Float Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

A Float Nurse, also often known as a Travel Nurse or Resource Nurse, is a versatile healthcare professional who provides temporary staffing support across various units or departments within a healthcare facility. Float nurses are skilled in adapting to different patient populations, care settings and medical specialties. They play a crucial role in maintaining patient care continuity and

Education

To become a Float RN, individuals must complete a nursing program and obtain a nursing license. The educational background required is typically a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which takes around four years to complete. Nursing programs can be pursued at accredited universities, colleges, or nursing schools. These programs cover subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology

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Related certifications

To apply for a Float Nurse position, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their nursing license. Additionally, some healthcare facilities may require additional certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). Prior experience in acute care settings or diverse clinical areas

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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Skills

Success as a Float RN relies on a combination of knowledge, hard and soft skills and abilities. Float nurses should possess a strong clinical background, critical thinking skills and the ability to quickly adapt to new situations. They must be proficient in various medical procedures, medication administration and patient assessment. Excellent communication, teamwork and organizational skills are crucial, as Float

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Responsibilities

Staff and Travel Float RNs have diverse responsibilities, including providing direct patient care, administering medications, monitoring vital signs and assisting with procedures. They collaborate with healthcare teams to develop and implement patient care plans. Float nurses also play a key role in patient education, providing support and guidance to both patients and their families. In addition, Float RNs

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Float Nurse
$1,664-2,496/week

The average salary for a Float Nurse is $2,076.62 per week.

Last updated on December 14, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Opportunity to gain diverse clinical experience and knowledge.

  • Competitive compensation and benefits.

  • Flexibility in choosing work assignments and locations.

  • Exposure to different healthcare settings and patient populations.

  • Enhanced adaptability, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Cons:

  • Frequent changes in work environment and routines.

  • Need to quickly adapt to new healthcare facilities and procedures.

  • Potential for longer work hours and irregular schedules.

  • Limited time for building long-term patient relationships.

  • Pressure to learn

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Float Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Float PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Float PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care

  • Washington, DC
  • Planet Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs
  • Referral Bonus

$3,688/week

Posted 3 days ago
 Verified
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Float PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Float PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care

  • Washington, DC
  • Planet Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$3,688/week

Posted 3 days ago
 Verified
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Float ICU - Intensive Care Unit
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Float ICU - Intensive Care Unit

  • Albany, NY
  • Cross Country Nurses
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$3,675/week

View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Float CCU - Coronary Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Float CCU - Coronary Care

  • Duluth, MN
  • GHR Healthcare - Travel Division
  • 4x12 hrs

$3,629/week

Posted 8 days ago

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