What are the red flags in a travel nurse contract?
Short answer
A red flag is any important part of the job that is left vague or left out — call, floating, guaranteed hours, cancellation and housing money. If it isn't written down, it can change after you start.
Words that should make you slow down
'Per hospital policy' with no policy attached.
'As needed' for call or floating, with no limit written.
A pay rate that changed between the offer and the paperwork.
A big fee if you leave early, but nothing if they cancel.
Housing or bonus promises that only live in an email.
No response time written for call — that one decides where you are able to live.
The good sign
A contract that answers the boring questions before you ask them. Anyone can promise a great week. Only a good contract protects you in a bad one.
Ask your recruiter before you sign
- Can you attach the hospital policy you are pointing at?
- What is written down if the hospital cancels my shifts?
- What do I owe if I leave early, and what do they owe if they cancel?
- Which of these promises are in the contract, not just the email?
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This is general help, not legal or tax advice. Every contract and hospital is different — always read your own contract.