When the COVID-19 virus hit our shores, our very first line of defense was the healthcare system. In inpatient care and hospital operations, nurses had the most critical and vital roles to ensure that the industry did not collapse entirely.
The health care system nearly collapsed—hospitalizations were at an all-time high during the pandemic’s peak.
But the sad thing about the COVID-19 infections is that it isn’t the end all be all of the hospital operations. What about the non-COVID patients? The pregnant, sick, and elderly?
Who will now attend to the indisposed?
Enter the unique arrangement that the international travel nursing career brings. How do these nurses do their part in the medical field? How do they help cope while there’s a staff shortage? How do you become one?
We’ll deep dive below.
What Does an International Travel Nurse Do?
True to its name, an international travel nurse works wherever and whenever they are posted.
They are capable, credible, and qualified global healthcare practitioners thoroughly screened and vetted by high-quality healthcare staffing agencies.
Travel nurses help fill shortages wherever there’s a need for them. They can work in a country where they aren’t even raised or trained.
As for what are the specializations of international travel nurses, it varies.
Those with experience working in emergencies, intensive care, cardiac care, or neonatal care are the most sought-after. But with this global medical staffing shortage, everyone who’s a qualified nurse can try and work internationally.
3 Reasons Why You Should Become an International Travel Nurse
Pursuing a career in international travel nursing could be a rewarding and wise move. Here are some reasons why:
- Be a man of the world
One of the perks that international travel nurses can enjoy is that they get to travel the world and meet many people from different cultures.
- Expand your skills
You get more exposure as you get placed in locations that are not quite like your hometown.
In a foreign country, you get to test your limits in the name of service.
You will also learn the nuances of a medical career in other countries. Wherever there’s a shortage, there you’ll be, so chances are you get to meet many people from various walks of life. How you communicate with a myriad of patients and personalities will be tested and refined as you go along with every assignment.
And as for your skill, it will grow, too. You will learn more medical procedures under the tutelage of senior nurses, doctors, and other practitioners in your place of assignment.
- It’s rewarding
Your offshore assignments come with housing and food stipends, covered travel expenses, and a bonus allowance for living expenses on top of handsome pay.
But at the end of the day, it is about being able to lend a hand. In a land where medical staff is stretched to the limits, your expertise and brand of care could be just what they need.