10 Things Travel RNs Can Do When They Get Rained Out
Travel Nursing is one of the most adventurous professions out there, every 13 weeks you change locations, start at a new facility, learn to adapt to all the new changes that come with the relocation, and you meet new coworkers and try to find new friends. For most Travel RNs, the highlight of choosing a new location every 13 weeks is so they can go out and see what that city has to offer. It may be 13 weeks of laying out on the beach in Florida, hiking in the mountains in Oregon, or surviving the cold in Alaska to get a view of the Northern Lights. Sometimes Mother Nature has other things in mind. It may be your day off and you’re ready to go on the adventure of the lifetime and you notice it starts to sprinkle. What do you do now?
A recent post in The Travel Nurse Network had many suggestions on what to do on a rainy day off. Here are the top answers:
Tips for when you get rained out:
1.) Visit Indoor Attractions
Get to know your new “hometown” by visiting museums, art galleries, a hall of fame, etc. These are great ways to get connected with your city. Other options are finding a gym, going shopping at the mall, or seeing a movie.
2.) Crochet, Knitting or Cross stitch
Crocheting, knitting, or cross-stitching is a great way to pass the time and when you’re finished, you have something to show for it! Not sure how to do it? No need to call your grandma, Youtube has many video tutorials that can teach you to step by step.
3.) Volunteer
Volunteer work is vital for countless cities across the US. Many places like homeless shelters, soup kitchens, or animal shelters would love the extra help! This is another place where you can meet new friends with the same passion as you have.
4.) Read
A classic rainy-day activity is reading. With the technology we have today, there is no need to even leave the house to buy a book or rent one from the library. Plus, there are no books taking up room on the shelves!
5.) Study for the CCRN, or other certificates
Studying is an excellent way to spend your downtime, not only are you keeping busy but you’re taking the steps to further your career!
6.) Painting and Audio Books
Kill 2 birds with 1 stone by painting and listening to audiobooks, podcasts, or a Ted Talks. Painting helps relieve stress, so this is also a great way to unwind after a long week.
7.) Scrapbook
A rainy day is a perfect time to finally get all your previous adventures in order by scrapbooking them. Local hobby stores have all the necessities for scrapbooking, whether it’s your first time or you’re a pro. There are also websites that you can create a digital scrapbook as well!
8.) Check out local events or ask for a meet up.
Go to websites like Eventbrite or get on The Travel Nurse Network and ask if anyone is in your area and wants to meet up. The Gypsy Nurse has a few events throughout the year.
9.) Get some R&R
Being a nurse is a hard job and a rainy day is perfect for catching up on some sleep or getting some much need relaxation by getting a massage, going to yoga, or taking a bubble bath!
10.) Buy waterproof items and get out there anyway!
Don’t let the rain rule your day! Buy waterproof items such as boots, hats, coats, etc. Many members said that the rain doesn’t rain as hard when walking in the wooded area due to the trees blocking it. Get out there and a little muddy. It’s an adventure, after all. To see more suggestions from The Travel Nurse Network, click here.
If you get rained out or the next time you find yourself stuck inside, refer to this list to help end your boredom. Other suggestions were doing a puzzle, learning a new language, and binge-watching Netflix. Whatever you choose, these 10 suggestions should help pass the time until Mother Nature is on your side again.
Even if you think you are getting rained out….Don’t let the rain stop you from having fun!
