travel pediatric nurse practitioner salary

Pediatric Travel Nursing: Requirements, Pay, and How To Find the Perfect Assignment

by Trusted Nurse Staffing | Mar 13, 2024 | News

You love nursing. You love traveling. You love kids.

Put those three together, and you’ve found the perfect job — a pediatric travel nurse. 

You really can have it all when it comes to travel nursing. 

We’ve assembled a guide to answer all your questions about how to become a traveling pediatric nurse. Read below for those answers and more.

Table of Contents

What is pediatric travel nursing, how much does a pediatric travel nurse make, how long are pediatric travel nurse assignments, 5 common pediatric travel nurse jobs, who is the best candidate for a pediatric travel nurse job, what are the pros (and cons) of pediatric travel nursing.

• How Do You Become a Pediatric Travel Nurse?
• Interested in Pediatric Travel Nurse Assignments? Let the Experts at Trusted Nurse Staffing Help You Find the Position That’s Right for You

Are you a nurse who loves the thrill of adventure but also your career working in pediatrics? Travel RN jobs might be just what you’re looking for.

Pediatric travel nursing combines the expertise of a pediatric nurse with the benefits of being a travel nurse — new places, new assignments, and new experiences. 

Pediatric travel nurses are a special breed of nurses, often requiring resilience, quick thinking, and the ability to hold back tears.

These specialized nurses usually complete advanced training in pediatrics and work closely with physicians and other health care providers. They collaborate together and are dedicated to the health of children. 

As a pediatric nurse, you’ll perform many of the same duties as other nurses, such as:

• Measuring vitals
• Taking blood
• Performing other diagnostic tests

What separates pediatric nurses is that you’ll also be focusing on the special healthcare needs of children while communicating with their parents. 

Pediatric nurses may be required to:

• Alleviate fears of children and parents. 
• Tackle tough situations with a patient who doesn’t (and isn’t able to) understand what’s happening to them.
• Communicate at a high level with pediatric specialists.

As a pediatric travel nurse, you can work with a staffing agency (like Trusted Nurse Staffing ) and do these things while also getting to:

• Explore new parts of the country.
• Make beneficial professional connections.
• Gain new resume-building medical experience.

Where Do Pediatric Travel Nurses Typically Work?

Traveling nurses specializing in pediatrics may find a position in a variety of facilities including:

• Children’s hospitals
• Acute care facilities
• Pediatrician offices
• Outpatient clinics
• Rehabilitation units

Positions may vary from working with perfectly healthy children visiting a facility for an annual well-visit to very sick children confined to pediatric intensive care units.

Pediatric nurses may also find positions in a subspecialty such as: 

• Intensive care
• Step-down units
• Orthopedic care

According to ZipRecruiter , some traveling pediatric nurses can make over $110,000 per year, but the national average annual salary for a pediatric travel nurse is $76,348.

Salaries can vary by state and facility. When you work with your pediatric travel nursing recruiter, you’ll have access to salary information for assignments to help you make an informed decision about your placement. 

You can find current job listings for pediatric travel assignments with Pronto by Trusted Nurse Staffing. We value our team members and pride ourselves on leading the industry by providing benefits such as health and life insurance options, bonuses, stipends, and more.

Pediatric travel nurse jobs typically last 13 weeks. 

At the end of an assignment, you are free to:

• Accept another placement
• Take some time off between assignments; or
• Request an extension on your current contract 

Top 10 Cities for Pediatric Travel Nurse Jobs 

In addition to the high pay, traveling is one of the biggest perks of pediatric travel nursing. 

Based on pay and demand , these cities are some of the best locations to pursue a traveling pediatric nursing position:

• Emerald Bay, TX
• San Buenaventura, CA
• Port Norris, NJ
• Frankston, TX
• Waterville, WA
• Deer Park, CA
• Northwest Ithaca, NY
• Lake Marcel-Stillwater, WA
• Apple Creek, OH
• Cameron, AZ

#1: Pediatric RN

A pediatric RN usually works with children in doctors’ offices and hospitals. 

Your primary role in a doctor’s office would be to contribute to routine checkups for children of all ages. In a hospital, your role would be administering care according to the child’s nursing care plan .  

A pediatric travel RN’s duties may include:

• Taking and monitoring vital signs 
• Communicating with parents 
• Helping families cope with the stress of an illness
• Providing routine checkups for children 
• Performing developmental screenings
• Giving immunizations
• Treating illnesses 

#2: Neonatal ICU Nurse 

A neonatal ICU nurse provides care and support for newborn infants who are born with often life-threatening challenges, including:

• Premature birth
• Birth defects
• Heart conditions

Travel neonatal nurses usually work in a hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit ( NICU ). 

Your duties as a neonatal nurse may include:

• Taking and monitoring vital signs of babies in the NICU
• Administering medications
• Working with premature babies and families, helping them to adjust to life outside of the mother’s womb
• Informing parents of their baby’s progress

#3: Developmental Disability Pediatric Nurse

Developmental disability pediatric travel nursing includes helping a wide range of pediatric patients. These children often have disabilities that affect a child’s ability to learn and perform basic life skills. 

Developmental disability nurses work with children with disabilities such as:

• Down syndrome
• Rett syndrome ; and
• Asperger’s syndrome

Your duties as a developmental disability pediatric nurse may include:

• Assisting with feeding
• Assisting with bodily functions 
• Educating and supporting parents
• Developing a child’s communication skills
• Educating children and their parents about medical equipment 
• Helping children achieve independent mobility 

#4: Pediatric Palliative Care

Pediatric palliative care nurses provide care for terminally ill children. 

You’ll work to help relieve their suffering and ensure the best quality of care through the living, dying, and family grieving processes. 

Pediatric travel nursing in this field includes duties such as:

• Communicating clearly to parents
• Coordinating care with other healthcare professionals 
• Staying with the child to identify and maintain care
• Assisting with medical equipment 

#5: Pediatric Endocrinology Nurse

Pediatric endocrinology nurses help children with a variety of endocrine disorders.

These disorders include:

• Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism) 
• Early-onset of puberty 
• Delayed puberty 
• Growth hormone deficiency (short stature)
• Turner syndrome 

You would often work with children and teenagers with delayed physical and mental developments. 

Your duties may include:

• Working with doctors to develop, implement, and assess treatment plans
• Maintaining records to track progress 
• Performing physical assessments 
• Inserting catheters 
• Drawing blood for lab tests
• Educating children and their parents 
• Monitoring the effects of medications 

As a pediatric travel nurse, if you have a hunch something doesn’t look quite right, you don’t have time to sit on it.

To succeed in pediatrics, you must have:

• Quick critical thinking skills 
• Good instincts
• The ability to follow your gut

But, possibly, one of the most valuable skills a pediatric nurse can develop is specialized communication skills.

Pediatric nurses work with children of all ages, many of whom are too young to communicate or understand everything happening around them. A successful peds nurse will be required to use a variety of techniques to help their patients understand as much as they can and create an environment where they will feel calm and safe.

If patients are older (such as teenagers), pediatric nurses will face different challenges such as making sure their patients truly understand their health issues and any obstacles they may face in their treatment plan. They’ll need to underscore the importance of following care instructions and the possible ramifications if they don’t.

Additionally, pediatric travel nurses will also have to communicate with their patient’s family members in a way that will make them feel calm, heard, reassured, and educated. 

Looking for a rewarding career that offers both adventure and stability?

Pediatric travel nursing offers both. To help you determine if it’s the right career path for you, we’ve outlined several pros and cons below.

As a pediatric travel nurse, you can pursue an in-demand career, while also enjoying:

• Great pay and benefits
• May be a con for those who want a traditional, predictable annual salary 
• Endless adventure
• May be a con for those who prefer staying in one place 
• Making many new professional connections
• May be a con for those who prefer one long-stint employer 
• Freedom and adventure for your family
• May be a con for those who don’t want to travel with family
• High demand locations
• May be a con if these areas don’t appeal to you
• Avoiding work politics 
• May be a con for those who don’t like to be the “new nurse”
• Affordable housing
• May be a con for those who like to pack heavy and want to have a forever home right away
• Resume building
• May be a con because it takes more effort to keep up to date with new experiences and places of employment 
• Meeting new people
• May be a con because you may miss your hometown friends and family 
• Trying new specialties 
• Knowledge is power and never a con

If you love these pros, then a pediatric travel nurse lifestyle might be a great fit for you.

Trusted Nurse Staffing can help you find the best travel nurse path for you. Contact us today, and we’ll help you get started on your new adventure.

How Do You Become a Pediatric Travel  Nurse?

Becoming a pediatric travel nurse has never been easier. 

There are four basic steps to becoming a pediatric travel nurse:

• Earn an RN nursing license from an accredited nursing school.
• Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• Gain experience in a professional setting.
• Obtain any specialty certifications for your desired role. 
• Work with an experienced and supportive travel nursing agency.

Step #1: Become a Registered Nurse

If you’re just beginning your career search and wondering how to become a traveling pediatric nurse, know that the first step is the same for any nursing position — become an RN. 

You need to graduate from an accredited nursing program with an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing .

Your schooling may take 2-4 years depending on the requirements and your commitment.

Then, begin studying to get your license. 

Step #2: Pass the NCLEX-RN

You’ve graduated from nursing school. You’re one step closer to becoming a pediatric travel nurse.

The next step — pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

Good study habits and techniques are key for passing the exam. 

Check out these tips from fellow nurses on how to pass the first time: 

• Understand the NCLEX-RN format.
• Don’t self-evaluate during the test.
• Find ways to manage test stress.
• Know your NCLEX-RN study style.
• Make a study plan.
• Hone your test-taking skills.
• Invest in test prep resources. 
• Go beyond the practice questions. 
• Prepare for exam day. 
• Believe in yourself.

Step #3: Gain Experience

You’re a licensed RN. Next up — experience. 

Find an internship that allows you to work alongside a pediatric nurse practitioner or a pediatrician. A peds internship is usually about 12 weeks long and involves both practical training and classroom learning. 

Once you have practical experience working alongside a pediatric specialist, begin applying for pediatric nursing positions. 

You’ll typically need at least one year (and possibly up to two) of pediatric nursing experience before applying to pediatric travel nursing positions. 

Whether you’re new on your travel nursing job search or you’re a seasoned professional, Trusted Nurse Staffing is here for you. We can help you find your dream job as a pediatric travel nurse . 

Step #4: Obtain Special Certifications

When it comes to pediatric travel nursing, special certifications are often required. When not required, it’s often a good idea to have certain certifications to boost your resume and to prepare for different areas of pediatric nursing. 

In particular, a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) certification greatly increases your employability, enhances career mobility, and may raise your compensation . You can apply for this certification once you have over 1,800 hours of career experience as a pediatric nurse over 24 months. 

Step #5: Connect With a Travel Nursing Agency

A pediatric travel nursing career starts with making a connection with a reputable agency. When researching agencies to work with, you want to look for one that participates in thorough and honest communication and is transparent with you. 

Avoid agencies that don’t feel purpose-driven, have overly complex contracts, or connect you with a recruiter who isn’t genuinely invested in your career growth.

A solid travel nursing agency will help you feel prepared to start or continue your travel nursing journey by taking care of many of the planning aspects and helping you understand your contract and obligations.

Interested in Pediatric Travel Nurse Assignments? Let the Experts at Trusted Nurse Staffing Help You Find the Position That’s Right for You 

Pediatric travel nursing is a dream job — and we can help turn that dream into a reality. 

At Trusted Nurse Staffing, we:

• Help you fully customize your resume for the position you want.
• Listen to your goals, interests, and availability. 
• Create a tailor-made list for you of possible assignments .
• Submit your resume to your top choices. 
• Consult with you on all offers to ensure you get what you want.
• Act as a go-to for any needs or questions during an assignment. 
• Continue to assist with negotiations and extensions. 
• Help you choose your next adventure when it’s time.

Are you ready to begin a great adventure in pediatric travel nursing? Click below to search for job openings. We’re waiting to help make your travel nursing dreams a reality. 

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Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Salary By State – (2024 FIGURES)

The average pediatric NP salary is high, offering PNPs a substantial return on the investment they’ve made in their graduate education. Pediatric nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses specializing in the care of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults through the age of 21. Occasionally PNPs will also care for older adults affected by illnesses such as sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis that initially manifested when those young adults were children. Pediatric nurse practitioners comprise fewer than 8 percent of the NP workforce according to the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. How much does a pediatric nurse practitioner make? This article reviews everything you need to know about pediatric nurse practitioner salary in 2024.

How Much Does A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Make Per Hour In 2024?

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We have used the following sources to compile the salary data on this page.

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Pediatric Travel Nurse Salary

Table of Contents

In this article, we'll explore the salaries of pediatric travel nurses and the factors that contribute to their earnings. Whether you're a seasoned pediatric nurse weighing the benefits of travel nursing, or a new nurse interested in the specialized field of pediatric travel nursing, this article will provide an in-depth look at pediatric travel nurse salaries and how to maximize your earnings.

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Factors Affecting Pediatric Travel Nurse Salaries

Various elements can significantly impact the pediatric travel nurse's salary. Healthcare employers take these factors into consideration when offering pediatric travel nurse jobs since they are crucial to determining the base salary and overall compensation package. Understanding these factors can help travel pediatric nurses potentially increase their earnings. This article will discuss the main factors affecting wages for pediatric travel nurse RN jobs: geographic location, years of experience, and contract length.

Geographic Location

One of the most prominent factors that can impact the pediatric RN's salary is the location of the assignment. In general, anesthesia pediatric nurse practitioner jobs in urban areas or major cities tend to offer higher base salaries than those in rural or suburban locations. The cost of living and the demand for healthcare services in the area play a significant role in determining pediatric travel nurse assignments ' wages. Additionally, certain regions have a higher demand for pediatric RNs, which can affect the base salary offered by healthcare employers.

Some states also have regulations regarding nursing licenses and certifications, which can further influence a pediatric travel nurse's earnings. For example, obtaining pediatric nursing certification in a specific state might lead to more lucrative opportunities, while an assignment in another state might require continuing education in poison information or pediatric emergency assessment to maintain a license.

Years of Experience

An essential factor contributing to pediatric travel nurse salary variations is the level of experience of the pediatric RN. In the nursing jobs industry, years of expertise play a significant role in determining compensation packages. Experienced pediatric nurses, especially those with a higher level of specialization, such as neonatal nurses, often receive more competitive base salaries than their less experienced peers.

As pediatric RNs progress in their careers and gain more knowledge, both their value to healthcare settings and their earning potential increase. Healthcare employers looking to fill pediatric travel nurse jobs often give preference to nurses with more experience in pediatric settings and those who hold specialized certifications, further impacting the overall pediatric travel nurse earnings. Candidates having specialized pediatric nursing certifications can qualify for more diverse healthcare team positions and command higher base salaries.

Contract Length

The duration of pediatric travel nurse assignments can also affect the offered salary. Shorter assignments, typically lasting a few weeks to a few months, may pay higher hourly rates compared to longer-term contracts. This increased compensation is often used to attract qualified pediatric travel nurses, who may be better suited for a shorter assignment due to their expertise or availability. Longer contracts, on the other hand, may offer a lower base salary but include additional benefits such as housing stipends, travel reimbursements, or completion bonuses.

Travel nurse RNs must evaluate whether a short-term contract with a higher hourly rate or a long-term contract affording additional benefits is more suitable for their financial and personal needs. Keeping these factors in mind when browsing pediatric travel nurse jobs can help RNs make informed choices when considering offers and contract lengths.

Comparing Pediatric Travel Nurse Salaries to Other Nursing Specialties

When evaluating pediatric travel nurse salary packages, comparing them to other nursing specialties provides a useful context. Generally, pediatric travel nurse roles can pay similarly to other specialized travel nurse positions. However, the eligibility for certain benefits or incentives may vary depending on the specific nursing niche. For example, an operating room nurse might receive a higher base salary than a pediatric nurse practitioner due to the nature and intensity of their job responsibilities.

However, pediatric travel nurse jobs offer unique rewards that can be highly motivating for professionals with a deep-rooted interest in working with children and joining a healthcare team devoted to serving pediatric patients. These rewards often go beyond monetary compensation and include the satisfaction derived from providing essential healthcare services to young patients in various settings, positively impacting their lives.

Ultimately, those interested in pursuing pediatric travel nurse assignments should carefully consider all factors that influence the salary package, not just the base salary. Analyzing the complete monetary and non-monetary rewards of different nursing specialties will help potential nurses make informed decisions and select the best career path aligning with their values, skills, and long-term goals.

To find the best pediatric travel nurse jobs offering competitive salaries and rewarding opportunities, interested view job details closely for each assignment. By considering the factors discussed, pediatric RNs can not only maximize their earning potential but also find fulfilling roles that contribute positively to the healthcare settings they serve.

Maximizing Earnings as a Pediatric Travel Nurse

One of the main attractions of pediatric travel nurse jobs is the potential for higher earnings compared to traditional nursing positions. Base salary, as well as other factors, can impact a pediatric travel nurse's salary. To maximize your earnings, it's essential to consider aspects such as choosing high-paying locations, obtaining advanced certifications, and engaging in continuous education. In this article, we will explore ways to optimize your income and bolster your career as a pediatric travel nurse.

Choosing High-Paying Locations

Geographic location is a significant factor affecting pediatric travel nurse assignments and the accompanying salaries. Some states and cities pay more than others due to factors such as the cost of living, demand for pediatric RNs, and local economic conditions. By, strategically selecting assignments in higher-paying locations, you can increase your overall income.

For instance, states like California, New York, and Massachusetts are known for offering higher salaries for nursing jobs. Similarly, metropolitan areas with large populations and top-tier healthcare settings are generally more likely to offer higher pay for pediatric travel nurses. To identify high-paying locations, you can research online, consult with a travel nurse recruiter, or discuss with fellow nurses who have experience working in different regions. Be sure to factor in costs such as housing, transportation, and food, which may vary across locations.

In addition to researching base salaries, it's essential to explore other financial benefits, such as bonuses, sign-on incentives, and referral rewards. Many healthcare organizations offer these perks, which can also contribute to maximizing your earnings as a pediatric travel nurse. Make sure to read the fine print on your contract, discuss it with the recruiter, and be proactive in negotiating the best possible package.

Advanced Certifications and Education

Another crucial aspect of enhancing your pediatric travel nurse salary is obtaining relevant professional certifications and engaging in continuous education. These qualifications not only demonstrate your expertise to potential employers but also give you an edge in securing better-paying positions. Examples of advanced certifications include the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Pediatric Emergency Nursing (CPEN).

Certifications and training can also lead to specialized roles within the pediatric nursing field. For instance, a pediatric nurse practitioner or a neonatal nurse may command higher salaries than a general pediatric nurse due to their specialized skillset and additional training. Pursuing specialized certifications in areas like pediatric oncology, pediatric cardiology, or poison information can elevate your credentials and open up more lucrative pediatric travel nurse jobs.

Networking with the healthcare team, including doctors, nursing managers, and other nurses, can help you stay informed about new opportunities and educational resources. Attending conferences, participating in local nursing associations, and even engaging in online forums can help you expand your skills and knowledge in the ever-evolving pediatric nursing field. Furthermore, staying current with industry trends and innovations may make you a more valuable candidate, allowing for higher pay rates and more desirable assignments.

In conclusion, maximizing your earnings as a pediatric travel nurse is possible through careful planning and diligent effort. By selecting high-paying locations, obtaining advanced certifications, and engaging in continuous education, you can optimize your income while continuing to provide exceptional care for young patients. Remember to stay proactive in your career, embrace new learning opportunities, and be adaptable to the dynamic landscape of travel nursing.

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Pediatric Nurse: In-Demand Specialty for Travel Nursing Jobs

Pediatric nursing combines a love of children with a dedication to their wellbeing. The need for professionals with these characteristics is expanding rapidly in the face of a national nursing shortage .

Pediatric nursing requires more than clinical knowledge. The patient population ranges from nonverbal newborns and infants to uncommunicative adolescents. Pediatric nurses need excellent communication skills. They need patience supplemented by a sense of humor and the ability to play, all while also offering treatment.

In the face of the growing national need for these professionals, there are tremendous rewards for experienced clinicians who choose to be travel pediatric nurses.

Click here to discover available pediatric travel nursing assignments!

What is a Pediatric Nurse?

Pediatric nurses work collaboratively with pediatricians and pediatric specialists to provide well care, chronic care, and acute care treatment to children of all ages, from birth all the way up to the age of 18.

As the health care professionals who spend the most time interacting with children, pediatric nurses play a pivotal role in the way both children and parents will view medical treatment for the rest of their lives.

Their responsibilities are the same as nurses who care for adults — recording medical histories and symptoms, assessing patient condition, administering vaccinations, diagnostic tests and medications — with the added element of needing to communicate in a way appropriate to the patient’s developmental stage , abilities and reactions.

Their responsibilities are the same as nurses who care for adults with the added element of needing to communicate in a way appropriate to the patient’s developmental stage , abilities and reactions.

Because their patients are under the age of 18, pediatric nurses must also ensure that parents fully understand their child’s medical needs and treatment plans. Though pediatric nurses have the pleasure of working with healthy children, they also face the emotional challenge of working with very sick and vulnerable patients.

Pediatric nurses work in a variety of care facilities and their specific responsibilities will vary based on the care center where they work. Those who work in private pediatrician offices will generally provide sick care, administer immunizations and offer education. School nurses will provide preventive health education and sick treatment. Those who work on the pediatric floors in hospitals, in the pediatric intensive care unit or in specialty children’s hospitals provide support for children who are undergoing surgery or who are being treated for chronic and acute illnesses.

Pediatric Nurse Salary and Job Growth Potential

According to Zippia.com , the average salary for a pediatric nurse is $71,000. This is likely to vary based on their education, certifications, years of experience, geographic area and venue.

The average annual salary for a pediatric nurse is $71,000.

The potential to earn a generous salary is not the only thing that makes pediatric nursing an attractive nursing career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that demand for pediatric nurses will only continue to grow. The continuing national nursing shortage will combine with the rising percentage of young people in the United States. According to the U.S. Census , 23% of the U.S. population is under the age of 18. These children will continue to need medical care, and this will drive an increased need for nurses with a pediatric specialization. Anyone considering becoming a pediatric nurse can expect to continue to be highly valued — and well-compensated.

Top Paying Cities for Pediatric Nurses in 2021

Pediatric nurse positions are available in locations ranging from major metropolitan cities to rural areas experiencing a significant shortage of healthcare providers. The care these nurses provide makes a real difference to the communities they serve.

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

• San Francisco, CA: $112,582 per year
• Seattle, WA: $101,187 per year
• New York, NY: $95,216 per year
• Springfield, OR: $93,663 per year
• Washington, DC: $89,802 per year

Click here to discover high-paying pediatric travel nursing assignments!

Pediatric Nurse Education Requirements, Certifications, and Professional Groups

Those who choose a career as a pediatric RN do so because they are passionate about children. To be a pediatric nurse, in addition to requiring a natural rapport with kids and their parents, you will need to earn a nursing degree as a Registered Nurse and to pass the NCLEX Examination .

Once you’ve passed the exam and have met your state’s requirements for licensure, you will be able to apply for nursing positions where you can gain pediatric experience. If you are unable to immediately qualify for a position in a pediatric clinic, a family practice can provide the clinical experience to get you in the door.

Pediatric nurses can be Registered Nurses with either an associate degree or bachelor’s degree or Advanced Practice Registered Nurses who have earned a Master’s degree.

Registered Nurses who want to establish credentials as pediatric nurses need to have a minimum of 1800 hours of primary pediatric clinical hours prior to becoming certified by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board , and must also pass the Certified Pediatric Nursing certification exam . Advanced Practice Registered Nurses can enhance their Pediatric Nurse Practitioner credentials by seeking certification as Acute Care Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (CPNP-AC), as Primary Care Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (CPNP-PC), or as Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialists (PMHS).

Pediatric nurses and nurse practitioners will find support and resources from a variety of professional organizations, including:

• Society of Pediatric Nurses (SPN)
• Association of Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurses (APHON)
• The National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP)
• National Association of School Nurses (NASN)
• American Pediatric Surgical Nurses Association (APSNA) *
• Association of Faculties of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (AFPNP) *
• Association of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition Nurses (APGNN) *
• Society of Pediatric Cardiovascular Nurses (SPCN) *

The Pros and Cons of Pediatric Nursing

Pros of pediatric nursing.

• Pediatric nurses spend their time providing medical care, support, and education to children and their families. For those who love children, spending time with patients is the best part of the job.
• Though every nursing position exposes you to sick patients, there is additional stress and heartache when children are the ones who are ill.
• Pediatric nurses play an essential role in improving their patients’ health and wellbeing.

Cons of Pediatric Nursing

• Regardless of whether they are infants or adolescents, pediatric patients can be extremely resistant.
• Pediatric nurses have a profound impact on their patients’ attitudes towards and trust about healthcare that will carry forward through the rest of their lives. Those who work in pediatric practices can form relationships with their patients that last for years.
• Parents can be overbearing, neglectful, argumentative, noncompliant or emotionally demanding This can make treatment challenging and increase job stress.

Nursing as a Pediatric Travel Nurse

Choosing to be a pediatric nurse doesn’t mean that you have to stay in one place. Travel nursing as a pediatric nurse offers all of the advantages along with the freedom to explore new places, meet new people, and learn new professional skills. Travel nursing as a pediatric nurse offers adventure along with professional rewards.

Travel nursing offers the opportunity to earn generous salaries with attractive benefits including sign-on bonuses, overtime pay, daily allowances for meals and incidentals. Many travel programs provide tuition assistance, professional support, 401(k) retirement plans, and other valuable benefits, all while letting you choose where you want to go and how long you want to stay.

Enjoy all of those benefits on top of the satisfaction of knowing that you are providing critical patient care while doing work you love.

RNs can earn up to $2,300 a week as a travel nurse. Speak to a recruiter today!

Make all the right career moves!

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• Highest Paying Cities
• Top Paying Agencies
• How to Make More
• Related Careers
• Final Thoughts & Next Steps

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

The average annual travel nurse salary in the US is  $105,021 or $50/hr, according to  ZipRecruiter  as of May 2023. This is significantly higher than the average salary for registered nurses overall, which is $81,220 per year or $39.05 per hour per the BLS . 

>> Click here to see available high-paying travel nurse opportunities!

Travel nurse salaries range widely across the country, with the lowest earners making $40,000 and the highest earners making $155,500 annually!

If you are a Registered Nurse (RN) who has ever considered traveling the country and wants to know how much travel nurses earn, you’ve come to the right place! This travel nurse salary guide will explain everything you need to know about how much travel nurses can make. Including:

• Types of travel nurses who make the most money
• Travel nurse salaries by city and state incomes
• Top-paying travel nurse agencies
• How to increase your salary as a travel nurse

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Factors That Impact Travel Nurse Salaries

It is important to remember that travel nursing salary is dependent on several factors, including:

• Nursing specialty
• Full-time or part-time employment
• The shifts you work: day shift, night shift, mid-shifts, or weekends
• Bonus income

Also, travel nurses who work holidays often receive time-and-a-half or double-time pay, and in some cases, even more!

In addition, depending on the circumstances, travel nurses may also receive “crisis” pay due to needing to fill staffing urgently. If you have the desire and flexibility to move to another city or state quickly, a “crisis” assignment might be a great option for you.

Travel Nurse Salary by Specialty

What do travel nurses do that warrants their higher salaries? While flexibility is a significant factor, your travel nurse salary will also change depending on your nursing specialty.

Travel CRNA

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are the top-paid nursing specialty. The same holds true for CRNAs who take travel assignments as well. According to ZipRecruiter , CRNA travelers earn an average annual income of $194,352 or $93/hr. The highest earners make as much as $311,500!

Operating Room Travel Nurse

Operating Room (OR) travel nurses are in high demand at various locations around the country. ZipRecruiter found that operating room travel nurses earn an average annual income of $181,460 annually or $87/hr. The highest earners make as much as $286,000.

Emergency Room Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter reports that ER travel nurses earn an average annual income of $83,503 annually or $40/hr. However, they add that the highest earners make as much as $171,500.

Intensive Care (ICU) Travel Nurse

According to ZipRecruiter , the average annual salary for ICU travel nurses is $143,416 annually or $69/hr. However, the highest earners make as much as $263,500.

Travel Nurse Practitioner

The average travel nurse practitioner salary is $140,086 annually or $67/hr, according to ZipRecruiter .  However, salary is often dependent on location and specialty. The highest-earning travel nurse practitioners make as much as $243,500.

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Travel Nurse

NICU travel nurses earn an average income of approximately $173,017 annually or $83/hr, according to ZipRecruiter . However, incomes across the country can range widely, with bottom earners making $56,000 and top earners bringing in $281,500.

Med-Surg Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter reports that med-surg travel nurses in the US earn an average annual income of $118,997 or $57.21/hr. However, per-hour incomes can reach as high as $134.38, depending on your location and facility.

Telemetry Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter states that telemetry Travel nurses earn an average annual income of $124,122 annually or $60/hr. However, top earners bring in as much as $174,500.

Top Paying States for Travel Nurses

Location can make a huge difference in salary as a travel nurse. ZipRecruiter reports that the states that offer the highest pay for travel nurses include:

• New York: $128,277 annually or $61.67/hr
• Arizona: $109,776 annually or $52.78/hr
• Wyoming: $109,765 annually or $52.77/hr
• Hawaii: $109,653 annually or $52.72/hr
• Tennessee: $107,708 annually or $51.78/hr
• Massachusetts: $107,000 annually or $51.44/hr
• New Jersey: $106,901 annually or $51.40/hr
• Washington: $106,086 annually or $51.00/hr
• West Virginia: $106,044 annually or $50.98/hr
• New Hampshire: $105,438 annually or $50.69/hr

Top Paying Cities for Travel Nurses

ZipRecruiter reports that the cities that offer the highest pay for travel nurses include:

• Barrow, AK: $137,200 annually or $65.96/hr
• San Jose, CA: $133,873 annually or $64.36/hr
• Oakland, CA: $132,042 annually or $63.48/hr
• Antioch, CA: $129,387 annually or $62.21/hr
• San Francisco Bay Area, CA: $128,781 annually or $61.91/hr
• Lebanon, NH: $128,674 annually or $61.86/hr
• New York, NY: $128,277 annually or $61.67/hr
• Hayward, CA: $127,865 annually or $61.47/hr
• Vallejo, CA: $127,791 annually or $61.44/hr 
• Seattle, WA: $127,691 annually or $61.39/hr

Top Paying Agencies for Travel Nurses

There are multiple top-paying travel nurse agencies across the US. It is important to remember that your pay package depends on several factors, and income may vary widely depending on location and the needs of the facility. When a healthcare facility has more urgent needs for travel nurses, the pay ranges typically increase.

>> Related: Travel Nurse Requirements

Aya Healthcare

Aya Healthcare is one of the largest travel nurse agencies in the country, and they offer a wide range of travel nurse opportunities for various nursing specialties and allied healthcare positions. 

Fusion Medical Staffing

Fusion is another large nurse travel agency with many opportunities for nurses to choose their top travel destinations. Their website reports that one of the biggest perks of working with them is that they offer dedicated contacts available every day and night, 24/7.

Axis Medical Staffing

Axis Medical Staffing has won awards for “Best Customer Service” by Verywell Health and “Top Travel Nursing Company 2022” by Travel Nursing Central. 

Travel Nurse Across America

The TNAA website boasts highly skilled recruiters, housing experts, and clinical and quality insurance that prepares their travel nurses for success. 

Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare is another large travel nursing agency that reports that they aim to open the door to the right opportunities for their clinicians. In fact, their website reports that 90% of travel nurses report that their assignments aligned perfectly with their skills and expectations. 

TotalMed Staffing

Headquartered in Appleton, WI, TotalMed Staffing has several other locations across the country, such as California, Illinois, Tennessee, and North Carolina. They serve various types of healthcare facilities across the country.

Ventura Medstaff

Ventura Medstaff prides itself on integrity. Their website makes it easy to find a match for various types of healthcare specialties in the right location and facility across the country.

Tailored Healthcare

The Tailored Healthcare website reports that travel nurses are rewarded professionally with high-paying travel assignments, Platinum Shield Benefits, and everything paid for upfront. In addition, the company celebrates its nurses year-round with praise, gifts, and best-in-class bonuses.

Titan Medical 

Titan Medical Group states that they help their clients “find your place.” They feature various jobs on their website daily and make it easier for clients to find their next travel assignment.  

MedPro Healthcare

Medpro Healthcare offers incredible benefits, including competitive compensation, travel reimbursement, health insurance, short and long-term disability, 401K, Continuing education, and even referral bonuses.

How to Increase Your Salary as a Travel Nurse

No matter where you live and work as a travel nurse, there are often opportunities to increase your salary.

Be Flexible With Your City and State

When you live and work in a city with a higher cost of living, you will also be compensated at a higher rate. For example, travel nurses who work in areas such as New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle will earn significantly more income than travel nurses who choose to work in lower-cost-of-living areas. 

Consider Your Specialty(s)

If you have been cross-trained in more than one nursing specialty, you may want to see which specialties pay the most through your travel agency. For example, if you usually work as an ICU nurse, but a facility has crisis needs for telemetry nurses and will pay top dollar for that specialty, then you may want to consider accepting that travel assignment. After all, these are temporary assignments, and if you decide you don’t like them, you won’t have to stay for long.

Ask About Per Diem Daily Pay

Many nurses qualify for additional per diem pay for travel nurse housing , incidentals, and meals during their travel assignments. Talk to your travel agent to see if this applies to you.

Choose Shifts Wisely

Career and travel nurses are typically paid a few dollars more per hour for working less desirable shifts such as night shifts, mid shifts, and weekends.

In addition, travel nurses who work holidays often receive time and a half or double time pay!

Talk About Bonuses

Your travel agency will need to explain your bonus structure, as they can differ from agency to agency. However, here are a few of the different types of bonuses you may be eligible for as a travel RN:

• Agency bonus: Added pay from your travel agency
• Retention bonus: Your agency will often pay you a fee for referring your nurse and allied healthcare professional friends to their agency.
• Retention bonus: Agency-paid bonuses for nurses who continue to accept travel bonuses from the same agency.

Find Crisis or Strike Pay

Healthcare facilities in dire need of nursing staff during a public healthcare crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or during a nursing strike, often will pay travel nurses significantly higher wages than during non-dire times. Talk to your travel agency to find out where the most significant staffing needs are. 

Consider Looking at Different Agencies

If you are ever disappointed with your travel pay or hear through the grapevine that other agencies pay significantly more, consider looking at different agencies. It is also wise to build relationships with other travel nurses so you can talk freely about what to expect at different agencies.

Consider Finding Your Own Housing

Many agencies offer a housing stipend and then secure your housing for you. However, if you find your own housing, you may be able to find something less expensive and pocket the rest of the money.

>> See more travel nurse salary tips in How to Make the Most Money as a Travel Nurse

Salaries of Related Nursing Careers vs. Travel Nursing

The following are salaries of non-traveling nursing specialties, according to ZipRecruiter:

• NICU Nurse : $136,592 annually or $66/hr
• Surgical Nurse: $120,699 annually, or $58/hr
• Postpartum Nurse: $108,952 annually or $52/hr
• Telemetry Nurse: $95,179 annually, or $46/hr
• ICU Nurse : $92,568 annually or $45/hr
• Emergency Room Nurse : $83,503 annually or $40/hr

Travel Nurse Salary: Final Thoughts & Next Steps

The high salaries alone are enough to make dozens of nurses excited to enter travel nursing. But the perks don't stop at pay - travel nurses get to see the world, interact with patients across cultures, and enjoy non-taxed travel stipends. If all that sounds enticing to you, check out our guide on how to become a travel nurse to start your dream career today!

Travel Nurse Salary FAQs

Do travel nurses get paid well.

• ZipRecruiter reports that as of May 2023, travel nurses in the US earned an average annual income of $105,021 or $50/hr. They also add that salaries range widely across the country, with the lowest earners making $40,000 and the highest earners making $155,500 annually! 

What is the highest travel nurse salary?

• CRNAs travelers are the top-paid travel registered nurse specialty.  According to ZipRecruiter, CRNA travelers earn an average annual income of $194,352 or $93/hr. The highest earners make as much as $311,500! 

Why are travel nurses paid so much?

• Travel nurses help to fill staffing gaps and often accept assignments in areas with severe or “crisis’” nursing shortages. For their travel flexibility and ability to work in sometimes hard-to-fill areas, they are typically paid a higher compensation.

Sarah Jividen , RN, BSN, is a trained neuro/trauma and emergency room nurse turned freelance healthcare writer/editor. As a journalism major, she combined her love for writing with her passion for high-level patient care. Sarah is the creator of Health Writing Solutions , LLC, specializing in writing about healthcare topics, including health journalism, education, and evidence-based health and wellness trends. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two children. 

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Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Locum Tenens - TRAVEL + LODGING PAID

Job posting for pediatric nurse practitioner - locum tenens - travel + lodging paid at provider healthcare.

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• TRAVEL & LODGING PAID FOR

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