Know Before You Go!

Before you sign any contract, please take a minute to go over the questions listed below. Becoming a travel nurse can be a wonderful experience, but it can also become disastrous if you are not well informed. Below are some questions to ask the perspective travel company. By doing so, you will avert any unsuspected surprises and be able to enjoy your travel assignment to its fullest!

Does the hospital supply uniforms or will you need to furnish your own?	What does the hospital consider as over-time and what is the travel company's policy on over-time?
Does the hospital offer an orientation period? If so, how long will it be and will the pay be any different?	Does the travel company offer travel reimbursement and when is it paid?
Does the hospital require you to take a medication administration test before beginning work?	Does the travel company offer licensure reimbursement and when is it paid?
What is the hospital policy on travel nurses floating to other units?	Is housing free and is it private (not shared)?
What is the hospital policy on the traveler being placed on-call?	Is housing provided by the travel company or the hospital?
Will you be responsible for any housing costs? If so, what will they be?	Is a physical examination required before employment?
Does the hospital require a urine or blood drug screen prior to employment?	What type of assignment is it? If it is remote, be aware that you may not be eligible for any benefits.
Does the travel company offer direct deposit?	How do the pay periods fall and when are pay checks issued?
What is the travel company's policy on sick time?	What furnishings are supplied in the housing?

If you miss any hours because of illness, find out ahead of time if you will be responsible for those hours at the end of the contract. Some companies will hold any bonuses you may have if your contract hours are not met.	When going from assignment to assignment, remember that phone companies may not be the same from place to place. Find out what company is located at your new assignment.
Find out if the travel company issues checks that can be cashed at local banks.	Find out the travel company's policy on paying for licensure reimbursement. Some companies will only reimburse after so many assignments with them.
Find out what exactly you need for your first day on the job. Will you be required to attend a hospital orientation or a unit orientation only.	And last but not least... enjoy... enjoy... ENJOY!