FAQs: General Travel

How long are Sunbelt’s travel assignments?

Typically, our travel assignments range from 8 to 26 weeks. There are times when 4 to 6 week assignments are requested by facilities. But keep in mind, the longer the travel assignment, the more you can earn.

What type of facilities does Sunbelt staff?

Sunbelt contracts with several types of facilities. Hospital settings range in size from the small rural hospitals to major university systems. We also offer long term care and correctional facilities.

When will I have my next assignment?

We begin looking for your next assignment 6-7 weeks before the end of your current one. This helps us ensure that you do not end up out of work for several weeks, waiting for a new position.

Where are your travel assignments located? Suppose I am interested in “traveling” at home?

We offer assignments throughout the continental United States. If you are looking for beaches, mountains, small town America or the big city, we can help you find it. But if what you are looking for is close to home, there are restrictions, but we will work to find the right assignment.

What is the process for selecting a travel assignment?

Our recruiters spend time with you to detail your knowledge, skills, clinical strengths and your desires for pay and location. This process helps pinpoint the right assignment for you. When an opportunity is posted by a facility that meets your expectations, the recruiter will call and go over information about the unit, shift, case load, and salary. Once you have heard all the details, you will be asked permission to be submitted for consideration of the travel opening. Typically, the unit manager will get in touch with Sunbelt to schedule a telephone interview. Once that interview has taken place and an offer is made, you make your decision.

What if I do not have a license in the state in which I am interested?

If you do not have a license in the state in which you are interested, Sunbelt can help you walk through the process. We can direct you to the Board of Nursing in that state by giving you a phone number, a Web site, giving you information for the length of time it takes to process an application, fees, etc. Links to the individual Boards of Nursing are provided on this site.

I have never been through a telephone interview before. What can I expect?

A telephone interview is only slightly different. The face-to-face dynamic is not there. Therefore, you must communicate well your experience and skill level. The good thing about travel interviews is that since you have already discussed pay and benefits with your recruiter, you can focus only on the position and expectations of the nurse manager. We have provided an Interview prep sheet that will help remind you of questions to ask and help keep you focused. Above all, SMILE! Believe it or not, you can hear a smile over the telephone.

Once I have selected a travel assignment, what comes next?

Once you have selected a travel assignment, your recruiter will introduce you to your nurse coordinator, your contact person throughout your assignment. Your coordinator will go over all paperwork that is required for both Sunbelt and the facility. Keeping you legal while on an assignment is very important. You will be required to have all documentation completed before you start your assignment. If you have questions, please contact your coordinator.

What about orientation?

Orientation is different at each facility. The length can range from one day in small, rural hospitals or LTC facilities to seven days in a university system. The typical is three to five days. You will be oriented to the facility first and then the floor. During orientation, you may be given medication assessments and tests specific to specialty units. If applicable, study manuals for these tests will be provided by the facility.

What if I run into problems while on the assignment?

If you have problems while on assignment, give your coordinator a call. Your coordinator is the most available and is able to handle situations whether big or small. They can usually get your problems resolved within 24 hours. They are here for you whenever you need them.

If I like my assignment, is it possible for me to stay?

Sunbelt wants to keep you happy! If the facility is satisfied with your performance and agreeable, extensions are certainly possible.