH)
• Urgent care facilities
• Outpatient clinics
• Rehabilitation centers
• Home health agencies
• Nursing homes
• Assisted living facilities
• Dialysis centers
• Psychiatric hospitals and mental health facilities
• Pediatric hospitals and clinics
• Oncology centers
• Operating rooms and surgical centers
• Women's health clinics and labor and delivery units
• Public health clinics

Travel Nurse Responsibilities

As a travel nurse, you share similar duties and responsibilities with staff nurses in your specified specialty, including: 

• Patient care
• Patient assessments.
• Vital sign monitoring. 
• Medication administration. 
• Evaluation of patients for changes in condition.
• Patient education. 
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and the healthcare team. 
• Documentation.
• Team Collaboration.
• Problem-solving.

But, there are some critical distinctions as a contracted worker. In addition to your typical staff nursing duties, your additional responsibilities as a travel nurse will encompass the following:

• Adapt rapidly to new healthcare environments, policies, and procedures to integrate into different facilities seamlessly
• Demonstrate proficiency in learning and navigating electronic health record (EHR) systems specific to each assignment
• Maintain compliance with specific facility requirements, such as specialized documentation processes, quality assurance protocols, and unique equipment usage
• Adhere rigorously to facility-specific safety protocols and infection control measures to ensure the well-being of patients, colleagues, and yourself
• Exhibit exceptional adaptability and flexibility to thrive in diverse assignments, embracing different cultural practices and regional variations in healthcare delivery

As a travel nurse, your ability to effortlessly integrate into different healthcare environments while delivering quality care is crucial. Your expertise and adaptability allow you to make a positive impact wherever you go.

Benefits of Becoming a Travel Nurse

Becoming a travel nurse offers a range of advantages that can enhance your personal and professional life. Here are some key benefits to consider:

• Power to choose your time off: As a travel nurse, you can decide when to take time off between assignments. This flexibility allows you to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritize personal commitments.
• Traveling and seeing the country: One of the main advantages of being a travel nurse is exploring different regions and cities. You can immerse yourself in diverse cultures, experience new environments, and create unforgettable memories while working in various locations.
• Making new friends: Each assignment introduces you to a new network of healthcare professionals, enabling you to expand your professional connections and form lasting friendships. Collaborating with diverse teams fosters a sense of community and provides valuable networking opportunities.
• Ability to make more money: Travel nursing often comes with competitive compensation packages, including higher pay rates, stipends, and bonuses. This financial advantage allows you to pay off debts, save for the future, or enjoy bonus travel experiences.
• Experience in various healthcare facilities: With exposure to multiple hospitals and facilities, you can enhance your expertise, flexibility, and understanding, making you a versatile and in-demand healthcare professional.

Travel nursing is an alluring pathway for those who crave excitement, freedom, change, and traveling.

Travel Nurse Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that in May 2021, the average annual salary for registered nurses was $77,600. 

As of May 2023, a report by ZipRecruiter states that the average annual salary for registered nurses is now $77,976, while travel nurses can expect a yearly salary of $105,021.

Nursing experience does not affect travel nursing pay. Instead, the salary varies on the state, healthcare facility, nursing specialty, travel nurse agency, and how many contracts you work in a year. 

Ziprecruiter's May 2023 report highlights that pay for travel nurses will vary depending on the state, with some offering higher compensation and others offering lower.

Highest Travel Nurse Pay by State 2023:

• New York: $128,277
• Arizona: $109,776
• Wyoming: $109,765
• Hawaii $109,653

Lowest Travel Nurse Pay by State 2023:

• South Carolina: $80,182
• Louisiana: $82,597
• North Dakota: $83,025
• Texas: $85,025
• Michigan: $86,825

How to Become a Travel Nurse

Step 1: complete an undergraduate nursing program .

Complete your associate's degree (ADN) or bachelor's degree (BSN) in nursing. Undergraduate nursing programs take 2-4 years to complete. Obtaining your BSN may be preferable, depending on the specialty you desire to work in. 

Step 2: Get Your Nursing License  

Take and pass the NCLEX-RN to become an RN. If you want to be a travel nurse, it may be worth applying for nursing licensure and obtaining your first nursing job in a compact licensure state. By getting your compact RN license, you can travel to 39 states without needing to endorse your nursing licensure for every assignment. 

Related: Best RN to BSN Programs in 2023

Step 3: Obtain Nursing Experience

Any travel position will require at least one to two years of nursing experience in the specialty you plan to work as a travel nurse. This fundamental nursing experience will set you up for success, as each healthcare facility will have varying systems and processes. By having a solid nursing foundation, you can adjust and adapt accordingly. 

Step 4: Find a Healthcare Staffing Agency

Research and set up your applications with preferable travel nursing agencies.

Step 5: Apply for a Travel Nurse Assignment

Apply to your desired travel nursing jobs.

Step 6: Start Your Travel Nurse Contract 

Explore the world of travel nursing further with our detailed resources. Whether you're a beginner or ready to start your journey, we've got you covered with our beginner's guide  and step-by-step instructions . 

As a travel nurse, you'll have the chance to work in various healthcare settings, discover new locations, and grow personally and professionally. Embrace the adventure and pursue a rewarding career that lets you make a positive difference in patients' lives while enjoying the excitement of travel.

About Erin Lee , BSN, RN

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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Sabrina S., RN

Is it possible to make an internship as a travel nurse?  best regards   

canoehead, BSN, RN

6,893 Posts

Sabrina S. said: Is it possible to make an internship as a travel nurse?  best regards   

Its not wise to travel as a new grad, and I doubt any hospital would hire someone without experience.

I'm a certified nurse since 2019. I want to do an internship for 3 months as an abroad experience. I'm looking for a place (hospital, citizens' residence, mobile care, ..) in California, LA. If you have any tips for me, let me know 🙏  

I'm living and working in Austria.

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Emergency Room Travel Nursing Jobs

Jobs listing, emergency room job description.

Emergency room (ER) nurses provide care for patients requiring emergency attention because of physical trauma or acute illness. ER nurses work to quickly assess the needs of each patient to avoid long-term complications, disabilities, or even death.

Emergency Room Job Requirements

• Active BLS, ACLS, and PALS from the American Heart Association
• Active professional license within the state of practice
• The Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) credential and the Certified Emergency Room Nurse (CEN) Certification is recommended and may be required for specific travel nurse positions, NIHSS (stroke scale) is relevant for stemi centers
• Other specialty-related certifications are preferred and may be required for specific Emergency Room assignments
• ER experience in a hospital setting
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as an RN

What is an Emergency Room Nurse?

Unlike other units, the ER nurse can play different roles. Most emergency room nurses take on multiple roles throughout their careers. ER nurses treat patients suffering from trauma, injury, or severe medical conditions requiring urgent care. They work in crises that primarily require instant attention.

• Trauma Nurse:  Works in Trauma Centers and helps patients who come in by ambulance, helicopter, or personal vehicles.
• Code Nurse:  Works in Code Rooms where the sickest patients go in the emergency room.
• Triage Nurse:  Works in the emergency room, sorting patients based on their vital signs, complaints, and resources to help decide who gets seen first by a provider.
• Flight Nurse:  Works out of helicopters and planes to transport critically injured or ill patients transported between emergency departments.
• Critical-Care Transport (CCT) Nurse:  Works in ambulances and cares for patients while being transported from one facility to another.
• Pediatric ER Nurse:  Works in the pediatric emergency room caring for patients under the age of 18.
• Burn Center Nurse:  Works in Burn Centers and are specially trained in burn victim resuscitation and burn care.
• Geriatric ER Nurse:  Works in Geriatric Centers and cares primarily for elderly patients who require acute care.
• Charge Nurse:  Works in the emergency room, and it’s the department captain, responsible for staffing, patient assignments, and more.

National average salary:  $68,425 per year  (Most travel nurses earn higher pay since they are in high demand than their full-time, staff nurse counterparts)

Job outlook:  12% increase by 2028 

Where Do ER Nurses Work?

Most ER nurses work in the emergency departments of hospitals or medical clinics. However, emergency nurses can also find themselves working as flight nurses on search and rescue teams. Interestingly, ER nurses can have a thriving career in the film industry as movie medics. ER nurses can also serve patients on cruise ships since they’re well suited for the unique work environment and challenges this presents.

There are also less hectic work environments for ER nurses, like at schools or walk-in clinics. Most ER nurses can work virtually anywhere. It depends on their certifications and particular skills.

What Kind of Patients Are On the ER Unit?

The emergency room receives every kind of patient. People can come in with headaches, skin infections, back pain, toothaches, and other complaints. Other typical ER visits include foreign objects in the body, skin infections, contusions, cuts, respiratory infections, broken bones, and sprains. These are patients that require immediate and acute care, on-the-clock monitoring, and accurate diagnosis.

What Does an ER Nurse Do?

Emergency room nurses follow very similar duties to other nurses, such as monitoring patients, recording vital signs, administering medications, and so forth. However, ER nurses also experience the pressure and fast-paced environment of the emergency room. An ER nurse’s fundamental role will also vary on her particular skill set, area of emergency covered, and department they work.

Most responsibilities include:

• Check medical equipment to ensure it’s functioning properly
• Keep supplies stock between patients
• Perform or assist with tests like EKGs, electrocardiograms, and blood draws
• Ask questions to get an accurate idea of the symptoms and condition
• Maintain detailed charting notes to ensure continuity of care

How Do You Become an ER Nurse?

The first step is to become a registered nurse (RN) by obtaining either an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Next, pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to get your appropriate license. It’s important to get related emergency experience to later apply for the certification from the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). While this isn’t required, it’s an added plus to your resume. ER nurse certifications will also vary by the type of work you wish to specialize in.

What certifications are commonly held by Emergency Department nurses?

Common certifications:

• Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)
• Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN)
• Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN)
• Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN)
• Certified Transport Registered Nurse (CTRN)

More certifications that some employers may prefer:

• Covid-19 Certification (Covid-19 Certification)
• Domestic violence nurse examiner (DVNE)
• Advanced Disaster Life Support (ADLS)

Benefits Of Traveling With Stability Healthcare

There’s no specific set of qualities required to be an emergency room nurse. It’s more about having particular characteristics that make you well-suited for the job. Emergency nurses must be able to remain calm in highly stressful and high-pressure situations. Having a thirst for knowledge is a common trait among ER nurses that helps them stay on top of the latest developments to be flexible with their treatment recommendations and approaches to certain situations.

Most common skills for ER nurses include:

• Multitasking
• Confidence to be firm and direct
• Coping skills

Travel Nurse Salary & Benefits

A career in emergency room nursing is ever-changing, exciting, and filled with challenges. If this career path interests you, there’s a journey towards becoming one. By specializing in ER nursing, you have the opportunity to explore working at different settings and locations as a  travel nurse practitioner . At Stability Healthcare, travel agency for nurses, we place registered nurses in hospitals across the United States, helping them  expand their horizons  in specialties like ER care.  Contact us  today and speak with one of our representatives to get started on sending your job application today.

Career Benefits

Travel nursing reviews, jennifer, rn.

The response time from my recruiter and nurse specialist is amazing! They both have been so great to work with on my first assignment out in California!!! Chad and Samantha both are super caring and very responsive! I already extended my contract with the hospital because of the smooth process. They made the transition from Florida to California a lot loss stressful than I imagined. Would definitely recommend them both!!!

My recruiter, and other staff I have had the pleasure of interacting with, are all so friendly and helpful. My recruiter is responsive, and even reached out while she was on vacation to check on me! I’ve worked with other agencies in the past, but Stability is next level when it comes to making your travel nursing experience as seamless as possible! Special shout out to Lindsay (best recruiter ever) and Tracy. Amazing people to work with.

Brittany J.

My recruiter is very responsive and personable. I have NEVER had any issues with them!! This agency even has PTO! None of my co workers with other agencies have this benefit!! Also the rates are equal or higher than most other agencies!! Everything feels more like family than business and for that I would choose stability over any other agency!! I am so happy I chose to work with them!

Sopheare C.

My recruiter Amanda is amazing and always timely with her responses. Debbie who is my nurse experience specialist who is with me all times of the contract is truly awesome. Love how responsive she is and will answer any and all my questions. Big thanks to Jesse my compliance coordinator for making all the appointments and getting me travel ready. Can’t thank my team enough for all they do. Any question or issue I have they resolve right away. And I love that they breakdown each contract into a spread so you know exactly what your getting for the terms of the contract.

I have been incredibly impressed by the professionalism, ease of communication, ability to have all requirements for onboarding fulfilled in a timely manner, and just overall outstanding service. Lindsay Hernandez is my particular recruiter and she has been a pleasure to work with, as well as all the team members at Stability. I’m looking forward to staying with them for my next assignment. I highly recommend them to my nursing friends, and anyone looking to travel as a nurse!

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ER Nurse: In-Demand Specialty for Travel Nursing Jobs

Patients come to the ER for many different reasons, and as a result, ER nurses are exposed to every type of patient and health condition.

While America’s reliance on emergency department care continues to grow, so too does the national nursing shortage. ER nurses will continue to find that the need for their abilities and training translates into a booming job market, and the opportunity to take their skills on the road to work as travel ER nurses in their pick of geographic areas.

ER travel nurses can earn up to $2,300 a week. Speak to a recruiter today!

What is an ER Nurse?

ER nurses provide care to patients suffering from severe medical conditions, trauma, and injuries. Though a large part of their role is devoted to urgent patient care for patients experiencing medical emergencies, there are also patients who need less critical care.

No two days are ever alike, as ER nurses treat diverse populations with needs ranging from the very minor to the traumatic.

Patients come to the ER seeking care following both accidents and illnesses and involving every body part and system. Triage is an important part of an ER nurse’s role. These nurses assess the needs of patients to prioritize their care based on severity and the need for immediate treatment.

The most common conditions that bring patients to the ER include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Abdominal pain
• Upper respiratory infections
• Strains and sprains
• Superficial injuries

The location of the emergency room and the type of care setting it is can play a role in the type of cases that are seen. Orthopedic hospital emergency rooms will see a greater number of broken and fractured bones, for example, while pediatric hospital emergency rooms will see entirely different patient needs.

ER nurses must assess each patient’s needs quickly, often with the challenge of panicked patients. ER nurses work with a tightly-knit care team, including specialists like radiologists and orthopedists. They also attend to more mundane tasks, including patient documentation and stocking and preparing emergency department rooms.

In all cases, ER nurses need to be able to adjust quickly to an environment that can change at a moment’s notice, and their resilience and ability to adapt is just one reason why they are so well suited to take their role on the road as ER travel nurses.

ER Nurse Salary and Job Growth Potential

According to ZipRecruiter.com , the national average salary for an ER nurse is $93,405 per year, with an expectation that the more experienced a nurse, the higher their salary will grow. ER nurses also have the opportunity to earn compensation well beyond their base salary by signing on for shift differentials, overtime, and on-call hours.

Keep in mind that different emergency departments will likely offer different compensation — community hospitals may not pay their ER nurses as much as specialized centers like pediatric hospitals or oncology center emergency rooms.

The national average salary for an ER nurse is $93,405 per year, though more experienced ER nurses can likely expect higher salaries.

ER nurses can expect significant opportunities for ER nurse job security and growth potential. The combination of the growing reliance on emergency room services, the surge in the number of urgent care clinics, and the national nurse shortage has made their skills increasingly valuable.

Facilities are working hard to both recruit and retain ER nurses by offering attractive perks and benefits. Many have been moved to use travel ER nurses to address staff shortages and to provide relief for overworked, stressed full-time staffers.

Top Paying Cities for ER Nurses in 2021

According to ZipRecruiter.com , here are the best paying cities for ER nurses in 2021:

• San Francisco, CA: $114,664 per year
• Fremont, CA: $110,073 per year
• San Jose, CA: $107,519 per year
• Nantucket, MA: $107,120 per year
• Oakland, CA: $106,343 per year

Discover available ER travel assignments today!

ER Nurse Education Requirements, Certifications, and Professional Groups

Despite the broad knowledge base required by the job, there is no specialized training or certification to become an emergency room nurse. That said, there are some basic requirements that must be met to become an ER nurse, including:

• Earn either an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed, registered nurse

A nurse who wants to work in the ER’s fast-paced setting can generally move into that role straight out of nursing school. Temperament combined with the required nursing education is the most important qualification for working in the emergency room.

Once an RN has two years of experience in the ER, they can pursue the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) credential that is offered by the Emergency Nurses Association . This healthcare certification provides colleagues, patients, and employers with confidence in the nurse’s knowledge of ER best practices.

In addition to credentialing, the Emergency Nurses Association provides knowledge-building opportunities and conferences designed to help trauma nurses and emergency room nurses develop the competencies for career advancement.

The Pros and Cons of Being an ER Nurse

Pros of er nursing.

• Opportunity to see a wide range of medical conditions
• Fast-paced, exciting environment that requires the ability to think fast and multi-task
• Respect of peers and community

Cons of ER Nursing

• High-stress, chaotic work environment
• Patients are frequently suffering from traumatic injuries and significant disability, or death
• Patient families are often fearful, panicked, and demanding

Travel Nursing as an ER Nurse

ER nurses require both technical skills and specific personality traits, especially since they work in a chaotic, fast-paced environment. These nursing jobs demand quick thinking and the ability to assess and prioritize patient needs while remaining calm and in command.

An ER nurse interested in becoming an ER travel nurse will find competitive compensation and benefits, including higher hourly rates and non-taxable stipends for food and housing. And, as an in-demand specialty, there are often ER travel nurse contracts across the country at all kinds of facilities.

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• RN 9 Weeks Nights Estimated Total Pay $2,643.22 - $2,833.20 /wk*

*Includes estimated wage of $71.70 - $78.70/hr and non-taxable benefits if eligible

• RN 13 Weeks Nights Estimated Total Pay $2,608.91 - $2,761.93 /wk*

*Includes estimated wage of $18.00 - $25.00/hr and non-taxable benefits if eligible

• RN 14 Weeks Nights Estimated Total Pay $2,578.91 - $2,757.70 /wk*

Expand Your Horizons with ER Travel Nursing

At Host Healthcare, we’re proud to offer endless opportunities for experienced Emergency Room nurses across the United States. We know that emergency medicine can be challenging, but as one of the most important fields in healthcare, we are grateful for the work you do. As an ER travel nurse with us, you’ll have the chance to work in some of the most dynamic healthcare facilities in the country, alongside talented healthcare professionals.

Your Dream Career

But we also know that a travel nursing job is about more than just the work – it’s about the experience. That’s why we offer ER travel assignments in locations that match your interests and preferences. At Host Healthcare, we are committed to providing you with the travel nursing job opportunity to pursue your goals, whether they be personal or professional. We understand that your aspirations may include advancing your nursing career, finding a teaching healthcare facility , getting closer to family, or simply exploring new places and meeting new people. Whatever your ambitions may be, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Host Healthcare: Your Nursing Destination

As an ER travel nurse with Host Healthcare, you’ll enjoy industry-leading benefits every step of the way. While you focus on providing exceptional patient care, we prioritize your well-being and growth, which is why we are dedicated to providing the support you need to feel confident thriving in your travel nursing job role. We offer day-1 health benefits, competitive travel nurse salary , customized housing assistance, and recruiters who will advocate for you so that you feel supported and valued throughout your travel assignment.

So if you’re ready to take your ER nursing skills on the road, we invite you to check out our exclusive ER travel n urse jobs today and join our community of exceptional nurses at Host Healthcare. Our responsive recruiters are passionate about helping you find the perfect ER travel nurse job that fits your unique skills and experience. We can’t wait to help you start your next adventure!

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Check out these reviews from real host healthcare travelers..

First time working with Host Healthcare and my recruiter Alison is awesome!! SO responsive and worked relentlessly to get me a job exactly where I wanted to be. Onboarding was a breeze thanks to my recruiter and being so willing to help anytime I had questions. Will continue to work with Host as long as I’m traveling 🙂

Host healthcare has been amazing. Jayme Fowler, my recruiter has gone above and beyond for me. We had a few hiccups in the beginning but this girl went to every measure to get my onboarding done. She is so sweet and really cares about the nurses. She answered every question I had. She is extremely responsive! I absolutely love working with her! 10/10!

My recruiter is so amazing. Katie works with me in many difficult scenarios, is very quick to respond, and is always willing to provide more information and understanding. She is so friendly and thorough, and I would recommended her to anybody looking to become a stress free travel nurse!! Seriously 10 stars

Host Healthcare is great. Vicky is the best recruiter ever. She is organized, caring. Professional, and truly concerned regarding your well being. I have never had a recruiter so kind. Keep up the great work Host Healthcare.

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Emergency Room

Emergency room (er) travel nurse jobs.

Emergency room travel nurse jobs are one of the most sought-after travel jobs on Nomad Health. The demand for emergency room travel nurses has soared due to nursing shortages, seasonal illnesses, acute injuries, and additional support needed during COVID-19. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , the demand for nurses and travel nurses is expected to grow 6% by 2032. This healthy demand, along with healthcare facilities prioritizing the hiring of ER travel nurses, bodes well for ER nurses looking to jump into traveling in the future.

Emergency room travel nurse job requirements

To qualify for an emergency room travel nurse job, you must meet certain requirements that are specific to the job. It’s important to know that each ER travel nurse job may have slightly different requirements based on the location and needs of the facility. However, the following requirements serve as a general checklist for most ER travel nurse jobs.

Educational requirements

At a minimum, emergency room travel nurse jobs require a college education from an accredited nursing program. You will need either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Keep in mind that some facilities may prefer a four-year bachelor's degree.

Licensure requirements

All emergency room travel nurse jobs require an active RN license in the state where you plan on working. If the state is part of the nursing compact, a multistate nursing license may be accepted by facilities. If you are applying for an ER travel nurse job in a state you haven’t worked in before, be prepared to obtain a license in that state.

Experience requirements

Many ER travel nurse jobs on Nomad require you to have at least 12-36 months of experience in the field, although this can vary depending on the facility and its needs. Some facilities may also require you to possess specialized skills in addition to the above requirements.

Certification requirements for ER travel RN jobs

ER travel nurse hiring managers are often looking for candidates who possess specific certifications. If you are offered a travel nurse job in the ER, you may be asked to obtain certain certifications before you can begin working. The most common required certifications for ER travel nurse jobs are:

• Basic life support (BLS)
• Advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS)
• Pediatric advanced life support (PALS)
• Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC)

Competency requirements for ER travel RN jobs

Emergency room travel nurse jobs require nurses to be proficient in using technology and medical equipment found in the ER. Examples of equipment and tools you may be required to have experience with include:

Monitoring equipment

In the emergency department, you’ll need a solid understanding of how to operate monitoring devices such as cardiac monitors, pulse oximeters, blood pressure monitors, and electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) machines.

Respiratory equipment

Many ER travel nurses help patients facing respiratory problems. Ventilators, CPAP, nebulizers, and suction devices are all considered common tools in the ER.

Diagnostic equipment

ER travel nurses may be tasked with assisting in diagnostic procedures, so a basic understanding of x-ray machines, ultrasound machines, CT scanners, and MRI machines is required.

Point-of-care testing devices

ER travel nurses use handheld devices to perform rapid tests in the emergency room, including pregnancy tests, urine analysis tests, and blood glucose monitoring.

Intravenous (IV) equipment

Administering fluids and medications, and placing and managing IV lines are common responsibilities for ER travel nurses.

Wound care tools

ER travel nurses may handle sterile instruments, assess wounds, and place dressings to care for patients with wounds.

Procedural equipment

ER travel nurses should know how to assist other medical professionals with common procedures such as suturing, intubations, and chest tube insertions.

Supply and equipment readiness

ER travel nurse jobs require RNs to keep crash carts updated, including checking and replacing outdated or expired items. ER travel nurses should also know where to find emergency equipment such as defibrillators and emergency airway kits.

Emergency protocols

Anyone working an ER travel nurse job should know how to call for a code and understand how to efficiently get support.

Soft skills required for ER travel RN jobs

Emergency room travel nurse jobs require nurses to demonstrate specific soft skills, including:

Stress management

The emergency room can be a stressful environment to work in. Successful ER travel nurses find ways to manage the demands of the ER without sacrificing the quality of patient care and self-care.

Adaptability

As a travel ER nurse, you must be able to easily adapt to new emergency department settings, workflows, patient populations, coworkers, and equipment.

Emergency room travel nurse jobs require travel nurses to be able to make decisions independently, especially during emergency scenarios.

Communication and collaboration

While autonomy is important, it’s equally important for those working ER travel nurse jobs to collaborate with other team members such as physicians, x-ray techs, and respiratory therapists while dealing with conflict professionally. Having excellent communication skills with patient families who may be experiencing difficult emotions is vital as well.

Miscellaneous ER travel nurse job requirements

Immunization requirements.

To secure an ER travel nurse job, you will need to be up to date on your immunizations according to facility policy. This may include recent flu vaccines, TB tests, hepatitis B titers, and more.

Background check and drug screen

Pre-employment background checks and drug screenings are an important part of obtaining an ER travel nurse job. Verifying employment history and reference are also common procedures for each new assignment. Many travel agencies will pay for expenses related to background checks and drug screening.

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Emergency room travel nurse job duties and responsibilities

Emergency room travel nurse job duties may range from advanced life support to medical equipment management. Emergency room travel nurses usually perform the same duties and responsibilities as staff ER nurses; one difference is that travel ER nurses are expected to adapt quickly to new work environments with a minimal orientation period. It’s important to note that every ER travel nurse job comes with its own set of unique duties and responsibilities based on the facility’s needs.

Patient care

The most critical duty of ER travel nurse jobs is safe patient care. These nurses work with patients who are experiencing distress for various reasons; travel ER nurses must use their clinical judgment and recognize when a situation requires immediate intervention rather than be prioritized for later. They may also see a range of medical conditions and acute injuries. Routine patient care tasks include triage based on vital signs, clinical presentation, history, and expected resources required along with administering medications and monitoring reactions. Other tasks include placing IVs, performing reassessments, responding to emergencies, and giving discharge instructions and education.

Assist with emergency medical procedures and provide emergency care

One of the most common duties of an ER travel nurse job is to participate and/or assist medical teams with procedures for patients with acute injuries and illnesses. Some of the most common procedures emergency room travel nurse jobs may require experience for are:

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Venipuncture and IV insertion
• Medication administration
• Central line placement
• Emergency ultrasounds
• Fracture reduction
• Emergency childbirth
• Nasogastric (NG) and orogastric (OG) tube insertion
• Chest tube insertion
• Lumbar puncture
• Overdose and poisoning management
• Therapeutic hypothermia
• Rapid sequence intubation (RSI)
• Defibrillation
• Psychiatric crisis management
• Patient transport

Patient monitoring

ER travel nurses continuously monitor patient status including vital signs, consciousness level, and level of pain. Through monitoring, these nurses can adjust care plans as needed based on patient feedback and data from monitoring equipment such as ECGs, blood pressure monitors, pulse oximetry, and more.

Patient and family education

Part of ER travel nursing jobs is to educate family members about the patient’s condition, prognosis, and care needs. Emergency room travel nurses explain and break down complex medical terminology and explain procedures in a way that is easier to understand for families and guardians of the patient who may need to make critical decisions about care.

Documentation

Documentation is an important responsibility of emergency room travel nurse jobs because it helps safeguard patients for future care decisions while allowing for a timely, accurate record of observations and interventions performed. ER travel nurses are responsible for documenting and securing information before, during, and after emergency procedures and routine care, including:

• Procedure notes
• Patient conditions
• Treatment notes
• Patient responses
• Vital signs

Discharge planning

ER travel nurse jobs require nurses to prepare and present discharge instructions to patients who have been treated in the emergency room. These plans include a summary of the patient's visit and treatments administered, post-care instructions, and prescription information if needed. ER travel nurses may also coordinate with social services if post-discharge care is needed.

Miscellaneous ER travel nurse job responsibilities

Remember, no travel job is the same. Every emergency room travel nurse job comes with its own set of duties and responsibilities based on the current needs of the healthcare facility hiring for the role. While the above duties and responsibilities are common across many ER travel nurse jobs, individual travel jobs listed on Nomad Health may come with duties outside of this scope. If you have questions about a certain ER travel nurse job on Nomad, reach out to a Nomad Navigator.

Why consider an ER travel nurse job?

There are plenty of good reasons why considering an emergency room travel nurse job is a smart move. From financial incentives to personal growth, a travel job might be just what you need to take the next step in your nursing career.

High demand for ER travel nurses

With an increase in acute care cases and emergency room nurse shortages, emergency room travel nurse jobs remain in demand. Because the demand is high, you can sleep easy knowing that your job is secure and less susceptible to economic downturns.

Competitive pay

Emergency room travel nurse jobs may pay more than staff emergency room jobs. Many things can impact travel pay including your experience, education, location, credentials, and facility needs. When you browse ER travel nurse jobs on Nomad, you’ll see a pay breakdown (including the travel stipend) of every job so you know exactly how you can earn before you apply.

Emergency room travel nurse jobs provide an opportunity to work with new technologies. Common technology that ER travel nurses get exposure to include:

• Electronic health records (EHR) systems
• Cardiac monitors
• Capnography
• Manual and automated external defibrillators (AEDs)
• i-STAT systems
• Triage software
• Medical alarms
• Syringe drivers
• Computerized provider order entry (CPOE) systems
• Barcode medication administration (BCMA) systems
• Central monitoring systems
• Radiology equipment

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Emergency room travel nurse jobs allow you to collaborate cross-functionally with interdisciplinary healthcare staff ranging from physicians to staff nurses and even radiologists. When you work closely with these teams, you’ll get a broader perspective on patient care which you can add to your skill set.

Continuous learning

Emergency room travel nurse jobs can put you on the fast track to learn about the latest education, techniques, treatments, and equipment used in the field. If you’re interested in getting ahead of the curve, applying for an ER travel nurse job might be right for you.

Visit new locations

One of the biggest perks of emergency room travel nurse jobs is deciding where you want to work. From the city to the facility, it’s up to you. Accepting ER travel jobs in new locations also exposes you to new facilities and patient populations you may not experience in a regular staff position.

Tips for finding the best ER travel nurse jobs

Most nurses agree that the best ER travel nurse jobs offer a combination of high compensation and opportunities to expand your clinical experience. However, what makes an ER travel nurse job the best usually depends on personal preferences, career goals, and financial goals.

Research ER travel nurse job agencies

To find the best ER travel nurse job for you, research is the name of the game. First, you need to determine which travel agencies offer ER travel nurse jobs. Unfortunately, not all agencies work with ER travel nurses.

Read reviews

Next, you should consider the reputation of the agency you’re considering working with. Use a search engine to read testimonials and reviews other ER travel nurses have left about the agency. These reviews should give you a general idea of whether the agency meets your standards, and if other ER travel nurses recommend them.

Compare job benefits

While pay may often be the most important benefit of emergency room travel nurse jobs, remember that additional perks such as stipends for scrubs, licenses, and travel, along with health insurance and the option to invest in a 401(k) should be factored into the equation. Unlike Nomad, not all agencies offer these types of benefits , so it's important to compare the additional perks before you accept an ER travel nurse job.

Top locations for emergency room travel RN jobs

The demand for emergency room travel nurse jobs varies across different states based on factors such as the overall demand for ER support, the number of healthcare facilities, and the demographics of the regional population. Additionally, states with larger populations and advanced healthcare infrastructure may need more ER travel nurses than others.

As one of the biggest states, California has multiple medical facilities in densely populated areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, and San Francisco that often hire for ER travel nurse jobs. California also has strict nurse-to-patient ratio laws, which bodes well for patient safety and nurse satisfaction. Additionally, California has a high cost of living, which may result in attractive pay rates.

Like California, certain high-growth metropolitan areas in Texas have ER travel nurse jobs available including Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. Because Texas regularly experiences public health emergencies like tornadoes, hurricanes, and other natural disasters, the need for ER travel nurses may be high.

Because Florida has an older-than-average population and an expansive medical system, the demand for ER nurse travelers is high, especially in cities like Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami, and Orlando. Like Texas, Florida also experiences several natural disasters, including hurricanes, which often result in spikes in demand for ER travel nurses.

The dense population and high number of healthcare facilities in New York make it a hot spot for emergency room travel RN jobs, especially in New York City. Additionally, due to extremely cold winters, there may be an increase in cold-weather emergencies seen in the ER such as hypothermia.

Because Arizona experiences a yearly influx of winter visitors, there is a seasonal strain on healthcare systems there, including a demand for ER nurses.

How to prepare for your first ER travel nurse job

If it’s your first time accepting an ER travel nurse job, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind that will help you feel prepared and ready to go on your first day. Every emergency room travel nurse job is different, but excelling in one or more of these areas may ensure you are set up for success.

Ask about orientation

One of the most important questions you can ask your hiring manager is about the orientation and onboarding process for your ER travel job. Knowing how much support you will have at the beginning and during the assignment will help you set realistic expectations for your first week on the job.

Be adaptable

Being adaptable is the key to starting any ER travel RN job. You will need to be prepared for ambiguity and performing tasks that you may not have much experience with.

Build relationships

Along the way, remember to network and build relationships with your new colleagues. Connect with other ER travel nurses and learn about their experiences with the facility and traveling in general.

Pack wisely

Remember to pack all the essentials you will need for the duration of your travel assignment. Depending on where your ER travel nurse job is, it may be difficult to find a drug store or other convenience stores for items at the last minute, especially if you’re working in a rural area. We recommend packing extra pairs of scrubs, toiletries, and anything else to make you comfortable during your stay.

Frequently asked questions about ER travel nurse jobs

Are er travel nurse jobs in high demand.

Yes, emergency room travel nurse jobs remain in high demand. Because the number of patients that require emergency room care continues to increase, facilities may need extra clinical support from ER travel nurses.

How long do emergency room travel nurse jobs last?

ER travel RN job contract length varies depending on the needs of the facility. In general, most emergency room travel nurse job contracts are 13 weeks long, although it’s not uncommon to find contracts that last eight to 12 weeks.

What qualifications do I need to get an ER travel nurse job?

To qualify for an ER travel nurse job, you will need a two or four-year college degree, an RN license for the state where you want to work, at least two years of experience working in the field, and basic certifications like BLS, ACLS, PALS, TNCC. However, each facility has different requirements for ER travel nurse jobs, so make sure you review the individual qualifications before you apply.

Can I choose the location for my ER travel nurse job?

Yes, you can choose the location for your ER travel nurse job. Nomad Health features emergency room travel RN jobs across the United States. Some are in desirable locations like Hawaii, California, and Florida.

How quickly can I start an ER travel nurse job?

How soon you can start your ER travel nurse job will depend on the needs of the facility. Sometimes facilities need you to start ASAP, while others may allow you to negotiate a start date based on your convenience.

What kind of support will I have during my ER travel nurse job with Nomad?

From the time you apply to the last day of your shift, you’ll get ongoing support from the Nomad Navigators . Once you’re on assignment, you will also have access to Clinical Navigators who are clinicians who have been in your shoes and are equipped to help you navigate any facility or clinical-related issues that may arise.

Do ER travel nurse jobs provide opportunities for professional growth?

Yes! Emergency room travel nurse jobs are an excellent way to fast-track professional growth. When you accept an ER travel nurse job, you can get exposure to new environments, patient populations, and technology that may help level up your skillset and compensation.

ER travel RN healthcare sources

• American Nurses Association (ANA). (n.d.). Home. Retrieved November 6, 2023, from https://www.nursingworld.org/
• Emergency Nurses Association (ENA). (n.d.). Home. Retrieved November 6, 2023, from https://www.ena.org/
• American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). (n.d.). Home. Retrieved November 6, 2023, from https://www.aacn.org/
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved November 6, 2023, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
• National Institutes of Health (NIH). (n.d.). Home. Retrieved November 6, 2023, from https://www.nih.gov/
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (n.d.). Home. Retrieved November 6, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). (n.d.). Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Retrieved November 6, 2023, from https://www.ncsbn.org/nurse-licensure-compact.htm