Credentials that
open doors
The certifications travel healthcare facilities look for most. Know what you need, what helps, and what sets you apart.
Required for All
2 certsBasic Life Support
Renew: Every 2 years
CPR and basic airway management for healthcare providers. Required by virtually every facility in the country for all clinical roles.
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support
Renew: Every 2 years
Advanced emergency cardiac care including pharmacology, rhythm recognition, airway management, and team dynamics. Required for most acute care, ICU, and emergency department travel assignments.
Common Add-Ons
3 certsPediatric Advanced Life Support
Renew: Every 2 years
Emergency assessment and management for pediatric patients. Required for pediatric, NICU, and emergency department assignments. Many L&D contracts also require it.
NIH Stroke Scale
Renew: Varies by facility — many require annual recertification
Standardized stroke severity assessment tool used to evaluate neurological status. Frequently required for neuro, ICU, step-down, and emergency department travel nurses.
Trauma Nursing Core Course
Renew: Every 4 years
Trauma assessment and intervention skills for nurses working in emergency and trauma settings. A strong differentiator for ER travel contracts.
Specialty Certifications
5 certsCritical Care Registered Nurse
Renew: Every 3 years (100 CE hours or re-exam)
Validates expertise in acute and critical care nursing. Highly valued for ICU, CVICU, and step-down travel assignments. Can significantly increase your pay rate.
Certified Emergency Nurse
Renew: Every 4 years
Demonstrates proficiency in emergency nursing across all patient populations. A strong differentiator for ER travel contracts at high-volume and trauma facilities.
Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
Renew: Every 10 years
Board-certified specialization in orthopedic physical therapy. Preferred for outpatient ortho and sports rehab travel assignments. One of the most recognized PT specialty certifications.
Certified Hand Therapist
Renew: Every 5 years
Advanced certification for OTs and PTs specializing in upper extremity rehabilitation. Opens access to niche, higher-paying hand therapy travel contracts.
Wound Care Certified
Renew: Every 5 years
Certification in wound assessment, treatment, and prevention. Valuable for SNF, home health, and acute care travel roles across all disciplines.
