Floating as a travel nurse can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re asked to float to another unit, don’t panic. Below is what to expect and the key dos and don’ts to keep your assignment safe and successful.
You should never be asked to float outside your scope of practice. Credentialing and skills validation for your assignment are tied to a specific unit and level of care.
Examples of what won’t happen: – Oncology to PACU; – MedSurg to Stepdown/ICU.
Specialties that float more often: – ICU – MedSurg – CVOR circulators.
Common float destinations:
– ICU to Stepdown or MedSurg
– MedSurg to other MedSurg floors or ED holds
– CVOR circulators to General Surgery when CV cases are low
Past experience ≠ current credentialing: If you take a MedSurg/Tele assignment—even with prior Stepdown experience—you shouldn’t be floated up to Stepdown.
Tip: You can’t “write out” floating from a contract. If a float request stays within your scope, it may be required. Some facilities rarely float; others may float you every other shift. Ask about this during the phone interview with the hiring manager.
If you’re asked to float, inform your recruiter right away. They need to know which unit you’re working so you remain in compliance with the hospital, the agency, and the vendor—especially important for Joint Commission–certified agencies like Travel Nurses, Inc.
As a traveler, your role is to support staffing needs across the facility—sometimes on units outside your home base but still within your scope.
Low census? – Some hospitals float travelers rather than sending them home.
No guaranteed hours? – Floating can help you keep your hours for the week.
Stay within scope: – If a request exceeds your scope or current assignment credentialing, notify your charge nurse and recruiter.
– Confirm floating expectations with the hiring manager during your interview.
– Let your recruiter know immediately when you’re floated (which unit and shift).
– Ask for a unit orientation/cheat sheet (key phone numbers, supply locations, documentation quirks).
– Advocate for patient assignments appropriate to your skills and current credentialing.
– Accept assignments outside your scope or the unit level you’re credentialed for on this contract.
– Skip communication—always loop in your recruiter and charge nurse.
– Assume prior experience automatically approves you to float up to higher acuity.
We’re here to help you navigate assignments with confidence. Email us at thisisfun@travelnursesinc.com.
