How to Become a Traveling CNA: All You Need to Know
Aug 01, 2023
Being able to travel for your work is something that many people would only dream of but for some, that dream has the potential to be a reality. For certified nursing assistants, there are opportunities to become a traveling CNA if it suits the individual.
However, in order to apply to travel CNA jobs, you'll need to understand the requirements needed. You'll also need to know what it takes to become one of many travel CNAs as it might not be very everyone.
This guide will share all of the above if you're looking to become a traveling CNA this year.
What is a traveling CNA?
A traveling CNA is a certified nursing assistant who like a CNA, is able to work in a variety of healthcare facilities. They'll often work in different locations though on short-term assignments.
As a travel CNA, you're doing essentially the same work as a non-traveling CNA. This includes basic care for patients, assisting nurses with daily tasks, and more.
Travel CNAs will assist with activities needed for daily living from bathing, grooming, feeding, taking vitals, and providing emotional support to the individuals they work with.
Requirements to become a CNA
To become a CNA, you'll need to have the following:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Completed a state-approved CNA training program
- Clinical training
- Complete the certification exam
You'll want to check that the CNA program you partake in is state-approved. It's worth checking out your state's board on the guidelines and requirements needed to become a licensed CNA.
How to become a traveling CNA?
To become a traveling CNA, the process is very similar to that of a CNA, particularly as you have to complete the above tasks to become a certified nursing assistant in the first place. To transition to a travel CNA, we've listed exactly what you can expect.
1. Enroll in a state-approved CNA training program
First and foremost, you'll need to complete an approved nursing assistant program. This program will take around eight to twelve weeks to complete.
It'll involve a mix of classroom instruction and clinical work depending on the state's board. It's worth exploring what CNA training options are available. FHCA is a reputable and well-established organization that has a fantastic CNA program and has helped many students go on to become travel CNA.
2. Gain work experience
Experience is crucial when it comes to pursuing a career as a travel CNA. You can gain this experience very easily by volunteering at local hospitals or any healthcare facilities that need the support of volunteers in their practice.
3. Meet additional requirements
As a travel CNA, you'll need to meet some additional requirements, including background checks and fingerprinting. Some healthcare facilities might require you to do more than just complete the CNA certification exam.
Depending on the assignment, there may be specific specializations or additional training, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certifications, that you need to consider for a travel CNA job.
Previous work experience can also come in handy, especially if the recruiter is looking for those who've volunteered or worked in a variety of different healthcare settings.
Additionally, if you're affiliated with a travel nursing agency or company, there might be further requirements, such as continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain your certification and ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest healthcare practices.
Meeting these requirements will help ensure you are well-prepared and qualified for your travel CNA assignments.
4. Prepare your application
Prepping your application is important because just like any career path you go down, you want to tailor your resume to tick off everything a recruiter is looking for.
Therefore, make sure you've included all of your recent volunteer experience, any current CNA position you have, and all the basics in education and qualifications.
5. Utilize job boards and agencies
Finally, make sure you're taking advantage of any job boards and agencies that are known for offering traveling CNA positions. There are lots of opportunities out there, especially now with the internet taking precedence, you're certainly flushed for choice.
Pros and cons of being a traveling CNA
Every job has its own set of pros and cons. The same goes for a traveling CNA. It might not be the most appropriate career path for everyone, which is why we recommend making some comparisons when you're considering different healthcare paths. For example, a home health aide vs. CNA is very different whereas a medical assistant vs. CNA is somewhat similar.
Pros
- You get to see other parts of the country, some perhaps even internationally
- More flexibility and control in your career growth
- Making good money with a CNA salary
Cons
- You may miss family and friends with all the traveling
- Not always feeling part of a team when it's short-term assignments
Work settings where traveling CNAs are employed
Where can a CNA work? There are a variety of work settings in which traveling CNAs are employed at. It's a major perk to working in this type of role, especially if you're someone who gets bored easily with your surroundings.
If you're looking to become a traveling CNA, then it's worth knowing what settings you may find yourself working in. These include:
- Hospitals
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Home health agencies
For some CNAs, they may find themselves wanting to be able to give direct patient care in different cities rather than just being restricted to one area. It can often feel more of a fulfilling role knowing that you are helping patients across the country and perhaps making a bigger impact as a result.
How to become a traveling CNA FAQs
1. How much does a traveling CNA make?
CNAs tend to make a decent salary in comparison to other healthcare industry jobs. As a traveling CNA, the average position will earn around $69,687. That's quite a jump from the average that a CNA makes, which is between $32,216 and $38,720.
To acquire a traveling CNA license, you'll need to submit an application. Each state comes with its own requirements and additional fees that need to be paid to submit the application. For travel CNAs, it might be worth joining an agency to get easy access to job opportunities that crop up across the country.
It's important to have a couple of years experience when it comes to being a CNA and the more experience you garner, the more successful you'll find it, transitioning into a traveling CNA.
