September 1, 2022

3108 Views

7 Simple & Effective Yoga Poses for Travel Nurses

Posted on September 1, 2022August 31, 2022 by Host Healthcare

Host Healthcare provided this article.

7 Simple & Effective Yoga Poses To Help Travel Nurses Release Daily Stress

Saving lives is never easy. Yes, working as a travel nurse will always be rewarding, but the physical labor can put a strain on your body. If you’re dealing with tension and discomfort, there’s a chance it may be affecting your career—but how does one combat this nurse stress?

For many people, the answer is yoga. A daily restorative yoga practice can help healthcare professionals relax both their bodies and minds. If you’re looking for the perfect post-shift release, here are 7 yoga poses to help nurses manage stress!

#1 Toe Squat

If there’s one thing nursing guarantees, it’s being on your feet all day. This constant pressure can lead to swollen ankles, varicose veins, and even plantar fasciitis. Fortunately, plenty of yoga poses target the feet—like a toe squat!

The principles of a toe squat are simple: start on your hands and knees with all ten toes tucked under your feet. From there, slowly lean your hips back until you’ve reached a gentle seat on the backs of your heels. When your toes are properly tucked, this pressure will create a gentle stretch in the arch of the foot.

If your feet are tight, this process may take some time. Start with light pressure by keeping your hands on the ground or on the tops of your thighs. From there, you can slowly work your way up to a fully seated position.

Why Nurses Love This Pose – Routine practice of this position will help strengthen the muscles and ligaments in the feet, creating the strong foundation every nurse needs. Plus, this stretch feels amazing after a long day of standing!

7 Simple & Effective Yoga Poses for Travel Nurses

#2 Tadasana

Travel nursing jobs can be strenuous on both the lower back and the mind. If you want a pose that improves posture and incorporates meditation—look no further than tadasana.

Tadasana, also known as mountain pose, is a simple yet powerful therapeutic yoga technique. Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and turn your palms upward to create space. Once you’ve found your footing, take a deep, cleansing breath into your chest. Balance is crucial to this pose, so make sure to evenly distribute your weight through all four corners of the feet.

Why Nurses Love This Pose – This posture requires a moment of complete stillness, giving busy nurses an opportunity to relax. Mountain pose is also wonderful for the spine and helps improve posture. Working as a nurse can be hard on the lower back, but tadasana can help with pain relief..

#3 Downward Facing Dog

Travel nurses never stop moving—which can be amazing for your step count but rough on your calves. Although you may not realize it, many nurses suffer from chronically tight calf muscles. Signs that your lower legs need some attention may include:

Cramping
Dull, aching pain
Difficulty walking
Poor balance
Tender feet (specifically the arch, heel, and Achilles tendon)

For a deep stretch in this area, you’ll want to get acquainted with the downward dog. To get into this pose, start in a plank position on the ground. From there, you can begin to walk your feet forward and draw the hips upward. Once you’ve created this triangular shape, you’ll begin to feel a stretch in the calves.

Remember that it’s okay if your heels don’t reach the floor at first. Getting the hang of downward dog can take practice. As time goes on, your heels will get closer to the floor (thus deepening the stretch).

Why Nurses Love This Pose – Yoga for nurses is all about targeting tension. Running from patient to patient can cause tight calves that affect your ability to walk. Downward dog is one of the best stretches you can do to treat this area.

#4 Seated Twist

Work-related stress can lead to tightness in the neck and shoulders. If you tend to hold tension in these areas, yoga will help elongate the muscles and relieve you from the dreaded “nurse neck.”

The best way to pull your shoulders back into place (and away from your ear lobes)? A gentle seated twist. Here’s how to do it:

Step #1 – Sit on the floor in a cross-legged position.

Step #2 – Straighten your spine and hold your head high.

Step #3 – Place your left hand on your right knee and your right hand on the floor behind you.

Step #4 – Inhale deeply and sit up tall.

Step #5 – While exhaling, twist your upper body to the right. Keep your head twisted to the left for an optimal neck stretch.

This yoga pose should create a soothing stretch for the spine, shoulders, and neck. With each inhale, open your chest as much as possible. On each exhale, try and deepen the stretch even further.

Why Nurses Love This Pose – A seated twist will relieve tension in the neck and shoulders, making it ideal for a demanding career like nursing. This position also encourages mindful deep breathing, which can help travel nurses relax after a tough day.

#5 Child’s Pose

Everyone should tap into their inner child once in a while—and what better way than a child’s pose?

Travel nurses tend to hold tension in the lower back from leaning over throughout the day. Constant walking can also lead to stiffness in the hips, which may cause physical pain when trying to stretch.

Child’s pose is both a deep and easy stretch (plus, it’s pretty relaxing). Start in a kneeling position on the floor, with your knees spread as wide as possible. From there, simply lean forward until your forehead touches the ground. Spread both hands out in front of you for maximum stretch in the lower back.

Why Nurses Love This Pose – Child’s pose is an easy hip-opener that won’t be painful, even for nurses with stiff joints. This position also stretches the lower back, which is crucial for nurses who hold stress in that area. Seated yoga poses are perfect for nurses with tired feet (because, let’s be real—who wants to stand after a long shift?).

#6 Ear-to-Shoulder Neck Roll

Sometimes tension creeps up on you mid-shift. Unfortunately, it’s often impossible to strike a quick downward dog on the hospital floor (or, at least, not recommended). The good news is that there is yoga for nurses at work.

Neck rolls can be done seated or standing, and they only take a few moments to complete. Here’s the 411 on this portable position:

Step #1 – Gently place the palm of your right hand on your left temple (with your arm hovering above your head).

Step #2 – Tilt your head to the right, bringing your ear as close to your shoulder as possible.

Step #3 – Extend your left arm straight down, with your palm facing the floor.

Step #4 – Slowly move your left arm in a semicircle between the front and back of your body. As you do this, you should feel a stretch in the left side of your neck.

Step #5 – Repeat on the other side.

After completing this stretch on both sides, you should feel a release of upper body tension. Stiff neck muscles will quickly elongate and allow for a wider range of motion.

Why Nurses Love This Pose – This yoga pose is made for stress relief on the go. When you feel tension building up during your shift, a quick neck roll can relieve pain and help you take on the rest of the day.

#7 Supta Vajrasana

For nurses who want yoga beyond the basics, Supta Vajrasana has you covered.

Also known as the supine thunderbolt pose, Supta Vajrasana offers an intense release in the back, knees, and hips. Getting into this position takes some patience, but once you’re there, the relaxation will soon follow. Here’s the technique, step-by-step:

Step #1 – Get into a comfortable, kneeling position on your yoga mat (lower legs tucked underneath your bottom).

Step #2 – Using your hands, scoot the calf muscles out from under your thighs, creating a deeper stretch in the knees.

Step #3 – Once you’ve created this W shape with the legs, carefully lean back until your spine is flush with the yoga mat.

Step #4 – Allow your hips and knees to adjust to the position, close your eyes, and relax.

Step #5 – Slowly rise back to a seat, using your elbows for support. Lean forward onto your hands and knees to safely bring your legs back to a neutral position.

This position may take some practice, but the more you do it, the better your lower body will feel. Using a pillow or exercise ball to elevate the back can help beginners achieve this posture without putting unnecessary strain on the knees and spine.

Why Nurses Love This Pose – Tired, aching legs will benefit from this yoga pose. A deep stretch in the knees and hips relieves tension, and rerouting the blood flow can help prevent swollen feet and ankles.

Nursing and Mindfulness: A Match Made in Heaven

Yoga is wonderful for physical and mental stress relief. The next time you’re experiencing pain or discomfort after a long shift, give these nurse-friendly poses a try.

Mindfulness doesn’t stop at the yoga mat, either. Travel nursing is a high-stakes job. If you plan to succeed in this field, it’s important to find relaxation techniques that work for you. Using stress management apps for nurses is another popular way that healthcare workers take care of their minds.

Remember that healthy patients start with healthy nurses. Prioritize yourself and watch your career reap the benefits!

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. If housing is an issue, we have you covered with our housing page. You can search for what you are looking for.

Host Healthcare Takes You There

Do you love seeing the world but need to keep a steady job? Apply to become a traveling healthcare professional with Host Healthcare!

Host Healthcare matches nurses with recruiters to help them find their next job. As one of the top travel healthcare companies, our mission is to get you jobs all over the world. Apply with us and discover a new adventure today.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Sources:

Mother Nurse Love. 7 Energizing Yoga Poses for Nurses (with Photos). https://www.mothernurselove.com/7-energizing-yoga-poses-for-nurses-with-photos/

Destination Yoga. How to Do: Downward Dog. https://destinationyoga.co.uk/latest-news/poses/downward-dog/

Yoga Journal. A Healing Yoga Sequence to Ease Neck + Shoulder Pain. https://www.yogajournal.com/practice/healing-yoga-sequence-ease-neck-shoulder-pain/

Aureus Medical. Four Yoga Poses to Help a Travel Nurse Achieve a Healthy Back. https://www.aureusmedical.com/blog/four-yoga-poses-to-help-a-travel-nurse-achieve-a-healthy-back/

Sport Me. 10 Yoga Poses to Help Relieve Shoulder and Neck Pain. https://www.sportme.com/blog/10-yoga-poses-to-help-relieve-shoulder-and-neck
India Times. Supta Vajrasana: The Supine Thunderbolt Pose. https://www.indiatimes.com/health/healthyliving/supta-vajrasana-the-supine-thunderbolt-pose-242516.html

By Host Healthcare

May 24, 2022

4178 Views

101 Guide To Remaining Adaptable In Travel Nursing

Posted on May 24, 2022May 23, 2022 by Host Healthcare

Host Healthcare provided this article.

As a travel nurse, you know that each day looks a little different. You might begin your shift anticipating one thing and end up working longer hours, treating different patients, or doing something completely unexpected.

This is why being able to adapt to the constant ebb and flow is integral to finding success in nursing. And no one knows this more than travel nurses.

Those considering travel nursing care should expect the unexpected. Remaining adaptable and ready to pivot at any time is a crucial aspect when you work in different locations and facilities. If you’re up to the challenge, travel nursing can be an incredibly interesting and rewarding career.

What Does Flexibility Mean for Travel Nurses?

Based on experience, seasoned travel nurses have a fairly good idea of what to expect before a new assignment. And that’s to expect the unexpected. But for first-time travel nurses, the lack of certainty can be unsettling. So, what’s a novice to do? The key to success is to stay patient and open-minded.

Some key things you should keep in mind include:

Orientation schedules may change
Placements within your assignment can change
Managers might change

Preparing yourself for these potential changes can make them easier to navigate at the onset of your travel assignment.

Do All Nursing Specialties Require The Same Level of Flexibility?

The short answer is yes. Flexibility in nursing is a must across all nursing job specialties, whether you are working in the ICU or a medical office. When on assignment, novice and seasoned travelers should always come prepared to adapt to the needs of their employers. You were hired for your experience and qualifications; however, the ability to adapt is a skill that most employers are looking for when vetting candidates. If you can demonstrate this skill from day one of your assignment, you will be sure to stand out.

Tips for Remaining Adaptable as a Travel Nurse

It’s one thing to say you can easily adapt to change. It’s another to put this into practice. With these tips, you can master the skill:

Be ready to jump in – When you’re a traveler, and you have an assignment starting on Monday, you may not have instructions on when, where, and who to report to until the few days leading up to your first day.

Don’t expect special treatment – Travelers are assigned to a specific location because there’s a need for the skills and experience they possess. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can expect special treatment. You are there to bring value to the team; however, at the onset, it is especially important to go with the flow, adjust to their practice and process, and you’ll get much more out of your assignment.

Stay connected to your recruiter – In travel nursing, your recruiter will serve as your go-to when seeking information pertaining to your nursing program. Don’t hesitate to ask questions when needed. Your recruiter is there to support you and answer any questions you have at the beginning, middle, and end of your assignment. As you ramp up, it can also be beneficial to reference your travel nurse onboarding checklist.

Rely on your fellow colleagues as resources – A beneficial aspect of travel nursing is the opportunity to work closely with new teams in all different parts of the country. Both travel nurses and staff nurses at your assignment can be valuable sources when you have questions about your new state or the job. They can also give you advice on future assignments that may be good fits for your skills and interests.

Should You Have Limits to Your Adaptability?

The more open you are, the more opportunities you’ll have. However, remaining adaptable 24/7 is easier said than done. To guard your mental health and physical well-being, it’s completely understandable to need some level of consistency in your role. That being said, there are a few things you can do if you foresee any challenges with scheduling for your upcoming assignment, such as:

Ask your recruiter to facilitate a blocked schedule request for your hours
Add specific non-negotiable time-off requests to your contract

Setting boundaries in any profession is reasonable. At the end of the day, there should be a level of mutual respect between nurses and employers to make sure that the program is beneficial for both parties. However, in the case where you could use a little more support during your assignment, staying close to your recruiter is essential. They can help you navigate the scheduling process so you can have control over some aspects of your travel experience while still ensuring that you’re meeting the needs of the facility.

The only time travel nurses should not demonstrate flexibility is if it pertains to a patient safety issue—reach out to your recruiter, and they will connect you with the clinical team in this circumstance.

Advocating For Adaptability in Travel Nursing

We also know that it’s tough to go somewhere new and deal with uncertainty, no matter the profession. But, when it comes to travel nursing, Host Healthcare understands the need for adaptability and how to support travel nurses in their careers. This is why we have a clinical team made up of nurses with 50-plus years of experience to help our travelers learn how to navigate the process and crush their assignments.

If you’ve always been interested in a travel nursing career but weren’t sure what to expect, start with Host Healthcare. When you complete your travel nurse application with us, we match you with the opportunities that best suit your skill set, goals, and availability. As a bonus, you’ll get to travel while working at a job you love.

We hope you found this article on ways to remain adaptable in travel nursing helpful. Have you found ways to remain adaptable as a travel nurse that you would like to share? Comment anyways you are adaptable below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming travel nurse assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Host Healthcare

March 22, 2022

66368 Views

Top 10 Travel Nurse Housing Sites

Posted on March 22, 2022August 8, 2023 by Host Healthcare

Host Healthcare provided this article.

Authors: Megan Patek & Brett Seeburger, Host Healthcare Housing Specialist

You’ve secured your next travel nurse assignment, but have you determined your place of residency? If housing is still a pending item on your checklist, don’t fret! With so much change in such little time, the thought of finding somewhere to stay for the duration of your assignment can be a little overwhelming. Between contributing factors from cost to commute, four-legged friends to roommates, how do you begin your search for somewhere to stay that will fit your requirements?

The fact of the matter is that furnished short-term housing can be difficult to come by. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a place that not only fits your needs but can feel like a home away from home while on assignment. Host Healthcare has you covered with all the best resources to help you find your next residential setup. In addition to a dedicated housing department to assist healthcare travelers with finding a place to stay, Host Healthcare takes note of which housing option sites and resources are most reliable so that you, the traveling nurse, feel ready to take on a new city.

In no particular order, here are our top 10 recommended travel nurse housing sites for you to explore:

Furnished Finder

For those looking for short-term, furnished housing, Furnished Finder is one of the best options. Not only do they offer competitive prices, but they also provide property verification to eliminate the worry of scammers. Using Furnished Finder, you can perform a background check on any residential property you are interested in and gain access to property owner ratings. You can even check out what other listings property owners have rented out. There are no hidden fees with Furnished Finder as they provide you with the direct contact of the property you wish to rent, so you may book directly through the homeowner. Furnished Finder is geared towards helping travel nurses discover furnished homes, apartments, and even single rooms that fit their every need. They even go the extra mile by providing city guides to help both new and well-seasoned travel nurses get familiarized with their new location.

Airbnb

The most well-known company in short-term rentals, Airbnb, goes beyond short-term vacation rentals. The platform also serves as one of the best resources for travel nurses to find housing when on assignment. With extensive options to filter your search, you can find the exact needs you are looking for in a short-term home. Airbnb also offers the most accurate availability listings when looking for specific dates to book. Because Airbnb properties are typically owned and managed by independent homeowners who can dictate their own pricing, there are certain fees to be aware of when searching for homes on the platform. For example, cleaning and service fees may come attached to your booking reservation. There are, however, in most Airbnb bookings discounted rates for monthly stays. Airbnb is a must-start website when looking for your short-term home.

VRBO

A very useful alternative to Airbnb, VRBO offers many of the same searching features, along with clarity in when your future home is available and whom you are renting from. Like we noted for Airbnb, VRBO allows property owners to determine pricing for their rental property, which includes fees for cleaning and service. All fees will be communicated prior to booking your reservation. However, it is important to note that there are far fewer monthly discounts offered on VRBO than there are offered on Airbnb.

Transplant Housing

A temporary housing website built just for traveling nurses? You bet! Transplant Housing prides itself on its ability to provide unparalleled comfortability in knowing that these homes are strictly open to travel nurses on assignment. Considering the lifestyle of a travel nurse, this platform connects healthcare professionals to homeowners who truly understand the constant shifts in this profession and the uncertainties that come with being on a traveling contract. They help take the hassle out of travel nurse housing so that you can focus on the job that awaits you!

Zillow

You may associate Zillow with purchasing a home, but did you know that Zillow actually has its fair share of short-term leases? Like other platforms, with Zillow, you can filter your search by price, location, house amenities, and even the style of home you are looking for to fit your preferred aesthetic. Before you start your search, we must tell you that the only way to find short-term or furnished housing is through the keyword bar. Once you’ve found a property that looks promising, you will want to read the description on the rental to help determine if it is the right fit for you.

The Gypsy Nurse Facebook Group

A Facebook page created for traveling nurses by traveling nurses. Could it make more sense for travel nurses? The Gypsy Nurse community is filled with travel nurses who are open to sharing their experiences traveling and working in different facilities across the country. Created to equip travel nurses with useful insights and tools they need to navigate the experience, this Facebook page built by Gypsy Nurse provides a caring community of both nurses who are renting out their homes and nurses who are searching for housing. For those who would rather avoid communicating with landlords who may not completely understand the nature of this unique travel profession, the Gypsy Nurse Facebook Group lets you do just that. By joining this Facebook page, you are instantly connected to a host of travel nurses who may even be looking for somewhere to stay in your area.

HotPads

A smaller subset of Zillow, Hotpads primarily offers rental opportunities rather than homes and apartments available for purchase. This housing platform allows you to edit all the same filters as Zillow, making it a simplified process for traveling nurses searching for their next place to stay. Hotpads gives users the ability to search for a variety of furnished options, whether that be a specific style of townhouse, condo, apartment, or even house. Although Hotpads is connected to Zillow, Hotpads provides unique listings different from what’s available on Zillow. To start searching for properties, create a profile, add your favorite listings to your account, and begin reaching out to landlords to make easy, seamless connections.

Kopa

Kopa has built a great platform to find flexible short-term housing, whether you are looking to sign a month-to-month contract or plant seeds and book a year-long stay. With rental opportunities in over 100 different cities across the United States and the platform continuously adding move-in ready homes, apartments, and rooms for rent daily, Kopa is a perfect avenue for travel nurses to explore. The platform allows you to control your entire rental experience electronically. You can speak with hosts, book your stay, and pay for your rental all through Kopa’s website. Whether you are taking an assignment in San Francisco or New York, Denver or Dallas, Nashville or Seattle, Kopa has move-in ready spots awaiting your arrival. Get a head start and begin exploring the hidden gems found on Kopa.

Landing

As a travel nurse, you already have a lot on your plate. If you want to skip communicating with flighty landlords, avoid possible scams, or prevent getting locked into a lease that’s not fit for your situation, Landing may be a great option for you. To get access to Landing properties, a membership is required. A year-long membership costs $199, however, when you partner with Host Healthcare, you can score quite the deal. When you become a travel nurse with Host Healthcare, the team of trusted housing specialists will help you apply a $250 discount code to your reservation.

Once you’ve completed your new member sign-up with Landing, you will get access to more than 35,000 fully furnished, WIFI-ready, pet-friendly apartments. You will be able to book and pay for your furnished apartment conveniently through your profile online or through their app. A 24/7 hotline that you can call or text gives you a sense of ease while checking in, living, and checking out of your Landing home.

Apartments.com

Say goodbye to third-party servicing fees and hello to countless apartments across the nation right at your fingertips. Apartments.com is a very reliable website whether you are searching for a townhouse, condo, or any other type of apartment-style of housing. Aside from the never-ending listings on tap, a major advantage of using Apartments.com is that you will be working with the apartment complexes or real estate agency directly. However, one disadvantage of using Apartments.com is the lack of short-term housing options. Many of the options available on the platform are listed as 12-month leases, so before you start your search, be sure to apply the appropriate “short-term” filter in the lifestyle tab. Once you have the proper setting selected, start exploring a variety of suitable apartments for your upcoming travel nurse assignment.

Oh, The Places You’ll Go

Travel nursing is an exciting career path filled with opportunities, challenges, and adventures not everyone will experience. Whether you are about to start a 3-month or 12-month assignment, it’s important that you feel at home in your new city. Leave it up to the short-term housing experts at Transplant Housing, Landing x Host Healthcare, Airbnb, and so many others to help you settle into your new home away from home. It’s the least we can do. After all, you are out there saving lives.

We hope this article on the top 10 housing sites for travel nurses was helpful in your housing search. Do you have any housing sites you use that we didn’t mention here? Comment those housing sites below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page powered by one of the housing sites: Furnished Finder.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

housing sites

By Host Healthcare

July 22, 2021

8810 Views

Pros and Cons of Being a Nurse

Posted on July 22, 2021July 20, 2021 by Host Healthcare

This article was provided by Host Healthcare.

Every job has its pros and cons. While office jobs are known for their steady paycheck and a high likelihood of carpal tunnel, nursing comes with its own physical and emotional effects.

While some individuals prefer a case of computer neck to the hustle and bustle of nursing, others can look past the challenges because of the many benefits that come along with the job.

From physical labor to steady pay, we’ll cover everything that you will need to know when working in the healthcare industry. If you’re considering a career in this rewarding field, read on for the biggest pros and cons of nursing!

Pros of Nursing

To start this article on the right foot, let’s take a look at the positive side of the profession. Below are some of the most substantial benefits of nursing, as told by professional health care workers:

The feeling that comes with helping others – Most people would agree that caring for others simply feels good. As a nurse, you’ll spend a majority of your time helping those in need and reaping the benefits that come with this selfless line of work.

Forming relationships – In a similar vein, nursing is the perfect job for a people person. As a nurse, you’ll form a wide variety of relationships on a continuous, daily basis. From your patients to your fellow staff, working in a community as tightly knit as a healthcare facility is one of the easiest ways to form lasting relationships with others. As a nurse, you’ll rarely find yourself feeling lonely or isolated.

Job opportunities – Nursing is currently one of the most high-demand positions in the country. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 7% increase in the job outlook for registered nurses throughout 2029—and that’s not including the many other advanced positions within the nursing field. If you want a career path with ample job opportunities, nursing is a great option.

Flexibility – Depending on your position and place of employment, the nursing field as a whole offers quite a bit of flexibility. Registered nurses can often choose to work on a full-time or part-time basis, be on-call, or request night shifts based on their availability.

Opportunity to travel – One way to take advantage of a flexible schedule? Become a travel nurse. Travel nurses have the flexibility of changing assignments every few months, which is great for healthcare professionals who crave variety and adventure. Host Healthcare is named one of the top travel healthcare companies and has endless opportunities for travel if you are an adventure seeking nurse.

Steady pay – The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average RN salary at $75,330 per year. This can be broken down to approximately $36.22 per hour—nearly five times the federal minimum wage. Salaries for nurses only get higher as you move past entry-level positions, making this an exceptional field for individuals who need a steady income.

Cons of Nursing

Of course, every line of work also has disadvantages that are unique to the field. Prospective nurses should be aware of the following cons when it comes to this position and consider these factors before deciding on a career path:

Physically demanding – Most clinical nursing jobs require a certain level of physical endurance. From standing on your feet for most of the day, to physically moving patients from place to place, BSN nurses can expect quite a bit of manual labor when working in this field.

Emotional labor – In addition to being physically demanding, working as a nurse also requires emotional fortitude. Being in close contact with chronically ill, severely injured, or elderly patients can evoke feelings of sadness, stress, and even depression. This is why it’s crucial for nurses to prioritize self-care during their personal time.

Exposure to disease and viruses – As we’ve seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing can become a risky job in the face of viral infections and diseases. While this can be scary for many people, it’s also important to note that healthcare facilities take the utmost precautions to protect their staff. That being said, prospective nurses will need to face any fears of disease exposure prior to pursuing this position.

Working holidays – Unlike a traditional work environment, hospitals and many other healthcare facilities remain open on major holidays. This means that nurses may find themselves working on these days and missing out on time with their families. Of course, some nurses have more flexible schedules—for example, travel nurses. But before beginning a new position, discuss holiday policies with your potential employer.

Is Nursing the Right Career For Me?

If you resonate with any of the following statements, a career in nursing may be a good choice for your future career:

I enjoy a fast-paced, exciting work environment.
I would prefer a physical job that has me on my feet to sitting at a computer all day.
I am an empathetic person who enjoys helping others.
I work better with a team by my side as opposed to being alone.
I would rather choose my own hours than work a standard 9-5 job.
I am a people person.
I am interested in seeing the world while taking different job assignments.

Find Your Perfect Nursing Job

Are you intrigued by the many benefits of being a nurse? Now, it’s time to continue your education and prepare for a career in healthcare. Once you’ve completed your certification, you’ll be able to enjoy benefits like stable pay, flexibility, and the opportunity to travel if you decide to go the travel nursing path.

Sources:

ABSN.Luc. The Top Pros and Cons of a Nursing Career.
- https://absn.luc.edu/blog/the-top-pros-and-cons-of-a-nursing-career/
BLS. Registered Nurses.
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm
Fortis. Nursing Hours: How Long Do Nurses Work?
- https://www.fortis.edu/blog/nursing/nursing-hours-how-long-do-nurses-work.html

By Host Healthcare

May 19, 2021

6605 Views

Finding the Best Travel Nurse Recruiter

Posted on May 19, 2021May 19, 2021 by Host Healthcare

This article was provided by Host Healthcare.

Travel nurse recruiters are the backbone of any staffing agency. As a travel nurse, finding the right travel nurse recruiters can make a world of difference in your career. Rather than dedicating your time to job hunting, you can use your free time to enjoy the location of your current assignment between shifts. Finding a trusted recruiter that will take the initiative in finding the best-fit assignment for you will leave you feeling at ease in focusing on fine-tuning your craft.

Tips for finding great travel nurse recruiters:

Here, we have compiled a list of tips for finding the right travel nurse recruiters for you. Look out for these qualities and ask the right questions. You will be sure to establish a relationship with your recruiter to advance your career as a travel healthcare professional.

Look for These Necessary Qualities in Your Travel Nurse Recruiters

Finding the recruiter that’s right for you takes having a conversation. While some agencies, such as Host Healthcare, pride themselves on matching clients with top-tier recruiters, you still need to be sure that they have the necessary qualities that you find value in this partnership. Some qualities to keep in mind that might be beneficial to you include:

Responsiveness- This is the number one most desired trait in a recruiter. If your recruiter is stretched too thin, they can’t dedicate themselves to finding an assignment perfectly catered to your needs. To test if they have the necessary bandwidth, ask them a question over email, and make sure they respond within 48 hours.
Friendliness- A great travel nurse recruiter is someone with who you feel comfortable, and there is trust between the two of you. Having a friendly recruiter is a great thing to look out for because you will be spending a lot of time with each other.
Experience- If you partner with a staffing agency, this will likely be a given. Agencies such as Host Healthcare have top-tier recruiters in their pipeline vetted and gone through a screening process and training procedures. Don’t be afraid to ask your potential recruiter hard-hitting questions.
Knowledge- You should be able to confide in your recruiters for any advice regarding travel healthcare. They should know everything about the position and the industry to answer your questions.
No-Pressure- The right recruiters will not use pressure tactics to get you to sign or move forward with a contract. Recruiters can have this reputation, so finding a staffing agency like Host Healthcare ensures no-pressure tactics can save you the awkward feeling of being pressured into an unfit assignment.

Ask the Right Questions

Asking all of the right questions will lead you to the perfect match. No question should ever be dismissed, and all questions should be answered confidently if you have the right recruiter on your hands. Although you should feel free to ask any question, here are a few questions you should probably address:

“When are you available?” – Alignment of schedules is obviously critical in a traveler-recruiter relationship. Make sure you can align on specific days and times where you can meet.
“What is your submission to interview ratio?” – A submission to interview ratio refers to the number of assignments a recruiter applies for versus the number of interviews their clients actually book. Look for a recruiter with a high submission to interview ratio.
“What insurance benefits will I get?” – Staying protected in the event of illness or injury need to be at the forefront of your mind when considering a new assignment. Ask your recruiter about the coverage secured for an assignment before agreeing to it.

Feel free to ask any questions you may have. If you ever receive push-back or the recruiter is reluctant to answer your questions, it might be time to look for another recruiter.

Establish Trust with Your Recruiter

Trust is probably the most important thing to strive for in this relationship. They should be looking out for you every step of the way. You should be confident that your recruiter is advocating for you in every sense of the matter. Trust looks like this:

Securing Maximum Pay– For every assignment, your recruiter should be working on getting you the best pay grade possible. You should trust that they are working hard to secure you in the best position possible.
Considering Your Wants and Needs– Your recruiter should always be asking you what your wants and needs are. With every assignment, they will take those wants and needs and relay them to the potential employer. Also, if you have particular locations in mind for where you want your next assignment to be, they should advocate for that.
Keeping a Constant Flow of Communication- Communication is at the heart of creating a trusting relationship. Your Recruiters should always be available to chat and address any questions you may have.
No-Pressure- As mentioned above, if a recruiter ever pressures you into signing or moving forward with an assignment, this is a red flag. Trust is built through mutual respect and understanding. Use a staffing agency like Host Healthcare that prides itself on no-pressure tactics.

With these tips to finding the best travel nurse recruiters, you will find a relationship that serves your career and enhances your daily life. Go into your search with these things on your mind, and you’re bound to find trusting, nurturing, and experienced recruiters to stand by your side!

Have you found great travel nurse recruiters during your career? Do you have tips to help other travel nurses find great travel nurse recruiters? Comment them below.

Sources:

Nurse.org. How to Find a Good Travel Nurse Recruiter – 5 Tips to Pick the Best. https://nurse.org/articles/how-to-choose-the-best-travel-nurse-recruiter/
Blue Pipes. What You Should Know About Your Travel Nursing Recruiter’s Job. https://blog.bluepipes.com/what-does-a-travel-nursing-recruiter-do/

By Host Healthcare

April 7, 2021

8181 Views

Guide to COVID-19 Travel Nurse Quarantine

Posted on April 7, 2021April 29, 2021 by Host Healthcare

This article was provided by Host Healthcare.

Nurse Quarantine Pay Policy

The COVID 19 pandemic is a serious concern for every person in the world right now—especially healthcare workers. Due to close contact with the virus, medical professionals must worry about answering questions like What happens if I contract COVID-19? Will I be unable to work? Do healthcare providers get paid during quarantine?

Potential Exposure to COVID-19

Despite having the utmost safety measures in place, it’s possible for travelers to contract—or come in contact with—COVID-19. Although treatment of COVID-19 patients is common in many healthcare facilities, travel nurses should be cautious of contracting the virus through other ways.

If a coworker or someone you live with has tested positive or begun to show symptoms of COVID-19, then you may be required to quarantine before returning to work. Common symptoms to look out for should include:

Fever
Shortness of breath
Dry cough
Loss of taste and smell
Head and body aches

How to Stay Safe While Working During COVID-19

The best way to avoid having to quarantine is by keeping yourself safe—both on and off the clock. The Center for Disease Control recommend these sanitary practices in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

Wash your hands frequently, for a minimum of 20 seconds
Sanitize hands, surfaces, and tools regularly (with at least 60% alcohol)
Avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth when out in public
Report any new symptoms to your employer
Stay home if you’re feeling sick or following a potential exposure to COVID-19
Wear a mask when at work and in public
Get tested regularly if working in the medical field

Doing your best to avoid COVID-19 is always recommended, but sometimes exposure can still occur.

Getting Paid in Quarantine

When working as a traveling healthcare worker with Host Healthcare, you won’t have to worry about missing a paycheck due to COVID-19 complications. Here’s what makes Host’s quarantine pay policy different from other healthcare agencies:

Exposure – If exposure to COVID-19 is deemed a possibility, your facility will require you to quarantine for up to two weeks. A positive COVID-19 test may not be required in order to begin quarantining due to the fact that safety is the highest priority at this time.

Quarantine – During your quarantine, Host Healthcare will ensure travelers receive their normal paycheck for up to 14 days after exposure. Host understands that this is a challenging time to work in the medical field, and they appreciate the hard work you’re doing, both in and out of quarantine.

Return to work – When conditions are safe and travelers feel ready, they can begin working again following their isolation period. A negative COVID-19 test may also be required before you’re able to return to the facility.

Although paid sick leave may seem like a given, not all providers are taking this approach to handling the subject of quarantine pay.

Laws Regarding Quarantine Pay

The unfortunate truth is that not all healthcare workers are being compensated for their quarantine periods. Federal laws have allowed various loopholes regarding quarantine pay, creating difficult conditions for healthcare workers.

While it’s true that government funding is being used to cover salaries for certain medical facilities, those with less than 500 employees do not qualify for this relief. Under the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act, employers are technically not required to pay sick leave for doctors and nurses quarantined.

How Are Hospitals Protecting Their Employees From COVID-19?

In addition to personal safety measures, many medical facilities are implementing their own precautions against COVID-19. If you’re concerned about your safety as a traveling healthcare provider, here’s what you should know about working during the pandemic:

Screening – Hospitals and other medical facilities have intensified their screening and Coronavirus testing procedures. Patients and employees alike are being closely monitored for signs of COVID-19, particularly respiratory symptoms and fever.

Separation – Patients who have contracted COVID-19 are safely separated from the general hospital population to prevent an outbreak. Creating a degree of space between infected and non-infected patients allows social distancing measures to be properly followed.

Personal protection equipment – The latest personal protection equipment (PPE) is given to all healthcare providers when available. This includes masks, face shields, gloves, and disinfectants.

How Does Travel Nursing Work Under COVID-19 Restrictions?

If you’re interested in becoming a traveling healthcare professional, you may be feeling discouraged by the recent COVID-19 restrictions. Fortunately, we have all the answers you need to make this important career decision a bit easier:

Are There Any Domestic Travel Bans?

There are currently no restrictions barring people from traveling between states. Whether you’re a certified healthcare worker or not, domestic travel within the United States is allowed for any reason.

Do I Have to Quarantine After Traveling?

Although there are no travel bans, many states require a 10-14 day quarantine period upon arrival. Fortunately, traveling healthcare workers are exempt from these restrictions due to their classification as essential workers.

What About Shelter-in-Place Orders?

Similar to other travel restrictions, healthcare workers will not be required to follow shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders. Lockdowns and curfews will not be enforced on traveling nurses or therapists as long as they provide proof of employment (License, Employment contract, or Hospital ID badge).

Make sure to find an agency that looks out for you during this unusual time. We thank you for all of your hard work and stay safe!

By Host Healthcare

April 12, 2018

6738 Views

10 Healthy Meal Planning Tips For Travel Nurses

Posted on April 12, 2018November 28, 2023 by Host Healthcare

This article is provided by Host Healthcare

As a travel nurse, you are always on the go. From traveling between assignments to the fast pace work responsibilities, your days can be jam-packed. One of the things that suffer during busy days is eating healthy meals. Lack of healthy meals could lead to fatigue, lack of concentration, and more serious conditions like obesity. That is why we created these 10 healthy meal planning tips for travel nurses.

Identify Healthy Meals.

The first step to eating healthy is knowing what to eat. Healthy meal planning tips for travel nurses start with knowing healthy foods to eat. There are plenty of websites or magazines you can read to find healthy recipes. In addition, ask your other nurses what healthy foods they eat.

Planning.

After you know what to eat, the next step has a meal plan. Having a plan of what you will eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks will help you from eating a bunch of junk food. If you need assistance, there are apps and calendars to help you plan your meals accordingly.

Cook At Home.

Being a travel nurse, you might not have every cooking tool you have at home. However, cooking at home is a great way to eat healthily. Cooking at home allows you to make sure the ingredients are healthy. In addition, you can control your portion sizes instead of eating a large plate of dinner out.

Pack Your Meals.

Bringing your meals to work will ensure you have healthy meals and snacks to eat during your shift. Packing your meals ensures you don’t eat something quick in the cafeteria that provides no nutritional value.

Take Your Time Eating.

Did you know it actually takes a few minutes for your brain to tell your body it’s had enough food? Other benefits of eating healthy include better digestion and greater satisfaction with our meals.

Drink Plenty of Water.

While water isn’t a meal, drinking water is very important in planning and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Studies have shown that drinking water has a major effect on energy levels and brain function. So be sure to drink your eight 8-ounces glasses of water per day.

Have Plenty of Snacks.

This is the biggest thing that gets in the way of eating healthy—everyone snacks. As a travel nurse, you are running around throughout the day. Be sure you bring plenty of snacks to your shift. Great snack ideas include fruits, vegetables, almonds, baked sweet potato chips, or healthy bars.

Portion Control For Eating Out.

It’s unrealistic to think you will eat a home-cooked meal for every meal. It’s okay to eat out. But when you do, make smart choices. One of the easiest ways to eat healthily is to box half your entrée before getting to the table. This will help you not to eat large portions of food.

Know How Much You Should Eat.

Everyone’s body is different. The way we metabolize the food and beverages we consume is different. That’s why it’s a good idea to know how much to eat and track what you eat. Use a site like Super Tracker or Choose My Plate to understand how much you should be eating based on yourself.

Give Yourself A Cheat Day.

As a travel nurse, you aren’t expected to eat clean meals every day. Cut yourself some slack. If you’ve had a tough week or going out with friends, don’t feel like you must eat veggies while drinking water. You’ll be surprised when you give yourself one day that you end up eating well the other days of the week.

Hopefully, after reading this article, you have a good idea of healthy meal planning tips for travel nurses. These tips are not one size fits all. Be sure you tailor these suggestions to your dietary preferences, lifestyle, and schedule to have easy meal planning and a healthier diet.

By Host Healthcare

January 11, 2018

15229 Views

10 Resume Tips For A Travel Nurse

Posted on January 11, 2018May 20, 2021 by Host Healthcare

This article is sponsored by Host Healthcare ®

There is no shortage of opportunities for a travel nurse. However, it is growing more competitive to land your perfect job. Being a travel nurse means you must be able to market yourself. One way to improve your marketability is to have a great resume. After all, your resume is one of the keys to having a successful travel nursing career. These 10 resume tips for a travel nurse will help you become seen by hiring managers and land that ideal job.

Clean, Relevant, Brief

Keep it beautiful and brief. Hiring managers are sometimes sifting through hundreds of resumes. To make yours stand out, highlight the most important things. Use bullets to help make it easy to skim through.
Keep it clean. Some might refer to this as less is more. Don’t oversell and feel like you have to get everything on your resume. Again, focus on what’s important and remember to leave some white space to make it easy to read.
Keep it relevant. Understand the job description and highlight the things the nursing manager will care about. That isn’t to say remove things that aren’t relevant. Just make sure your experience for the assignment you are applying for is visible.

Highlight Your Experiences

Make all licenses and certifications visible. You worked hard to achieve your licenses and certifications. Show them off. Be proud. When you make licenses and certifications easily to find, it will improve your stock of being a qualified candidate.
Include any honors and awards. Like you should be proud of your education, be proud of your achievements. If you have been recognized and received special awards, include that in your resume. It’s best to keep it relevant to the assignment you are applying but showcasing your excellence is always a good thing.
Emphasize Bed Count and Facility Size. Not only does a hiring manager see your experience and education, but including logistics about places you have worked is important. How many beds were in the unit? How many beds were in the facility? They want to know if you are a good fit in their work environment.
Computer experience. There are a lot of systems being used in the healthcare industry. Some are complex. If you have experience using the computer system in the facility you are applying for will make you stand out.
Are you bilingual? This might sound silly to include in your resume but speaking multiple languages is always something you should include in your resume. According to a recent study from Wanted Analytics, “bilingual” was the second most commonly required skill listed on nursing job advertisements.

Include Specifics

Include your availability. Being a nurse is a round-the-clock job. Are you able to work days, nights, mids? Are you open to working 8, 10, 12-hour shifts? Including this level of detail about the type of job you want can make you more marketable. Don’t leave this part out.
Get a second opinion. You know your experience better than anyone else. But sometimes, having another person read will help make your resume an A+. Get a trusted friend, colleague, or recruiter to help give an extra set of eyes.

In conclusion, your resume is a vital piece of information to guide your travel nurse career. Think of your nursing resume as an advertisement that sells you. It can be your best friend if done correctly. Be mindful of the role you are applying for and tailor your resume accordingly. No one wants to read a resume that looks like it was identically copied and distributed to other facilities. You want every aspect of your resume to be a strong representation of what you have to offer an employer. Follow these tips, and you are well on your way to landing your next travel nursing assignment.

We hope you found these resume tips for travel nurses helpful. Do you have any resume tips to share for your fellow travel nurses. Comment them below.

About Host Healthcare:

Host Healthcare is an award-winning travel nurse staffing company. Host Healthcare was named the top travel nurse staffing company by Staffing Industry Analyst and ranked Inc. 460 on the Inc. 5000 list in 2017. At Host Healthcare, our mission is to provide you and every healthcare professional we encounter with the highest level of service. We believe in honesty, respect, and a commitment to quality with our clients, healthcare professionals, and corporate employees. Browse through our extensive list of travel nursing jobs or call one of our professional recruiters at (800) 585-1299 today.

By Host Healthcare

September 17, 2017

7382 Views

5 Truths of Working with a Staffing Company During Your Travel Career

Posted on September 17, 2017May 20, 2021 by Host Healthcare

This article is sponsored by Host Healthcare .

If you’re just starting out as a travel nurse, you’ve probably realized one of the only ways to get into this exciting field of travel nursing is to work with a staffing company. There are a lot of misconceptions and a lot of truths when it working with a placement company for your contract positions.

Here are five truths of working when an staffing company to score your next travel nursing position.

You won’t always have first dibs on Hawaii

Travel nurses can make it to Hawaii, and it does happen but don’t bank on it. While destination cities like Hawaii are obtainable, it can take some time to score the perfect city. Once you do score that dream city, you may find it’s not what you expected. Maybe you always wanted to live in Chicago, but once there you realize it’s just not for you. Your recruiter can help you get to a new city, sometimes one you never expected to love. There’s nothing wrong with falling in love with Des Moines, Iowa. That’s one of the many joys of travel nursing.

Travel nurses come in all genders, ages, and backgrounds

Not all travel nurses are young, and you’re not too old to travel! There’s a common misconception that all travel nurses are young, single, and early in their careers. While it certainly can be challenging to travel with family, we’ve seen nurses of all ages, with children and spouses, and with varying levels of experience.

Even tenured nurses learn new skills while traveling

The wide range of skills we see in travel nurses doesn’t mean that the experience as a travel nurse has to be fruitless. Travel nursing is a great way to see how different units and facilities operate. Every hospital and clinic has different ways of doing everyday nursing tasks, and traveling gives you the chance to learn new skills and techniques—no matter how tenured you might be.

There are plenty of opportunities for advancement

Working with a staffing company comes with a lot of benefits. Some impact your wallet and protect you when you are sick. Other benefits help grow your career. Being a travel nurse comes with a huge opportunity for advancement. You can work in a variety of facilities all over the world. The unique résumé of a travel nurse opens new opportunities in clinical, educational, or management healthcare careers.

There’s a lot of preparation to be done before your first assignment

From license to housing to preparing your home, and more—there’s no denying the amount of preparation that goes into taking a travel assignment. Recruiters can help though. Don’t underestimate your recruiter’s knowledge of your profession and their ability to help grow your career.

7 Simple & Effective Yoga Poses To Help Travel Nurses Release Daily Stress

#1 Toe Squat

#2 Tadasana

#3 Downward Facing Dog

#4 Seated Twist

#5 Child’s Pose

#6 Ear-to-Shoulder Neck Roll

#7 Supta Vajrasana

Nursing and Mindfulness: A Match Made in Heaven

Host Healthcare Takes You There

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

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