Chloe’ Sizer | January 5th, 2024
Calling all adventurous nurses! If you’re looking to explore new places, gain valuable experience, and earn a competitive salary, travel nursing might be the perfect career path for you. But with so many nursing specialties out there, it can be tough to know which ones are in the highest demand.
Worry not, wander lusting RNs! We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 travel nursing specialties that are sure to be hot in 2024:
1. Critical Care Nurses
Critical care nurses are the backbone of intensive care units (ICUs), providing lifesaving care to critically ill patients. With an aging population and increasing rates of chronic diseases, the demand for critical care nurses is expected to skyrocket in the coming years. Travel critical care nurses can command top dollar and enjoy a variety of assignment options across the country.
2. Medical-Surgical Nurses
Med-surg nurses are the workhorses of the nursing world, providing care to patients across a wide range of medical and surgical conditions. Their versatility and adaptability make them highly sought-after by hospitals of all sizes. Travel med-surg nurses can find rewarding assignments in virtually any location, making them a great choice for nurses who want flexibility and adventure.
3. Emergency Room Nurses
ER nurses are on the front lines of healthcare, providing immediate care to patients with urgent or life-threatening conditions. They thrive in fast-paced environments and make critical decisions under pressure. Travel ER nurses are in high demand, especially in rural areas and busy urban hospitals.
4. Labor and Delivery Nurses
Labor and delivery nurses play a vital role in one of life’s most special moments. They provide care to mothers and newborns during childbirth and the postpartum period. With the US birth rate on the rise, the demand for labor and delivery nurses is expected to remain strong in 2024. Travel L&D nurses can find rewarding assignments in hospitals, birthing centers, and even home birth settings.
5. Neonatal Nurses
Neonatal nurses provide specialized care to premature and critically ill newborns. Their skills and knowledge are essential for giving these tiny patients the best chance at a healthy life. The demand for neonatal nurses is high, particularly in Level III NICUs that care for the most fragile infants. Travel neonatal nurses can make a significant difference in the lives of these vulnerable babies and their families.
6. Oncology Nurses
Oncology nurses provide comprehensive care to patients with cancer, from diagnosis and treatment to symptom management and end-of-life care. With the increasing prevalence of cancer, the demand for oncology nurses is expected to grow steadily in the coming years. Travel oncology nurses can find fulfilling assignments in hospitals, oncology clinics, and even patients’ homes.
7. Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurses
Psychiatric/mental health nurses provide care to individuals with mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. With the growing awareness of mental health issues, the demand for these specialized nurses is on the rise. Travel psychiatric/mental health nurses can find rewarding assignments in hospitals, inpatient facilities, and outpatient clinics.
8. Cardiac Nurses
Cardiac nurses provide care to patients with heart disease, including those who have undergone surgery or other procedures. With the aging population and increasing rates of heart disease, the demand for cardiac nurses is expected to remain strong in 2024. Travel cardiac nurses can find rewarding assignments in hospitals, cardiac catheterization labs, and even home care settings.
9. Perioperative Nurses
Perioperative nurses provide care to patients before, during, and after surgery. Their skills and knowledge are essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of surgical patients. The demand for perioperative nurses is high, particularly in hospitals with busy surgical programs. Travel perioperative nurses can find a variety of assignment options, from general surgery to specialized procedures like neurosurgery and orthopedics.
10. Nurse Educators
Nurse educators play a vital role in training the next generation of nurses. They develop and deliver educational programs for nursing students and practicing nurses alike. With the growing demand for nurses, the demand for nurse educators is also expected to increase. Travel nurse educators can find rewarding assignments in hospitals, nursing schools, and even online education programs.
Now’s the time to gain experience in these areas if you haven’t already as there will be a continuous demand in upcoming years!
Already have 1-2 years of experience under your belt? Connect with a recruiter today!
If you aren’t already heading to your next assignment, let’s chat! 😊
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