November 10, 2021

4365 Views

How to Stay Calm and Content as a Travel Nurse

Posted on November 10, 2021October 28, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

Nurses have a lot of stress on their plates daily. Adding frequent travel to an already anxiety-provoking job can make it that much more stressful. As a travel nurse, you’re not in one location for very long, and you’re in some longer than others. This means you probably feel like you’re constantly learning your way around new cities and learning the ropes at different facilities. There are many great perks to being a travel nurse. However, some of the reasons that may have initially led you to this type of nursing could be the very aspects stressing you now. Here are some ways to stay calm and content as a travel nurse

Staying Calm and Content:

Make Time For Self-Care

Everyone experiences stress at times, particularly those in the helping professions. It’s essential to take some time for yourself to relax. Routinely practice de-stressing. You may even have to schedule it into your daily and weekly activities so that you’re sure to make time for it. As a nurse, it’s vital to your own health to do something you enjoy every day, even if it’s just soaking in a hot bubble bath for an hour. Making time to de-stress, especially after a particularly challenging day, will improve your mental and physical health. You need to be healthy to do your best job helping others, so be kind to yourself; it’s not selfish.

Get enough good sleep and eat healthily. Considering features like mattress thickness, you may need to invest in a more comfortable bed to get a better night’s sleep. Make sure that you’re getting a solid eight hours of sleep each night. Technology these days allows much more access than ever to your friends and family. Wherever you are in the world, you can keep in touch with your loved ones, calling or video chatting. While it’s not perfect, knowing you have supportive people at your fingertips can keep homesickness at bay.

Invest In Yourself

Spend a little extra on the things you need for your job, such as clothing and especially your shoes, since you’re going to be on your feet for long hours. You need to be comfortable while you do your job. You also need to be sure that your gear will hold up through the wear and tear of your demanding work. Be sure to invest in equipment that’s more aesthetically appealing to you, also. After all, you perform at your best when you feel good and look good.

Look For New Adventures

Working in different cities can be stressful as you’re learning where everything is and how to navigate the area. The change of environment can also be exciting. Take time to explore the region. Your co-workers and neighbors can offer ideas of things you must do while you’re in the area. Additionally, exploring can allow you opportunities to meet new local friends.

Learn Organizational Skills

Life is much easier when you can stay organized, but this is challenging for many people. When you’re moving regularly and on the go with your daily duties, being organized is essential to save your life as free from stress as possible.

Keep Yourself In a Routine

Your assignments as a travel nurse could vary widely. It can be challenging to keep yourself in a routine when you feel like you’re constantly doing something different. If you can create a pattern and stick with it, stress will be kept at a minimum. You’ll know what to expect and will feel more in control over your life. It’ll also create a sense of normalcy.

Conclusion

As a travel nurse, you are particularly susceptible to stress. It’s crucial for your mental and physical wellbeing that you take care of yourself first and foremost. You won’t be helpful to anyone if you get burned out. Find ways to make yourself comfortable in your new surroundings and be kind to yourself daily. As a travel nurse, you have a lot of responsibilities, but you also have a lot of opportunities others don’t, so enjoy them.

We hope you found these tips for staying calm and content as a travel nurse helpful. Have you found any ways to keep yourself calm as a travel nurse? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you have an assignment lined up but need housing? 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 Amber Pickler

November 9, 2021

2957 Views

Gypsy’s Guide to Adventures in Columbia, South Carolina

Posted on November 9, 2021November 15, 2021 by Amber Pickler

So, you took an assignment in Columbia, South Carolina. While the city is large, it may be difficult to find things to do on your day off. We have put together a few great places to visit while you are on your assignment in Columbia. We have also included a couple of restaurants. Below you will find just a few places to visit and things to do.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has something for everyone. If you enjoy seeing animals, the Zoo is an excellent place for you. According to their website, they are home to more than 2,000 animals that represent more than 350 species from around the world. If the Zoo isn’t your thing, you may enjoy the Garden. According to their website, the Garden blooms year-round, and more than 4,300 species of exotic and native plants bloom. This makes for a perfect living classroom for all visitors. The Garden also offers a 3-acre interactive children’s Garden if you have children traveling with you.

Cayce Riverwalk

If you are an outdoorsy person or like to be outdoors on your day off, the Cayce Riverwalk is a great option. Their website states that the Riverwalk is the ultimate “daycation” spot. It is “easily accessible from anywhere in the Midlands of South Carolina. Spanning 12 miles, it overlooks the beautiful Congaree River, right across from the capital city of Columbia, S.C., and it is a popular destination for walking, jogging, bicycling, birdwatching, picnicking, and taking in the natural beauty of the riverfront.”

The Riverwalk’s bridges, boardwalks, overlooks, and lighted, central path accommodate all levels of physical abilities. Parking is free. The paved paths are lighted and run through the shaded riverine forest. There are benches and picnic tables as well. You can also enjoy wooden boardwalks with great water views.

Folly Beach

While Folly Beach is a city that is about a 2-hour trip but is a highly recommended place to visit when you take an assignment in Columbia, Folly Beach is located between the Folly River and the Atlantic Ocean. It is just 15 minutes from Charleston, so you won’t have to go far if you want to visit a big city while you visit Folly Beach. There are many things to do in Folly Beach.

The Fishing Pier extends more than 1045 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. If you are interested in fishing, you can rent all the equipment you need from the shop on the pier. If you’re a wildlife lover, you will see loggerhead turtles nesting, dolphins playing in the water and even bald eagles soaring in the sky.

Folly Beach has many options when it comes to dining. From gourmet meals and seafood feasts to a quick sandwich, the restaurants in Folly Beach have you covered.

Folly Beach also has many local shops that offer bathing suits, souvenirs, surfboards, and gear.

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park contains over 20,000 acres of federally designated wilderness that visitors can explore by foot, kayak, or canoe. So, if you enjoy the outdoors, the Congaree National Park is a great place to visit. There are many things to do, including hiking, camping, canoeing & kayaking, fishing, and walking. Please note that you need to bring your canoe or kayak. These can be rented in shops in Columbia. If you enjoy hiking, Congaree National Park offers many trails that vary in level of difficulty from easy to difficult. If you are looking to spend the night camping at the park, make sure to make your reservations ahead of time. Reservations for the frontcountry campgrounds must be made through recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Alodia’s Cucina Italiana

Alodia’s Cucina Italiana is rated very high on Yelp. According to their website, “Alodia’s Cucina Italiana is a restaurant born from the love of an Italian family. Proprietor Adam Huneau’s first restaurant has been wowing taste buds in Irmo with his authentic Italian Cuisine comprised of recipes that have been pulled from the pages of his family’s cookbook.

Named after his Great-Grandmother, Alodia’s fare and ambiance resound with the smells and tastes of Old Italy. Fresh sauces and homemade pastas are the foundation of the menu that brought generations together. Adam is devoted to making his restaurants as inviting and warm as his own family’s kitchen.”

Their menu offers many traditional Italian dishes, from Baked Ziti to Eggplant Parmesan. They offer soups and salads as well as chicken and seafood entrees.

Cola’s Restaurant

According to Cola’s website, the restaurant is “Located in a lovingly restored 1930’s RC Cola bottling plant, Cola’s is a “casual” fine dining bar/restaurant specializing in seafood, steaks and other culinary creations influenced by a broad range of ethnic cooking. There is an emphasis on fresh ingredients and locally grown food where possible. Weather permitting, two garage doors open up the restaurant to views of the Statehouse and allow our guests to enjoy the bustle of downtown Columbia. Cola’s boasts a 40-foot long bar that houses our extensive wine selection. If preferred, try one of our house cocktails or choose a brew from our large selection of bottled beers. Cola’s has ample room to host your private functions in either of the two private dining rooms, seating up to as many as 50. Large booths adorn the main dining room, and table seating for small and large parties.”

Cola offers four different menus: dinner, dessert, and a wine list and bar menu. The dinner menu offers appetizers including oysters Rockefeller, shrimp options, and even a fondue option. The dinner menu also includes salad options, poultry, seafood, and beef options as well. Their dessert menu has quite a few different options, including cakes, brownies, cheesecake, and tortes, to name a few.

About Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia is the state capital and largest city in South Carolina, with a population of 132,000. Columbia is the primary city of the Midlands region of South Carolina. It lies at the confluence of the Saluda River and the Broad River, which merge at Columbia to form the Congaree River, which is a popular destination for paddlers and kayakers. Columbia is home to the state’s largest university, the University of South Carolina. Columbia features a revitalized downtown area, which contains many art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Rich in cultural and literary arts, Columbia offers theatre, museums, ballet, a philharmonic orchestra, jazz, opera, choral, and a circus. The city sponsors numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Lovers of the outdoors truly appreciate the many scenic parks, lakes, rivers, and creeks in this region. Golf enthusiasts welcome the warm climate, which gives them the opportunity for a year-round play on the excellent local courses!

We hope you found this list of 6 things to do in Columbia, South Carolina, helpful. We will continue to bring you articles with things to do in different cities. Is there a city you would like to see an article on things to do? Comment the city below. If you would like to contribute an article about things to do in a city, please click here to email our Content Strategist.

Are you looking for an assignment in Columbia, South Carolina? Click here to view the assignments on our job board. If you need to housing click here to search our housing page.

By Medical Edge Recruitment

November 8, 2021

3700 Views

Make Your Next Assignment Feel More Like an Adventure!

Posted on November 8, 2021February 7, 2022 by Medical Edge Recruitment

This article was provided by Medical Edge Recruitment.

Written By: Amy Stephens, Marketing Manager, Medical Edge Recruitment

Welcome to Travel Nursing, where you get to choose your own adventure with every new assignment! There are many challenges to being a travel nurse, but there are also many benefits. Travel nursing is a great way to experience our country’s diversity and find fun new activities that are unique to each assignment area. Try implementing these five things on your next assignment to make the most of your travel nurse adventure!

1. Try a new restaurant every week.

Locals often know the best places to eat and drink, so ask your co-workers for recommendations of their favorites in the area. Try new cuisines you can’t find back home or a place featured in a magazine or your favorite Food Network show. Expand your horizons with a farmer’s market, food truck, a local diner, or a street festival!

2. Visit a state park or a national landmark.

Connecting with nature is a great way to relax, especially after a challenging shift. You can search the U.S. National Park Service’s website for state and national parks or visit their National Historic Landmarks page for a list of national landmarks by state. Plot all your visits on a map of the United States to track your adventures!

3. Find out what your town/city is known for.

Everyone is known for something! Find out what your assignment city is famous for. Visit the local library, city hall, or visitor’s center to learn about the history and events that have happened there. You will likely meet locals who are passionate to share their history with you as well!

4. Explore the towns/areas around you.

You may never get another chance to explore the state you are assigned to. Do some research and explore nearby towns or attractions that you don’t want to miss. Most states have “official visitor’s center” websites that list things to do, events and festivals, and even trip ideas all around the state. Use your downtime to find a new adventure every week!

5. Keep a journal.

Journaling not only helps you capture memories but also holds you accountable and grateful. We often get too caught up in the daily grind to appreciate all the wonders around us. As a travel nurse, take the time to capture your thoughts about each assignment and the special adventures you create around you.

Not sure where your next adventure is?

Medical Edge Recruitment is the premier travel nursing recruitment agency specializing in providing top talent to clients in the healthcare industry. We connect clinical and allied providers to their ideal opportunities, focusing on building long-lasting relationships through honesty and transparency. In travel nursing, bigger does not always mean better. While we have an extensive network of job opportunities, our experienced team is dedicated to making a personalized provider experience a priority. There are a lot of moving parts in getting set up for a new assignment, but we take care of all the details along the way. Adventure awaits; let Medical Edge Recruitment show you where to go next!

Are you looking for your next travel nurse adventure? Click here to view our job board. Do you have your assignment secured but need housing? Click here to search our housing page.

By Kevin Devoto

November 5, 2021

4855 Views

5 Practical Tips to Help Traveling Nurses Sleep Better

Posted on November 5, 2021October 24, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

Working as a traveling nurse can be an exciting career. Not only do you get to meet and interact with new people all the time, but you also get to experience new places and cultures. However, one of the aspects that can be tricky to adapt to is getting a good night’s rest. With the long hours, constant traveling, and changes in time zones, it can be difficult to get quality shut-eye at night. Instead of counting sheep, try these five recommendations to help you sleep better as a traveling nurse.

1. Get a Sufficient Mineral Intake

Sufficient vitamin and internal intake are essential to fuel your body. It is also essential to get a good night’s rest. Magnesium, theanine, and calcium are all vitamins that cause your brain to produce chemicals that help you sleep. Take a daily multivitamin, and talk to your doctor to see if there are any deficiencies that you should take an extra capsule for. Adding a supplemental program to your routine, such as THRIVE by Le-Vel, can also help ensure your body is fueled properly to allow you to rest. Le-Vel Thrive reviews state the side effects include more energy, weight management, and overall health support.

2. Take Advantage of Flights

When you are stuck in an airplane for a few hours, your available activities are limited. If you pulled some long nights recently or know there are some ahead, take advantage of this time by taking a nap. Bring a pair of noise-canceling headphones to use on the plane. If you like music, put on a calming playlist. Otherwise, simply use the headphones to cancel out the background noise. Put on a sleep mask to create a dark setting. Be sure to ask the flight attendant not to wake you during the flight.

3. Use a Sleep Aid

Perhaps you struggle to fall asleep naturally or the change in time zones confuses your body. Either way, sleep aids are a fantastic option for helping you get to sleep. They are typically a capsule, gummy or dissolvable pill taken before bed. Diphenhydramine, the popular ingredient in many sleep aids, is an antihistamine that also counters insomnia.

If you want a more natural option, diffuse essential oils by your bed. There are a variety of diffusers available on the market, many in a convenient travel size. You can purchase basic oils at the store or get higher-quality brands directly from their websites. Cedarwood, lavender, and chamomile are all great oil options for helping you get shut-eye. Some companies even sell oil mixtures specifically tailored to help you sleep.

If you have a limited amount of space in your suitcase, bring an essential oil spray instead. A few spritzes on your pillowcase can help you relax and get some quality rest.

4. Turn On a White Noise Machine

Maybe you often stay at hotels when you travel, where there can be loud guests or workers in the hallways. Perhaps some calming background noise simply helps you sleep better. Either way, a white noise machine is a wonderful option for helping you sleep better. They are inexpensive, easy to travel with, and usually come with a few different sound options, such as a heartbeat, rainforest, or thunderstorm. If a basic version will do or you are trying to save on space, look for a white noise app on your phone. There should be a few options for purchase or even for free.

5. Bring Your Pillow and Blanket

Constantly traveling can leave you missing the comforts of home. Bringing some of those comforts with you can make the nights easier. If you have a favorite blanket from home, pack it and use it at night. Not all pillows are built equally, so you may find that constantly switching pillows makes it challenging to sleep. To avoid a hotel or apartment with a lousy pillow, bring yours along when you travel.

Conclusion

While getting a good night’s rest may be more difficult as a traveling nurse, taking a few proactive steps can make the process much easier. Try these tips to help you get a better night’s rest, no matter where you are staying.

We hope you found these tips for travel nurses to sleep better helpful. Do you have any tips you would like to share with fellow travel nurses to help them sleep better? Comment them below.

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

By TheraEx

November 4, 2021

5010 Views

Why We Need Travel Nurses Now More Than Ever

Posted on November 4, 2021September 27, 2021 by TheraEx

This article was provided by TheraEx Staffing.

Looking back, what happened these past two years is almost unbelievable. Who would have ever thought our lives could be flipped upside down so dramatically and so quickly. One day dropping the kids off at school, lunch with friends, or visiting grandma and grandpa was completely fine to do; the next, we were advised to stay safely at home. For some of us, we hoped it would just be a couple of weeks break, then a couple of months, and now we know not much different from our new lives of working from home or wearing masks when we leave the house. It’s been a social distancing and social media kind of world for some and working to keep our own and others head above the water for others.

All of our work changes and experiences were different.

While for some of us, we were forced to work from home, others were braising themselves to work in order for society to continue moving forward. However, for nurses, it was the beginning of the longest stretch of intensity, commitment, and exhaustion to save as many lives as possible.

Nurses and doctors were called to the frontlines immediately. They were the ones who experienced the continuous influx of sick patients, worked around the clock, and did everything within their power to save as many lives as they could. They were and continue to be our superheroes.

However, it may not be very well known, but these influxes created nursing shortages around the country. Along with bed shortages for patients, the shocking number of people needing help became tiresome and difficult to manage; therefore, hospitals were searching for extra employees to lend an extra hand. This is where travel nurses come in.

If you are unfamiliar with the position, a travel nurse seeks out jobs around the country via a travel nursing agency. These nursing positions in hospitals became available due to staff shortages for reasons like flu season, surges in seasonal periods, or unforeseen situations that may occur in hospitals (for example, coronavirus). Nurses often take on 13-week contracts (which can be renewed or passed on to find a new area to work in), work in their specialty field, enjoy bonuses, build up their resume and learn to help those of different cultures and needs.

Travel nursing is not a new job since the pandemic started, but has definitely grown since it began.

They have been a part of health care for decades and had represented an appealing side of nursing for those who wanted to mix work with a little adventure. Since the pandemic, the adventure side hasn’t 100% been able to be utilized, yet nurses have been taking this opportunity to pay off student loans or any debt that they have been currently struggling with.

As of February 2021, 50,000 travel nurses have been working around the country, and despite vaccine distributions today, the trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. It may be a curious question as to why, but what we have to remember is the virus was the front runner in hospitals. Those who had previous conditions or conditions that occurred throughout this time were put on the back burner. Whether this was justified to patients not wanting to be in hospitals while the virus was rampant or patients being sent away because there wasn’t any other option, a catch-up time frame is inevitable. This will leave hospitals in dire need of more help in order to assist those that weren’t able to be helped before. That’s a lot of help needed.

With the need for extra hands come pay surges.

While travel nurses initially received competitive salaries, now hospitals are handing over hefty paychecks to meet the need of patients. Originally, pre-pandemic, travel nurses had the potential to receive $50 an hour along with their company-paid housing and other benefits. However, now with the urgent need, salaries have jumped incredibly high. At the beginning of September 2021, Newsweek states, “The average pay for traveling nurses is now at about $3,000 to $5,000 per week, a dramatic increase from the $1,000 to $2,000 per week salary before the pandemic.” A whopping increase for those who need to jump into the deep end of hospitals in need. Yet, these numbers are the average of what you could potentially earn. While some may be prepared to pay you $3,000 – $5,000, some hospitals are ready to fork out $8,000 to aid in the high demand. It absolutely depends where you go and what hospitals require you the most.

If you are a specialty nurse, your specialties don’t go unnoticed. You, too, can jump onto the travel nurse train and utilize your skills in hospitals around the country. Whether you are a medical assistant, respiratory therapist, surgical technologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or even an emergency room nurse, you too can benefit from the perks of travel nursing while fighting the coronavirus.

Are travel nurses needed now more than ever?

Absolutely! Just because the end of the pandemic seems to be getting a little bit closer does not mean that every other illness and disease simply disappears. Nurses will be left to deal with the side effects of the coronavirus, the repercussions of patients who have had to put their health on pause, and anything new that steps into a hospital. Not to mention the pandemic was and still is, coming in full force.

We’ve all had an unimaginable couple of years throughout this pandemic. For nurses, it has been a rollercoaster that has had an infinite number of loops. With the help that is needed in hospitals and around the country, there is no better time than now to take the leap and get into the travel nursing industry. Along with great pay and the experience you can gain by working in different hospital settings, you are helping hospitals handle the constant arrival of new and sick patients. We hope the pandemic is over soon, but for now, travel nurses can come to the rescue.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Need housing for your assignment? Click here to view 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 Host Healthcare

November 3, 2021

8971 Views

In-Depth Insight: Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a PACU Nurse

Posted on November 3, 2021December 19, 2023 by Host Healthcare

This article was provided by Host Healthcare.

Looking to switch careers or plan a nursing specialty and wondering which unit is better? If your talents include a great deal of empathy and an eagle-eyed level of detail and focus, then PACU nursing might be a great fit for you.

PACU, or post-anesthesia care unit, nursing is a unique position that requires close monitoring and care of critical patients who have just completed surgery or other procedures involving anesthesia.

Also known as recovery or perianesthesia nurses, PACU nurses must observe patients during critical stages of care, assist patients during the physical and emotional recovery process, and communicate with surgeons or doctors if medical intervention is needed.

What Do PACU Nurses Do?

The responsibilities of a PACU nurse can differ from day to day depending on patient intake and surgery schedules. However, most often the daily duties of a PACU nurse include:

Being assigned to 1 to 2 patients at a time
Monitoring patients’ vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse rate)
Changing dressings or bandages
Administering antibiotics, pain treatment, or other medications
Helping patients understand where they are and what is occurring
Communicating progress and patient needs to the family and care team

For patients, recovering from anesthesia, the process often involves fluctuating emotions and confusion in addition to feelings of pain and nausea. Patients may not recall what is happening or why they are in the hospital.

As the anesthesia wears off, they may begin to experience the pain of the surgery or procedure they’ve just undergone, and panic at not knowing why they’re hurting or being able to communicate it clearly.

An effective PACU nurse can stay calm and understanding under these circumstances to communicate with patients and make them feel comfortable, even when patients are experiencing intense mood swings or not responding to logic.

What Are Traits Successful PACU Nurses?

Oftentimes PACU nurses must have a preference for variety and be effective communicators. Additionally, to work as a PACU RN, you need:

Advanced clinical skills – This includes Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.

Detail orientation and organizational skills – PACU nurses must facilitate close monitoring of patient vitals and adhere to delicately timed medication and recovery plans.

Empathy and compassion – One of the most important roles of a PACU nurse is to understand patient needs when they are unable to communicate effectively, help patients stay calm following procedures, and connect with family members to inform them of their loved one’s progress.

Critical thinking and decision-making – Nurses must respond to changes in their patient’s health and administer variable treatment for patients with a limited ability to communicate. As such, PACU nurses must be able to troubleshoot and problem solve at the drop of a hat.

How Do You Become a PACU Nurse?

PACU nursing is a specialty open to registered nurses (RNs). To become a PACU nurse, you must complete:

Associates’ or Bachelor’s Degree – Completing studies for an Associates’ degree in nursing or a Bachelor’s degree is needed to be a PACU nurse. When embarking on becoming a PACU nurse, select a perianesthesia concentration or opt for courses in anesthesia-related care, if available.

RN exam – Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

RN licensing – Meet state licensure requirements to become an RN.

RN experience – Gain general experience working as a registered nurse.

While a licensed RN with post-anesthesia care education is qualified to apply for PACU positions, most RNs have broader job experience prior to PACU nursing. Along with critical care nursing, you can increase your wages and the likelihood of being hired with certification courses.

This involves applying with the American Board of Perianesthesia Nursing Certification after completing a minimum of 1,800 hours of relevant experience for either a:

Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN)
Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA)

Your certification must be renewed every three years. This involves either retaking the exam or completing a combination of activities such as continuing education, teaching, authorship, and leadership.

Do PACU Nurses Make More Money?

So, why PACU nursing? Specialization pays off! The national average salary for current PACU RN job openings is $92,397, compared to a $70,335 average for RNs.

Plus, there are additional factors that can increase your income as a PACU nurse, including:

Travel nursing – PACU nurses earn $124,195 per year on average in the U.S. based on current travel PACU nurse job openings.

Location – As with most careers, earnings fluctuate based on both state and county. Currently, the highest wages for PACU nursing are found in California, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Education – While the percentage of PACU RNs with associate and bachelor degrees is fairly similar, the average wage for those with BSNs is $8,712 higher than those with ADNs.

Nursing is a reliable career path with 7% projected growth from 2019 to 2029. Additionally, the need for PACU RNs with specialized experience will remain in high demand.

Are You Ready to Become a PACU Nurse?

PACU nursing requires compassion, advanced nursing expertise, and great communication skills to care for patients at their most vulnerable. While the day-to-day responsibilities of a PACU nurse are intricate, the rewards can be high—PACU nursing opens the door to honing your skills as a caretaker and provides you with an opportunity to fully engage in a vital patient care role.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to provide care and see the country, while also finding the best-paying jobs to increase your earnings, take a look at the travel PACU nurse jobs available through Host Healthcare, our partner here at Gypsy Nurse.

As the top-ranked travel nursing agency in the country, Host Healthcare takes a personalized approach to partner travelers with best-match locations and positions. Visit their website or talk to a recruiter today at (844) 812-6757.

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!)

Sources:

“FAQ – CPAN® and CAPA® Recertification.” ABPANC, 2 Mar. 2021, https://www.cpancapa.org/recertify/faq/.

“$75k-$119K Pacu RN Jobs (Now Hiring) | ZipRecruiter.” ZipRecruiter, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/PACU-RN.

“Registered Nurse in Pacu Demographics and Statistics [2021]: Number of Registered Nurse in Pacus in the US.” Registered Nurse In Pacu Demographics and Statistics [2021]: Number Of Registered Nurse In Pacus In The US, 9 Sept. 2021, https://www.zippia.com/registered-nurse-in-pacu-jobs/demographics/.

“Registered Nurses : Occupational Outlook Handbook.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 8 Sept. 2021, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm.

By Lirika Hart

November 2, 2021

4912 Views

Take Control of Your Life: Physical Activities That Improve Your Health

Posted on November 2, 2021October 23, 2021 by Lirika Hart

Most people concentrate on one sort of exercise or activity and believe that this is sufficient. It’s crucial to obtain all four forms of exercise for endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Each one has its own set of advantages. Doing one type can help you enhance your ability to do the others, and variety can help you avoid boredom and injury. You can choose activities that suit your fitness level and needs regardless of your age.

Physical activity or exercise can help you stay in better shape and lower your chance of acquiring diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. If you want to know the best exercises to include in your daily routine, have a look at the blog.

Swimming

Swimming is known as the best workout. Water’s buoyancy supports your body and relieves pressure on aching joints, allowing you to move more smoothly. “Swimming is helpful for people with arthritis since it requires less weight-bearing,” says one expert. Swimming has been shown to improve your mental state and put you in a better mood in studies. Another alternative is water aerobics. These classes can help you lose weight and tone up.

Aerobics

Brisk walking, riding, swimming, and mowing the lawn are examples of moderate aerobic activity. Running, heavy yard work and aerobic dancing are examples of vigorous aerobic exercise. Weight machines, your own body weight, heavy bags, resistance tubing or resistance paddles in the water, or hobbies like rock climbing can all be used for strength training. If you want to lose weight, achieve specific fitness goals, or reap additional advantages, you may need to increase your moderate aerobic activity.

Workout Exercise

Health professionals and researchers recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days to maintain health and reduce your risk of health problems. Also, there is a necessary need to use the right workout equipment to perform these exercises well and enrich your exercising experience.

Using only your body weight, when done correctly, can give you a run for your money. So, whether you don’t like going to the gym or you’re short on time, clear some space in your living room and get ready to sweat.

Walking

Walking is a simple but powerful activity. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower your cholesterol, strengthen your bones, control your blood pressure, enhance your mood, and reduce your risk of various ailments. Walking and other physical activities have been demonstrated in a number of studies to improve cognition and prevent age-related memory loss.

All you need are a pair of shoes that are well-fitting and supportive. Begin by walking for ten to fifteen minutes at a time. You can gradually increase the length and speed of your walks until you’re walking for 30 to 60 minutes most days of the week.

Martial Arts

This Chinese martial art, which incorporates both movement and relaxation, is beneficial to both the body and the psyche. It’s even been dubbed “meditation in action.” Tai chi consists of a series of beautiful movements that flow seamlessly into one another. Tai chi is accessible and helpful to people of all ages and physical levels since classes are offered at various levels. ” It’s especially beneficial for seniors because balance is a crucial component of health and something we lose as we age.

Rope Skipping

According to many studies, practicing skipping for 45 minutes can burn up to 450 calories. It targets the shoulders, calves, glutes, and quadriceps muscles. Hold the jump rope handles securely with your feet shoulder-width apart. Swing the rope around your head and jump as the rope approaches your front feet. It may take a little practice to get going at a faster pace, but consistent practice will help.

Burpees

Burpees are a full-body workout that improves blood flow, heart rate, strength, and flexibility. Get into a squat stance by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. To get into a plank position, bend forward and place your hands in front of your feet while stretching your feet behind you. Return to a squat and jump as soon as possible. It is recommended to do three to five rounds every day.

Conclusion

So, all these exercises are appropriate for everyone to include in their daily routine. It’s simple to compile a list of aerobics exercises to practice at home for the short term, but if you want long-term changes, you can try these exercises by using the right equipment as well.

We hope you found this article on physical activities that improve your health helpful. Do you have any exercises you do to maintain a healthy lifestyle as a travel nurse? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have an assignment but need housing? 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

November 1, 2021

4138 Views

How Travel Nurses Can Get In Their Daily Vitamins

Posted on November 1, 2021October 28, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

Life as a travel nurse moves quickly. You’re constantly traveling to new places, and life can feel hectic. This means that sometimes the most important health practices are neglected. When health is put in second place, illnesses and injuries often occur that require time off to recuperate. Because your profession revolves around you being present and alert to help others, your health is also important to maintain. With this being said, getting in your daily vitamins is a great way to maintain your energy, ward off illnesses, and to keep your body strong.

Why You Need Vitamin D

Vitamin D keeps bones and teeth healthy by making sure enough phosphorus and calcium are absorbed. It is also important for adults, especially those with intense jobs such as working in the health industry. Dental problems and broken bones can take a lot of time away from helping others. In addition, vitamin D protects the immune system. This is important for everyone, especially during flu season, but it is especially important for those who are regularly around sick people.

Why You Might Be Missing It

Ever since the widespread use of sunscreen, many people are vitamin D deficient. This may seem like a strange connection. However, the reasoning is that humans manufacture their own vitamin D but need the sun to do it. When sunlight hits your skin, a chemical process begins that results in vitamin D production. This will not happen when sunscreen blocks the natural UV rays. Vitamin D is often one of the neglected nutrients, but that can easily be remedied. If you are wondering how to increase vitamin D levels quickly, there are a number of ways to accomplish it.

The Easiest Way to Get Enough Vitamin D

Many are afraid to be in the sun for even a few minutes, but in reality, all it takes to provide yourself with a sufficient amount of this nutrient is to spend up to half an hour in the sun at least twice a week without sunscreen. After half an hour, you should have produced enough and can then apply protection to avoid sunburn. This is the quickest and easiest method to increase vitamin D levels. Obviously, it is also the cheapest. This is why vitamin D is often referred to as “the sunshine vitamin.” If this is not possible for some reason, or if you live in a northern climate where sunlight is scarce in winter, a UV lamp can have a similar effect. These lamps are also good for those who tend to suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Other Ways to Get Vitamin D

If sunlight is not a good option for you, there are other sources of vitamin D. In generations past; people would often keep a bottle of cod liver oil in their refrigerators and have a spoonful of it every morning during fall and winter. It’s true that most of them stayed healthy through flu season but tasting oil that came from a fish’s liver first thing in the morning is not the most pleasant way to start the day. Thankfully, this oil now comes in capsule form. Choose a “burpless” formula, or you may end up tasting that oil throughout the day. You can also regularly eat certain foods to replenish your vitamin D supplies. These foods include mushrooms, cold-water fish like tuna, and eggs, including the yolks. There are also some common foods supplemented with vitamin D such as milk.

Conclusion

Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients for humans and one of the easiest to obtain. Try taking a break to sit outside on the next sunny day or if you happen to travel to a warm climate as a travel nurse. Not only will you be making your own vitamin D, but you will also be less stressed when you return to your responsibilities.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have an assignment but haven’t secured housing yet? 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 Annie Rueb

October 27, 2021

4778 Views

Learning by Default: Homeschooling on the Road

Posted on October 27, 2021October 23, 2021 by Annie Rueb

We are huge believers that kids enhance your life and travel dreams instead of hindering you or holding you back.

Learning by Default: Homeschooling on the Road

When I was pregnant, we backpacked in Europe and hiked mountains in Arizona. When our girls were infants, we took them tent camping, hiking, and exploring every chance we got. They grew up going on adventures anytime we had a day off.

When we decided to do travel nursing, we knew they would adapt well to the continuation of their current lifestyle. That wasn’t the scary part. What intimidated us was the immense responsibility of educating them along the way.

We are both nurses but decided that I would homeschool the girls while their Dad took nursing contracts. This would bring an element of consistency to our lives that we could all rely on. I’m a nurse, I love kids, but I am not a teacher. I have incredible respect for teachers and all that they do, and that respect continues to grow on a daily basis.

Learning by default

As we continue to navigate this part of our lives, we have begun to understand that as we travel, our kids are learning by default.

They are learning to be kind and to have the confidence to make a friend and try new things.

They are learning to love the Earth and growing a deep drive to protect it.

They are learning about geography and weather as we travel from state to state, from coast to coast, and from deserts to rain forests.

They are learning about different cultures, people, and foods in various parts of the United States.

They are National Park experts and thrive in natural environments. They are great at spotting animals and learning about each one as we go.

They are learning so much about history.

They hike in indigenous lands and on trails where battles once took place. They see the changes made by civil rights activists and have witnessed current fights for equality and conservation. They’ve walked where Benjamin Franklin has walked. They’ve been inside the Statue of Liberty and seen the immigration process on Ellis Island. They’ve seen the lava path that Mt. St Helens created when it erupted. The list goes on.

School is all around us. So, by default, they are learning.

I know these experiences are more important than anything I teach them. But I still want to teach them. I want them to be confident readers and writers, understand math and push for more answers in science.

So, we homeschool. After doing this for almost two years, I finally feel a tiny bit more comfortable. We are in a rhythm and have found a 2nd and 4th-grade curriculum that is challenging, interactive, and fun for all of us. I teach them while their Dad is on shift. We typically have school days 3-4 days a week for 4-6 hours per day, depending on the week. We follow a secular-based structured curriculum, and I have the ability to speed things up and slow things down based on their needs. We do a lot of reading and listen to audiobooks throughout the day. And luckily, we live in campgrounds, so going outside to play between subjects is super easy.

They socialize all the time.

They interact with kids that we meet everywhere we go. They have learned to seize the moment and make a friend when they have the chance. They stay in touch with their friends from home and new friends they have found along the way. They write letters and make phone calls and hang on to the hope that our paths will cross again. These friends are all of different ages and backgrounds and might have completely different interests. But that’s the beauty of it. They find common ground and enjoy the time they have together.

Despite all of this, I doubt myself constantly. Teaching them is not easy. I can’t even pretend that it is. I hold the weight of the world on my shoulders when it comes to their education. I’m always worried that they will be behind in writing or that I’m not teaching them division correctly. I worry they are missing out on something. Maybe it is impossible to avoid this kind of doubt.

I am their mother, their teacher, their playmate, their activity planner… I am so many roles to them that sometimes it’s hard for me to switch back and forth. And wow, do I need a break sometimes!! But let me tell you how hard it is to snag some alone time in a motorhome…

That is when I cling to the fact that I know they are also learning by default. I remind myself that they are growing all the time and absorbing so much of the world around them.

They are learning to be the globally minded, kind, and adventurous humans that we only hoped and dreamed for them to be.

So for anyone out there considering travel nursing with kids, do it! Even if the homeschool part is scary. Remember that they learn so much by default, and you can have fun with some basic homeschool as you go.

And as a bonus, they will teach you more than you could ever imagine.

We hope you found this article from Annie and her family on homeschooling on the road helpful. Are you a travel nurse family that homeschools? How do you make it work? 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. Have the assignment but need to find housing? Click here to search our housing page.

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

START HERE

Staying Calm and Content:

Make Time For Self-Care

Invest In Yourself

Look For New Adventures

Learn Organizational Skills

Keep Yourself In a Routine

Conclusion

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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1. Try a new restaurant every week.

2. Visit a state park or a national landmark.

3. Find out what your town/city is known for.

4. Explore the towns/areas around you.

5. Keep a journal.

Not sure where your next adventure is?

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1. Get a Sufficient Mineral Intake

2. Take Advantage of Flights

3. Use a Sleep Aid

4. Turn On a White Noise Machine

5. Bring Your Pillow and Blanket

Conclusion

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All of our work changes and experiences were different.

Travel nursing is not a new job since the pandemic started, but has definitely grown since it began.

With the need for extra hands come pay surges.

Are travel nurses needed now more than ever?

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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