By The Gypsy Nurse

November 3, 2024

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A Midwesterner’s Guide to Travel Nursing in Cold Assignment Locations

The weather in the Midwest is very unpredictable. In the past winters, Indiana has experienced polar vortexes, and temperatures have been as low as -20 degrees, and that doesn’t even take into consideration the wind chill. We have put together some tips for travel nurses while on assignment in cold locations. Here is A Midwesterner’s Guide to Travel Nursing in Cold Locations.

cold locations

Staying Warm- Tips on Dressing for the Weather in Cold Locations

  1. Double up, maybe even triple up the socks.
  2. Get insulated, waterproof boots. No rubber boots because they will lock in the cold!
  3. Get a Longer coat, slightly bigger so you can add layers upon layers under it. If you’re worried about lugging it around all year, try finding a “packable” one that you can roll up in the spring. I highly suggest longer coats because it covers most of your body. Need some coat suggestions? Here are what some of are travel nurse network users wear.
  4. Invest in warm insulated gloves, not the $ 1-section cotton gloves.
  5. Scarves are necessary for keeping snow drifts out of your face
  6. Stock up on hand warmers and feet warmers.
  7. Hot coffee, Hot coffee, Hot Coffee.

Driving- Preparing your car for travel in cold locations

  1. First, heat up your car 10 minutes before you leave. This will give it enough time to defrost a bit. Otherwise, invest in a window scraper. Basically, every gas station in the Midwest sells them all year long. If you don’t have a scraper, beware of what you use to brush off a car. We do not recommend a shovel…
  2. Also, if you’re not parking in a garage and don’t fully wipe all the snow off your car, all that snow will land in your front seat. Not fun to sit on!
  3. NOAA recommends having the following in your Car Survival Kit;
cold locations
  • Jumper Cables- flares and reflective triangles are great as well
  • Flashlight- put new batteries in before winter and also have extras in the car as well
  • First Aid Kit- also, have essential medications in your purse as well
  • Food- make sure to stock non-perishable food items such as canned food and a can opener.  Dry cereal and protein bars are great options as well.
  • Water- NOAA suggests having a supply of 1 gallon per person for up to 3 days
  • Basic tool kit- Pliers, wrench, and a screwdriver
  • Radio- battery operated or hand crank
  • Cat litter or sand- for better tire traction
  • Snow shovel- to dig your car out if needed
  • Ice Scraper- even if you park in a garage, have one in your car
  • Clothes- make sure you are dressed for the weather.  Furthermore, keep a change of clothes in your car as well.
  • Warmers- pack extra for body, hands and feet
  • Blankets and/or sleeping blankets- if you get stranded due to traffic or on a lonely road, you will be glad to have them
  • Charged Cell Phone- be sure to have a spare charger in your car as well
  • Pet Supplies- if you have your pet with you, make sure you have food and water for them as well
  • Baby or Special Needs Gear- If you have a baby or family member with special needs, be sure you have diapers and formula or special foods.

Pets- how to keep your pets safe during the cold

  1. BRING OUTDOOR ANIMALS INDOORS-  they are not made for these extreme temperatures.
  2. Limit their time outdoors.
  3. Keep them dry and hydrated. Their coats will only protect them from this cold if they are dry, so make sure they stay dry.
  4. Layer them- Yes, even pets need clothes layered in this weather.  Add a coat or two to help keep them warmer.

As travel nurses from warmer climates, you may have never experienced winter like this.   There will be days that it is 50 degrees and the next 5 degrees.  Keeping up to date on the forecast will help you prepare.  Being prepared is the biggest key to winter in the Midwest.

We hope you found these tips for the cold helpful. Are there any other tips you think should be included? Please comment them below.

Safe travels!!

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By Fusion Medical Staffing

October 20, 2024

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Winter Road Travel Safety Tips for Travel Nurses

Fusion Medical Staffing provided this article.

Icy roads, unpredictable weather, varying driving conditions ­— winter is on its way, and, with it, its challenges. The last thing you want is to face unexpected mishaps on your journey. To help you stay safe and confident on the winter roads, here are some essential safety tips for travel nurses.

Winter Road Travel Safety Tips for Travel Nurses

winter road

Plan your route

Whether you’re driving home during a break from nursing assignments or you’re road-tripping to your next travel job, one of the best things you can do is plan your route before you hit the road.

Mapping out your journey in advance allows you to identify potential hazards, like areas prone to snow or ice, and find the safest roads to take. Plus, knowing your route helps you pinpoint rest stops, gas stations, and places to grab a warm meal along the way.

When you take time to plan your path, you give yourself an extra layer of security so you can focus on what really matters: safely arriving at your destination.

Check weather conditions in advance.

Winter weather can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. Before you leave, make it a habit to check the weather forecast for your route. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for potential snowstorms or freezing rain, allowing you to adjust your travel plans accordingly. Of course, if the forecast looks especially bad, consider delaying your trip until conditions improve.

Prepare your vehicle

winter road

Your vehicle is your trusty sidekick, and giving it some extra attention and TLC can make all the difference, especially before a big winter road trip.

To winterize your vehicle, start by checking your tires to ensure they have enough tread for traction on slick roads; you may consider switching to winter tires if you’ll be driving in snowy areas. Next, top off your fluids, such as antifreeze and windshield washer fluid.

It may seem simple and mundane, but these quick steps can not only help you feel more secure on the road but also ensure you’re ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way!

Keep an emergency kit handy.

No matter where you’re going or how far you’re driving this winter, it never hurts to keep an emergency kit in your car stocked and ready, just in case you may need it.

Wondering what should go inside this kit? Think about the essentials — blankets, non-perishable snacks, water bottles, a flashlight, jumper cables, basic mechanical tools, a first-aid kit, and maybe even a small shovel.

Having these supplies on hand will give you one less thing to worry about in the event of an emergency. Be proactive with your emergency kit and tune your focus on the journey.

Drive slowly and smoothly.

It can be tempting to maintain your speed, but winter roads demand a little more caution. That’s why it’s important to drive slowly and smoothly, especially on snowy, icy, or otherwise wet roads.

Think of it like giving yourself the gift of time; by slowing down, you not only reduce the risk of slipping and sliding but also give yourself more time to react to any unexpected conditions. Smooth, gentle movements on the steering wheel and brakes can help you maintain control.

Plus, taking your time on the road allows you to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery as you make your way to your destination.

Winter road travel can pose unique challenges for travel nurses, but by following these simple safety tips, you can navigate the roads with confidence. Planning your route, checking weather conditions, preparing your vehicle, keeping an emergency kit, and driving slowly and smoothly will ensure you arrive safely at your destinations, ready for your next adventure!

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.