How to Become a Traveling CNA: A Complete Guide

How to Become a Traveling CNA

The healthcare industry is booming, and there is a growing demand for certified nursing assistants (CNAs). If you are looking for a rewarding career with flexible hours and the opportunity to travel, becoming a traveling CNA may be the perfect option for you.

In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to become a traveling CNA, including the education and training requirements, the job outlook, and the salary potential. We will also provide tips for finding a travel CNA job and succeeding in this exciting career.

The Education and Training Requirements to Become a Traveling CNA

The first step to becoming a traveling CNA is to complete the necessary education and training. Most states require CNAs to have a high school diploma or equivalent and to complete a state-approved CNA program. These programs typically take about 12 weeks to complete and cover topics such as patient care, medical terminology, and infection control.

Once you have completed your education and training, you will need to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. The NNAAP exam is a standardized test that measures your knowledge of CNA skills and procedures. You will need to score at least 75% on the exam to pass.

The Job Outlook for Traveling CNAs

The job outlook for CNAs is very good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for CNAs will grow by 15% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for healthcare services, as well as the aging population.

The Salary Potential for Traveling CNAs

The salary for traveling CNAs varies depending on the state, the location, and the employer. However, the average salary for traveling CNAs is around $25 per hour.

Tips for Finding a Travel CNA Job

There are a few things you can do to increase your chances of finding a travel CNA job. First, create a strong resume that highlights your skills and experience. Second, network with other CNAs and healthcare professionals. Third, attend job fairs and workshops. Finally, research different travel CNA agencies and apply for jobs that interest you.

Succeeding in a Travel CNA Career

Traveling CNAs need to be flexible, adaptable, and have a strong work ethic. They also need to be able to work independently and be able to communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.

If you are looking for a rewarding career with flexible hours and the opportunity to travel, becoming a traveling CNA may be the perfect option for you. With the right education, training, and experience, you can find a travel CNA job that is both challenging and rewarding.

Step	Requirement	Description
1	Be at least 18 years old	You must be at least 18 years old to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA).
2	Complete a CNA training program	You must complete a state-approved CNA training program in order to become certified.
3	Pass the CNA exam	Once you have completed your training program, you must pass the CNA exam in order to become certified.
4	Get a job as a CNA	Once you have passed the CNA exam, you can start looking for a job as a CNA.
5	Get your RN license	If you want to become a traveling RN, you will need to get your RN license.

Traveling CNAs are healthcare professionals who provide care to patients in different settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies. They typically work on a contract basis and travel to different locations to meet the needs of their employers.

Traveling CNAs can earn a higher salary than those who work in a traditional setting, and they have the opportunity to see new places and meet new people. However, the job can be demanding and require long hours.

Requirements for Becoming a Traveling CNA

In order to become a traveling CNA, you must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have completed a CNA training program
• Have a clean criminal record
• Be able to speak and understand English

How to Find Traveling CNA Jobs

There are a few different ways to find traveling CNA jobs. You can:

• Search online job boards
• Contact staffing agencies
• Attend job fairs
• Network with other CNAs

Online Job Boards

There are many online job boards that list traveling CNA jobs. Some popular job boards include:

• Indeed
• Monster
• CareerBuilder
• Simply Hired

Staffing Agencies

Staffing agencies can help you find traveling CNA jobs. They will typically work with you to find a job that matches your skills and experience, and they will help you negotiate your salary and benefits.

Job Fairs

Job fairs are a great way to meet potential employers and learn about available traveling CNA jobs. You can find job fairs in your local area by searching online or by contacting your local hospital or nursing home.

Networking

Networking with other CNAs is a great way to find out about traveling CNA jobs. You can network with other CNAs at work, at continuing education classes, or through professional organizations.

Becoming a traveling CNA can be a rewarding career. It offers the opportunity to earn a higher salary, see new places, and meet new people. However, the job can be demanding and require long hours.

If you are interested in becoming a traveling CNA, be sure to meet the requirements and do your research to find the best job for you.

3. Benefits of Being a Traveling CNA

There are many benefits to being a traveling CNA, including:

• Flexible work schedule. Traveling CNAs typically work 10-hour shifts, 3-4 days per week. This allows them to have more flexibility in their schedules than traditional CNAs, who may work 8-hour shifts, 5 days per week.
• Opportunity to travel. Traveling CNAs get to see new places and meet new people. They also have the opportunity to learn about different cultures and healthcare systems.
• Higher pay than traditional CNA jobs. Traveling CNAs typically earn more money than traditional CNAs. This is because they are often in high-demand areas, such as hospitals and nursing homes.
• Chance to learn new skills. Traveling CNAs have the opportunity to learn new skills in different healthcare settings. This can help them to advance their careers and become more marketable to potential employers.

4. Challenges of Being a Traveling CNA

There are also some challenges to being a traveling CNA, including:

• Long hours. Traveling CNAs often work long hours, especially if they are working in a high-demand area. This can lead to fatigue and burnout.
• Frequent travel. Traveling CNAs may have to travel long distances to get to their assignments. This can be tiring and stressful.
• Being away from home. Traveling CNAs may have to spend extended periods of time away from home. This can be difficult for people who have families or other commitments.
• Dealing with different work environments. Traveling CNAs may have to work in different healthcare settings, each with its own unique culture and policies. This can be challenging for CNAs who are used to working in a single setting.

Overall, being a traveling CNA can be a rewarding experience. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges involved before making a decision. If you are willing to work hard and overcome the challenges, being a traveling CNA can be a great way to see the world, learn new skills, and advance your career.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• [American Association of Nurse Assistants (ANA): Traveling CNAs](https://www.ana.org/nursing-practice/workforce/traveling-cna)
• [National Association of Traveling Healthcare Professionals (NATHP): Traveling CNAs](https://www.nathp.org/traveling-cna-jobs/)
• [Travel Nurse Central: Traveling CNAs](https://www.travelnursecentral.com/travel-cna-jobs/)

  How do I become a traveling CNA?

To become a traveling CNA, you must first meet the requirements to become a CNA in your state. These requirements typically include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and passing a criminal background check and a state-approved CNA exam. Once you have met these requirements, you can begin your search for travel CNA jobs.

Where can I find travel CNA jobs?

There are a number of resources available to help you find travel CNA jobs. Some of the best places to start your search include:

• Online job boards: There are a number of online job boards that list travel CNA jobs. Some of the most popular boards include Indeed, Monster, and Simply Hired.
• Travel nursing agencies: Travel nursing agencies can also help you find travel CNA jobs. These agencies typically have a network of hospitals and healthcare facilities that they work with, and they can help you find a job that meets your needs and qualifications.
• Word-of-mouth: Another great way to find travel CNA jobs is through word-of-mouth. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues who are in the healthcare industry. They may know of travel CNA jobs that are available.

What are the benefits of being a traveling CNA?

There are a number of benefits to being a traveling CNA, including:

• Flexibility: One of the biggest benefits of being a traveling CNA is the flexibility it offers. You can choose the assignments you want to take, the hours you want to work, and the locations you want to travel to.
• Compensation: Traveling CNAs typically earn higher salaries than those who work in a traditional healthcare setting. This is because they are responsible for their own travel and living expenses.
• Experience: Traveling CNAs get the opportunity to work in a variety of settings and with a variety of patients. This can give you a valuable perspective on the healthcare industry and help you develop your skills as a CNA.

What are the challenges of being a traveling CNA?

There are a few challenges to being a traveling CNA, including:

• Traveling can be expensive: Traveling CNAs are responsible for their own travel and living expenses. This can add up quickly, especially if you are traveling long distances or to expensive cities.
• It can be difficult to find a permanent home: Traveling CNAs often have to move from one assignment to the next. This can make it difficult to establish roots and build a community.
• You may miss out on important events at home: If you are gone for long periods of time, you may miss out on important events at home, such as birthdays, holidays, and graduations.

How can I prepare to become a traveling CNA?

There are a few things you can do to prepare to become a traveling CNA, including:

• Get your CNA certification: The first step to becoming a traveling CNA is to get your CNA certification. This can be done through a state-approved CNA program.
• Build your skills: As a traveling CNA, you will be responsible for a wide range of tasks. It is important to have a strong foundation of skills in order to be successful in this role.
• Get experience: Once you have your CNA certification, it is important to get as much experience as possible. This can be done by working in a traditional healthcare setting or by volunteering.
• Network: Another important step in preparing to become a traveling CNA is to network. Talk to other traveling CNAs, travel nursing agencies, and healthcare facilities. This can help you learn more about the industry and find out about job opportunities.

What is the salary range for traveling CNAs?

The salary range for traveling CNAs varies depending on a number of factors, including experience, location, and the type of assignment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for CNAs was $26,920 in 2019. However, traveling CNAs can earn significantly more than this. The average salary for traveling CNAs is around $35,000 per year, but some experienced CNAs can earn up to $50,000 per year.

What are the best states for traveling CNAs?

There are a number of states that are great for traveling CNAs. Some of the best states include California, New York, Texas, and Florida. These states have a high demand for CNAs, and they offer competitive salaries. Additionally, these states have a variety of healthcare facilities and settings, which gives traveling CNA

In this blog post, we have discussed the steps on how to become a traveling CNA. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you are now feeling more confident in your ability to pursue this career. Remember, the most important thing is to be passionate about your work and to provide quality care to your patients. If you have these qualities, then you will be well on your way to becoming a successful traveling CNA.

Here are some key takeaways:

• CNAs are in high demand, and there are many opportunities for travel CNAs.
• The requirements to become a CNA vary from state to state, but generally include completing a state-approved CNA program and passing a competency exam.
• Travel CNAs typically earn more than those who work in a traditional setting.
• The best way to become a travel CNA is to get experience working as a CNA in a traditional setting first.
• Once you have experience, you can start looking for travel CNA jobs online or through staffing agencies.

We wish you all the best in your journey to becoming a traveling CNA!