Are you ready to elevate your surgical nursing career to the next level? Exploring rnfa travel jobs offers a unique combination of professional growth, financial reward, and personal adventure. This guide provides everything you need to know about this exciting field. Consequently, you can make an informed decision about your future.
What Exactly is a Travel Registered Nurse First Assistant?
A Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is a specialized perioperative nurse who works directly with surgeons in the operating room. Their duties include handling tissue, providing exposure, and suturing. The role requires advanced training and certification. Therefore, it is a highly respected position.
The “travel” aspect adds another exciting layer. Instead of working for one hospital, you take on short-term assignments, typically lasting 13 weeks. These assignments are located in various hospitals across the country. As a result, you get to experience different clinical settings and explore new cities.
The Unmatched Benefits of RNFA Travel Jobs
Why are so many RNFAs choosing this career path? The advantages are significant. In addition to professional development, the lifestyle benefits are a major draw for many healthcare professionals.
Key Advantages Include:
- Excellent Compensation: Travel RNFAs often earn significantly more than their staff counterparts. This is due to competitive hourly rates, tax-free stipends for housing, and meal allowances.
- Career Flexibility: You choose when and where you want to work. After an assignment ends, you can take time off to travel or relax before starting the next one. This autonomy is a huge plus.
- Skill Enhancement: Working in different hospitals exposes you to new surgical techniques, technologies, and procedures. Consequently, your clinical skills grow rapidly.
- Adventure and Exploration: Each new assignment is an opportunity to live in a new place. You can explore a new city, try different foods, and meet new people, all while your housing is covered.
How to Secure Your First High-Paying Assignment
Finding the right role is the most important step. First, you need to partner with a reputable healthcare staffing agency that specializes in travel nursing. These agencies have established relationships with hospitals and can connect you with exclusive opportunities.
Next, you should polish your resume and skills checklist. Highlight your surgical experience and certifications. A strong profile makes you a more attractive candidate. Furthermore, be flexible with your location choices, especially for your first assignment. This increases your chances of landing a great position quickly.
Essential Requirements for Aspiring Travel RNFAs
Before you can pack your bags, you need to ensure you meet the necessary qualifications. Hospitals have strict requirements for these specialized roles. Therefore, having all your credentials in order is crucial.
Core Qualifications:
- An active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Certification as a Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR).
- Completion of an accredited RNFA program.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications.
- At least two years of recent experience in an operating room setting, preferably as an RNFA.
In conclusion, pursuing RNFA travel jobs in 2025 is a fantastic way to advance your career, boost your income, and satisfy your wanderlust. With the right preparation and a great agency partner, you can embark on an incredible professional journey.