June 1, 2023

3192 Views

Exploring the Exciting Realm of Travel Nursing

Posted on June 1, 2023June 1, 2023 by Kevin Devoto

Travel nursing is a unique career path in the healthcare industry that combines the adrenaline-fueled excitement of travel with the rewarding fulfillment of nursing. If you’re a registered nurse seeking a new twist in your career or simply fascinated by the prospect of merging a love for travel and nursing, this article will guide you through the rewarding journey of travel nursing.

Understanding Travel Nursing

Travel nursing is a specialized nursing assignment designed for those who crave diversity and change. Healthcare facilities across the globe often find themselves in need of skilled nurses for short-term assignments, often ranging from 8 to 26 weeks. This demand is particularly significant in areas experiencing nursing shortages, dealing with seasonal population influxes, or addressing specific healthcare initiatives.

Travel nurses fill these temporary roles, using their skills and expertise to bring vital services to different communities. This not only broadens their clinical knowledge but also allows them to experience new cultures, locations, and healthcare systems.

The Perks of Being a Travel Nurse

Travel nursing offers a host of benefits that distinguish it from conventional nursing roles. Some of these perks include:

Flexible Work Arrangements: As a travel nurse, you can choose assignments that fit your schedule and lifestyle. You can enjoy breaks between assignments or string together back-to-back contracts.

Competitive Compensation: Travel nurses often earn attractive salaries, often higher than those of permanent staff. Additionally, agencies usually cover travel and housing expenses.

Expansive Career Growth: Travel nursing offers vast opportunities for professional development. You gain exposure to a variety of clinical settings, sharpening your skills and increasing your marketability.

Adventure and Exploration: The essence of travel nursing lies in the opportunity for exploration. Whether you’re exploring bustling urban environments or serene rural communities, travel nursing can be a passport to unforgettable experiences.

The Role of Certifications in Travel Nursing

While the fundamental requirements for becoming a travel nurse are a nursing degree and a valid RN license, certain certifications can give you a competitive edge. Possessing certifications such as ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) or BLS (Basic Life Support) demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and underscores your competence.

In this vein, a trend that is increasingly gaining momentum in the nursing industry is the acquisition of cd certificates. A cd certificate or competency development certificate is a specialized qualification that attests to a nurse’s proficiency in a particular area of nursing. Obtaining a cd certificate can significantly enhance your prospects as a travel nurse. It’s a solid investment in your career that will pay off in better job opportunities and potentially higher compensation.

Preparing for a Career in Travel Nursing

Switching to travel nursing may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. The first step is to research thoroughly. Look into different travel nursing agencies, understand the requirements and benefits, and connect with experienced travel nurses for first-hand insights.

Financial readiness is crucial as well. Although travel nursing can be lucrative, there may be periods of downtime between assignments. It’s important to have a financial buffer in place to navigate these times comfortably.

Finally, stay open to new experiences. One of the most rewarding aspects of travel nursing is the opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures and healthcare settings. Embrace these experiences, and you’ll find travel nursing to be a fulfilling career.

Final Thoughts

Travel nursing offers a compelling blend of adventure, professional development, and the satisfaction of making a meaningful impact. Whether you’re attracted by the prospect of travel, the chance to expand your skills, or the desire to experience new healthcare settings, the journey of travel nursing could be the perfect fit for you.

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.

By ONESTAFF MEDICAL

May 29, 2023

2497 Views

How to Use Travel Nursing to Advance Your Career

Posted on May 29, 2023May 29, 2023 by ONESTAFF MEDICAL

Onestaff Medical provided this article.

Are you a nurse who may be getting burnt out dealing with the same-old, same-old at your current job? Do you have the desire to go out into the world to make a real difference and truly help those in need but are worried you may fall behind in your career? Fortunately, there are many ways to advance your career as a travel nurse. Below, we’ll discuss a few benefits of why travel nursing may be the right decision for you in the long run.

9 Ways Travel Nursing Can Advance Your Career

As a travel nurse, you have the chance to learn various different skills, work with a diverse group of people, and unlock the door to future opportunities. Not only do you need to be knowledgeable about the medical professional, but you should be willing to learn about yourself, be curious about the people you are treating, and be comfortable in stressful situations. Developing all of these skills can give you the tools that you need to advance your career as a nurse.

Boosts Your Resume

Employers love candidates who have diverse backgrounds in their fields of focus. You have the potential to cultivate several different specialties all over the country, making you a more holistic medical professional. Whether you are a CNA, X-Ray tech, or ER nurse, there is a chance for you to help others while also helping yourself. Showing that you are uprooting your life and moving to a different city to help other people is the level of empathy and passion that employers hope to see in their candidates.

Along with broadening your resume, having an impressive background and unique skills will give you the chance to negotiate a higher salary at your next position, especially since pay rate predictions remain strong in the coming year.

Gives You New Skills and Experience

While it is possible to explore an abundance of career opportunities as a travel nurse, you also have the possibility of working with advanced technology, practices, and procedures that may not be accessible anywhere else! Technology is becoming relied on more and more every day, and hospitals need people who can easily use these devices. By having the knowledge and experience that other nurses may not have, you stand out from the crowd.

Proving you care and have an eagerness to learn is a great way to advance your nursing career. With a great background and limitless passion, your experience can make you vulnerable to jobs at Magnet hospitals, which are known for their high retention ratings and satisfaction from nurse employees.

Allows You to Learn from the Experts

When you work all over the county, you will learn from medical professionals who have also trained and practiced in different locations. You will want to be a sponge and absorb as much information and practice as possible so that you can move forward with confidence and a unique set of skills.

By learning from a multitude of people that approach problems in different ways, you give yourself the ability to provide your patients with personalized care.

The Possibility of Reimbursement for Professional Licenses

When on a new job, you have an excuse to focus on different areas in the medical field. Employers often encourage their nurses to explore education opportunities and strive for new licenses. In many cases, you can receive reimbursement for the cost of class tuition up to thousands of dollars! By broadening your horizons and being open to developing new skills, you are creating different ways for you to advance your career as a nurse.

Exposes You to Different People and Cultures

You get out what you put in. Not only will you learn from the doctors or nurses that you work side-by-side with, but you will also gain knowledge from the people that you are treating.

When you speak to your patients and study their medical history, you can discover new and important things that you may not have known about your profession or field of focus. This level of understanding, curiosity, and empathy gives you a quality that other rival candidates down the line may not possess.

Not only will you be able to meet with and treat all kinds of people with different backgrounds, but you will also be able to treat patients with unique ailments, illnesses, or injuries. By having a diverse work background, you are showing future employers that you have the willingness to learn and adapt, which is how you will be able to advance your nursing career.

Teaches You Flexibility, Adaptability, and Teamwork

Working as a travel nurse can help you advance your career by not only giving you the chance to hone your medical skills but also your interpersonal ones. Employers and patients alike desire nurses who are ready to go with no hesitation. That means you need to be ready for whatever comes your way. By working all over the country, you will be forced to get to know many different people–people that you need to trust and be able to work as a team with. Along with being book-smart, you need to be willing to grow as a person.

In addition to being adaptable and flexible, you are also given the privilege of being able to create your own working schedule. After a travel nursing contract has ended and you want to take a vacation or much-needed break, you have no one telling you you can’t. Having this freedom can give you the time that you need to recharge and prepare for your next assignment.

Improves Your Communication Skills

Another interpersonal skill that can help you advance your career as a travel nurse is communication. When high-stress situations occur, you need to be able to express your needs and wants perfectly for the betterment of the patient and your co-workers.

Being able to compassionately and transparently describe diagnoses, procedures, or anything else that may be difficult to understand is very important, especially in a setting where the stakes are high. Gaining that experience in both stress management and authoritarianism shows that you are growing as a nurse and human.

Expands Your Professional Network

Many people may think that the only way to advance your nursing career is by being loyal to one hospital or place of employment and then being promoted. However, working all over the United States means that you meet and work with dozens of people. Down the line, those relationships can turn into job opportunities that you may be attracted to. It is important to nurture these relationships and to be open about what you are looking for over the course of your career.

Challenges You and Gives You the Confidence You Need to Move Forward

Lastly and most importantly, working as a travel nurse can give you the confidence you need when moving forward in your career. Some people do not like change, and that is okay; however, as a travel nurse, you may be forced to adapt to new situations quickly. When advancing your career, being able to show that you are quick on your feet and willing to make changes means that you are easy to work with, which is something that most employers look for.

Are you looking for ways to advance your career as a travel nurse? OneStaff Medical is one of the fastest-growing travel nursing placement agencies in the United States and has helped hundreds of nurses advance their careers. We are here to help you make your dreams come true and help you grow in your career. Contact us today, and let’s put your skills to good use and find your next destination.

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.

By Staffmax Healthcare Staffing & Recruiting

May 28, 2023

2336 Views

Bucket List Traveler

Posted on May 28, 2023May 28, 2023 by Staffmax Healthcare Staffing & Recruiting

Staffmax Healthcare Staffing and Recruiting provided this article.

Article was written by: Julie Hesseltine, RN, CNO, and Sr. Recruiter for Staffmax.

Most of us have a Bucket List of some kind. Maybe it is filled with certain places you’d like to see, foods you want to try, people you want to meet, or things you want to do. Traveling Healthcare assignments can fulfill many of these if you are up to the challenge. For Traveling Healthcare Professionals, it is important to set a few goals, but one must be ready for the challenges that lie ahead. In some respects, Travelers can be put into three generalized categories.

Bucket List Travelers: The three categories-

Travelers who want to see the world through their own eyes

First, we have the Travelers who want to see the world, not through the rose-colored glasses of someone else, but through their own eyes. Their bucket list may have a few states or 50 states that they want to see and explore. Perhaps there are specific places of interest they want to be near in to learn the history of the area they are now living in for the next thirteen weeks. Maybe it is the ability to simply have a picture taken in front of historical markers to send that photograph back home. Art museums, restaurants, cafes, bar scenes, music gatherings, cultural centers, and churches are all different as one travels across the nation. Imagine coming from an area like New York where the dialect is completely different than most and working in the deep South surrounded entirely by others who pronounce everyday words completely differently.

Local colloquialisms and idioms may make one feel as if they are in a different country. Then, of course, there is the wonderment of the local cuisines and learning about and maybe even how to cook new foods and dishes. Flowers and trees, grasses and gardens, architecture and design, the more traveling and exploring we allow ourselves, the more we will learn about this great country of ours.

Travelers who have set many goals

Next up are the professionals who have set many goals. These are the individuals who tell the recruiters that they are chasing money, and, in all reality, that is the most important thing to them. They have college loans to pay for, a mortgage to pay, children in college that they are helping, or are saving for a new home or car. Perhaps, in all honesty, they are hoping to retire early to enjoy life a little earlier instead of when their body tells them they need a knee replacement! These individuals can achieve what they have set out to do, all the while they are still able to enjoy the local traditions and explore the area in which they have landed, although they may be a bit more limited as to where they are going.

Travelers who are a combination of both

Finally, there are those who are a combination of both. These individuals will follow the better-paying contracts if possible but are willing to choose a lower-paying contract because there is a place they want to see or perhaps a family they would like to be around for a while. These professionals may choose to work a higher paying contract and then choose to go to a place they have always wanted to see even though they are not able to bank as much.

Travel contracts are everywhere, in every state in the nation. If there is one thing that every traveler learns, it is that every facility has a different protocol, and things will be different. We are there to adapt. Yet, the biggest thing that we can do for ourselves is to learn from others. Traveling Health Professionals gain hands-on education during every assignment. We learn what works better and what doesn’t work. As you fulfill your Bucket List, keep a diary of what you have learned, and always take lots of photographs. Years from now, you will have stories to tell about the places you have been and the things you have learned.

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 Leslie Catalano

May 27, 2023

2500 Views

The Perils of Being a Hero

Posted on May 27, 2023May 27, 2023 by Leslie Catalano

Over the past few years, nurses have been described as heroes for the care they provided during the COVID-19 pandemic and the care they continue to provide under difficult working conditions. While it is the highest honor to be referred to as a hero, it can be a dangerous sentiment.

My nine-year-old is enthralled with comic books and the Marvel Universe, and as a result, I have also become quite familiar with heroes and superheroes.

Surprisingly, the life of a superhero is not all glitz and glamor. Many superheroes are flawed and have deep emotional wounds they are trying to fix or avoid. Many heroes have a dark and traumatic past, the same as supervillains. So what makes a person a hero versus a villain?

Well, according to my son, and I am paraphrasing, heroes are selfless, while villains fight for selfish reasons.

This made me think about what is the difference between selfless and selfish.

What is the difference between selfless and selfish?

According to the Webster dictionary, selfish means acting in one’s own interest at the cost of others, while selfless means putting the needs of others before your own, even if it means causing yourself harm.

If we are using this definition of selfless, and it is the selfless actions that make a person a hero, then yes, nurses have rightfully earned that title. Everytime they skip lunch, work a double shift, or care for a contagious patient or a combative patient, they are putting their patients before themselves.

Back in October 2022, there was a shooting in a Texas hospital. The shooter killed two nurses, yet the medical staff, including nurses, still worked to save the gunman’s life. I am sure they did it without even thinking twice because nurses are built to save.

Helping and saving people is ingrained in us, but at what cost? Burnout and mental health struggles among nurses has skyrocketed since the start of COVID-19.

Being referred to as a hero is an honor, but should we even be asked to fill those shoes? Do we need to be selfless in our work? Is there a sweet spot between helping our patients while at the same time putting our needs front and center?

We should not be made to feel selfish for putting ourselves first. We should not have to choose between ourselves and our patients. We are not placing patients in harm’s way when we decide that our mental health is important.

It is not a selfish act. In retrospect, we are actually advocating for our patients when we are asking for better working conditions or taking the steps needed to care for ourselves. Better working conditions for nurses results in better care for patients.

So how do we fix this hero expectation?

The healthcare environment is in a perilous place, and it will take nursing leaders and probably government involvement to truly fix the healthcare crisis and the nursing shortage, but for yourself, there are things you can do.

Here are some individual self-care suggestions the American Nurses Association gives us in the American Nurse journal.

Acknowledge your hurt and how severe it is.
Avoid negative social media and news coverage.
Practice gratitude taking 2 minutes every morning thinking about five people you are grateful for.
Stay connected to colleagues and check in with each other after each day.
Find ways to destress on your days off.
Talk with a mental health professional or join a support group.
If you have an idea of how to improve your work environment, share it. Don’t be afraid to use your voice.
Get outdoors and relax in the fresh air.
Make yourself a priority and take care of yourself through exercise, a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest.

We may not have complete control over the healthcare environment, but we do have control over how we react and respond.

While it is an honor to be called a hero, we must ensure we are not sacrificing our own health.

Make your mental health a priority. Visit The Healthy Nurse Connection to learn about how to incorporate health and wellness into your life, or listen to The Healthy Nurse Connection podcast.

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 Advantage Medical Professionals

May 26, 2023

3950 Views

Navigating Chaos: The Travel Nurse’s Guide to Disaster Preparedness

Posted on May 26, 2023 by Advantage Medical Professionals

Advantage Medical Professionals provided this article.

Nurses know firsthand that disaster can strike at any moment, and often without warning. Being prepared in advance is crucial for medical professionals. Nurses play a critical role in natural disasters, as patients will still require critical care despite the loss of electricity, flooding, or compromised infrastructure. Nurses in the emergency unit face the seemingly impossible challenge of triaging every disaster patient. In addition to the normal challenges nurses face, nurses rise to the seemingly impossible task of safely and efficiently caring for patients without their identification or loved ones around to flag possible allergies or medical issues or provide support. In these cases, nurses are quite literally a patient’s lifeline.

National Disaster Risk Zones and Seasonality

Some areas are arguably more disaster-prone than others, but most natural disaster spikes depend on regional climate or weather patterns. Like the medical field, advancements in science and technology have helped field experts detect and communicate the threat of severe weather and natural disasters to the public faster and more accurately than ever.

If you’re considering a travel assignment far away from home, FEMA’s National Risk Index is an interactive US map that will help you easily visualize and understand whether you can expect severe weather or natural disaster patterns in the area.

Severe Weather Disaster Seasonality:

Crises often occur unexpectedly, but most weather-related disasters that we face have some established patterns around certain times and/or locations:

Hurricane Season

Where: Gulf Coast, east coast

When: June 1^st – November 30^th

Tornado season

Where: Midwest, parts of southern US

When: Peak season March – July*

Wildfire Season

Where: West, Midwest US

When: Peak season from May – September*

General Disaster Preparedness & Best Practices

Learn the Healthcare Facility’s Preparedness Plan

Hospitals and other healthcare facilities typically have a disaster response protocol, especially in geographic areas prone to specific types of disasters. If you’re considering an assignment in one of these high-risk areas, check with your recruiter or the facility to learn more about the facility’s procedures and expectations during a disaster or crisis event. When in doubt, ask about the emergency protocol during orientation.

If you are not needed to stay, confirm with your manager whether you will be needed as a response or recovery person. This person usually comes in to relieve another who has stayed during the storm once the danger is over and they are able to take a clear and safe path to the facility.

Gather Supplies for Personal Use

During uncertain times, you’ll want to stay prepared with anything you may need. Keeping an “emergency bag” easily accessible and packed with personal items, including clothing, toiletries, and essential medicines, for at least 3-4 days will help ensure you’re always one step ahead.

Plan Your Stay and/or Evacuation Routes

It is common for facilities to allow (or even require) nurses and other healthcare professionals to stay overnight during natural disasters and crisis events. Having your emergency bag handy ensures you have all the items you need to stay healthy, hydrated, and alert through what might be the longest and most taxing nursing shifts you will ever endure. Even if you are not needed to stay, it is still best to familiarize yourself with all evacuation routes, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Share your plan with your family beforehand.

Don’t wait to share your emergency or evacuation plans (including potential backup plans) with your loved ones. Whether you plan to evacuate the area, stay at the facility, or return to the facility to help relieve the initial response team, they will (understandably) worry about your safety and well-being. Share your plan with them and communicate any changes that arise while also helping them understand that communication systems may experience delays or outages during and after a natural disaster or extenuating event.

We hope you found this article on national disaster preparedness helpful. Do you have any disaster preparedness tips to share with your fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

>> Treat yourself to a change of pace (and PLACE) by exploring all the travel nursing assignments Advantage Medical Professionals has available nationwide.

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.

[Sources]:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/fs-tags/fire-season

https://www.ready.gov/kit

https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/tornadoes/

https://www.fs.usda.gov/fs-tags/fire-season

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/before.html

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 Nurse 2 Nurse Staffing

May 25, 2023

4369 Views

How an RV Could Transform Your Travel Nursing Experience

Posted on May 25, 2023May 25, 2023 by Nurse 2 Nurse Staffing

Nurse 2 Nurse Staffing provided this article.

Did you know that the minds behind Nurse 2 Nurse Staffing were once avid traveling professionals themselves? Indeed, we’ve navigated the thrilling and challenging journey of being a traveling nurse! The countless adventures, the captivating allure of the unknown, and the ever-present question of “where next?” are experiences we’ve lived firsthand. Together as a family, with our two kids and our furry friend, we traversed several states. The best decision we made during our travels? Investing in a mobile home—or RV became our constant companion, a home away from home, accompanying us on every new journey!

Preparing a meal after touching down in a new city—our next travel assignment awaits!

So, why an RV?

Imagine this: a home that travels with you, holding all your belongings, always ready for the next adventure. When I was a travel nurse, and during the initial days of setting up our agency, we had our RV ready to roll out within a span of 10 minutes! Stow away your items in the RV’s cabinets and drawers, empty your tanks, and you’re all set for the road ahead. We always managed to find picturesque RV parks equipped with swimming pools, laundry facilities, and other amenities. It was akin to being on a perpetual vacation! And the freedom to explore your current state or even venture into the neighboring one on your days off—all for the cost of renting an RV spot elsewhere for a day or two—is a wonderful way to truly immerse yourself in your travel nursing experience.

Reveling in the winter wonderland at our new campground—complete with laundry, a playground, a general store, and weekly BBQs!

But wait, aren’t RVs challenging to set up?

Absolutely not! The sales rep took us through every feature and function when we bought our RV. Connecting a few tubes, aligning colors, and lowering the jacks is all it takes. And remember, there’s a world of helpful YouTube videos out there to guide you through any situation.

Budgeting for Your Home on Wheels

Assisting Dad with the stability jacks—a breeze!

Investing in an RV is not just about purchasing a vehicle—it’s about acquiring a mobile home. Just like any home purchase, it involves various costs that you should consider as part of your budgeting process. Let’s break down the main expenses associated with owning an RV:

Initial Purchase: The cost of an RV can vary widely based on factors like size, age, brand, and features. A new RV can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $300,000 or more, with travel trailers typically being the least expensive and large luxury motorhomes being the most expensive. Used RVs can be a more affordable option, but it’s essential to have a thorough inspection done to avoid unexpected repair costs down the line.
Financing: Like with a house or a car, many people choose to finance their RV purchase. Keep in mind that interest rates and terms can vary, so it’s important to shop around for the best deal. Also, note that longer terms will lower your monthly payment but increase the total amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.
Insurance: RV insurance is a must-have, and the cost will depend on factors like the value of the RV, how much you use it, and whether it’s your full-time residence. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per year for RV insurance.
Maintenance and Repairs: Just like any vehicle, an RV will need regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Budget for routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and engine checks, as well as less frequent expenses like replacing tires or batteries. Also, keep some money set aside for unexpected repairs.
Operational Costs: These include fuel for driving, propane for cooking and heating, and expenses for campgrounds or RV parks. These costs can vary based on how much you travel, where you stay, and the size and fuel efficiency of your RV.
Depreciation: Just like cars, RVs depreciate over time. While this won’t affect your monthly budget, it’s an important consideration if you plan to sell your RV in the future.

Remember, owning an RV can be a cost-effective housing solution for traveling healthcare professionals, especially when you consider the savings on hotel stays and dining out. However, it’s vital to understand and plan for all the associated costs to make an informed decision and ensure that your new mobile home fits comfortably within your budget.

Resources for RV Owners

As a traveling healthcare professional living in an RV, there are numerous resources available to you that can make your life on the road a little easier. Here are some of our top picks:

Good Sam Club (goodsam.com): Good Sam Club is one of the largest organizations dedicated to RV owners, and it offers a plethora of resources. By becoming a member, you can get access to discounted RV parks, fuel, and camping supplies. They also offer roadside assistance, travel assistance, and insurance services tailored specifically for RV owners. The Good Sam Club also has a community forum where you can connect with other RV owners, ask questions, and share your experiences.
RV Parky: This is an easy-to-use tool that helps you locate RV parks, campgrounds, rest areas, and other places to stop while on your journey. It includes user reviews, which can be invaluable when choosing your next stop.
Allstays: Allstays is another excellent resource for finding campgrounds, RV parks, and rest areas. The site also provides information on low-clearance spots, which can be essential when navigating an RV.
RVillage: Consider this as a social network for RV owners. You can connect with others, join groups, participate in forums, and even arrange meet-ups. It’s an excellent way for traveling healthcare professionals to meet other people on the road.
YouTube: While not specifically an RV resource, YouTube is filled with helpful how-to videos on everything from RV maintenance to cooking in your RV kitchen. Just search for your question or problem, and you’re likely to find a video that can help.

Remember, part of the fun of being on the road is the community you build along the way. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or share your own experiences with these resources. The RV community is known for its camaraderie and helpfulness, so take advantage of it!

The Joys of RV Living: Benefits for Traveling Healthcare Professionals

Living in an RV as a traveling healthcare professional comes with a host of benefits that can significantly enhance your overall travel experience. Here are some of the key advantages:

Flexibility: The flexibility that RV life offers is unparalleled. Being able to move from one location to another at your convenience, without the hassle of packing and unpacking, is a game-changer. On your days off, you can easily switch locations, explore a new city or state, or even take a mini-vacation.
Cost-Effective: Investing in an RV can be more economical in the long run than constantly renting apartments or staying in hotels. With an RV, you have the added benefit of avoiding expensive short-term leases or hotel rates. Furthermore, cooking your meals can lead to significant savings over dining out.
Comforts of Home: One of the challenges of travel nursing is continually adjusting to new living spaces. With an RV, you have a consistent living space that you can personalize to your liking. Your own bed, your own kitchen—these familiar comforts can provide a sense of stability amidst the constant change.
Healthier Living: Having your kitchen lets you have more control over your diet, enabling you to eat healthier and cater to any specific dietary requirements you may have. Additionally, many RV parks are in beautiful outdoor settings, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exercise.
Community: RV parks often have a strong sense of community. You’ll get to meet and interact with a diverse group of people, many of whom are also on the road, leading to new friendships and a strong support network.
Pets-Friendly: If you have pets, an RV can make traveling with them easier and more enjoyable. Many RV parks are pet-friendly and offer amenities like dog parks. Plus, your pets get to enjoy new environments along with you.
Enriching Experiences: Living in an RV provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in each new location. You can wake up to a new, beautiful view every day, get to know different areas of the country, and make the most of your travel assignments by experiencing local culture and attractions.

Ultimately, the benefits of RV life go beyond practicalities. The sense of freedom, adventure, and connection to the outdoors that it can provide makes it an exciting and rewarding option for many traveling healthcare professionals.

Isn’t it a bit cramped?

Waking up to this view outside our RV—simply breathtaking!

Well, it requires some adaptation, especially for a family. We had to learn to travel light to keep our mobile home as spacious as possible. Most of our stuff stayed at our home base in Texas, and we refreshed our supplies during breaks between assignments. If you ever feel a bit tight on space, step outside—that’s the beauty of RV living. With a gorgeous view right outside your door, the RV never feels too small.

Our RV has been the backdrop for some of our most cherished family memories. It has taken us to North Texas, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico, providing a unique perspective on our beautiful country. The initial cost of the RV quickly proved to be a worthwhile investment, offering a more economical option than renting apartments or staying in hotels. Plus, the convenience of having our belongings with us and cooking our meals was not only cost-effective but healthier too! The ability to uproot and explore a new city or state on a whim was an added bonus. With the soaring costs of rental housing, an RV could be the perfect answer to your housing concerns. As the founders of Nurse 2 Nurse Staffing, we’re committed to finding the best opportunities for traveling professionals. Let’s talk about your next exciting adventure—get out there and explore!

Visit us at www.nurse2nursestaffing.com

By: Megan Jones, Division Manager, Nurse 2 Nurse Staffing

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 Furnished Finder

May 24, 2023

40614 Views

Furnished Finder: Your Ultimate Solution for Hassle-Free Living Spaces

Posted on May 24, 2023December 18, 2023 by Furnished Finder

Furnished Finder, the recommended housing platform of The Gypsy Nurse, is an excellent resource for travel nurses because 1) you go direct to the property owner and 2) you don’t have to pay expensive booking fees, and 3) every landlord is verified for traveler safety.

One important thing to note is that the housing market is changing, so you may have to do things a little bit differently. Monthly furnished rentals are in such demand right now that they are not staying on the market for very long, making it harder for the travel nurse who needs to secure housing on short notice. In a post-covid environment, many companies have made moves towards a remote workforce which makes it easier for remote workers of all types to pick up and move to different cities. Knowing that traveling nurses are competing for monthly furnished housing more than ever before, here are 3 things travelers should do to shift the odds in their favor:

Start Early

The one thing that is guaranteed to add more stress to your housing search is time, specifically the lack of it. Of course, you may not always know where you are going a couple of months out, but as soon as you’ve settled on an assignment, start aggressively searching for housing immediately. Nobody likes that ‘I’m running out of time feeling, so when at all possible, start searching for travel nurse housing as early as possible. In fact, Furnished Finder has a Stipend Calculator that allows travelers to better understand housing costs in different cities before they go, which may ultimately help you decide which job you want to take. The worst-case scenario is for you to take an assignment and feel blindsided by the housing cost in that city. Know before you go! Take the time to do the research now so there aren’t any surprises later.

There are two ways to start your Furnished Finder housing search. You can Search The Map, where you can see all the listings and reach out to them directly, and/or you can submit a Housing Request. Housing requests are great because you fill out a short form, and landlords will reach out if their property may fit your criteria – perfect for the traveler who is short on time but still wants to get the ball rolling on their travel nurse housing search.

Text or Call

While you can send any property owner a message and chat with them directly, many Furnished Finder listings also provide their phone number, where you can text and/or call them directly as well. With the high email burden that we all carry these days, sometimes landlords respond better via text message! If landlords aren’t getting back to you as fast as you would like, go ahead and shoot them a text or call as well.

Dig Deeper

Here are some more recommendations to make Furnished Finder work for you. The first one is to keep scrolling past your availability date. (I don’t mean to say ignore the listings that match your timing, but in this scenario, the expectation is that you’ve already contacted all “those listings). The reason you shouldn’t stop once you reach your move-in date is because if you keep scrolling, you’ll find another section of housing options labeled “Contact for Availability.” With all the demand, sometimes landlords forget to update their availability, so they wind up in the “Contact for Availability” section (where travelers have been known to find some great properties!). Knowing that travel nurses typically stay about 3 months at a time, you can connect with landlords midterm. Although they may have a tenant right now, they may have an opening coming up soon where you can secure it even before it becomes available on the map!!

Fill out your Traveler Profile! Landlords want to see who they’d be renting to, and a blank profile can be a big turn-off. On the flip side of that, we also encourage landlords to fill theirs out as well!

Get the E-Book! This e-book is essential for any new travel nurse and is extremely useful to the most experienced vet! It covers topics like these and more: Interview Strategies, Negotiation Tactics, Credentialing, Housing Tips, How to Avoid Scams, Hospital Orientation, and Planning Your Next Assignment.

FAQs about Furnished Finder

How does Furnished Finder work?

Furnished Finder is an online rental platform that helps people find furnished accommodation in their desired city. To get started, simply search for your destination, and the website will provide you with a list of furnished properties, all complete with amenities such as furniture, linens, kitchenware, and more. Once you’ve selected a place, you can easily inquire with the landlord and book your stay.

How much does Furnished Finder cost?

Unlike other rental platforms, Furnished Finder never charges booking fees, so you can save more money to use on your rental. That typically can save you 10-15% on your rental amount!

Is Furnished Finder safe?

Furnished Finder is a platform that helps people find furnished accommodations. It is a safe and secure platform with an easy-to-use interface. All of the properties listed on the platform are verified to ensure they meet safety standards, and the site offers various tools to help make sure you find exactly what you’re looking for in your search for furnished accommodation. It also provides the option to contact landlords for more details about their listings so you can feel comfortable with your decision before signing a lease.

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 TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

May 23, 2023

1178 Views

Everything Your QA Department Can Help You Do

Posted on May 23, 2023May 23, 2023 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

TNAA-Travel Nurse Across America provided this article.

Licenses, screening, and immunizations – oh, my! With each travel nurse assignment comes a mountain of compliance requirements. If you don’t have help through your travel nurse agency, staying compliant for each assignment feels like a chore. However, if your travel nursing agency has a QA department, you have a valuable resource at your service. Your quality assurance team should have the know-how to help you navigate the many compliance aspects of this career seamlessly.

Assignment Compliance

First, let’s give a quick breakdown of what compliance requirements you can expect for each travel nurse assignment.

Drug screening & background check
- Licensing (if you’re up for renewal or taking an assignment in a non-compact state)
- Up-to-date certifications
- Up-to-date immunizations

Now that you know what to expect, you can see it’s a lot, especially when each agency and healthcare facility requires a little something different. Imagine all the research it will take to find a place that offers what you need for each compliance piece, scheduling the appointments, and filling out, collecting, and keeping up with all the paperwork. It’s easy to see how helpful a quality assurance (QA) department can be.

But, while lots of agencies have a QA component, it’s important to do some digging into it. Some agencies might give you a list of what you need to have but then say you’re on your own. Others might have recruiters pull double duty to handle assignment compliance or outsource to third parties. And some agencies might have a dedicated, in-house department, so you know you have someone you can call at a moment’s notice when you need help with a compliance requirement (especially when hospitals have last-minute requests just days before an assignment begins).

The Role of Quality Assurance

Compliance is an ongoing process, and all travelers have to meet the necessary compliance requirements mandated by healthcare facilities and regulatory bodies in order to take and stay on assignment.

QA specialists can play a crucial role in verifying credentials, licenses, immunizations, certifications, and any other prerequisites necessary for a successful assignment, as well as helping you schedule appointments, keeping track of paperwork, sending timely reminders for renewals, and assisting you with any necessary updates. Some agencies will even help you obtain the licenses and certifications needed and will pay the fees or reimburse you for them. Check with your agency’s QA team to see what they offer.

Beyond the initial compliance requirements, the quality assurance department serves as a consistent support system throughout your travel nurse assignment that can address any concerns or challenges that may arise regarding compliance and help you navigate through them effectively.

How Can You Make Compliance An Easier Process For Yourself?

By leveraging the expertise and support of your travel nursing agency’s quality assurance department, you can simplify the process of a travel nurse career. When embarking on a new travel nurse assignment, if your travel nurse agency has a QA department, establish open lines of communication with them. Promptly providing them with all the necessary documentation will allow them to verify your compliance status efficiently and get you on assignment more easily. This department should allow you to focus on providing exceptional patient care while your compliance needs are expertly managed.

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 Galaxy Healthcare

May 22, 2023

2682 Views

How to Land Travel Nurse and Allied Health Assignments in 2023

Posted on May 22, 2023May 22, 2023 by Galaxy Healthcare

Galaxy Healthcare provided this article.

While the demand for travel nurses and allied health professionals positions has decreased since the pandemic, there is still a healthy demand with more job openings and higher rates than there were pre-pandemic.

There are plenty of benefits to working local and travel assignments with agencies, including flexibility, traveling to new places, higher pay, and shorter contract commitments. Do you want to land the perfect local or travel assignments in 2023? Here are some tips to help you have the most success.

Look for the Right Recruiter Relationship

Good recruiters should be your biggest advocate and a guide for landing you great travel assignments. From the submittal process to the potential contract extension process, your recruiter will be the person who is there for you throughout your travel career. They will work with you to ensure you are getting the assignments you are looking for, along with any other topics you may need guidance on during your assignment. That is why finding a recruiter or a handful of recruiters that prioritize you is so important.

Not all agencies have the same opportunities or consistency, so it can be beneficial to find a couple of recruiters you trust at different agencies to increase your odds of finding the best assignments for you. Once you have found a recruiter or handful of recruiters, make sure you are building a strong relationship with them, as it can lead to great benefits. If you have a strong relationship with your recruiters, then it will be easy for you to be honest with them for the best outcomes.

Choose the recruiter that is willing to have the hard conversations with you and is extremely transparent. The recruiters that keep you at the front of their minds are the ones who are continuously communicating with you, guiding you through the process, and looking out for potential assignments for you at all times.

Communication & Preparation are Key!

After choosing the right recruiter, be as communicative with them as possible. Provide them with everything they need to match you with the right assignments and have you ready to go so you can be one of the first candidates submitted. Ensure all your credentials are up-to-date and shared with them. Come up with a game plan for what they should do when the role you are looking for opens. Do they have your permission to submit it when it opens? Do they need to text or call you to confirm? Make sure you can respond timely so they can give you the best shot.

If you are working with multiple recruiters and agencies, make sure you keep them up to speed on anywhere you are submitted or change in your status. This ensures you are not double-submitted to the same facility, which is frowned upon in our industry and can hinder your ability to land the assignment you want. It also prevents anyone from wasting time and maintains a good relationship for the future if you want to work with them.

We all know that healthcare professionals have very busy schedules, but if you are searching for a new assignment, then communicating with your travel agency and being available for them is a key part in landing great assignments. If you stand out as an uncommunicative candidate, then you might miss out on additional opportunities. Recruiters are willing to work with your schedule. Just let them know if something has changed!

Flexibility.

We know that flexibility is not always possible due to various life circumstances. But if you can be flexible in certain areas and are able to keep an open mind, it opens the door to more opportunities for you. Especially during the summer months when there are fewer orders, you may want to consider what items to be flexible on to maintain consistent work. This can ensure you are qualified and ready to go when the industry picks up again seasonally in the fall and winter months. Even if that means doing PRN work or working shorter contracts, just communicate with your recruiter and see what options they have.

When you are able to be flexible, you can learn about locations that you may not have known or thought about or specific positions that you are qualified for but have not considered. Ask about what locations have the best cost of living or what local contracts may be available in your area. You may be surprised at what opportunities exist that you haven’t heard about because of your stricter preferences.

Still, Looking for Competitive Pay Packages?

While some rates are continuing to decrease as the market shifts, ask your agencies if there are any additional programs going on that can incentivize you to work with them. Some of these could be hire-on bonuses, completion bonuses, scrub reimbursements, etc. Consider the full offering, and don’t assume there isn’t more to offer than the pay package itself.

If you are looking for a higher pay rate than what you are seeing reflected on a job listing, you could potentially be making more than what you see upfront, depending on what incentives the company offers. Make sure you are looking out for these opportunities and asking questions!

In Summary

The healthcare staffing industry is one of the largest and fastest-growing industries across the country. It can be hard to see with some of the extremes the pandemic brought to the industry that there is still a strong opportunity today in comparison. As with everything in life, evolving and recognizing how to have success in the current market is very important. If you know you want to continue your travel healthcare career, consider the above advice. There are plenty of options as a healthcare professional, and you have to decide what is best for you and your career. It’s okay if you decide you are hanging up your traveling hat. Just be sure to do the research, be open-minded, and find the experts who can guide you along the way.

3…2…1….blast off!

The Gypsy Nurse 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

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The Role of Certifications in Travel Nursing

Preparing for a Career in Travel Nursing

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