April 29, 2022

1846 Views

Travel Nursing Tips and Requirements in 2022

Posted on April 29, 2022April 29, 2022 by trustaff

TruStaff provided this article.

So, you’re ready to jump into travel for the first time? Or maybe you’ve taken a break, went back to staff, and now want to get back into traveling? We’ve compiled a list of requirements and tips from our recruitment team to make sure you’re ready to take on your next adventure in 2022– travel nursing!

When looking for your travel assignment, there’s a shortlist of requirements that must be met. These requirements are pretty standard across all agencies and facilities.

One and a half to two years of experience in your specialty.

Facilities will require you to have at least 1.5 years of recent experience in the specialty you want to travel in. Many agencies and facilities will require a solid two years if you are a new grad nurse. When it comes to travel nursing – you are going to facilities across the US that have gaps in employment or openings where they need extra help. When arriving at the facility, you’ll need to be ready to hit the ground running and jump right in to help the facility.

Up-to-date certifications

When applying to travel jobs, you’ll want to make sure you have the most up-to-date certifications required for your specialty. Many times, you’ll want to make sure these certifications do not expire prior to your assignment ending. There are many options right now to take these courses online and be prepared for your next assignment.

Covid vaccination or medical/religious exemption

While this requirement is completely up to each facility – it is ideal to make sure this information is ready for any assignment that may require it.

Our team also had many great tips they offer travelers who are new or recently returning to travel, and we think they came up with a pretty good list:

1. Find an agency that has great perks and benefits.

Having a one-stop-shop for all of your needs makes for a flawless experience. This could range from full medical benefits, 401k, or smaller perks like hotel and car rental discounts, cheaper tickets to theme parks, great deals on scrubs, and more. Many agencies have great partnerships with companies to offer great perks!

2. Worried about being too far away from home on your first assignment?

There’s probably a facility closer to home that you could start with. The general rule for travel nursing only requires 50+ miles from your residence! Buddying up with a friend or family member makes for great experiences as well.

3. A multi-state or compact license will open up many more open job opportunities for you to explore.

Obtaining licensure from a compact state makes you eligible to travel and work in states included in the Nurse Licensure Compact. If you don’t – no worries! Getting a state license is usually fairly easy, and your recruiter and company can often offer assistance, reimbursement, and maybe even reward you for getting a new license.

4. Be ready to ADVENTURE!

Travel nursing is an experience many nurses dream of! Take a deep breath and embrace it. Enjoy the overall experience of exploring while doing what you do best – providing healthcare for people all over the US.

As a bonus trustaff has put together a TikTok to go along, click here to view!

We hope you found this article on tips and requirements for travel nursing in 2022 helpful. Do you have any tips to share? Comment them below.

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

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

START HERE

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

By Brandy Pinkerton

April 26, 2022

5092 Views

How to Combat Feelings of Loneliness on your Travel Nursing Assignment

Posted on April 26, 2022April 27, 2022 by Brandy Pinkerton

Each new travel assignment opens up a world of possibilities. New people to meet, new hospital to work in, new adventures to be had, and new cultures to experience. Despite all this, it can be easy to get lonely as a travel nurse. The average assignment is usually 13 weeks but let me tell you what, it flies by! Since you are cycling through places for a short amount of time, it can seem difficult to make connections and feel part of a community. These feelings are all quite normal, and it doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t keep pursuing travel nursing. Here are some ways to combat these feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

Make your housing feel like a home

This is one of my top priorities when I first arrive at my new travel assignment. I try to arrive a few days early to explore the area and get settled in a bit before that first week of chaos. I always pack a few sentimental items from home, such as pictures, my favorite books, and comfortable bedding to decorate a bit. I want my temporary housing to have a peaceful, homey vibe to it. I travel with my two pups, Cooper and Isabella, and having a furry companion that is always happy to see me has also helped me fight feelings of loneliness.

Plan adventures

For me, I started traveling not only for income but also for adventure. Seeking opportunities to try new things is high on my priority list when it comes to travel nursing. You get to have experiences that you normally may not give to have in your hometown. Get out and explore your new city; you might meet some new friends. Plan adventures with staff and other travelers in the area; they likely are in the same situation as you and would love to tag along. I encourage you to live in the moment and push yourself outside your comfort zones!

Pursue your hobbies and passions

During a new travel nurse assignment is the perfect situation to set time aside for a beloved hobby or for picking up a new one. Try to visit places that encourage social interaction. You can join a gym, hiking group, church, book club, or whatever suits you. Those are all great places to meet like-minded people to hang out with. One of my first go-to’s is the Facebook events; it is a great resource to see what events are happening around you. Depending on the city, you can try new things that you normally wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do at home. Don’t ever be afraid to try new things solo. It helps you grow as a person, and you see just how truly capable you are.

Make time for family & friends

I have a little secret for you that many are surprised when they hear. My family was not completely on board with the whole “travel nursing” thing. My parents did not really understand it since they had never heard of it, and they have a very conservative approach to life. So, you can imagine how they felt when I told them I was selling all of my belongings, quitting my staff job of 15 years, and leaving to travel the U.S. They thought I was crazy. However, after inviting them out to vacation at my travel nurse destinations, they quickly understood. Not only do they now get a vacation every 3 months and get to come visit me, they see how truly happy I am! I always try to plan a trip home during or after my assignment too. Since the time you get to spend is more infrequent, you tend to make it more quality time, and you don’t take it for granted. The beautiful thing about living in a digital world is we have FaceTime and Skype, so utilize them often to chat with family and friends.

Take time off to renew yourself.

You have to make sure to take care of yourself and your wellbeing. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and I think we can all agree that nursing, in general has been harder than ever due to the pandemic. One of the biggest perks of becoming a traveling nurse is you can build time off in your contract or in between contracts. Many companies will even ensure you medically for a certain amount of days in between contracts so you can take some time for yourself or plan a dream vacation. I like to give myself small rewards and self-love every week or so. I plan a massage or mani/pedi. Some days I just spend the whole day in my pj’s and order DoorDash and don’t leave the house. It’s called Dolce Far Niente, which is the sweetness of doing nothing!

“You will never be completely at home again because part of your heart will always be elsewhere. That is the price you pay for the richness of loving and knowing people in more than one place.” -Miriam Adeney.

We hope you found this article on how to combat feelings of loneliness on your travel nurse assignment helpful. Have you found any ways to combat feelings of loneliness while on assignment? Comment your tips for combating loneliness below.

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

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

START HERE

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

By HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

April 25, 2022

4570 Views

Hot Travel Destinations This Season

Posted on April 25, 2022April 25, 2022 by HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

This article is sponsored by HealthTrust Workforce Solutions.

Choosing a travel nurse assignment destination can be difficult. We have put together a list of 4 cities that would make excellent travel nurse destinations this spring and summer. We have also included information on things to do while on assignment there and the weather during these spring and summer months.

Hot travel destinations:

Richmond, VA

Richmond is an excellent option for travel nursing because the community is a healthcare hub with so many travel assignment opportunities. You won’t have a hard time finding things to keep you busy. Richmond offers a rich culture and scenic destinations that you can even explore on Segway tours!

Segway Tours-

There are many options for Segway tours. Some of these tours include a Richmond Landmark tour, Hollywood cemetery tour, Civil Rights History tour, Women in Richmond Tour, and Street Art tour. Most of the tours take about 2 hours to complete.

The Maymont Mansion-

According to their website, The story of Maymont began in 1893, when a wealthy Richmond couple, James and Sallie Dooley, completed their elaborate Gilded Age estate on a site high above the James River. Upon their deaths and according to their wishes, Maymont—including its architectural complex, the 100-acre landscape, and a collection of exquisite furnishings—was left to the people of Richmond.

Richmond is a great city for your next travel nurse assignment if you are interested in history. Richmond has many museums, monuments, historic cemeteries, and the Virginia Capitol building. As the capital of Virginia, it is also one of the oldest cities in the United States.

Weather-

The weather in Richmond during the spring is comfortable, and the temperatures range from 40-75 degrees. If you enjoy the warmth, summer in Richmond is perfect for you. The temperatures in June, July, and August average around 87 degrees.

Wichita, KS-

Like Richmond, Wichita also offers a variety of opportunities for travel assignments that are sure to deliver something to offer for anyone! The city’s tourism website highlights activities available in the area, including Arts & Entertainment, Family Fun, Shopping, Nightlife, Sports, and Outdoor & Wildlife. These attractions include museums, art galleries, public art, concerts, comedy, movies, and performing arts.

Public Art-

Public art is a big deal in Wichita. Many forms of public art are featured in the community. According to their website, “Wichita is a pipeline of creativity and expression, with a raging art scene adding color to the city. From public art like murals to miniature sculptures of the iconic Keeper of the Plains, Wichita grows talented artists of all mediums, and the community often comes together to celebrate their work.” A few options for public art are; murals, Keepers on Parade, Alley Doors, Bronze sculptures downtown, Art Garden at Wichita Art Museum, and even a few more options as well!

Outdoor and Wildlife-

Wichita offers zoos, waterparks, and parks for outdoor and wildlife fun. Wichita is home to the area’s largest waterpark, Rock River Rapids. They are also home to Splash Aqua Park, an inflatable park that sits in the middle of a 27-acre lake in southwest Wichita and features swings, ramps, jumps, trampolines, inflatable slides, and all sorts of aquatic fun.

Weather-

Spring is mild in Wichita. The average temperature during the spring months is 70 degrees. Summers get pretty warm, with the average temperature peaking at 92 degrees.

Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville has a large healthcare presence like the other cities on our list. It is a great city to start looking for an assignment that offers you so many things to do while you are in town. Visitjacksonville.com put together a list of the top 22 things to do in Jacksonville. Some of the top places to experience include; The Jacksonville Zoo and Garden, The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, Little Talbot Island, Big Talbot Island, and Kingsley Plantation.

Jacksonville Zoo-

Zoos are always a great way to get out on your day off. According to Visit Jacksonville, “the zoo has something for everyone with over 2,400 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 varieties of plants. Grown-ups and little ones alike will love feeding the giraffes at the African Overlook and watching the otters float along in the Wild Florida exhibit. The zoo also houses an Australian Adventure featuring colorful birds called lorikeets. Tigers roam overhead at the Land of the Tiger exhibit, and Jaguars steal the show at their award-winning exhibit. During your visit, step onto the zoo’s scenic Trout River dock. You might even spot a manatee!”

Big Talbot Island-

If you enjoy hiking or biking, Big Talbot Island is a great place to visit. It has wetlands and marshes, 2 beaches, and several bike paths. You can also take guided kayak tours or go for a hike.

The Beaches-

Let’s be honest; if you take an assignment in Florida, you have to visit the beach, especially when it is so close! Jacksonville offers 4 city beaches that are just a short drive from downtown. These beaches include Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Mayport Beach. Each beach offers something different. Jacksonville Beach was voted the top beach of Jacksonville by Hotels.com.

Weather-

Jacksonville is obviously warmer, but that is why you consider assignments in Florida. The average temperature during the spring is 80 degrees. The summer months get a bit hotter, with an average temperature of 90 degrees.

El Paso, TX

El Paso is home to a bustling healthcare community offering a wide variety of travel nurse assignments. There is also a lot to do in El Paso, with many state parks, the El Paso Zoo, museums, and theaters, to name a few. Also, don’t forget to try some authentic Tex-Mex while you are on assignment in El Paso!

Franklin Mountains State Park-

Franklin Mountains State Park tops the list of things to do in El Paso. Including one on planetware.com. According to their website, “Easily accessed on the north end of the city and one of the country’s largest urban parks, the 27,000-acre Franklin Mountain State Park is a popular venue for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Other fun things to do at this sprawling state park include geocaching, ranger-led programs, and wildlife watching opportunities. For those pressed for time, the Franklin Mountains offer a variety of scenic drives, too.”

The Plaza Theatre-

The Plaza Theatre is also named on several lists of things to do in El Paso. They host many types of events, including expos, concerts, and even Broadway performances. The pictures of the theatre on their website are breathtaking, and the decor is very fitting for the location.

Weather-

The weather in El Paso in spring can vary based on the month, ranging front the low 70s to the upper 80s. Spring is a great time to visit if you like mid-to-warm weather. Summer months are quite a bit warmer, with an average temperature of 96 degrees. Because El Paso is basically in the desert, the air is dry, but hot is hot. So, if you enjoy the heat in summer, El Paso would be great for you!

We hope you found this article on hot travel destinations for spring and summer helpful. Discover more about HWS Specialty Travel Program here.

Are there any travel destinations you love to go to in the spring or summer for your travel nurse assignments? 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 board.

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 Kevin Devoto

April 23, 2022

2212 Views

How Travel Nursing Brings Financial Stability

Posted on April 23, 2022April 22, 2022 by Kevin Devoto

Financial stability two words every adult loves to hear. It’s hard out there in the working world. Every day you show up to your job, trying to earn a living and hopefully still be able to set money aside for yourself for the future. For some jobs, that’s easier to do than others. Some give you that opportunity, while other jobs make it seem impossible. Travel nursing gives you the former. Whether you’re just starting to figure out your future career plans or looking to do a complete career switch, read below to see how being a travel nurse can bring you your own financial stability.

Income vs. Expenses

There are several factors that go into becoming financially stable, but, in a nutshell, having financial stability means the income you are earning is greater than your expenses and any money going out. Now, of course, earning this amount of income may happen for some weeks or months, but it needs to happen for a steady amount of time in order to have freedom with your finances. Travel nursing does just that. In general, no matter where you decide to travel for work, the pay will be much better for you than simply working and living in one set location. Better pay means a better opportunity for you to pay off any debts you may have. Perhaps you took on student loans to help attain your nursing degree. The sooner you pay both of those off, the sooner you put that money into your savings. Maybe you want a nice little nest egg, or maybe you want to start investing in stocks or rental properties. Whatever you decide to do, that extra income will open a world of possibilities toward increasing your financial stability.

On top of your income being higher than a non-travel nurse’s, your expenses are also less. Now, you may be asking, how is that possible? Well, with some companies, those travel expenses are paid for. Normally it would cost quite a lot for gas or plane tickets or a new apartment every few months, but because companies want and need travel nurses, sometimes those expenses are covered. Some companies even offer a daily budget to pay for food.

Once you add all of that up, it’s easy to see how most of your big expenses would be cut in half or disappear entirely. So, all in all, your expenses would go down while your income is going up. These are the exact things you need in your life to set you up for solid financial stability.

Benefits Are Good

Another thing I want to touch on are the benefits for travel nurses. You don’t have to work hundred-plus-hour weeks or not have a life in order for financial stability to happen. Travel nurses are given many benefits for doing what they do. Health insurance is generally provided. You are in the healthcare field, after all, and while you can shop for your own health insurance if you like, the hiring company usually provides their own insurance option. A 401k and bonuses are included as part of being a travel nurse, with some employers even matching up to a certain amount of your 401k. Time off, as well as an all-around flexible schedule, are also part of the benefits of the job. There are no boring nine to five schedule options you have to suffer through.

Final Thoughts

No matter who you are or what your background is, we all want financial stability. Travel nursing gives a lot of opportunities for that where, unfortunately, not a lot of other jobs do. It is a very rewarding and beneficial option for those looking to feel more stable with their money.

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

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

START HERE

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

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

April 22, 2022

1718 Views

3 Qualities of a Great Travel Nurse Recruiter

Posted on April 22, 2022April 22, 2022 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

TNAA Healthcare provided this article.

Your relationship with your recruiter is arguably the most important relationship you’ll have in your travel nurse career. And for some agencies, it’s the only connection point you’ll have with that company. You’re putting a large part of your life in their hands, so you’ll want to make sure you and your recruiter mesh well together. Here are three qualities you’ll find in great recruiters who focus on building relationships instead of just adding another traveler to the list.

Qualities of a Great Travel Nurse Recruiter:

1. Excellent Listener

Your recruiter should be asking questions and wanting to know about you upfront. Tell them why you wanted to become a nurse, what you enjoy about it, and why you wanted to start traveling. Once your recruiter gets to know you a bit, they should be plotting how to get you closer to hitting the personal and professional goals that you hope to achieve through this new career.

2. Knowledgeable Guide

On the Travel Nurse Process

If you’re preparing for your first assignment with a company, your recruiter will need to thoroughly walk you through each step to ensure you get everything completed before your first day of work. A great recruiter will make sure you understand your options, from the assignments you want to apply for to your benefits, housing, and insurance choices. If they don’t have the answer to a question you have, they should at least know how to get you in touch with the right person for the problem.

On the Travel Nurse Market

The travel nurse market is constantly fluctuating. A specialty in demand one month can see a dramatic drop in need the next month. Your recruiter should be educated on the current state of the market, which will help them be a transparent communicator. When they see changes in the market, they should coach you on how to be flexible and adaptable within your current position or start pulling new assignments that would fit you better.

3. Personable

Last but certainly not least, your recruiter should be personable. Talking with people is a big part of their daily job, and that’s not a task everyone can handle! Great recruiters genuinely enjoy talking with their nurses and helping them land the best assignments. Do a little digging on the recruiter you want to work with to see if they make a good fit for you. One way to find out more about them is by looking up reviews or seeing if they have an agency bio.

Your relationship with your recruiter is one that helps launch your career as a travel nurse. Take your time and do your research to find the recruiter you can trust as you pursue a career that moves you.

We hope this article on the 3 qualities of a great travel nurse recruiter helps you on your travel nurse journey. Do you have any other qualities you should look for in a recruiter? 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 travel nurse assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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

START HERE

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

By TheraEx

April 21, 2022

2938 Views

5 Ways to Succeed as a Travel Nurse

Posted on April 21, 2022April 22, 2022 by TheraEx

PRN Healthcare provided this article.

Travel nursing is a great way to live out your passion in your nursing career as well as your lifestyle! Nursing isn’t an easy career and adding travel doesn’t always make it any easier. However, when taking the right approach, becoming a travel nurse can prove to be one of the best decisions you have ever made. Let’s dive into some ways to succeed as a travel nurse!

Do Your Research

The first step to succeeding as a travel nurse is understanding where you want to travel. Is it time for a change? Researching possible areas to work is extremely important and can only be determined by you. Some tips to choosing the right location are to pick an area you want to visit, a place where you have family or friends nearby, or a location you feel you can make the most difference. One of the best ways to get excited about a new contract is work in an area you can’t wait to go!

In addition to location, you have to research other factors such as cost of living, and potential hospitals that interest you. Cost of living may be a major factor in deciding your location. Although you may get a higher rate, it may not counteract how much you will spend on day-to-day purchases. During your research you may find a hospital that peaks your interest. Finding the right hospital may be enough to outweigh the choice of location. It’s all about what you want to get out of your travel contracts!

What Matters Most to You

Understanding what you want to get out of your career is an essential way to succeed as a travel nurse. There may even be multiple factors that play into your desired position. Do you care more about how much you make, or is location the most important factor? If you care more about income, look into the states with higher average salaries for nurses. If location is what drives you, pick places you are passionate about.

There is no wrong answer, it depends on what drives you to succeed in your career. Whether it be pay, location, or something else, knowing what you desire is a great way to succeed as a travel nurse.

Be Prepared

So, you made your decision on what contracts you want to apply for. Now you have to look into everything that is required of those positions. Do you need to gain a license for a position in a new state? If you have to relocate for your position, do you need new temporary housing? When choosing a contract, getting the proper license before would be beneficial and save some time in the compliance and placement process.

When you get to the point of finally moving to the area where your new assignment is, you have to decide what to bring with you. Remember, most travel nursing contracts are 13 weeks. Time goes by faster than you think so it’s not necessary to take everything you own with you. The best way to decide what to pack is to research the climate of the area you’re going to work in and start with the essentials. What clothes you need, and what items are necessary to bring with you.

Prior to your first shift it’s important to research the facility you will be working at. Try to look into the culture of the workplace. Reaching out to nurses already staffed at your facility is a great start, and be prepared to learn the culture as you continue your shifts.

Flexibility is Key

Flexibility is a very important trait employers and recruiters look for when hiring a travel nurse. Although your recruiter is working on finding the best possible contract to fit your needs, this position doesn’t always exist. The willingness to accept contracts that fill most, but not all, of what you want is great way to show your recruiter you want to keep a long-term relationship. You have to remember you are filling a gap in staffing so showing some flexibility is a really great way to succeed as a travel nurse. This being said, you still have the power in the positions you take. Remember what matters most to you and be flexible in the areas you can.

Bring an Eager to Learn Attitude

As a nurse, learning is something you will never stop doing! We’re not just talking about how to do your job or how to treat patients, but also how a facility runs. As a travel nurse you will be placed in your position for shorter periods. This means you will consistently have to adapt and readjust to a new environment. For example, different facilities handle patient situations differently. If you receive feedback from a patient or family member, listen to them and stay professional. You may only be a temporary employee of the facility, but you are still representing them. The best way to handle these situations is to talk to your supervisor and ask for feedback from them before responding to the patient.

Travel nursing is an exciting career path. Taking steps of doing research, preparing for contracts, being flexible, and continuing to learn will be important in your success. Don’t shy away from reaching out with any and all questions to your recruiter and account manager. After all, we are here to make sure your contract goes as smoothly as possible!

We hope these 5 tips to help you succeed as a travel nurse help you along your way. If you have any tips to share please comment them below.

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

By AB Staffing Solutions

April 19, 2022

1703 Views

Timeline of a Travel Nurse: Expressing Interest through Orientation

Posted on April 19, 2022January 16, 2023 by AB Staffing Solutions

AB Staffing Solutions provided this article.

When it comes to the timeline of a travel nurse from expressing interest to orientation, there are a lot of steps, but they all lead to an exciting new job. The best part is that even if the position isn’t perfect, you’re there 13 weeks and can let your recruiter know if you’d like to extend your stay, if possible, or look for another opportunity. While we’d love to meet every one of the items on your wish list, and we try hard to do so, there are times when the need for your skills is greater in a different place, or there are simply no positions currently available. Working closely with your recruiter and knowing what you want will help us find the best place for you.

Where does the timeline of a travel nurse begin?

If you’re new to travel nursing, remember that the timeline of a travel nurse begins and ends with your recruiter. Begin the search process by researching travel nurse agencies and, like with so much of the rest of our lives, asking friends and colleagues for referrals. Then it’s time to call to inquire or apply online.

The recruiter will ask questions like these to get to know you.

In which state(s) are you willing to work?
How many years of nursing experience do you have?
Are you traveling with family or pets?
What is the hourly or weekly rate you’re looking to earn?
When are you available?

This gives you an idea of the style at the agency and if their opportunities align with your career aspirations. Once you decide to work with an agency, the recruiter will ask you to complete a profile that includes contact information, resume, skills checklist, and certifications. They then send your profile to clients on your behalf.

Phone Interview

Once accepted, the recruiter will set up a phone interview with the facility, or they may automatically offer you the position. This is the time to ask questions specifically about the position and the facility. If declined, the recruiter will continue the search if you so desire.

Credentialing Process

When you accept an offer, you will then go through the credentialing process. You will be asked to provide documents like a driver’s license, certifications, immunization records, urine analysis, fingerprinting, and a background check. Once this is completed, your recruiter will review the contract with you, and you will sign it or ask any questions you may have.

Where will you live?

The next step is finding a place to live during your contract. Reach out to your housing department, if your agency has one, to help you find your home away from home. You may be able to stay at onsite housing or at the facility’s contracted hotel. You may opt, like some travelers do, to bring your own RV or use a short-term rental. It really depends on where you are located as to what is available for housing, so being flexible is key.

Your first day-

On your first day, your recruiter will send you reporting instructions for orientation. We encourage our travelers to reach out to their recruiters with feedback and questions. We want to understand how we can improve the experience for you. Of course, we want to know if there are challenges as well as the good news from every assignment you have with us.

Contract extension-

If the facility would like to extend your contract, your recruiter will reach out to you about 4 weeks before your initial contract ends to give you the option of staying. You may choose to stay or decide that you’d like to go somewhere else, and your recruiter will go back to work to find you another assignment.

As you can see, the timeline of a travel nurse begins and ends with your recruiter. We are here to support you through the process, understand what’s happening once you’re placed, and find your next assignment for you. Happy Traveling!

Are you looking for your next travel nursing assignment? Click here to view our job board. Are you looking for housing for your next travel assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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

START HERE

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

By The Gypsy Nurse

April 18, 2022

2496 Views

Taking a Break From Travel Nursing

Posted on April 18, 2022April 11, 2022 by The Gypsy Nurse

While travel nursing can provide adventure and reward, it can also be taxing. Though the day-to-day in each assignment may be similar to a traditional nursing job, hopping from one assignment to the next is anything but normal. Over time, you may become exhausted from all the packing, moving, and readjusting that each contract might bring, especially if you leave little downtime between each new job. If this describes you, it may be time to take a step back from this kind of work. Below are some suggestions to keep in mind as you go about taking a break from travel nursing.

1. Determine the Length of Your Break.

There are no hard and fast rules about how much time you should take between each assignment. Only you know how long is long enough. However, as you are making this decision, you should consider how long you can survive without pay because travel nursing jobs typically do not provide paid time off. Additionally, no work can mean no medical insurance, depending on your personal circumstances. If you are new to travel nursing, it might be wise to speak with an agency advisor for some sound advice around break lengths between contracts. Alternatively, you can speak with other travel nurses to see what they do. No matter what length of time you decide on, make sure it’s worthwhile and truly allows you to accomplish the following steps.

2. Focus On Things You’ve Been Neglecting.

Rest

This is not a suggestion; it’s a plea! It’s important to unwind no matter what job you have. In the healthcare field, it’s even more essential. You likely know from experience that nurses often work long hours. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, lengthy work weeks and travel nursing contracts seemed to be a packaged deal. Taking a break from this line of work should include adequate rest. This can look different for each person. Determine for yourself what would be the best form of R&R for you. Are you in need of a relaxing vacation? Do you want to catch up on some zzzs? Or could you use a trip to the spa? Whatever you decide, be sure not to confuse rest and relaxation with recreation.

Recreation

While different from rest, recreation is just as vital. You’ve heard the saying, “All work or no play makes you dull.” The same is somewhat true if all you do is work and sleep. You have to make time to let loose. Once again, only you know what that looks like for yourself. It’s easy to spend your entire break vegging out in front of the TV. There’s nothing wrong with making some time to do that, but you probably don’t want to spend all of your allotted time for recreation between assignments glued to your couch or bed. If you’re an active person, make some time to try a workout class you can’t normally attend. If you’re outdoorsy, find the nearest incline and put on your hiking boots. The sky’s the limit!

Responsibilities

If your assignments often involve long work weeks, it’s easy to put off important things and neglect responsibilities at your home base. Due to back to back contracts, you may have pushed duties like household chores, car maintenance, and scheduling appointments on the backburner. Now is the time to take care of those responsibilities. When you are ready to begin work again, you want a fresh start, not lingering tasks. To avoid overwhelming yourself while you’re trying to recuperate before heading back out into the field, it would be helpful to make a realistic list based on task priority. Be sure to balance your time between these responsibilities, rest, and recreation. Don’t beat yourself up if there are things you don’t get around to.

3. Plan for the Future.

Remember that you will have to return to work at some point, whether it’s to another travel nursing job or a different position in healthcare. If you haven’t already thought about it, it’s important to come up with a plan of action.

If you’re intending to return to travel nursing long-term, will your previous living/lodging arrangement continue to work for you, or will you need to explore other options? Some nurses have their own home or apartment but take advantage of whatever lodging provisions their staffing agency offers or utilize other housing options while on assignment. Alternatively, some have turned to mobi le living. If that’s something you are considering, be sure to count the cost. A traditional mortgage will not do the trick. If your savings aren’t enough to foot the bill, you may need to apply for a personal loan to finance your tiny living space.

There’s no shame in taking a break. In fact, it’s healthy. Listen to your body and mind as you try to navigate work/life balance as a healthcare professional. The beauty of travel nursing is that opportunity always awaits!

We hope you found this article on taking a break from travel nursing helpful. Have you taken a break from travel nursing? If you would like to share some tips, comment them below.

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

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

START HERE

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

By Kevin Devoto

April 15, 2022

1534 Views

8 Tips for Caring for Your Mental and Physical Health When You Travel

Posted on April 15, 2022April 11, 2022 by Kevin Devoto

Are you about to spend a lot of time on the road or in a hotel? You’re in good company; many more people are traveling these days, and much of that travel is work-related. Remote options, contract jobs, and other innovative opportunities abound. If you want to make the most out of these experiences, your mental and physical health must stay strong. Here are several self-care tips to follow when you’re away from home.

1. Stay Rested

Getting the proper amount of restorative rest and sleep is vital if you want to stay energetic, alert, and calm. It isn’t easy if you’re dealing with changing time zones, work shifts, and the general wear and tear of travel. Stick to basics: Bring items that will help you maintain a nurturing sleep routine. Some of those items might include a special pillow, essential oils, a sleep mask, or earplugs. Be aware of the thermostat, too; do a search using terms such as optimal sleeping temperature to find useful information.

2. Get Cozy

A big part of mental and emotional health is feeling safe and grounded. Do you have a special blanket that feels like home? Then bring it — or one that’s similar to it. Are your fuzzy slippers perfect for lounging around? Pack them. The same goes for other items that make you feel relaxed and cared for.

3. Get Nourished

Keeping your blood sugar and energy stable is always crucial, but it’s especially important when you travel. Do some research to find out about the food available at your destination, and stock up with healthy treats and meals when you arrive. When you work, make sure to eat at regular intervals and hydrate.

4. See the Sights

As soon as possible, after you arrive at your destination, go for a walk or run around the neighborhood. It’s a potent stress reliever and will help your body acclimate to your new environment and sunlight patterns. Even though it might be tempting, avoid holing up in your room for your entire stay (outside of work). Getting out for a few minutes or hours will do wonders for your energy and perspective.

5. Stay In Touch

Sometimes, it’s great to get away from it all and turn the volume down on your text and phone interactions. That said, it’s good for your mental and emotional health to check in with supportive loved ones occasionally to give and receive a fun text or photo. Even if you’re abroad, apps like WhatsApp will help you stay in touch. Do you have a counselor who you count on? Do a check-in if you’re feeling stressed out.

6. Pack Layers

Keep it simple and pack wrinkle-resistant, coordinated clothing that you won’t have to think much about. Include a few fashionable layers to prepare for unexpected weather changes. Also, leave a bit of room in your suitcase for great finds at your destination!

7. Get Pampered

It’s always fun to get a blowout, massage, or mani-pedi, but it’s especially nice when you travel. If you have the time and a bit of extra money, consider taking a few hours away to receive some quality pampering.

8. Prepare for the Unexpected

With travel comes new sights, sounds, and experiences. Sometimes, these experiences are unexpected ones. To boost your safety and peace of mind, have a point person who always knows your location. Check out a few online resources that focus on travel safety, so you can plan ahead.

Caring for your mental and physical health when you travel requires self-awareness, careful planning, and the willingness to be flexible. Try these tips to enhance your trip.

We hope you found these eight tips for caring for your mental and physical health while traveling helpful. Do you have any tips to add? Comment them below.

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

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

START HERE

One and a half to two years of experience in your specialty.

Up-to-date certifications

Covid vaccination or medical/religious exemption

1. Find an agency that has great perks and benefits.

2. Worried about being too far away from home on your first assignment?

3. A multi-state or compact license will open up many more open job opportunities for you to explore.

4. Be ready to ADVENTURE!

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

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

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Make your housing feel like a home

Plan adventures

Pursue your hobbies and passions

Make time for family & friends

Take time off to renew yourself.

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The Plaza Theatre-

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

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1. Excellent Listener

2. Knowledgeable Guide

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3. Personable

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