By Angela Hosking

March 9, 2022

1572 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Your Most Important Patient—You

I remember my first patient that died.

She was young. Younger than me. A mom, a daughter, a sister, and a passionate elementary school teacher. She was living her life in a happy and fulfilling way when ovarian cancer knocked on her door. When I cared for her the first time, she was recovering from a dramatic abdominal surgery and coming to grips with the diagnosis. Stage 4 ovarian cancer. We focused on her post-operative recovery for the first few days, but as the diagnosis began to sink in, I found our conversations turned to how to be a survivor and have hope. I became her cheerleader, her confidant, and when her family went home, her advocate as a nursing professional.

I saw her when she was the most vulnerable.

In pain. Frightened. As a night-shift nurse, I was used to the “what-if” thoughts that plagued my patients in the night when the comfort of the family departed. That is when they usually allowed their nurse to see what they were really feeling. When faces of feigned bravery for their families could relax.

Over the next eighteen months, I was lucky enough to care for her many times.

Even if she wasn’t my patient for that shift, I made sure to check on her every time she was admitted for symptom management or pain control. I learned what worked and what didn’t when she was having a bad night. I knew the right mix of bland food she could tolerate when the nausea was bad. I helped her make a list of all the things she wanted to remember to tell her daughter when her mind was fuzzy. Sometimes I even made her laugh with my corny jokes and just forget for a moment that she was dying.

When she lost her battle, I was there. I made sure she wasn’t in any pain, that her favorite blanket was tucked around her just so, and that her family was supported. But what I didn’t realize was that I would need support, too. I was grieving a loss that had a monumental impact on how I viewed my role as a nursing caregiver. I was now acutely aware that many of the patients I bonded with would die on my watch.

Over and over again.

And to give in such an extraordinary way, I would have to make sure I was being cared for as well. I had to allow others to calm my fears, dry my tears, and give space for the emotions I had at work. I was not, thankfully, a machine instead of a human that just went about her night shift as if nothing had happened.

When was the last time you did a complete head-to-toe on yourself? A mental, physical, and emotional check-up to see what systems and areas are NOT within normal limits? It is easy to deny that nagging inner-nurse voice when it comes to ourselves. But if you were your patient, what would you tell the provider you were concerned about? What recommendations would you make for your own care? What consults would you immediately advocate for?

Take time to do your assessment carefully.

To be a nurse means to first care for ourselves so that we can care for others. You are your most vulnerable patient.

This article is an excerpt from Angela’s journal “From Burnout to Balance: A Nursing Resilience Journal” click here to purchase the journal.

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 Titan Medical

March 8, 2022

2446 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Lucky Tips For Starting as a Travel Nurse

Titan Medical Group provided this article.

Are you feeling nervous about taking on your first assignment as a Travel Nurse? Here are a few tips for setting you up for success!

Get and Stay Organized

If you are getting ready to take on your first assignment as a traveling nurse, you need to stay organized every step of the way. You need to make sure your paperwork and information are updated. Prepare for your phone interview and bring copies of any necessary documentation to your first day. Being organized will help you out tremendously in the long run!

Stay in contact with your recruiter

When you get a recruiter, they will be your best friend on your journey. They are on your side to make sure you are placed in the perfect fit for you. Once you start your assignment, be sure to check in with your recruiter to update them to help you with future assignments.

Keep an open-mind

Going to an unfamiliar place away from the people you love can be overwhelming and hard to adjust to. When going into your assignment, always have an open mind and a positive attitude. Getting to know people you will be working with will help you open up to new opportunities and growth in your career!

Ask questions

When taking on a new assignment, you will be encountered different situations and people. If you are unsure about a task, don’t be afraid to step up and ask questions. It is better to ask questions as soon as possible instead of being hesitant about a situation.

 _________________________________________________________________________________________

We hope you found these lucky tips for starting travel nursing helpful. Have you recently started travel nursing and have tips to share with those considering travel nursing? 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 ready for your next travel assignment, give Titan Medical a call today at 866-332-9600, and we’d love to assist in finding your next adventure!

By Kevin Devoto

March 7, 2022

2250 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

6 Ways To Take Care of Yourself as A Busy Professional

When you spend your days in a coffee-fueled haze while rushing to be effective and productive in your work and home life, burnout is inevitable. You may make it to the weekend, but how much of your personal time do you spend just trying to recover from the chaos of the previous week? If you feel physically and mentally drained all the time, you may not be taking adequate care of your mind and body. Here are some ways to care for yourself when you’re extremely busy.

1. Nourish Your Body

As a busy professional, your daily habits matter. It can be easy to fall into a routine that seemingly makes your life easier but ultimately impacts your health and wellness. Replacing a balanced breakfast with an extra-large sugary drive-thru coffee may save you a few minutes of your morning, but you’ll likely feel anxious and unsatiated throughout the day. Taking care of yourself means being intentional with the types of sustenance you consume. If you simply don’t have time to prepare meals, consider nourishing meal replacement shakes as a healthier option.

2. Prioritize Your Sleep

One of your most basic human needs is sleep, and chances are, you don’t get enough. Sleep is often the first thing you sacrifice when your work/life balance becomes unbalanced. You think you can make enough time to get everything done, but the truth is you lose your ability to concentrate and make good judgment calls when you’re sleep-deprived. By setting a clear and defined bedtime routine and sticking to it, you can make sure you wake up each day feeling refreshed and motivated to take on the world.

3. Get Your Workout In

According to experts, you only need 20 minutes of physical activity each day to maintain a healthy fitness level, and it doesn’t have to be cardio-centric. When you spend most of your day caring for others, it can be extremely hard to shift your mindset to self-care, but it is necessary to maintain your strength and sanity. By making your exercise routine a priority, you can ensure you maintain optimal physical and mental health while also setting and achieving important personal fitness goals.

4. Pause and Breathe

When you feel overwhelmed, there’s no shame in taking a timeout. Pausing to take deep long breaths and adopting a meditation practice gives you the opportunity to calm your mind and body at the moment. When you’re stressed, you hold tension in your head, neck, and back, which can leave you feeling terrible and lead to chronic pain and fatigue. Giving yourself the opportunity to release this pressure allows you to release this pressure and resume your busy life.

5. Reduce the Noise Around You

In your life as a busy professional, you’re surrounded by stimuli and stress triggers. While you may not always be able to ignore your responsibilities and quiet your brain, you can take measures to quiet the space around you. Reducing the noise includes removing yourself from a social space, disconnecting from your devices, and finding a relaxing place to just be for a while. Your quiet time may manifest as a hot bath, a long walk, or even a 30-minute nap in your car between meetings.

6. Compliment Yourself on a Job Well Done

Maybe you’re not a validation-seeker at work or at home, but you can’t deny that it feels good to hear someone say you do a good job. Because everyone gets busy, you may not hear those words as often as you’d like to. When you feel like you could use a pick-me-up, feel free to give yourself the compliment you deserve. What is something you know you did well today? Take a moment to reflect on your accomplishments, even if you’re the only one who recognizes them.

All the big-name healthcare professionals and gurus tout the importance of self-care, but not everyone realizes the time commitment that’s required. Luckily, with a bit of planning and self-awareness, you can give yourself the care you need to get on with your busy schedule and maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

We hope you found these tips for taking care of yourself as a busy professional helpful. Do you have any tips to share with your fellow travel nurses? 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:

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

By The Gypsy Nurse

March 5, 2022

2477 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Leveraging Your Career as a Travel Nurse to Live Your Life by Design


Leveraging Your Career as a Travel Nurse to Live Your Life by Design

How many careers do you know allow you to work as little as three days a week while still being able to travel essentially WHERE EVER you decide you want to live? Moving without the total commitment (or hassle) of relocating permanently. The ultimate dream. Nurses have worked EXTREMELY hard in recent years, posing some of the most challenging times our generation has seen. We will discuss the pros & cons of working as a travel nurse and why travel nursing can be used as the perfect segway to live your life by design.   Watch the video to learn about leveraging your career as a travel nurse.

About Mynoucka | mynoucka@vintagetravelingnurse.com

Ever been in a space where you felt stuck in your career? That was me in 2018. I was in my third year as a registered nurse and felt stagnant. While I loved my career, the monotony of working long hours in a hospital every day made me feel some type of way. I wanted the flexibility of traveling and making my schedule while doing what I loved. So, I decided to give travel nursing a shot.

Long story short, I loved it, lol.

I worked in two hospitals in Southern California for nine months before transferring to a hospital in the Bay Area for eight months. My time in Cali gave me the autonomy and flexibility to lean more into my nursing career. Since I wore skirts to work every day, my colleagues would always refer to me as the “classy” or “classic” nurse. This inspired the name for my blog, Vintage Traveling Nurse, which I launched in 2019 to start documenting my travel nursing journey. Being in this field has helped me gain fulfillment in my career and other areas of my life like fitness, finance, and, most importantly, self-care. While I am now in my hometown continuing my work as a bedside nurse, my time as a travel nurse has changed my life FOREVER!

Check out Mynoucka on Instagram at  vintagetravelingnurse or visit her website at vintagetravelingnurse.com

We hope you enjoyed this live event. Watch for more live events happening soon.

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 Miles Oliver

March 4, 2022

1586 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Keys to Making a Good First Impression at a New Hospital

As a traveling nurse, one of the things you have to get used to is meeting new people all the time. Forming new work relationships and following different procedures are part of the job.

While that can be exciting and motivating, it can also be a little nerve-racking. It’s normal to feel a bit anxious when stepping into a new workplace and trying to connect with co-workers, especially in a medical setting.

First impressions count. They can make or break how a fellow nurse, doctor, or other staff member sees you from the very beginning. So, when you’re working in a new hospital, making a good first impression is key.

Thankfully, it’s easier than you might think. Let’s cover a few key strategies that will start you off on the right foot, whether you’re a first-time travel nurse or you need some help fitting in at new locations.

Basic First Impression Etiquette

From your very first day on the job, your co-workers will form an impression of you. Before you speak a word, people can judge things like punctuality, the way you’re dressed, your ability to listen, and your attitude. Carrying yourself professionally and showing up with the desire to be a team player are great ways to say a lot about yourself before your first introduction.

When you finally do get to talk to a co-worker, there are a few tips that can make it easier for your first impression to be positive, including:

  • Making eye contact
  • Preparing talking pieces
  • Being mindful of body language
  • Offering a genuine smile

Those tips might seem like common knowledge, but they’re easy to forget or overlook when you’re nervous about starting a new job or meeting people. Practice them in front of a mirror, so you’re prepared and confident when it comes time to put them to use. No matter who you’re talking to or meeting, these actions matter. If someone establishes a negative first impression of you, they could mention it to someone else and “taint” another person’s view before they even get a chance to meet you.

Utilize Your Soft Skills

As a travel nurse, it’s just as important for people to develop a positive impression of your skills as it is for them to like your personality. That includes your hard skills and medical abilities, of course. But, soft skills are just as important for making the first impression. Many soft skills in the healthcare field across various positions. The best skills for medical billers and coders, for example, are very similar to the best traits a traveling nurse should have, including:

  • Strong communication
  • Active listening
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Conflict management
  • Organizational skills

You’ll stand out even more if you adopt an attitude of growth and display a willingness to learn. You can use your skills and experience to help and support other members of your staff. But, be open to learning new things, too. Not only can that openness improve your career, but it will make you more approachable and give you more knowledge to pass on to others as needed.

Finally, one of the most important skills to have is flexibility.

Traveling nurses find themselves in a variety of environments and situations every day. You have to be willing to adapt to your location and the needs of the staff and patients almost immediately. If you’re standoffish or “stubborn” about doing things a certain way, that’s going to negatively impact your work and the way others in the field perceive you.

At the end of the day, your skills as a nurse are what matter most. But, you’ll have an easier time at any hospital when you’re able to establish positive relationships with other team members. Keep these suggestions in mind to make a good first impression wherever you are, and you’ll be more likely to enjoy every minute spent in each location.

We hope you found these tips for making a good first impression at a new hospital helpful. Do you have any tips for making a good first impression to share with fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job. 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 Gifted Healthcare

March 3, 2022

1440 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

5 Renter-Friendly Tips to Spruce Up Your Travel Nursing Home

Gifted Healthcare provided this article.

With all the amazing perks that come with travel nursing, there are a few things that can make the jump a bit harder to take. One difficult task is to find housing that fits your needs, but once you do, an even more challenging task might be making your travel nursing home feel like home.  

The easiest thing you can do from the start is to bring a few of your favorite smaller, packable items with you. Pack your favorite photos of friends and family, books, and décor to add little bits of your life and personality throughout your place right away. Since you cannot pack up everything, being selective with the smaller items you love is key. Try to pick items that you would enjoy while considering space: would you rather see pictures of your friends and family throughout your home or large art?  

After setting up the décor you packed, look around your new home and decide what room and/or areas of the house could use a little sprucing up and utilize these tips and tricks.  

Lighting

The lighting of your apartment or home can dictate the entire ambiance. A place with big windows will bring natural light into your space, but if that isn’t the case for your temporary home, try adding light where you can.

Start by decorating your windows with curtains. Opening your curtains during the day allows natural light to soak in but also provides privacy when necessary. There are some temporary options for curtain rods and hooks that will not damage your rental, including adhesive Command Strips.

String lights, lamps, and pendant lights are all options to add light to your temporary space. A pendant light with a cord can easily be hung with an adhesive hook, so it hangs from your ceiling, adding style and overhead light. This will look especially chic in a corner spot. String lights also hang well with adhesive hooks and can frame a wall to brighten up your space. Try them along the wall your bed is perpendicular to for some cozy nighttime light.

Lighting can elevate the ambiance as well as the overall look of your newfound space. Try LED motion-sensor lights under your cabinets to make your kitchen feel more upscale. The motion sensors will come in handy for your early mornings or late nights when you are coming and going from shifts too.  

Organization

The organization of your home might be the easiest way to feel at ease in the new spot. When everything has a place, your space will feel put together and ready for your busy schedule. The bonus perk of this is that you can add style while organizing each room. Try to find a variety of storage items that will match your décor to create a cohesive vibe. Long narrow fabric bins for under your bed are a great option to increase your storage while hiding your clothes. Storage bins in your bathroom are perfect for products and toiletries.

When it comes to storage, shelving can be a bit trickier for a rental space, but it is definitely doable with adhesive stick options. Try to find floating shelves that come with adhesive strips or shelves that hang from strings you can hook to the wall. Shelves create storage and organization that your place might lack and could be a focal point for your décor as well. The best part is that you can pack your shelves up and bring them with you to the next place.

Color

Most rental locations tend to have white walls and neutral tones, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t add a little color to your spot. There are so many ways to add a pop throughout your place that can travel with you to each assignment.

Peel and stick wallpaper makes for a fun accent wall and a great way to add some life to your home. You can choose your color and/or pattern and placement, giving you all of the power to make your new home unique. Measure the length of your wall, cut your pieces, and carefully place the paper on your wall until you are ready to pack up and head to your next travel nursing assignment. Most peel and stick wallpapers are reusable so do a little research before you purchase to ensure you get extra use.  

If you want to spice up an entire room, try looking for an accent rug that immediately brings you joy. Rugs are a powerful way to completely change the way a room looks and feels. You can find any size, so whether it is a large rug for the living space or a smaller rug to just add a touch of color to your closet, try this out and see what you like best.

For some subtle color, pick up flowers for your kitchen table. This is a convenient way to add color, texture, and life to your home without adding any new items to your suitcase. This is also interchangeable décor that you can replace with new colors as your old flowers begin to wilt without ever having to bring them along for your next move.

Secret Renovations

When renting a place or living somewhere temporarily, you don’t have the same freedom to make long-lasting renovations you might want to, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it look like you renovated the place. If you don’t love the kitchen counters, find an adhesive paper of what you would want them to look like. You can transform your counter space to look like a slab of marble without any construction at all. The paper is easily removable with no damage, just like the peel and stick wallpaper.    

The best part about this is that you can use this hack on almost anything. Purchase peel and stick tile backsplash or floor tiles to upgrade your kitchen and bathroom. No one would know that it was only a façade, not even you. 

Clean

Sometimes just having a clean space can make all the difference. Simple things like dusting your baseboards and deep cleaning the shower can make you feel more comfortable in the new space. There are useful products for locked-in dirt like grout pens to cover any stain, spackle to fill any holes in the walls, and more.

Make it You

Although this new housing might not be forever, it is your space for your 13-week contract, and you want to feel good after a long shift walking into your home. But before trying any of these little hacks, take pictures of your new spot so that when it comes time to pack up, you know how to leave the place just as you found it. It is also important to read over your lease and see what is allowed and strictly not allowed as it is different everywhere you go. Most importantly, have fun and decorate your space to feel like you!

We hope you found these 5 Renter Friendly Tips to Spruce Up Your Travel Nursing Home helpful. Have you found ways to spruce your travel nursing home up? Comment any tips for sprucing up travel nursing homes below.

Are you looking for your next travel nursing 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 Medely

March 2, 2022

1924 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

16 Smart Apps to Help Travel Nurses Be More Organized and Connected This Year

Medely provided this article.

Add these travel nurse apps to your smartphone to help you jump into your next travel nursing assignment.

Being a travel nurse or allied professional who’s on the move can be exciting and adventurous. It can also be intimidating, hectic, and even a little lonely. Whether you’ve picked up a short travel nursing assignment or a long-term contract, moving to a new community means a lot of change.

We’ve pulled together a list of our favorite travel nurse apps—for Apple and Android smartphones—to help your next transition go more smoothly. These applications can help you:

  • Get to know your new community
  • Make new connections and stay in touch
  • Stay organized
  • Take care of yourself

Have a look!

Get to know your new community

1. Nextdoor

Download for Apple / Android

Whether you want the latest neighborhood news, a coffee shop recommendation, or a new walking buddy, Nextdoor is the app for hyperlocal information. Nearly one in three U.S. households is part of this online community, which limits your network to users within a specific geographic area defined by your home address.

Why we like it: You can’t use Nextdoor to scope out neighborhoods ahead of time, but it’s a great way to quickly get up-to-speed once you’ve landed in a new location.

2. Citymapper

Download for Apple / Android

While other apps, like Google Maps, may include transit information, Citymapper is a navigation app that’s dedicated to making your trips as simple as possible. It doesn’t just list all your route options; it also tells you which entrance/exit to use and where you may want to sit on the train. Citymapper also incorporates alternative options like scooters, bikes, and car shares.

Why we like it: Map apps don’t always give quite enough detail for public transit, particularly for complicated transit systems. We gave Citymapper a try after one adventure when the recommended route kept changing while we tried to find a particular metro station. Now we’re hooked!

3. AllTrails

Download for Apple / Android

When you’re in a new area, trying to enjoy the outdoors can become a source of stress. Where are the trails? Which ones are a good match for you? And how do you even find the trailhead? AllTrails provides recommendations based on your location, and the trails are easy to filter by activity, fitness level, and other preferences.

Why we like it: Who wants to be anxious about spending time in nature? AllTrails shows you where to go and how to get there—and you can check out photos from other travelers to see exactly what to expect.

4. OpenTable

Download for Apple / Android

There are lots of websites with reviews and ratings to help simplify your search for a fave new brunch place, but OpenTable pairs that with a reservation system so you can book plans quickly. The app includes a filter to help you find delivery options if you just don’t want to cook tonight.

Why we like it: Finding new restaurants is fun—and time-consuming, particularly if you’re trying to find a place with the space for you to meet up with a new group of friends. You’ll still have to decide where you want to go, but you can avoid the frustration of finding out the place you want is closed or booked up.

Make new connections and stay in touch

5. Meetup

Download for Apple / Android

Finding a group of friends can be a big step toward feeling settled in a new community but making friends—particularly as an adult—can be a challenge. Enter Meetup: An online community that enables people to come together in person around shared hobbies and interests.

Note: There’s a fee for organizers to create a group, so you may find that some groups are connected to a business or organization while others may request a donation to help cover expenses.

Why we like it: Launched in 2002, Meetup is one of the original social apps. That means it has a broad reach, even outside of urban centers, that newer apps don’t always have. It can take time to find someone you actually click with, but it only takes one other person to start your new social network!

6. Bumble BFF

Download for Apple / Android

Bumble—commonly known as a dating app—actually has three modes: Date, BFF, and Bizz. With Bumble BFF, you swipe through potential matches to find people who share your interests and sound fun. Then you can send a message and see whether you hit it off!

Why we like it: As a way to make friends, Bumble gets mixed reviews. But it’s good to have options—and, as we said above, one great connection can make a big difference.

7. Strava

Download for Apple / Android

While Strava is a fitness-centric app, it’s also a social network that can be a great starting point for finding sports clubs in a new community: you can search by sport, including cycling, running, surfing, and yoga.

Why we like it: Joining any kind of club can be a fun way to meet new people and Strava is a great way to find nearby groups. While groups aren’t always actively social on the app itself, you can often find public clubs on other networks with a quick search (i.e., Facebook).  

8. TouchNote

Download for Apple / Android

TouchNote uses snail mail to help you connect with friends and family who don’t live nearby. Using templates or your own photos, you can create postcards and customized gifts to send to people across the country or even around the world: TouchNote prints and posts cards from the U.K., U.S., Netherlands, and Australia—whichever is closest to the recipient.

Why we like it: Particularly when we haven’t been able to visit others in person as much as we’d like, making custom cards to send to the people we care about has been a little something that’s guaranteed to put a smile on their faces.

Stay organized

9. Encircled

Download for Apple / Android

Whether for insurance purposes or just to keep track of your stuff, Encircled makes it easy to create an inventory of your belongings.

Why we like it: Maybe you’ve mastered a minimalist and nomadic lifestyle—but if not, having an up-to-date inventory can be incredibly helpful if anything goes missing from your place or during your next move.

10. MileIQ for pros that need to track mileage

Download for Apple / Android

If you’re in a position where you need to track mileage, MileIQ has got your back: It automatically tracks your miles, then you can sort each trip as Business or Personal and get an accurate mileage report when you need it.

Why we like it: We know how frustrating it is to calculate miles after-the-fact with a calendar and mapping app—and then it’s a best guess with the hope that you haven’t forgotten anything. MileIQ means one less thing to think about.

11. Mint

Download for Apple / Android

It isn’t always easy to find the time, or the motivation, to manage your money—even when you know, it’s important. Mint connects all your bank accounts in one place so you can track cash flow, manage your budget, and stay on top of your financial goals without a lot of extra effort on your end.

Why we like it: Simplified finances. What’s not to like?

12. Todoist

Download for Apple / Android

Todoist is a task management app that helps you capture and organize everything you need to do, at work or at home. With mobile and desktop apps—including apps for smartwatches—you can carry your to-do list almost anywhere.

Why we like it: Todoist is focused on tasks, which keeps the app relatively simple, but it provides features and flexibility to organize those tasks in any way you like. And its portability makes it difficult to lose track of your to-do list. Another bonus: By learning how to use Todoist templates, you can create your moving checklist once and reuse it as needed.

Take care of yourself

14. Libby

Download for Apple / Android

If you love to read, but it’s been a while since your last trip to the local library, let Libby be your motivation: A (free!) library card can unlock Libby’s extensive (free!) library of ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines.

Note: If a library isn’t affiliated with Libby, ask what your options are for borrowing items electronically.

Why we like it: Frequent moves and extensive personal libraries don’t mix! While we love a good book shop, Libby has an extensive range of titles available, and it’s also a great way to discover interesting new reads. And did we mention it’s free?  

15. ClassPass

Download for Apple / Android

A ClassPass membership gives you credits that can be used to access thousands of facilities across the U.S. (and in a number of other countries, too). While the main focus is gyms and fitness-related activities, you can also book spa and salon appointments with participating businesses.   

Why we like it: Signing a contract with a gym often isn’t an option. We appreciate the flexibility of accessing classes wherever we happen to be—and it’s a great way to check out different gyms after a move.

16. Medely

Download for Apple / Android

Sorry, we couldn’t resist! The Medley platform is the easiest way for nurses and allied professionals to find and book your next opportunity, whether you’re looking for a local or travel nursing assignment. If you haven’t used Medely yet, sign up today to see what per diem jobs or assignments you can add to your schedule.

We hope you found this article with 16 travel nurse apps to help travel nurses be more organized and connected this year. Do you have any travel nurse apps you use or any apps you think make great travel nurse apps to help fellow travel nurses? Comment those 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.


By The Gypsy Nurse

March 1, 2022

1618 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

How to Make Exercise More Enjoyable On a Busy Schedule

As a travel nurse, it’s common to feel so bogged down with work that you neglect your physical health. Even if you have the time, other hurdles like gymtimidation, or the fear of being judged when exercising in public, can pose yet another interference to your fitness goals.

Despite your busy schedule, among other challenges, it’s important to prioritize your physical wellbeing. Keep reading to learn tips for overcoming those hurdles and making exercise a part of your routine.

Gain Confidence

If you plan to exercise in front of others (or even, at times, by yourself), insecurity and anxiety can make you feel unmotivated to get started. To prevent a lack of confidence from getting in the way of your exercise routine, try to give yourself a pep talk. 

Remind yourself that other people are focused on their own workouts and that your physical health is worth prioritizing. You deserve to take up space in the gym just as much as everybody else.

Ask for Advice

Don’t know your way around a gym? The confusion and stress can make working out feel more like a burden than self-care. 

If you’re unsure about your form or how to use certain equipment, ask a fitness trainer or floor manager for advice. You might feel scared to ask at first, but just think of how empowered you’ll feel with the new knowledge.

If asking a trainer or employee doesn’t feel right, consider turning to a friend or family member who goes to the gym regularly. Ask them for tips on how to use the equipment and how to feel more comfortable at the gym.

Find the Gym for You

When you already have a busy schedule, going to a gym you don’t like will likely be the last thing on your to-do list. Try choosing a gym with features that actually make you want to attend. You’ll want to keep the following considerations in mind:

  • Distance from work or home
  • Gym culture
  • Peak hours 
  • Business hours
  • Fitness classes

If you like the gym you’re visiting, you’ll have more of an incentive to go.

Create an At-home Workout Routine

If you don’t have time to go to the gym, try creating an at-home workout routine you love. Even without all the exercise equipment at a typical gym, you can meet your fitness goals by trying bodyweight workouts. 

Great options for at-home exercise include squats, crunches, push-ups, and more. Just be sure to use a mirror to check on your form.

Get a Workout Buddy

Working out alone can sometimes feel unmotivating and scary, especially if you’re newer to a gym. To make yourself more comfortable, bring a friend or coworker to the gym or ask them to go for a jog or hike with you. 

With someone else by your side, you can tackle your fitness goals and have a personal cheerleader encouraging you along the way.

It can be tough to make time for your physical health when you’re so busy helping others at work. However, prioritizing your own fitness doesn’t have to be impossible. By dismantling other hurdles to exercise, making regular trips to the gym will feel much more doable.

For more tips and information on overcoming hurdles to exercise, check out the infographic below, courtesy of Tommy John.

Infographic:

exercise

We hope you found these tips on how to make exercise more enjoyable on a busy schedule helpful. Do you have any tips for fellow travel nurses for making exercise more enjoyable with a busy schedule? 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 Amber Pickler

February 28, 2022

4869 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Gypsy’s Guide to Adventures in Portland, Oregon

So, you took an assignment in Portland, Oregon. What should you do on your days off? If it is the typical assignment, you will have 13 weeks to explore the town and those around it. Portland is a beautiful city. There is so much to do in the city and even outside of the city.  We have good news; we have a few fun things to do on your days off. 

Multnomah Falls

At 620 feet tall, Multnomah Falls is Portland’s tallest waterfall.  According to their website, the Falls is located just 30 miles east of downtown Portland along the Historic Columbia River Highway; the two-drop cascade attracts visitors of all types and ages, with wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms and steep hiking trails that lead to the top. Fed by rainwater and snowmelt, the falls’ steady stream runs year-round, making it a year-round attraction. The highest volume comes in winter and spring, and the waterfall sometimes freezes partially at the height of winter.

There is also a lodge on site that includes a gift shop, restaurant, espresso bar, and U.S. Forest Service interpretive center.

Portland Japanese Garden

The Portland Japanese Garden was mentioned by a few people in our Facebook group as a place you need to visit when you take an assignment in Portland.  Looking at their website, we can see why this should be on this list.  The garden is breathtaking even from the site; we can only imagine what it looks like in person.  According to their website, “The Garden sits nestled in the hills of Portland, Oregon’s iconic Washington Park, overlooking the city and providing a tranquil, urban oasis for locals and travelers alike. Designed in 1963, it encompasses 12 acres with eight different garden styles and includes an authentic Japanese Tea House, meandering streams, intimate walkways, and a spectacular view of Mt. Hood. This is a place to discard worldly thoughts and concerns and see oneself as a small but integral part of the universe.”

International Rose Garden

The International Rose Garden is a test garden.  I am sure the pictures do the park no justice, but it looks like a beautiful place to visit.  According to their website, they serve as a testing ground for new varieties of roses.  They say that more than 10,000 individual rose bushes are in bloom from late May through October.  They have over 610 varieties, and the majority of the roses grown in the garden are commercially available.  About 10 to 20 varieties of roses are replaced each year with some of the best new roses released onto the market.  According to their website, Portland’s Rose Society was established in 1888.  They have information on their site about the Portland Rose Society if you are a resident of Portland or it is your hometown and are interested in becoming a member.

They offer guided group tours; however, these are unavailable due to COVID until further notice.

Screen Door Restaurant

The Screen Door Restaurant was mentioned by quite a few members of our Facebook group.  The restaurant was started in 2006 by Nicole and David Mouton; they had lived in Portland since 2001.  They were originally from Southern Louisiana.  According to their site, “Our concept is capturing and sharing all that is quintessential in our history and experience of southern foodways layered with what we like to think of as northwest food values. This means eating local, eating fresh from the garden, being passionate about food and where it comes from. To us, this is a perfect marriage of southern comfort food decadence and valuing and honoring the rich bounty of foods produced by our local farmers here in our region. This meeting place of fried and fresh helps describe our food, but to understand us is to consider the meaning of hospitality.”

They offer brunch, dinner, and dessert menus.  Each menu offers a variety of options, most incorporating southern and Cajun cuisine.  They have something for everything, with their dinner menu offering the most options.   

Washington Park

Washington Park has a lot to offer its visitors. It houses the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden we mentioned earlier, but it offers even more. Including Oregon Zoo, Archery Range, Hoyt Arboretum, Memorials and Statues, Rose Garden Children’s Playground, Tennis Courts, and while not currently open, it also is home to the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum. 

Oregon zoo looks like it would make a great place to visit on your day off.  There is timed entry, so you must pre-purchase your tickets.  According to their website, the zoo is “home to nearly 2,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world. Discover how you can help make a better future for wildlife. See for yourself why the zoo is the #1 paid attraction in the state and learn how easy it is to help create a better future for wildlife.”

The Hoyt Arboretum is another excellent option to visit on your day off; according to their website, “Hoyt Arboretum is Portland’s museum of living trees, featuring more than 2,300 species of trees from around the world, along 12 miles of trails. Trail maps are available. Managed in partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation.”

If neither of these things piques your interest, there is sure to be something for you to do at Washington Park.  They also offer picnic areas, so you could take your lunch and have a nice quiet picnic outside and relax in the park.

We hope you found this list of things to do on your days off in Portland, Oregon, helpful.  We would love to hear if you have favorite places to visit when you take an assignment in Portland or from Portland and have suggestions. Comment them below.

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!)