So, it’s contract renewal time. You now have a decision to make. Should you extend your current contract or seek a new nursing opportunity? A great perk of travel nursing is the ability to choose your location and work preferences, so consider what best suits your needs. Think about your work facility, your coworkers, the opportunities or lack thereof for career development, the compensation, and your proximity to those you love. It’s your decision, so make the best one for yourself!

Decision Factors

When deciding if you should stay or go, there are considerations. You must think about the workplace itself and how it might affect your career development. Whether the pay at another facility will be more lucrative or if another location will offer you more adventure and sightseeing opportunities. Here are some considerations:

• The workplace. Your current workplace can affect your decision. Now is the time to consider your experience at this facility. Has your interaction with leadership been effective? Has your relationship with coworkers been supportive? Consider if the overall work environment is one of respect and collaboration and if you want to stay here longer.
• Career development. The growth and development of your travel nursing career should be part of your decision. Consider if your current placement offers the learning opportunities and experiences that will develop your skills and help you meet your long-term career goals. Will moving to another facility provide technology and experiences that are more aligned with your career goals?
• Compensation. Salary is undoubtedly a significant part of your decision-making. Compare what another facility is offering you with the possible pay increases and bonuses that your current facility may offer. Do not forget your job satisfaction and how it aligns with financial factors.
• Location. How much of your current work location have you explored? Are you ready to discover what adventures a new location might offer, or should you continue to enjoy the familiarity and stability of your current location? Do not forget the cost of living and proximity to family and friends.

To Extend or Not Extend

If you are enjoying the stability and familiarity of your current location, you might wish to stay. You can take the chance to build your relationships with the patients and colleagues in your new environment further. It can also position you for skill enhancement and professional development, and you can grow your professional network.

On the other hand, perhaps your assignment is not what you thought it would be. Maybe you feel as though your career is stagnating, and you are risking burnout. If you extend, will the salary increase, or will the bonuses make it worthwhile? Are you missing your family and friends and want to get a bit closer to them?

It is a big decision with many considerations, so take some time to consider all of your options carefully before you choose whether to stay or leave.

Let a Professional Help You

When making a big career decision, it helps to have a knowledgeable partner on your side. ADN Healthcare can assist you with this process. Their team of staffing experts can advise you and help you evaluate extension offers versus new work opportunities. And they can help you with licensing, credentialing, and relocation. No matter what your decision will be, the team at ADN Healthcare is ready to help you.