Taking a Travel Assignment During the Holidays
As travel nurses know too well, hospitals are open 24/7/365 and certainly don’t close for holidays. Understandably, many travelers schedule time off during the holiday season to spend a well-deserved break with loved ones, but that doesn’t mean patients stop needing care. While it can be a touchy subject, there are several advantages to taking a travel assignment during the holidays. Hospitals are often looking for extra coverage this time of year, and may even offer incentives to encourage nurses to work. Here are a few reasons why you should consider taking a travel assignment during the holidays.
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Holiday Pay and Bonuses
Some hospitals and agencies may offer incentives for nurses to work holidays, and with many staff asking to take time off during the holidays, it could be an opportunity to pick up some extra shifts. If you’re working hard to meet some of your own personal financial goals then this could be a fantastic way to do that and start your new year financial goals ahead of schedule!
Flexibility with Holiday Assignments
If you plan ahead, you can take advantage of the wide variety of contracts available during the holiday season. Flu season usually starts in late fall and early winter and hospitals typically see census spikes, particularly in southern states like Florida and Arizona. Start by deciding where you want to be for the holiday season and work with your recruiter to find contracts that fit your criteria. Do you want to be close to family for the holidays? Or as far away from them as possible? Do you want to go somewhere snowy with opportunities for skiing and other winter recreation? Or, would you prefer a location where you would never see a snowflake? Figuring out your priorities is key to ensuring you have a holly-jolly holiday assignment.
Spread Some Holiday Cheer
Taking a contract during the holidays can make a huge difference for your co-workers and patients. Most nurses would love to have time off for the holidays, but some nurses won’t get that chance. If you’re thinking about working holidays and you know a co-worker who really wants a break, consider picking up a shift for them. Not only will you earn some extra money, but also some good karma! It can also earn you some kudos points with your managers who are trying to balance time off requests and staffing levels. The holidays can be a tough time for patients as well. Spending the holidays in a hospital is no fun, but you have the opportunity to spread some holiday cheer and make their stay a little more bearable.
Working holidays may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there are some benefits to taking a travel assignment during the holidays if you choose to do so. If you’re ready to start looking, we have recruiters standing by ready to help you land your ideal contract for the season!
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