December 14, 2022

2208 Views

Holiday FOMO While Travel Nursing

Posted on December 14, 2022December 14, 2022 by TheraEx

TheraEx Staffing Solutions provided this article.

You’ve probably experienced it before. You’re away from home on assignment during the holidays while scrolling through Netflix feeling anxious and envious instead of stress-free and self-assured, all because you glanced at your social media feeds and saw the proof that your friends and family from back home are spending time together during the holidays. So much for enjoying a rare night of rest and quiet, much-needed for mental restoration.

While travel nursing is equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking, it can also be enjoyable and invigorating. With these tips, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying your new home and surroundings without feeling like you’re missing out on life’s milestones.

How to combat feeling like you are missing out during the holidays while travel nursing:

Lean Into Nostalgia

By embracing your feelings of homesickness and learning how to cope with them, it will help you protect yourself from future cases of it. Working to address your feelings will make it much less likely to happen with your next assignment. If you’re feeling particularly down or yearning to be with your friends and loved ones, bringing mementos on your travel nurse adventures is a great way to bring a little piece of comfort and familiarity with you. It can be a box of photos, candies from your favorite hometown shop, or a significant other’s sweatshirt. Keeping these items close can stop a case of homesickness in its tracks and help you feel more at ease.

Embrace Your New City

Whether you’re exploring amusement parks in sunny California or are snowed-in in Colorado, picking up a few local traditions can put a fresh spin on your holiday traditions and help you to create new ones for when you’re back home. Send locally inspired gift cards or memorabilia to your loved ones to let them know you’re thinking about them and hold them close to your heart even when they’re not nearby. You can also collect ornaments or other trinkets that represent each assignment you’ve taken and use the items to decorate your home throughout the years to come.

Spend Time with Other Travel Nurses

One of the great things about travel nursing is you will always be surrounded by a supportive group of caring people that understand what you’re going through and have most likely felt the same before. Consider getting together and having a holiday celebration, where each person brings a signature family dish that reminds them of home. You can also rally everyone together for a white elephant gift exchange where the goal is to find the most outlandish and hilarious present.

Decorate Your Current Living Space

If you’re feeling homesick during the holidays, try decorating your current living space to make it feel more festive and as close to home as possible. Buy a few holiday decorations from the Target dollar spot or a local craft store that is having a sale, put up a holiday wreath on your door, or even decorate a mini tabletop tree. You can also get creative with your holiday decorating and look up easy DIYs on YouTube or TikTok – the options are limitless.

Check Out Local Events

The most exciting way to have fun and experience your new surroundings during the holidays is to attend local events. From tree lighting ceremonies to festive holiday markets, there is usually an abundance of activities happening in most communities during the season. If you’re in an area that is more rural, you could also drive around town looking at everyone’s Christmas decorations with another travel nurse and stop for some local hot cocoa.

From leaning into nostalgia to connecting and checking out local events, there are many ways to make this a holiday season to remember–regardless of where your temporary home may be. We hope these tips help you feel a little less like you are missing out while travel nursing this holiday season. Are there any other tips you would give travel nurses to help them from feeling like they are missing out during the holidays? Comment them below.

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

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 TheraEx

November 14, 2022

1544 Views

Simple Holiday Recipes for Travel Nurses

Posted on November 14, 2022February 7, 2023 by TheraEx

TheraEx Staffing Solutions provided this article.

Being a travel nurse during the holidays can be a challenge. With the holidays fast approaching, many travel nurses won’t be able to join their families and loved ones on Thanksgiving or Christmas this year. The loneliness that one normally feels on a regular day somehow gets magnified on holidays if you’re not surrounded by those that make you feel like home.

Wherever you may find yourself as a travel nurse during the holidays, you want to make it feel like home or as close to home as possible. This holiday season, you’re probably thinking that the last thing you want to do is to spend time after a long shift stressing over what to cook. The holidays get crazy, and you need quick and easy meals to prepare after your shifts, so we put together this list of some delicious and easy meal ideas to help you out.

Simple holiday recipes for travel nurses:

Healthy Fall Salad

Gone are the days of bland and boring salads! This easy-to-make Autumn Apple Salad is loaded with lots of fresh and healthy ingredients while not skimping on any of the flavors. It comes together in less than 15 minutes and is the perfect way to start any holiday celebration.

Autumn Apple Salad (With A Maple Vinaigrette) – House of Yumm

Turkey & Stuffing

Short on time? This recipe allows you to enjoy eating turkey without spending hours basting and supervising it. Not only are these roll-ups tasty, but they are also easy to prepare. Pair with the below stuffing recipe (if you prefer homemade), and you’ll be in for a treat!

Turkey and Stuffing Roll-Ups – Life In The Lofthouse

A holiday staple and favorite of many, this Easy Sausage Stuffing recipe comes together quickly and with minimal steps.

Easy Sausage Stuffing – Primavera Kitchen

Mashed Potatoes

There’s almost nothing that the ever-so-glorious slow cooker can’t accomplish, and once you master the power of dumping your ingredients into it and walking away, you’ll never look back. These slow cooker mashed potatoes are the perfect holiday side with minimal effort required. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7-8 hours the night before, and you’ll be off work with a warm holiday meal waiting for you.

Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes – Café Delites

Rolls

These easy, fluffy, and rich dinner rolls are perfect for serving with your holiday meals. Ready in around 30 minutes, they are the perfect everyday dinner roll that can be made in a cinch. Brush with melted butter for an extra special treat!

30-Minute Dinner Rolls – Kylee Cooks

Mac and Cheese

Another fabulous dish made in the slow cooker, this mac and cheese is sure to be reminiscent of one of your childhood favorite comfort foods. Not only is it easy to prep in 10 minutes due to not needing to boil the noodles before slow cooking it, but it is creamy, tender, and absolutely delicious.

Easy Crock Pot Macaroni and Cheese – Suburban Simplicity

Dessert

Everyone knows it’s a must to end every holiday celebration with a sweet and delicious treat. In less than 5 minutes, you can make a cake in a mug that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of having to wash what feels like a million dishes.

Snickerdoodle Mug Cake – Five Heart Home

Pumpkin Mug Cake – The Country Cook

As hard as it may seem, just remember that holidays are a time to celebrate, be thankful and cherish life’s little moments. Just because you’re on a travel assignment or working through the holiday doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun and eat delicious meals while making new cherished memories. We hope you found these simple holiday recipes helpful, do you have any simple holiday recipes as a travel nurse? Comment them below.

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

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 TheraEx

September 19, 2022

2126 Views

How to Achieve a Work-Life Balance as a Travel Nurse

Posted on September 19, 2022September 19, 2022 by TheraEx

TheraEx Staffing Solutions provided this article.

Working as a nurse can be exciting and rewarding. Nevertheless, every nurse who has ever been on staff at a hospital or medical facility knows how stressful and demanding their job can be at times and how easy it is to fall victim to burnout. Many nurses find that their unpredictable work schedules and rigorous job duties prevent them from maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Travel nursing offers nurses the chance to escape from their day-to-day routine and allows them to explore new opportunities in different locations across the country. In addition to engaging in new workplace experiences, travel nurses also have the opportunity to enjoy a new and exciting lifestyle while exploring new activities and adventures.

There are a handful of small changes you can implement to help improve your work-life balance as a travel nurse gradually. We have a few tips to help you get started.

How to Achieve a Work-Life Balance as a Travel Nurse

Choose Travel Nurse Assignments That Suit Your Needs

The best part about travel nurse assignments is that you get to decide what will be the best assignment for you. Whether it’s location, desirable working hours, or high pay, there will always be an assignment that fits your needs. Think about what matters the most to you. Why did you decide to become a travel nurse? Was it to make more money, explore new fun and exciting locations, or create meaningful memories with your friends or family? Choose assignments that will help you achieve these goals.

It’s also important to note that it is okay if your needs change over time. You might miss family (if you decide to travel on your own and they stay back at home) and want an assignment closer to home. Or you might have an adventurous streak and want an assignment in a region with plenty of activities and things to do.

Set Limits and Stick to Them

Most nurses go into healthcare because they have an innate yearning to help people, but it’s also important to place reasonable limits on yourself while doing so. Try to do your best each day to stick to a set schedule and leave when your shift is done. While there will always be patients to care for, your personal time is just as valuable. By actively maintaining a set daily routine, you can go a long way toward establishing a healthy work-life balance that will leave you feeling less stressed at the end of the day.

Leave Work at Work

In your profession, there will be many times you are exposed to situations that will stick with you and will weigh heavily on your emotions. On any given day, a nurse may play a part in a particularly tragic or emotional situation, and those situations can affect you long after your shift is over. In order to have a happy home life, you will need to do your best to block out work events after you leave for the day. If you spend all night dwelling on the what-ifs and could-have-beens, not only will your home life suffer, but you’ll also feel mentally drained.

Create a Bucket List and Take Time for You

One of the easiest ways to improve your work-life balance is to build time for yourself into your schedule. Create a bucket list of the things you would like to do and pick assignments that will help you complete them. Maybe you’ve wanted to go whale watching in Alaska, watch the sunset on a Florida beach, or explore a California amusement park. Maximize your off-hours by doing things you enjoy and bring you a sense of adventure or relaxation. Most nurses want to do what’s best for their patients, so it’s time to start thinking of yourself as a patient and focus on giving yourself what you need to live a fulfilled, happy, and healthy life.

Just remember that one of the greatest perks of being a travel nurse is being in charge of your career and the decisions you make. You can come and do your job and leave when your contract is over without having to worry about the stresses of a permanent job. This alone is a huge step in taking care of your mental health and allows you to enjoy a healthy work-life balance.

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

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 TheraEx

August 9, 2022

5180 Views

6 Ways to Spot Fake Travel Nurse Job Postings

Posted on August 9, 2022August 1, 2022 by TheraEx

TheraEx Staffing Solutions provided this article.

The rise of fake job postings for healthcare professionals has reached an all-time high. As a travel nurse in one of the most sought-after fields, you must be vigilant when it comes to being able to identify when someone is trying to scam you. Fake postings can fall through the cracks even on the most reputable job boards. Below are a few notable red flags to be on the lookout for:

1. All Emails and Job Postings Are Riddled with Spelling Errors and Poor Grammar

Consider it a major red flag if the job posting contains spelling and grammatical errors or has incorrect punctuation. A legitimate job posting will be professional and polished. Emails from scammers may also be overly formal or look like it was copied and pasted from somewhere else.

2. Is The Company or Recruiter Legitimate?

If you’ve never heard of the individual or company that is advertising the job opening, try performing a quick Google search. By viewing their website, recent news articles about the company, and their social media profiles, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, you’ll be able to have a better understanding of their online presence and if they have actual real employees working for them. Another way to decipher if a company is legitimate is by googling the term “company name scam” to see if there are any previous reports or complaints associated with the company in question.

If they’re a recruitment professional, use LinkedIn to research the person you’re communicating with to make sure they’re legitimate and have other connections from within the company they’re representing. Most scam artists have large amounts of information missing on their profiles and tend to spell “jobs” as “j0bs,” so they’re able to bypass LinkedIn filters.

If you are still uncertain, ask around. Thanks to the availability of social networks and online forums, you can ask for information about the company from your friends, colleagues, and other members in your network.

3. The Recruiter Has a Generic Email Address

Whether your correspondence is with a recruiter from a staffing agency or the head of HR, you should expect that they’ll have a company email address. If the recruiter is using a generic email service such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail, they’re possibly not legitimate. Another warning sign to be aware of is if the email that you receive doesn’t contain any contact information such as a physical mailing address, office, cell, and/or fax number.

4. You’re Asked to Do an Interview Via Chat or Text

If your first interview is scheduled through some type of text messaging services like Telegram, Signal, or WhatsApp, it is a huge red flag. Interviews are typically conducted by phone or through video conferencing software like Skype, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Webex. Any hiring manager worth their salt will not conduct a job interview via instant message.

5. You’re Offered the Job Without an Interview

Some scam artists will try to offer you a job without even doing an interview. A major part of a genuine recruiter’s job is to spend time ensuring that you’re the right fit for the company and position you’re applying for and that you have all the required training and licenses.

6. They Ask You for Money

Genuine recruiters will ask you for your contact details, an updated copy of your CV, and for references. At no point in the process should they ask you to provide any form of payment.

Steps to Take if You Fall Victim to an Online Job Scam:

If you believe you have fallen victim to a job scam, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage:

File a complaint with the FTC online at reportfraud.ftc.gov or by calling (877) 382-4357.
Report the scam to your state’s Attorney General at usa.gov/state-attorney-general.
Close any bank account(s) affected by the scam and open new accounts at a new bank.
If you provided your social security number at any point, order credit reports from all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, and monitor them for unusual activity. To be safe, you can also create an E-Verify account with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and freeze your social security number at e-verify.gov/mye-verify/self-lock.
Report the company name, contact email, and job posting to the site where the fraudulent job was posted so they can remove it and investigate further.
Contact your local police department and file a report.

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

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 TheraEx

June 13, 2022

2160 Views

Why Should You Consider Travel Nursing?

Posted on June 13, 2022June 13, 2022 by TheraEx

TheraEx provided this article.

If you’re a nurse, you already know that your profession isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. Nurses are an essential part of their patient’s support system, and nurses are often there to provide strength and comfort when needed most. Yet nurses also play a critical role in the healthcare industry as a whole. In fact, travel nurses are vital for many hospitals across America that are short-staffed or need certain specialized skill sets to be able to effectively treat their patients. Travel nursing allows you to share your strengths with others while sharpening your skills and exploring beautiful cities along the way! Below are just a few reasons you should consider travel nursing.

Travel nursing allows you to serve patients in new and exciting ways.

Travel nursing can be a great way to get a new perspective on healthcare. Traveling to different areas, meeting new people, and assisting them in their healthcare is an experience unlike any other. Being able to work in a different environment also allows you to see things from a unique angle. Travel nursing also gives you the opportunity to work with patients who need your help but may not have access to it otherwise. Many people travel far distances for medical care, so being able to provide that service can be very rewarding for both parties involved!

You’ll work where there is the greatest need.

Travel nursing allows you to work in areas where there is a shortage of healthcare professionals. This can mean that you can help people who may not have access to health care otherwise. For example, if there is a high need for nurses in rural areas or small towns, travel nursing could be an excellent option for you. In addition, travel nursing offers a way for nurses to help their community by volunteering at clinics and hospitals during their off time from work. Traveling Nurses often work with local organizations that provide medical services in underserved communities throughout different parts of the country.

You’ll serve in your specialty or hone new skills.

Travel nursing allows you to work in your specialty or try something new. You’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private facilities. You might also find yourself working on different cases than you would at home—perhaps you’ll even get to see patients who are completely new territory for you as a nurse. Travel nursing is about connecting with people from all over the world and becoming part of a larger team that is dedicated to improving health care for everyone. Traveling nurses gain more experience than many other nurses because they work in so many different locations across the country; some even travel internationally!

Travel nursing will allow you to explore new places while sharpening your skills.

Travel nursing provides the opportunity to explore new places and people. You’ll be surrounded by passionate professionals who are committed to providing quality care for their patients. Most importantly, you’ll learn new skills through travel nursing that will help you in your career as a nurse. Travel nursing gives you the chance to work with new teams and gain a different perspective on healthcare than what is available in your local area.

Your life outside of work can be invigorating too!

Travel nursing is a great opportunity for you to explore new places and learn about new cultures. Not only will you be able to travel around the world, but you’ll also have time off from work each week. You can use your free time to explore the local culture and learn about the history of the city you are currently working in. You can visit museums, go on tours, or even take in a musical performance or play! Traveling also offers opportunities for cultural exchange—you may meet people who are very different from yourself, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t common ground between us all. The world is full of variety, so don’t waste this chance to learn more about it!

We hope you found this article on why you should consider travel nursing helpful and informational. Are there any other reasons you think nurses should consider travel nursing? Comment 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.

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 TheraEx

May 11, 2022

1486 Views

What Can You Do To Celebrate National Nurses’ Week?

Posted on May 11, 2022May 4, 2022 by TheraEx

TheraEx Staffing Services provided this article.

From compassionately assisting with life-threatening medical crises to advocating for the health of their patients during their most vulnerable moments, nurses perform some of the most difficult tasks in the medical world. National Nurses Week honors the contributions and sacrifices nurses make day in and day out and reminds us to thank the medical professionals that work so tirelessly to keep us healthy. With so many healthcare workers risking their health to care for the many communities impacted by COVID-19, the celebration takes on added meaning. Whether you come from a family of nurses, have friends in the nursing field, or you simply want to thank local nurses for their efforts, your support means more now than ever. Here are five ways you can thank the healthcare heroes in your local community for serving their patients with devotion, the utmost care, and exceptional professionalism as they continue to protect our health and safety during a global pandemic.

Be Understanding

Many healthcare workers have risen to the occasion of providing quality care to their communities throughout the pandemic. Nurses and other healthcare workers have taken on extra shifts or put in extra hours to ensure they are able to take care of their patients. If a friend or loved one is in this situation, be mindful of what they are going through and make sure you are not asking or expecting too much of them.

Send Flowers

Sometimes simply saying “Thanks” doesn’t feel like enough. Show some love to a nurse in your life with fresh flowers to show your appreciation for going above and beyond to help you or support you. Flowers like hydrangeas and roses are just the flowers for National Nurses Week because they symbolize gratitude, grace, beauty, and courage.

Donate a Meal

Nurses work long hours with few breaks. What better way to show appreciation and say thank you than with food? Due to COVID-19 protocols, if you’d like to donate a meal to healthcare workers, make sure it’s from a restaurant. Understandably, most hospitals are not accepting homemade goods currently, but many local restaurants are offering free deliveries. A hot meal from a restaurant can provide a sense of normalcy and some much-needed nourishment during a busy shift.

Handwrite a Note or a Card

Cards are a personal way to show someone that you appreciate them. In today’s world, instant communication through emails, social media posts, and text message is commonplace, while receiving a handwritten card or letter is rare. Handwriting a letter to express your gratitude could provide extra motivation for a nurse to continue moving forward during these trying times in the era of COVID-19.

Leave Positive Feedback

Nurses might not realize that the work they do each day is appreciated unless you tell them. Many nursing units provide incentives to nurses who receive positive patient feedback. Call the unit, ask for the charge nurse, ask for the patient feedback email or phone number, and put your experience in writing. Your positive feedback can brighten their day and remind them that their profession to care for others has made a positive impact.

Nominate a Nurse for a DAISY Award

Nurses go above and beyond the call of duty to provide exceptional care. The international DAISY award program celebrates nurses’ extraordinary clinical skills and the compassionate care they provide to their patients. If your life has been touched by an extraordinary nurse, nominate them for a DAISY Award to recognize the admirable attributes they possess.

Being a nurse is often physically demanding and almost always emotionally taxing. Nurses are caregivers, mentors, and leaders, steering the profession towards excellence in patient care and compassion. Today and every day, we thank each and every nurse for their tireless commitment in delivering outstanding patient care. You are our heroes.

We hope you enjoyed this article from TheraEX Staffing Services. What are some ways you like to celebrate Nurses Week? Comment them 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.

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 TheraEx

March 29, 2022

3218 Views

6 Tips for Soothing Pre and Post-Shift Anxiety

Posted on March 29, 2022March 21, 2022 by TheraEx

TheraEx Staffing Services provided this article.

It doesn’t matter if you are just beginning your profession as a travel nurse or are a seasoned veteran in the field. Anxiety doesn’t discriminate and can strike at any time without warning. The sheer responsibility of overseeing another person’s health, safety, and wellbeing can get rather nerve-racking! Sometimes you just need a quick fix for when you’re feeling particularly stressed and overwhelmed. Enter these 6 ways to calm anxiety, from creating a calming morning routine to taking a relaxing bath.

Create a Calming Morning Routine

Mornings – you either love them, or you loathe them. Chances are, you most likely loathe them. And we get it; you’re not alone! Mornings can be hectic and rushed, and they can set the stage for a bad day that feels like it will never end. Try creating a specific routine that you’re comfortable with, and it’ll give you a game plan that you can rely on when your brain feels like it’s running in a million circles and you cannot seem to focus on anything but the sound of your own racing heart. Try creating your own calming morning routine that includes an early morning walk, journaling, yoga, meditation, listening to a podcast, reading gossip blogs, or simply drinking a hot cup of herbal tea or coffee.

Listen to Your Favorite Music

Music is powerful. It can pump you up, boost your confidence, make you feel like you’re on top of the world, and nearly everything in between. Feel like you can run the world every time you hear Beyoncé? Or you’re a champion every time you hear Queen? Either way, putting on your favorite feel-good tune can put you in the mood you need to conquer the task at hand. Choose something that reflects how you want to feel throughout the day, blast it as loud as you can, and sing along to your heart’s content.

Incorporate Regular Exercise Into Your Routine

One of the best-known coping strategies for anxiety is exercise. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, getting your body moving is a great distraction. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, “physically active people have lower rates of anxiety and depression than sedentary people,” and exercise can help the brain cope with stress better.

Create a Calming Commute Home

Once your shift has ended, you may face nursing shift anxiety and stress from the 8-12 hours you spent providing care to your patients, in addition to acting as a liaison to their worried families. On your commute home, try stopping for a treat to reward yourself with or listen to an audiobook or a podcast. As soon as you walk in the door, immediately change from your work clothes to a comfortable home outfit. Sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference.

Take a Relaxing Bath

Taking a bath can seem like a rare luxury for busy medical professionals. However, it is extremely beneficial to set aside time just for yourself to decompress from your stressful workday. In today’s hectic world, it’s easy to fall into the routine of showering after a stressful day of work, throwing on clothes, and heading to bed. But slowing down and taking a bath every once in a while can benefit both your physical and mental health. It can also help soothe muscle aches and pains from a long day at work.

Learn How to Separate Home and Work

You have a work-life. You have a home life. And you have, likely, forgotten how to keep them separate. As hard as it can be, try to forget that you’re a medical professional when you’re at home. Focus on relaxing, eating, and sleeping well. Go out and spend time with friends and family and try to forget all your work problems. Do all the things you love and leave your work problems at work.

We hope you found this article on pre and post-shift anxiety tips helpful. Do you have any remedies for pre and post-shift anxiety? Comment them 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.

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 TheraEx

November 4, 2021

5028 Views

Why We Need Travel Nurses Now More Than Ever

Posted on November 4, 2021September 27, 2021 by TheraEx

This article was provided by TheraEx Staffing.

Looking back, what happened these past two years is almost unbelievable. Who would have ever thought our lives could be flipped upside down so dramatically and so quickly. One day dropping the kids off at school, lunch with friends, or visiting grandma and grandpa was completely fine to do; the next, we were advised to stay safely at home. For some of us, we hoped it would just be a couple of weeks break, then a couple of months, and now we know not much different from our new lives of working from home or wearing masks when we leave the house. It’s been a social distancing and social media kind of world for some and working to keep our own and others head above the water for others.

All of our work changes and experiences were different.

While for some of us, we were forced to work from home, others were braising themselves to work in order for society to continue moving forward. However, for nurses, it was the beginning of the longest stretch of intensity, commitment, and exhaustion to save as many lives as possible.

Nurses and doctors were called to the frontlines immediately. They were the ones who experienced the continuous influx of sick patients, worked around the clock, and did everything within their power to save as many lives as they could. They were and continue to be our superheroes.

However, it may not be very well known, but these influxes created nursing shortages around the country. Along with bed shortages for patients, the shocking number of people needing help became tiresome and difficult to manage; therefore, hospitals were searching for extra employees to lend an extra hand. This is where travel nurses come in.

If you are unfamiliar with the position, a travel nurse seeks out jobs around the country via a travel nursing agency. These nursing positions in hospitals became available due to staff shortages for reasons like flu season, surges in seasonal periods, or unforeseen situations that may occur in hospitals (for example, coronavirus). Nurses often take on 13-week contracts (which can be renewed or passed on to find a new area to work in), work in their specialty field, enjoy bonuses, build up their resume and learn to help those of different cultures and needs.

Travel nursing is not a new job since the pandemic started, but has definitely grown since it began.

They have been a part of health care for decades and had represented an appealing side of nursing for those who wanted to mix work with a little adventure. Since the pandemic, the adventure side hasn’t 100% been able to be utilized, yet nurses have been taking this opportunity to pay off student loans or any debt that they have been currently struggling with.

As of February 2021, 50,000 travel nurses have been working around the country, and despite vaccine distributions today, the trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. It may be a curious question as to why, but what we have to remember is the virus was the front runner in hospitals. Those who had previous conditions or conditions that occurred throughout this time were put on the back burner. Whether this was justified to patients not wanting to be in hospitals while the virus was rampant or patients being sent away because there wasn’t any other option, a catch-up time frame is inevitable. This will leave hospitals in dire need of more help in order to assist those that weren’t able to be helped before. That’s a lot of help needed.

With the need for extra hands come pay surges.

While travel nurses initially received competitive salaries, now hospitals are handing over hefty paychecks to meet the need of patients. Originally, pre-pandemic, travel nurses had the potential to receive $50 an hour along with their company-paid housing and other benefits. However, now with the urgent need, salaries have jumped incredibly high. At the beginning of September 2021, Newsweek states, “The average pay for traveling nurses is now at about $3,000 to $5,000 per week, a dramatic increase from the $1,000 to $2,000 per week salary before the pandemic.” A whopping increase for those who need to jump into the deep end of hospitals in need. Yet, these numbers are the average of what you could potentially earn. While some may be prepared to pay you $3,000 – $5,000, some hospitals are ready to fork out $8,000 to aid in the high demand. It absolutely depends where you go and what hospitals require you the most.

If you are a specialty nurse, your specialties don’t go unnoticed. You, too, can jump onto the travel nurse train and utilize your skills in hospitals around the country. Whether you are a medical assistant, respiratory therapist, surgical technologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or even an emergency room nurse, you too can benefit from the perks of travel nursing while fighting the coronavirus.

Are travel nurses needed now more than ever?

Absolutely! Just because the end of the pandemic seems to be getting a little bit closer does not mean that every other illness and disease simply disappears. Nurses will be left to deal with the side effects of the coronavirus, the repercussions of patients who have had to put their health on pause, and anything new that steps into a hospital. Not to mention the pandemic was and still is, coming in full force.

We’ve all had an unimaginable couple of years throughout this pandemic. For nurses, it has been a rollercoaster that has had an infinite number of loops. With the help that is needed in hospitals and around the country, there is no better time than now to take the leap and get into the travel nursing industry. Along with great pay and the experience you can gain by working in different hospital settings, you are helping hospitals handle the constant arrival of new and sick patients. We hope the pandemic is over soon, but for now, travel nurses can come to the rescue.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Need housing for your assignment? Click here to view 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 TheraEx

September 2, 2021

4089 Views

How Nurses Can Stay Optimistic During the Pandemic

Posted on September 2, 2021August 18, 2021 by TheraEx

This article was provided by TheraEx Staffing Service.

Nursing can be stressful, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. As a nurse in 2021, it’s even more important than usual to make every effort to stay optimistic. Optimism is connected to motivation, and patients deserve motivated nurses. While it may seem hopeless sometimes, there are plenty of things you can try to maintain a positive mental attitude necessary for proper and reliable care. The following tips not only apply to nurses but to just about any healthcare professional, from occupational therapists to medical technologists.

Have Gratitude

We understand that gratitude during these times may be hard to come by. However, no matter the circumstance, it is always possible and beneficial to see the good amongst the bad. Rather than focusing on the negatives, remind yourself of the things that make you happy and hopeful. Think about how thankful you are for your fellow nurses working hard alongside you. Recognize that you are saving countless lives every day just by doing your job. Pay attention to the good things that happen during your shift – like making a patient smile or receiving a compliment from a hospital staff member. It’s always helpful to keep a journal of all these positive thoughts. If you write down three things you are grateful for every day, this way of thinking will become more natural, and you will start to dwell less on the negatives.

Surround Yourself with Optimism

It’s no surprise that if you surround yourself with optimistic people, you’re more likely to be optimistic yourself. While complaining with other disgruntled coworkers can feel cathartic in the moment, it doesn’t boost your mood like genuine positivity does. If you are talking to an unhappy coworker, try not to let negativity dominate the conversation. Make an effort to engage in positive topics. However, we understand that this is certainly easier said than done, especially during the pandemic. So, if you find yourself surrounded by negative coworkers, the next time you’re on break, choose to take a walk. Limit your time with negative people and maximize it with those who exhibit a positive outlook.

The same thing goes for when you’re on social media at work and at home. Follow uplifting accounts in order to not to get bogged down by the drama that exists on social media. At TheraEx Staffing, we try to spread positivity through our social media – by posting inspiring nursing stories or funny nursing jokes.

Focus on Yourself

We know that Covid-19 has put a huge strain on our healthcare and rehabilitation facilities. With these facilities overwhelmed by the massive influx of patients, nurses and other healthcare staff have had to endure stress on another level. And when your job involves taking care of others, it’s easy to prioritize others’ needs above your own. As a nurse, you need to fulfill your own basic needs in order to effectively care for others and avoid compromising your immunity. If you are running on little food and sleep, you can’t expect to perform your best. Taking the time and effort to care for yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary for functioning properly and reliably. Don’t feel guilty if you need to take a quick break or eat a snack. Don’t be afraid to reach out to support initiatives for mental health help too. One positive outcome of the current chaos is that it is motivating healthcare leaders to start prioritizing self-care, which is certainly a step in the right direction.

Travel Nursing with TheraEx Staffing Services

While optimism can be hard for nurses to find these days, understand that you have options. Consider joining the world of travel nursing with the help of TheraEx Staffing. Our staffing agency works to match nursing and allied health professionals with facilities where they can shine. You’ll be able to work 13-week assignments in locations all around the country, forwarding your career and giving hope to communities that need your services. Contact TheraEx today to find the perfect facility that can keep you optimistic and successful.

We hope you found this article helpful. Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have the assignment secured but need housing? Click here to view our housing page.

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

START HERE

How to combat feeling like you are missing out during the holidays while travel nursing:

Lean Into Nostalgia

Embrace Your New City

Spend Time with Other Travel Nurses

Decorate Your Current Living Space

Check Out Local Events

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

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

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Simple holiday recipes for travel nurses:

Healthy Fall Salad

Turkey & Stuffing

Mashed Potatoes

Rolls

Mac and Cheese

Dessert

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

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

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Choose Travel Nurse Assignments That Suit Your Needs

Set Limits and Stick to Them

Leave Work at Work

Create a Bucket List and Take Time for You

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

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

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1. All Emails and Job Postings Are Riddled with Spelling Errors and Poor Grammar

2. Is The Company or Recruiter Legitimate?

3. The Recruiter Has a Generic Email Address

4. You’re Asked to Do an Interview Via Chat or Text

5. You’re Offered the Job Without an Interview

6. They Ask You for Money

Steps to Take if You Fall Victim to an Online Job Scam:

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

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

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Travel nursing allows you to serve patients in new and exciting ways.

You’ll work where there is the greatest need.

You’ll serve in your specialty or hone new skills.

Travel nursing will allow you to explore new places while sharpening your skills.

Your life outside of work can be invigorating too!

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

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

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Be Understanding

Send Flowers

Donate a Meal

Handwrite a Note or a Card

Leave Positive Feedback

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