By Amber Pickler

June 11, 2022

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Hottest Legislative Topic in 2022: Travel Nursing – Live Event

Recently American Staffing Association’s Vice President of Government Relations, Toby Malara Esq., went live to discuss the growing attention nurse staffing and travel nurses attracted in mid to late 2021. The results of legislative efforts that ensued to limit the cost of temporary nurses and what happened as COVID-19 started to subside in the Spring. This is one session you do not want to miss! Watch it now!

Below is Toby’s Presentation

About Toby Malara Esq.

Toby Malara is Vice President of Government Affairs for the American Staffing Association. In his role, Malara directs ASA’s government relations, lobbying, and political activities, including the operations of the association’s political action committee, Staffing PAC. He also advises members on immigration/I-9, paid sick leave, sales tax, and per diem issues. Malara graduated from Georgetown University and earned a J.D. from the Columbus School of Law at Catholic University.

Follow Toby Malara Esq. on Twitter: @lawhoya.

About ASA

The American Staffing Association is the voice of the U.S. staffing, recruiting, and workforce solutions industry. ASA and its state affiliates advance the interests of the industry across all sectors through advocacy, research, education, and the promotion of high standards of legal, ethical, and professional practices.

We hope you enjoyed this live event with Toby Malara on legislative efforts that ensued to limit the cost of temporary nurses. Keep checking back for other live events. If you have a topic you would like to see covered; please 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.

Want to watch more video content? Click here to view our on-demand content (membership required)

By Nurse First Travel Agency

June 10, 2022

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5 Tips on Traveling Solo From a Travel Nurse

Nurse First Travel Agency provided this article.

Traveling solo can feel incredibly empowering because everything is in your hands. It can also feel terrifying because, well, everything is in your hands. Traveling alone has huge benefits, as you will gain confidence, learn problem-solving, and ultimately learn more about yourself. But for those with trepidations, don’t worry. These tips will cover everything you need, from logistics to mindset, to make the most of your solo trip and travel nurse assignments.

Get Into the Mindset

The more you know, the less afraid you will be. Every fear can be reframed as an opportunity to grow. 

Push yourself outside of your comfort zone gently. Pick up a conversation with a stranger on a bus or in a cafe, practice appreciation for dining alone, and spend a few days wandering by yourself instead of with a tour. 

It’s less about the worst-case scenario happening and more about how you will handle it. We can’t control external factors, but we can choose how prepared we are. 

Preparation is Key to Safety

One of the main ways you can make yourself feel safe in a new city is by knowing the transportation system well. Research what options are available, if Uber or Lyft is prevalent, if you should adopt a curfew hour, and reserve extra money for taxis in the evening if necessary. 

There are many Internet hacks for keeping your valuables safe, including getting RFID wallets so thieves cannot scan your bank card information, money belts that store cash inconspicuously and using zip ties to make your baggage less accessible. Travel blogs are full of these little-known tips, so dive in! 

Travel insurance is a must for those who want peace of mind. It covers medical emergencies, trip interruption/delay/cancellation, lost baggage, adventure sports, and more. Give your family a copy of your itinerary and an emergency plan for if they can’t contact you. Download maps offline and always carry extra data and a battery pack in the situation that you get stranded. 

How to Make New Friends

If you’re feeling lonely, try to see traveling solo as an advantage—you’re way more likely to make new friends than if traveling with a friend or partner. There are so many ways to meet new people, experiment, and see what works for you. 

  • Couchsurfing isn’t just for couch surfers. The app also features meetups with fellow travelers in your vicinity. 
  • Groupon events, Airbnb Experiences, and food tours are a great way to connect with like-minded people over an activity.  
  • Instead of working from a cafe, go to a coworking space to increase the likelihood of social interactions. 
  • Look into homestay arrangements, inns, and B&Bs. Although hostels can be less than ideal for professionals, you can always book a private room. Some hostels have their own bars and cafes, so even if you aren’t living there, take advantage of this opportunity to meet other travelers. People who stay at hostels tend to be especially open and sociable. 

Know-How to Balance Your Needs

We often forget to schedule rest days, but they will help you enjoy your trip so much more. 

Every now and then, it’s a good idea to give your routine a reset. Cook yourself a warm and nourishing homemade meal; keep your space tidy just as you would if you were at home. Journal and jot down some of your favorite moments in the city so far. It’s okay to keep that Netflix subscription while traveling! 

Most importantly, have some valuable facetime with loved ones. It’s not always about making new friends; nourishing our current relationships is just as important, and expressing our affection while apart can greatly deepen a bond. Remember, you can also reach out to your traveler advocate if you need help with anything.  

The beauty of being a travel nurse is that you’re not just a tourist during your travel nursing contract. You get to stay long enough in a city to actually do things twice and develop a routine. 

Embrace the Unknown

Planning for spontaneity is an oxymoron but accurate for travel. Nothing develops resilience and hones your intuition like traveling solo. When your support network is in a different timezone, you will often have to make decisions by yourself. Embrace this, for it will strengthen your trust in yourself. 

When something unexpected happens, take a deep breath, laugh at the awkward moments, and tell yourself that even the bad stuff makes for a memorable story later. Remember that this is what traveling is about. Not checking things off a list, but all the things that happen outside a checklist. 

Do you have any tips or advice for fellow travel nurses when traveling solo? Comment any tips you have for new travel nurses or those just starting out traveling solo below.

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

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

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

Author Bio

Mary Zhou is an Outreach Coordinator for Nurse First, a travel nurse agency. Nurse First was founded by and is made up of a team of former travel nurses who saw a gap in the industry and decided to fill it. Since 2017, Nurse First has helped thousands of nurses find the right fit and dream destination for their next job. We prioritize transparency so that nurses know exactly what to expect. We currently have over 100 active travelers and are trusted by over 3,700 healthcare providers nationwide.   

Links for social channels:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/nursefirsttravelagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nurse1st_Travel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nursefirsttravelagency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nurse-first-travel-agency/

Web: https://nurse1sttravel.com/

By Favorite Healthcare Staffing

June 9, 2022

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Breaking the Stigma: Men in Nursing

Favorite Healthcare provided this article.

Did you know that men only make up 12% of the nursing field, while women make up the remaining 88%? There is a popular misconception that men are not suited to be nurses because women are naturally better caretakers, but this isn’t necessarily true. In fact, there is a higher demand for male healthcare workers now more than ever. In this article, we’re going to debunk some old myths about men working in the nursing field and tell you all about why it can be a great career!

Myths about Men in Nursing

In the healthcare industry, men fill the majority of physician and doctoral roles. Because of this, there is the stereotype that men “settle” when they become a nurse because they didn’t have what it takes to become a doctor. This isn’t true! Men pursue a career in nursing for the same reasons anyone else has when choosing a career – to follow their passions and interests. We asked one of our nurses, Salvador, why he went into nursing. “I wanted a career in health care because I developed a passion for science and the many wonders it ventures into. Nursing was the field that really checked all the boxes for me.”

Oftentimes, patients mistake male nurses for their doctor when they enter the room. This is especially common when a male nurse is accompanied by a female doctor. We asked another one of our nurses, Aaron, how he handles these situations, and he says, “I just tell them, ‘No, my name is Aaron. I am your nurse. She is your doctor. We are both going to take wonderful care of you.'”

Throughout history, there has been the stigma that men aren’t allowed to show their feelings, creating the misconception that men lack empathy and compassion. As a result, people have the belief that women make better nurses than men because of their natural instinct to care for others. When we asked Salvador how this stigma has affected him, he said, “I have, more than anything, shocked people in my nursing career that men can also be great caregivers. Like anything in life, learning some of those traits has been a journey, and I continue to adapt and learn.”

Similarly, Aaron assures his patients that stigmas revolving around masculinity are not a part of his practice. “I like to tell my male patients, especially the ones seeking help for behavioral health, that being a man does not make them void of emotions. I try and offer praise for seeking help and let them know that seeking help does not make them less of a man.”

Why Nursing is a Great Career for Men

Nursing can be a great career for anyone, but one of the many benefits to becoming a male nurse is to balance representation in the field. People tend to gravitate toward those they have similarities to, so a lot of times, you will hear women requesting a female nurse. They want someone who is familiar with their body, and having a female there allows them to be as comfortable as possible.

Well, men want the same thing. When asked how he feels men add value to the healthcare industry, Salvador expressed, “I believe that men in healthcare provide a different perspective overall.” With added perspective, patients might feel more at ease with someone who can relate to them. Oftentimes, if men can request a male nurse, they will, but it’s not promised due to the shortage of male nurses.

As the years progress, more men are entering the nursing field. During the 1960s, only 2% of all nurses were men. That percentage has jumped up to 12% in the last two years, which is a step towards equal representation in nursing.

Healthcare is always a growing industry with a high demand for nurses, allowing you to have a stable career anywhere you go. Nursing provides a lot of flexibility and choice. With a wide variety of specialties, shifts, and pay, you’re bound to find the perfect fit for you!

Breaking the Stigma

With the idea that nursing is a woman’s job, some men may be hesitant to enter the field. RNs Aaron and Salvador both had their hesitations about going into nursing due to it being a female-dominated industry. Aaron says that it took him years to take the first step and apply to nursing school because of this. On the other hand, Salvador says that this belief motivated him even more to become a nurse. “While attending college, it was evident that women ruled the nursing profession, but at the same time, I felt that I thrive on that environment. It ultimately worked out, and I stayed motivated to become a Registered Nurse.”

The best way to overcome the stigma of men in nursing is to respect men in the healthcare industry, encourage each other to focus on being a great nurse, and remember why you chose to pursue nursing. If you’re thinking about becoming a nurse, Aaron encourages others to just do it. “Be a part of the progression of the healthcare field.”

Looking to find the perfect nursing job for you? You can view all of Favorite Healthcare Staffing’s job openings here.

We hope you found this article on breaking the stigma of men in nursing. Are you a male nurse and want to share some advice with others thinking of becoming a nurse? 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:

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

By Lirika Hart

June 8, 2022

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Handling the Road Stress and Fatigue as a Travel Nurse

Working as a traveling nurse can be exciting and rewarding. However, while it might seem like a working vacation, it comes with its own share of stress and can be quite tiring. New destinations present a task of adjusting to a number of changes: from the environment, culture, bosses, colleagues, and more, which can be challenging. In addition, working irregular schedules and long hours can leave you fatigued. If you are to be your best and perform your job well, it is important to give your well-being the attention it deserves amidst the demands of the job. Here are some tips that you can try to help you handle the stress and fatigue that comes with the job.

Get enough rest

With irregular and long schedules, it can be hard to find adequate time to rest. However, ensure that you use every opportunity that you get to rest and recharge. Being in a new place comes with the pressure of wanting to go out, meet new friends, and socialize. However, you need to be careful not to do this at the expense of your rest. Learn to say no to such commitments outside work, and use the time to rest and restore. In addition, ensure that you get enough sleep every day. If it proves impossible, 20 minutes of power naps during your breaks can go a long way in relieving excess sleep. 

Use technology to your advantage.

Technology has become instrumental in our day-to-day lives, making life and work easier. You can leverage technology to alleviate some of the challenges that being a traveling nurse presents. For instance, medical apps can put important clinical information at your fingertips, saving you the stress of carrying books around. In addition, mapping sites can make it easy to find your way around new places. You can use them to find restaurants, libraries, and tourist sites, among other places, so you don’t have to stress asking other people for directions. Another great way technology can be of rescue is when you encounter the challenge of the language barrier. You can use video remote interpretation to interpret conversations with friends, colleagues, and other people who speak a different language.

Lead a healthy life

Taking care of your health plays a key role in getting rid of stress. It becomes easy to respond to stressful situations in life when you are whole. Besides, some healthy habits lead to happiness, helping your mind to relax and unwind. Here are some healthy habits that you can adopt in your life in addition to resting and getting enough sleep:

  • Regular exercise –Jogging, walking, practicing yoga, hiking, and swimming are ways that you can incorporate physical exercise into your busy schedule
  • Eating healthy meals – Minimize take-outs and prep your meals at home whenever you can
  • Stay hydrated – Keep a bottle of water handy to ensure that you are taking enough water throughout the day
  • Stay away from alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeinated drinks

Stay connected

Having people that you can turn to when things get tough is very important in curbing symptoms of stress. Just offloading your mental burdens to a listening ear can be rejuvenating. That is why it is important to have people who can provide emotional support whenever you need it. Make an effort to stay connected to your family even when working away from home. Thankfully, technology has made it so easy to communicate with loved ones regardless of where they are. In addition, foster meaningful connections with the people that you work with. People who share the same challenges as you can be instrumental in giving hope and motivating you when you feel like giving up.

Use the time to explore the world

One of the major perks of working as a traveling nurse is the opportunity to travel the world. Make sure that you are using this rare chance to explore the world and learn about different people and cultures. Instead of hanging around at home when you are not working, find interesting places that you can visit. Use the opportunity to interact with the local people and try new foods. Learning how different people live fosters a sense of gratitude and improves your outlook in life, which is important in enhancing your mental health.

Conclusion

Stress and fatigue are a part of every job, traveling nurses included. However, finding ways to handle it ensures that it doesn’t take a toll on your health. In addition, it helps ensure that you stay in the best condition to perform optimally in your job. For these reasons, ensure that you are living healthily and getting enough rest. In addition, find ways that technology can help stay connected and use the opportunity to explore the world. Such small steps go a long way.

We hope you found this article on handling road stress and fatigue as a travel nurse helpful. Are there anyways you handle stress and fatigue as a travel nurse that we didn’t mention? 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:

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

By Susan Keller

June 7, 2022

3023 Views

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10 Unusual Places to Visit In Eastern America While Travel Nursing

If you’re a travel nurse, you visit lots of different places. Hopefully, you have time for some sightseeing once in a while. Here are some unusual places that you can visit when working in Eastern America. To save your time we made this list of unusual places that you need to see.

Cincinnati’s Abandoned Subway, Ohio

The largest abandoned subway tunnel in the US is something that you shouldn’t miss. This will be an amazing experience that will leave you breathless. This is a tunnel without any tracks since construction was never finished. It stopped in the 1920s, but the tunnel is still standing. The upper part of the construction is taken down so highways can be made, but they didn’t remove a tunnel.

Museum of Bad Art, Boston, Massachusetts

Somerville Theater in Davis Square hides the Museum of Bad Art in its basement. This amazing place with unique energy is a must to visit when in Boston. This museum keeps all forms of bad art, making it the only museum in a world that does that.

The collection includes the works of talented artists that have gone wrong, as well as the art of talentless authors. This museum will make you question the verification of art and who decides what is good and what is bad art.

Mermaids of Weeki Wachee, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Mermaids aren’t reserved just for grownups. Everyone likes these amazing creatures, so visiting Weeki Wachee is a perfect chance to see beautiful mermaids. Every day, you can see a live show of mermaids with glass displays for an underwater experience. The auditorium can take 400 visitors at once. You can also try boat rides and swimming in the springs in this park.

Mapparium, Boston, Massachusetts

If you choose to visit Mapparium, you won’t regret it. This library was founded in 1935. and it has lots of rare books. Most famous is, of course, the big glass globe, appointed in the library. You can step in this 30 feet wide globe made of glass that depicts the world. It contains over 600 color-stained panels that provide amazing acoustics.

World’s Largest Chest of Drawers, High Point, North Carolina

When visiting High Point, North Carolina, you definitely need to see the World’s largest chest of drawers. It has two socks hanging from the drawer, which gives it a realistic look that you won’t forget. Make sure that you don’t just look at it from your card, since it’s on a roadside, but get out and stand in front of it. It’s 36 feet tall, and the socks are 6 feet tall. Amazing right? It’s unusual and very interesting, but why drawer with socks in a giant size?

Well, this attraction is placed near furniture stores area, so it definitely carries a message. Don’t miss out on this great experience!

World’s Largest Toilet, Columbus, Indiana

It may be in the kids’ museum, but this is something you need to see. Presented in the Explora House in Kids Commons world’s largest toilet, will have you shocked. This museum has many interactive exhibitions that you can visit. Kids can even climb through pipes and walls. Actually, this big toilet is a slide that goes through all house pipes.

Even adults can sit inside comfortably, so you need to visit this attraction. And don’t forget to take pictures!

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Pennsylvania

This magical place is designed and made by Isaiah Zagar. It is 3,000 square feet of mosaics made of different objects and trash. You can also enjoy educational tours, performances, and mosaic workshops if you want to try and learn something new.

Savannah Historic District, Georgia

If you need a combination of art, theater, concerts, culture, good food, coffee, and festivals, you need to visit Savannah Historic District. You will see beautiful streets, manicured gardens, and parks with silvery Spanish Moss. It has entertainment programs for all ages so you can’t make a mistake with this one.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

When you find yourself in the south of Massachusetts, this is a great place to visit and enjoy the colonial style.

Watkins Glen State Park, New York

Adventure awaits in this wonderful waterfalls and gorges place. Its natural beauty will leave you completely inspired and relaxed.

If you’re up for some fishing as a way to relax, check out these solid fishing kayaks.

We hope you found this article on 10 unusual places to visit in Eastern America while travel nursing enjoyable and helpful. Are there any unusual places to visit in Eastern America that you think should have made this list? 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:

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

By Titan Medical

June 6, 2022

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Healthy Tips for Summer!

Titan Healthcare provided this article.

Whether you’re at the lake, by the pool, on a boat, or hiking the mountains this summer while having fun in the sun, keep yourself protected from both the heat and the heat. Here are some tips and tricks to avoiding heat exhaustion and sunburns.

Water:

Be sure to keep extra bottles of water in your vehicle. Seventy percent of your body is water. You should drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to replenish your body, especially in the hot summer months when you’re sweating and doing more outdoor activities to prevent dehydration. Keeping water in your vehicle is a good idea for emergencies in which water might be needed.

Sunscreen: 

Using sunscreen on your face is crucial, even on those overcast days when you think you might not need it. Daily use of a moisturizer with SPF is nourishing, protective, and healthy for your skin. You’ll also want to get a pair of sunglasses labeled as blocking UV rays at 100% to protect your vision. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours with an SPF of 30 or more. Reapplying will also be necessary after swimming or sweating. A suggested tip would be to keep extra sunscreen in your car. That way, you always have some on hand.

Attire:

Planning to spend long periods in the outdoors? You’ll want to wear a shirt that comfortably covers your shoulders and neck. Dark-colored clothing can provide more protection than loose fabric and lighter colors. You also can’t forget the pesky bugs that buzz around during those warm and humid summer nights. Like sunscreen, use insect repellant to avoid irritating bug bites and potential viruses. You can also light citronella candles and torches to keep mosquitoes away in your backyard or campsites.

We hope you found these healthy tips for summer helpful. Do you have any other healthy tips for summer to share? Comment them below.

By Mynoucka

June 5, 2022

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Reflecting on My First Year as a Travel Nurse: Tips for New Travel Nurses

I want to share with all of you a review of my first year as a travel nurse and offer some tips; This is my first full year as a travel nurse because I began traveling back in October of 2018. After several months of consideration and deliberation, I just felt like a change in my environment would be the move for me at the time. It has been a tremendous experience, but it’s come with its healthy load of challenges. 

Reflecting on My First Year as a Travel Nurse:

Remain flexible

So, whether you’re thinking about shifting your career from working as a staff nurse and transitioning to a travel nurse or you’re thinking about making a move to a different job or maybe a different location, you want to keep these things in mind. One of the biggest things I had to do was remain flexible; there have been many times I’ve gone to work and was asked to work on a different floor. Or I got into work thinking that I would have orientation on a certain day and found out that it’s getting changed around, but I didn’t allow those things to shake my life up or mess up my day. Because I understand and realize that our ability to be able to adapt can either make or break us, learning how to go with the flow and be open to change can relieve the amount of stress related to your job. Being flexible makes life a lot easier. Don’t be stuck to one plan and just realize that things are going to change, and that’s okay.

Remember your why

Another key point to keep in mind is to know your why. Why are you making the changes that you want to make? It doesn’t have to be some deep, profound reason, but you want to keep your why at the center because knowing your why will keep you grounded. And help you stay grounded when things just aren’t going the way you want. One of the biggest reasons I got into traveling was that I wanted more ownership of my time. I felt like I wasn’t getting that opportunity before. 

Like everybody else, I had a choice and the choice to do something that would allow me to take more ownership of my time. When I first got into the nursing field as a brand new nurse, I remember being told that I didn’t deserve a vacation after working so hard and graduating and feeling like I had completed a huge accomplishment. Those exact words were used. I remember feeling like after working so hard, not having full control of my time, and for me, it wasn’t whether or not the vacation was approved because I understand that as an employee, you’re not going to get every vacation approved. It wasn’t about that for me, but it was about someone else telling me what I didn’t deserve, and to me, it just didn’t sit well. From that point forward, it made me feel like I needed to view my job, and you work in a very different light.

Although the situation bothered me, I’m somewhat appreciative that it happened because it pushed me to think differently and feel like I had absolutely no control over my life. Even though, looking back, I still had control over my life at the time; I feel like I was losing control over my life. It made me think about wealth-building, it made me think about entrepreneurship, and just making sure that I’m being intentional with my choices. And the type of work that I choose to do. So, when I got into travel nursing, a part of the reason was knowing that I had the flexibility with my schedule, and that was very important to me. In a lot of ways, my time is more important than money because I can always work and make more money. I’m not some huge baller or anything like that, but as long as I have breath in my lungs and have strengthened my body, I can go to work and earn more money. But I can’t ever go back and reclaim the time that I’ve lost, so I really value my time with God’s people in my life. So, I wanted to do something that would, you know, that would offer me or afford me that opportunity to be flexible and to take time off when I needed to—just knowing your why can really really help. 

Negotiating Skills

I didn’t expect to get better at that. I surprisingly improved on my ability to negotiate. Again, being so far away from home, a dollar earned is worth a lot more than just a dollar because the longer I’m away from home, the more important it is to me to get compensated what I feel is a fair amount. With that being said, I can remember being offered an assignment and just feeling like I wasn’t being offered the proper amount, so I negotiated and I went back and forth. I wasn’t shy, and I didn’t shy away from stating what I felt was a fair amount. And walking away from that opportunity and what that negotiating experience taught me was that you can accomplish so much more when you’re not operating from a position of desperation. Because I knew that I had the experience to back me up, I knew what value I had, and I knew that my experience was working to my advantage. I knew that I can walk away from that opportunity and get something else. Just not feeling the pressure to choose just any old thing that was offered to me. I’ve been able to refine my negotiating skills and understand my value since I’ve been on the road, and that wasn’t something I expected. Because honestly, when I have been offered job positions before, whatever they’ve offered me has been the rate that I’ve accepted. I’ve never understood the art of negotiating, and the art of saying this amount does not work for me. But that has been something that I’ve been able to really hone in on, and I’m really appreciative of that. 

Traveling Solo

I can remember when that was a huge issue for me and embarking on this adventure solo has just given me some time to think and assess my past relationships and childhood traumas and just really understand the difference between being alone and loneliness. I really didn’t have to embark on this journey for me to understand all of these things, but I think just having that extra time in the extra space gave me the opportunity to sit back and really just dig deep and see what it is about being single that was bothering me. I realized it was expectations and timelines that I had placed on myself. Thinking things should happen at a certain time, and it didn’t happen at my time, and it was just very disappointing for me. Just taking this time to realize that if your timeline doesn’t work out the way that you wanted to, that is perfectly okay has really really helped me to say I want to stay sane and to just remain calm. Understanding that all things don’t happen the way that you want them to happen it’s okay. That means that something better is in store. That means maybe more things need to happen, but either way, just not taking for granted the time that I do have and just having this time to really think about that has really helped in the way I see things just moving forward. 

It’s really important to just take a good assessment of what’s going on in your life, what’s going on in your mind, what’s affecting you, what’s not affecting you, and just put things into perspective. So you can be a better version of yourself. That’s my first year as a travel nurse in review!

We hope you enjoyed this article on the first year of travel nursing and tips for new travel nurses. How did your first year as a travel nurse go? Do you have any advice for those just starting out? 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 travel nurse assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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!)

By Cedric

June 4, 2022

2936 Views

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What to Look for in an Auto Shipping Company

Did you recently take a travel nurse assignment in New England but currently live cross-country in a place like Florida or California? If that’s the case, driving from here to there could be a bit much to handle.

For instance, the ride might be rough on your joints and muscles, leaving your body sore and knotted. But, of course, there is also the factor of putting so many miles on your car when traveling across a country. Once the mileage begins to rack up on a vehicle, it isn’t uncommon for part or system failures to occur. It would certainly be a shame for you to get your car to New England only to have it break down a short while later.

However, by having your car shipped professionally, you could avoid these and other problems. So, put a top-notch shipper in your corner and get your vehicle transported to your new New England home with ease. Below are some qualities you should look for in an auto shipping company.


Credible and Trustworthy

One of the first things you’ll want to do when researching shipping companies is determine if these businesses are credible and trustworthy. You want to work with a reliable auto shipping company so you can focus on moving into your New England home and not on whether your car is going to get there.

Finding the best car transport company is easier said than done, though. Hence, you’ll have to put forth the effort to find out if anything is hidden between the lines. First, visit the websites of the car shipping companies you’re interested in and look for misspellings or grammatical errors. In some cases, such errors aren’t a big deal, but having too many of these errors on a webpage can spell untrustworthiness.

It’s also a good idea to look for reviews of the shipping companies you’re considering. Montway auto transport reviews, for instance, can reveal how the company’s claims process and customer service work. You can also do some reading on review websites to gather information from real customers of these companies.

Additionally, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to skip over to the Better Business Bureau website while you’re researching online. There, you’ll be able to learn about customer complaints, business accreditation, and more. You might even want to bring family and friends into the mix. Ask them about their opinions if they’ve worked with car shippers before. They’re the people you can trust, and they’ll be more than happy to share their stories.


Up-to-Date Registration

According to research, vehicle transport companies must be registered with the United States Department of Transportation. As such, legit shippers will have US-DOT and MC numbers. There are various ways to find these items. For example, a person could visit the  FMCSA website to search for a business by its name, MC number, or DOT number. There is also the option of performing Google searches to locate the digits. However, if a company isn’t listed highly on the search engine, it may take you quite some time to uncover the data you seek.

Or, you could visit the websites of shippers for registration information too. That’s because many companies list such info right on their website’s homepage or on the About Us and Contact Us pages. Be vigilant in this quest to ensure the corporation you pick is rightfully supposed to be transporting vehicles in the United States.

The Services You Need


You should also look for a shipping company that can meet your specific needs. Not every business within the industry offers the same services. Hence, you’ll have to do your homework to find one that does what you require. Services commonly provided by shippers include:

  • Open auto transport
  • Terminal-to-terminal service
  • Enclosed auto transport
  • Door-to-door service

If your car needs to travel a considerable distance to New England, you might want to consider getting enclosed auto transport. In this way, you don’t have to add cleaning your car to your to-do list of getting settled into your New England home.

Affordable Rates That Don’t Break the Bank

You probably spent a pretty penny on acquiring real estate in New England, where some of the country’s highest housing prices can be found. As such, it’s a good idea to find a car shipping company that won’t stretch your finances any further.

Don’t be afraid to shop around, as that can help you find a budget-friendly company that doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re spending an arm and a leg. Reasonable year-round prices will make it possible for you to save some cash on the auto transport.

But there might be other ways to save as well. For example, can you wait to ship your car until the off-season? Vehicle shippers are typically busy during the summer and spring, but the same can’t be said for when winter and fall roll around. Those seasons are typically considered the car shipping off-season, and consumers often get great deals during this period.

Don’t forget about coupons. It may be possible to find digital or print vouchers for a percentage off the moving rates. Check your local newspaper or search online for these items and keep some cash in your pocket.

Stellar Cogs Behind the Machine


Most people say that a business is only as good as its workers. That is because they are the cogs in the background that keep the place running like a well-oiled machine. Therefore, do some digging to uncover information on individual performances.

If you know the names of employees who go above and beyond, you could ask for them to handle your delivery. That can help your cross-country auto transport go off without a hitch, and getting your car moved will be one less thing to worry about when you move to New England.


Some Final Thoughts


You should now know what to look for in an auto shipping company. So, if you’re getting ready to ship your car cross-country to New England, don’t entrust your vehicle to just any car shipping company. Instead, look for qualities that give a shipper the edge over its competitors. Then, you’ll be able to put a top-notch company in your corner.

We hope you found this article on what to look for in an auto shipping company helpful. Have you used auto shipping in the past? Let us know your experience in the comment below.

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

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

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

By Lina Belegu

June 3, 2022

2925 Views

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Reduce Stress with a Healthy Eating Plan

One reason busy, stressed people gain weight is that they eat fast food or go out to eat more frequently. This is reasonable; you may not have time to come home and make something from scratch after a long day of running about. When you’re stressed, though, healthy eating at home might help you lose weight since the meals you prepare are generally healthier. (They’re healthier than fast food, and the quantities are typically smaller and lower in fat than restaurant fare.)

Cooking at home can also save you money, which may reduce your stress levels indirectly by relieving the financial burden. Coming home and cooking something healthy or fresh after a long day may seem overwhelming, but it’s easier than you think. Here are some fast and easy tips to help you prepare healthier meals at home.

Ways to Reduce Stress with a Healthy Eating Plan:

Plan Ahead:

Going grocery shopping once a week and planning the week’s meals is a vital first step in a healthy eating plan. That way, you’ll have all of the ingredients you’ll need and won’t have to worry about picking what to eat each night; it’ll be pre-planned!

Silly, keep it simple:

You are not required to prepare a four-course dinner. What is often beneficial is also simple. (Think about it: a salad is easier to make than fried chicken, and grilled chicken is easier to prepare than lasagna.) Simply aim for a healthy balance of protein, fruits, and veggies, with minimal fats and carbohydrates. Also, if you have a sugar craving and want to eat something sweet, you can try Vegan Nutella. It’s so incredibly rich and delicious that you won’t believe it’s vegan.

Cook in advance:

You may save time by making more food than you’ll need and reheating it later in the week or month. Some individuals devote one day a month to preparing entire meals and storing their freezers, ensuring that they have nutritious, handmade food to eat throughout the month with no work. Others prepare a pot of soup or chili once a week and eat it for lunches with salad or as part of supper on a couple of nights. It’s a terrific way to eat less and incorporate more vegetables into your diet! Here’s an easy method to prepare supper for a week.

Use a Crockpot:

They’ve made a resurgence and are an excellent addition to any balanced diet. Crockpots, also known as slow cookers, are popular these days since they allow you to add a few ingredients in the morning and return home to the delectable scent of dinner ready to serve.

Try an Instant Pot:

Crockpots are fantastic for individuals who just have a few minutes in the morning and want to return home to a ready-to-eat supper, but they are limited in what you can create with them. (They’re best used in soups and stews, but they may also be used to cook chicken.) The Instant Pot, which is a cross between a crockpot and a pressure cooker and can be used to produce a variety of recipes, is becoming increasingly popular.

Additional Suggestions

Once you get into the practice of eating more nutritious meals at home, you may find that you can prepare something in fifteen minutes or less—roughly the same amount of time as a drive-through and less time than a sit-down restaurant. If it still feels too stressful, here are some extra suggestions to help:

Prepare ahead of time:

Before going to bed, set the table for the next day. It will only take a few minutes this way, and those minutes will be spent while you aren’t hungry and attempting to prepare dinner.

Enlist Help:

If you have a family, assign certain tasks to them. When you know you’ll have help, cleaning up after dinner won’t seem so daunting. Put some music on and see how much you can do as a group before the conclusion of a song or two.

Use paper:

For those who truly want to cut down on cleanup, throwaway plates and flatware are always an option. While not as ecologically friendly, if the convenience of just throwing the trash once you’ve finished dining makes the difference between eating out and eating at home, go for it. You’ll save more than the cost of the plates in terms of money spent elsewhere. Hopefully, these suggestions will assist you in breaking free from your eating-out routine and establishing a new healthy eating regimen. Your stress levels will not raise, and both your health and your bank account will reward you.

We hope you found this article on ways to reduce stress with a healthy eating plan helpful. Have you found ways to reduce stress with a healthy eating plan? Comment any tips you would like to share with your fellow travel nurses below.

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

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

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