By trustaff

March 6, 2024

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Mobile Tech: Changing the Game for Travel Nurses 

Trustaff provided this article.

The way travel nurses find and manage jobs is getting a significant upgrade thanks to mobile apps. These days, instead of dealing with piles of paperwork and waiting days for a response, nurses can tap an app to search for jobs, apply, and even chat directly with potential employers. This shift to mobile is all about making things faster, easier, and more personalized for nurses on the go. 

mobile apps

Why Mobile Apps Are a Big Deal for Nurses 

Travel nurses are constantly moving, so it makes sense that they need job tools that move with them. Mobile apps fit perfectly into their lifestyle, letting them look for new jobs no matter where they are. And it’s not just about convenience; it’s also about getting noticed faster. With mobile apps, job posts, and updates happen in real-time, so nurses can apply as soon as they see a job they like, speeding up the process. 

Statistics show this approach is working. Apps are becoming more popular every year, with more people downloading and using them for all sorts of things, including job hunting. Mobile apps are way ahead when it comes to getting people to read messages and notifications. They have a 22% open rate for messages, much better than the 5% open rate for traditional phone push notifications. 

Making Job Hunting Personal 

One of the most incredible things about using apps for job hunting is how they can match you with jobs that fit exactly what you’re looking for. These apps use innovative tech to determine your skills, preferences, and availability and then show you jobs that match. This means you’re more likely to find a job that’s a good fit for your career and your life. 

All the Info You Need, Right in Your Hand 

Another big plus of mobile tech is how it gives nurses all the information they need to make intelligent decisions. Through an app, you can learn about different employers, what a job will be like, and even get a feel for a new city or hospital, helping you go into a new job feeling prepared and confident. 

mobile apps

As the healthcare world keeps changing, mobile apps are becoming more important for travel nurses looking to manage their careers efficiently. This move towards mobile isn’t just a convenience; it’s transforming the future of travel nursing, making it easier for nurses to do the work they love wherever they’re needed most. 

For those looking to stay ahead in this dynamic field, exploring the latest mobile solutions can make a significant difference. A prime example is the Ingenovis Health Mobile App, which offers a streamlined, user-friendly platform for travel nurses to find, apply and manage their job placements efficiently.  

By integrating such tools into their job search strategy, nurses can ensure they’re meeting the demands of today’s healthcare landscape and are poised for success in the rapidly evolving world of travel nursing. 

We hope you found this article on how mobile apps are changing the game for travel nurses. We want to hear from you! What mobile apps do you use on a daily basis as a travel nurse? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel healthcare assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Miles Oliver

March 2, 2024

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Adapting to Different Healthcare Settings: Challenges and Solutions for Traveling Nurses

As a traveling nurse, one of the primary skills you should possess is the power of adaptability. Since you constantly move from place to place, you must quickly adjust to the new environment and different healthcare settings.

When visiting a new hospital or clinic, in addition to learning where everything is located, you also need to learn the protocols and how the team works at that new location. While there will likely be a learning curve, if you have a plan to hit the ground running, you have a better chance of success.

To better equip you for the future, here are some challenges to expect and solutions to implement as you adjust to new work environments.

Adapting to Different Healthcare Settings:

healthcare settings

Fitting In With Your New Staff in Different Healthcare Settings

The first of many things you’ll likely want to do when going into a different healthcare setting is to meet the medical staff that will be your team during this assignment. The trick here is to be open and approachable. To succeed, you must work together, so you must be able to communicate.

Don’t forget to ask all the questions you can so you’re informed and prepared to act at a moment’s notice. On the flip side, know when it’s time to listen so you can hear all of the finer details. Don’t assume you know how it’s done at this new place. Listen to instructions, and you’ll be fine.

Since your new coworkers will likely be busy throughout the day, and it may be hard to track someone down when you need them, ask if one of the supervisors can act as a mentor. Find someone willing to provide guidance and show you the ropes, and you’ll get on the right path. To retain the information you learn, write notes. Then, take them with you and refer to them when necessary.

Helping Your New Patients

You’ll also want to get used to speaking to and helping the new patient population, especially if they speak a different language. This is one of the reasons why expanding your language skills is a critical cultural competency in healthcare.

There are many advantages to being bilingual in healthcare. One of them is that the world is becoming more diverse, and patients speak more languages than ever, so you will be in greater demand. As far as the job goes, when you can speak the patient’s native tongue, you can be certain that you’re getting all the details and providing quality care. The ability to read in more than one language may also be helpful as a secondary form of communication.

Even if there isn’t a language barrier, there may be a learning curve when it comes to patients you’ve never worked with before, especially if you’re trying to convey new information. Each patient will have their own learning style. Some would like to hear you verbally provide guidance. Others will want to read their prescription and instructions. The best thing to do is ask the patients how they prefer to communicate and go with it.

healthcare settings

Learning New Protocols in Different Healthcare Settings

Perhaps most importantly, you’ll also need to learn the protocols and procedures that may differ from where you’ve been before. Try to understand as much as you can early on. The hospital may even have reference cards that you can study during breaks.

Start by learning the basic procedures in this new setting. Ask about their charting system and how to navigate tablets and electronic devices so you can find the data you need without confusion. Also, ask about the crash carts and the necessary codes you need to know. You’ll also want to learn about your specific schedule and how your day-to-day routine should be. Ask who creates the schedules if you need to call out for an emergency.

It’s also essential to learn about the health and safety requirements in your new hospital, including the exit plan in the case of an emergency and the personal protection equipment you should have on you at all times.

Finally, pay special attention to the biohazard waste disposal guidelines at the new location. The guidelines include segregating each form of waste and not throwing biohazard waste into regular trash receptacles. The containers must also be puncture-resistant and properly labeled. Everyone must be trained on how to move and handle the containers. Each hospital may manage these waste requirements differently, so ask good questions to keep yourself and the patients safe.

Conclusion

There are many considerations you’ll want to keep in mind as you travel from one healthcare facility to another, and proper preparation is a must. If you can, call or visit the hospital in advance so you’re not going in completely uninformed. When in doubt, ask questions and do your best to make a nice addition to the team.

We hope you found this article on adapting to different healthcare settings helpful. How do you adapt to different healthcare settings? Comment your tips for fellow travelers below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Vibra Travels

February 28, 2024

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Staying Active and Connected During Your Travel Assignment

Vibra Travels provided this article.

Being away from home as a travel nurse can be difficult. You may find yourself not taking care of yourself and feeling disconnected. We have put together some tips and advice to help you stay active and connected while on your travel assignment. 

Ways to stay active and connected during your travel assignment:

active and connected

Stay connected! Being away from home can be challenging. While on assignment, don’t forget to take care of yourself, too! 

Try purposefully carving out time to stay connected and make new connections. Here are just a few ideas for inspiration:

Ways to Stay Connected:

1. Join a local group:

Check out opportunities available in the city you’re working in. This is a great way to meet new people who share your interests and have fun in your free time.

2. Social media:

Connect with other travel nurses and healthcare professionals through social media groups and pages. Facebook and LinkedIn have groups specifically for travel nurses, which can help you connect with other professionals in the industry. Don’t be afraid to reach out to fellow travel nurses in the area to form a support network!

3. Volunteer:

Volunteering can help you feel more connected to a community and meet new people.

4. Stay in touch:

Even though you may be far from home, staying in touch with family and friends can help you feel connected and supported. Schedule regular phone calls, video chats, and check-ins.

5. Take advantage of travel:

Explore your new area, try new things, and connect with new people. People love to share what’s great about their cities—ask for some recommendations from the local team to get started!

active and connected

While staying connected, be sure to take some time for yourself. It’s the perfect time to rejuvenate your health and well-being! Here are some simple tips to help you make the most of the season and prioritize your health while on assignment.

Ways to Stay Active:

1.      🚲 Explore Active Springtime Opportunities:

Spring opens doors to various outdoor activities, even during your travels. Research your destination to discover local parks, walking trails, or bike-sharing services. Take advantage and explore the surroundings!

2.      🍓 Savor the Seasonal Bounty:

Seek out some farmer’s markets or restaurants that feature seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. Embrace the opportunity to savor the unique tastes of spring wherever your travels have taken you.

3.      💧 Hydration for Wellness on the Go:

Staying hydrated is crucial, as you know! Adequate hydration supports your energy levels, digestion, and overall vitality—don’t forget to care for yourself, too!

4.      💭 Cultivate Mindful Moments:

Take time to nurture your mental well-being. Engage in mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, or meditation to center yourself and reduce stress. Immerse yourself in the beauty of spring wherever you are, and allow yourself the opportunity to find times for tranquility.

5.      💤 Optimize Rest and Recovery:

Quality sleep is vital, particularly while adjusting to a new place and routine. Create a restful environment in your space by adjusting the lighting, temperature, and noise levels to suit your preferences.

We hope you can seize all the opportunities you have while traveling for outdoor activities, savoring seasonal foods, and optimizing your own well-being this spring season!

While this is just a short list of ways to help you stay active and connected while on your travel assignment, we hope that it gives you some ideas and inspires you to find ways to stay active and connected. Do you have any tips for other travelers to stay active and connected while on assignment? Comment your tips below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your housing search.

By Medical Solutions

February 24, 2024

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Travel Nurse Facts You Need for 2024

Medical Solutions provided this article.

Whether you’re just now venturing into the lucrative adventure of travel nursing or are an experienced travel nurse deciding whether to continue, you may wonder where your career can take you in 2024. The good news is that the demand for travel nurses continues to soar, presenting exciting opportunities for travelers seeking new experiences, professional growth, and higher compensation. We’re eager to share some of the top reasons why this year is the perfect time to become a travel nurse and what high-demand states you’ll want to watch!

travel nurse

High Paying Job Opportunities

Travel nursing salaries are undeniably lucrative, influenced by factors like assignment location, specialty, and willingness to work various shifts, often exceeding permanent staff pay. Particularly lucrative are roles in oncology, NICU, pediatrics, cardiac nursing, and CRNAs, which are high-demand specialties. Rural locations, especially in states like California, Alaska, Connecticut, and New York, offer higher pay, with travel nurses typically earning $2,500 – $3,000 weekly.

Professional Development

Being a travel nurse offers you a unique opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, be it a large urban hospital or a small rural clinic. By working with the right agency that will provide continuing training and educational opportunities, this job and patient diversity enables you to expand your skills, gain valuable experience, and enhance your resume. If your goal is to choose a specialty and someday possibly a perm staff role, this also gives you a chance to be exposed to those specialties in the different clinics and facilities you will work in.

Flexibility and Freedom

travel nurse

2024 has presented a lot of amazing new location options for travel nurse jobs. Every travel nurse is looking for something different, and you’re likely no different! If you’d like to spread your wings and see what’s out there, you may consider trying a state you’ve never considered before, like Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, or Nebraska. These states are among those in the highest demand for travel nurses in 2024, in addition to California, Massachusetts, Texas, and New Jersey.

Networking and Professional Connections

Travel nursing provides you with the opportunity to meet and work with healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds. Building these connections can help you meet your professional goals and open doors to future career opportunities by expanding your professional network in 2024 and beyond. Professional networking also exposes travel nurses to different healthcare approaches, techniques, and perspectives, which can enrich your own approach to care.

Fulfill Critical Patient Needs

By alleviating staffing shortages in high-demand healthcare facilities, you can help ensure that their patient base receives timely and quality care. Travelers help maintain continuity of care, particularly in regions experiencing severe staffing shortages. You can directly impact patient outcomes while supporting and uplifting the healthcare professionals working as core staff that you’ll be working alongside. As a traveler, you play a crucial role in meeting patient needs and supporting healthcare teams wherever travel takes you.

Is Travel Nursing Right for Me?

While travel nursing can be a lucrative career, you have to do what’s best for you! Make sure you weigh the pros and cons against your lifestyle and learn all you need to know about travel nursing to help make an informed decision.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By LeaderStat

February 22, 2024

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Make Traveling With Your Dog Paw-Friendly With These Apps!

LeaderStat provided this article.

Hey there, pet lovers! Did you know that there are about 63 million dog-owning households in the US alone? That’s a whole lot of wagging tails! Whether you’re hitting the road for a travel nursing gig or planning a cross-country adventure, it’s important to know what’s out there for your furry friend.

Here are some apps that’ll help you sniff out all the best spots for your furry friend:

furry friend

1. BarkHappy

Available on iOS and Android, it is like your dog’s personal tour guide. It will lead you to dog-friendly places like parks, restaurants, and hotels. Plus, you can arrange playdates with other pups in your area and maybe even treat yourselves to a puppuccino from Starbucks afterward!

2. BringFido

BringFido has nearly 20,000 reviews on iOS. This app is the ultimate resource for pet-friendly places. From hotels to parks to beaches, this app has got you covered. You can even filter your search to find accommodations that welcome large dogs or multiple pooches. And hey, some hotels won’t even charge you extra for bringing your furry friend along! BringFido is available on iOS and Android.

3. Rover

furry friend

Hold on to your tails, folks! This app is a real crowd-pleaser! Between users on iOS and Android, Rover has nearly 300,000 reviews! The average rating on this app on iOS is 4.9 stars – a true showstopper. It is rated the #1 pet-sitting and dog-walking app. It’s your go-to for pet sitting and dog walking services. They’ve got everything from doggy daycare to overnight boarding, all provided by vetted professionals. You can even get real-time photo updates of your pet while you’re away. It’s like having a personal pet concierge!

4. Paw Parks

Need to let your pup stretch their legs? Paw Parks helps you find dog parks nearby, and you can even add new ones to the map! Available on iOS, this app is perfect for making the most of your adventures with your furry friend.

Now, let’s talk about you, the pet parent. Just like you’re prepared for medical emergencies with humans, it’s important to be ready for anything with your pet too. The Red Cross offers a Cat and Dog First Aid course for just $25. In this 30-minute course, you’ll learn all about vital signs, what to do in emergencies like choking or seizures, and tips for preventative care.

The American Red Cross also offers a free Pet First Aid app. Loaded with information you can keep at your fingertips, such as first aid, general health issues, and CPR demonstration videos, this app is a must-have for all pet owners!

Pets are family. So, before you head out on your next travel assignment or a vacation with your tail-wagger in tow, make sure to download at least one of the apps above so they can meet new furry faces in faraway places.

We hope you enjoyed this article on apps to make traveling with your furry friend easier. Do you use any apps when traveling with your furry friend? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

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 RNnetwork

February 21, 2024

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4 Ways Travel Nursing Can Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals More Quickly

RNnetwork provided this article.

Many nurses say one of the primary reasons they start travel nursing is to achieve their financial goals faster than they could in a permanent position. One of the main reasons telemetry/PCU nurse Scott Carpenter started traveling with RNnetwork was because he had a lot of bills he wanted to pay off. “My salary pretty much doubled when I started travel nursing,” Carpenter says. Now, after hitting those financial goals, he’s working on putting money away for retirement.

But it’s not just about higher pay.

Financial Goals

Here are four strategies that travel nurses have used to meet their financial goals more quickly.

1. Pick up extra shifts

When he started nursing, Kyle Chadwick, a trauma/ICU nurse, had a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky Medical Center but still made only about $23 an hour. He says it wasn’t enough to support him, so after a year and a half in a staff position, he started travel nursing to boost his pay.

Chadwick’s advice to make even more money is to take on extra shifts — just like with a full-time permanent position — and then work back-to-back assignments.

“Just like you would as a staff nurse, add in an extra shift here and there and stack your assignments one after another without much time off between them,” he says.

2. Be open to a variety of assignments

Home health nurse Chloe Callicoat turned to travel nursing after 13 years in a permanent position because she wanted to travel and get paid to do it.

“The key to increasing income as a travel nurse is to be willing to fill in anywhere,” she says. For her, that means doing any kind of home health for any patient. Because of this, she says she has doubled her income.

Financial Goals

“It’s a huge difference,” Callicoat says. “I make every week now what I used to make every two weeks.” 

3. Consider RV living instead of renting 

ICU nurse Gabriel Rios started travel nursing at the beginning of the pandemic and says the key to saving more money is to “play the system.” For instance, he says some travel nurses buy a small RV and camp out. “You’re not just throwing money away on a hotel or an apartment.” 

This is a tip that most travel nurses don’t employ, but it might be an option that works for you. Other ways to pocket more money include taking an assignment where you have family and staying with them or working on an assignment where you can rent a room from a friend.

4. Take advantage of all possible reimbursements

In addition to the higher pay, a travel nurse’s total compensation can include non-taxable reimbursements for things like housing, meals, incidental expenses (per diems), and travel to and from assignments, depending on the assignment. These can all help you achieve your financial goals sooner and offer additional ways to save money.

“First, you have to sit down, do the numbers, and see if travel nursing is worth it,” Rios says. “Then you can work out different ways to increase your pay from there,” he says. “That’s how you save more money faster.”

RNnetwork can help you find your next travel nursing job. Call us at 800.866.0407 or view today’s travel nurse job openings.

We hope you enjoyed this article on strategies that travel nurses have used to meet their financial goals more quickly. Do you have any strategies for meeting your financial goals more quickly as a travel nurse? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

February 18, 2024

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The Best Educational Resources for Travel Nurses

TNAA-Travel Nurse Across America provided this article.

Are you a travel nurse looking to enhance your skills and stay informed about the latest industry trends? Staying current with the travel industry and healthcare advancements is crucial for professional growth and success. By regularly accessing educational resources, you can stay informed about what’s happening in the travel industry, learn how seasoned travelers have found success, and get insider information on changes in healthcare. Plus, networking with industry insiders and influencers provides valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, gain mentorship, and learn from others’ experiences.

Educational Resources for Travel Nurses

educational resources

Whether you’re seeking expert advice, continuing education credits, or insider insights, there are several resources that can help you excel in your travel career. Keep reading to discover how you can leverage these valuable tools to thrive in the dynamic world of travel nursing.

Travel Industry Information Webinars

One of the best ways to learn more about what’s happening in the travel nursing industry is by registering for webinars through your agency or favorite blog, such as TNAA’s masterclass series or The Gypsy Nurse’s events. These live and on-demand webinars for travel nurses focus on topics for travel-centric topics and fantastic giveaways. And with on-demand or live options, you can tune in anytime that suits your busy travel schedule!

educational resources

Get Social

Turn to your favorite social channels to connect with experienced travel nurses, sharing their wisdom and experiences. Travel nurse influencers are on the rise, and they are a great way to get valuable travel industry tips and insights straight from the source. Plus, you can often find inspiration for your next travel destination through their photos, reels, and follower comments.  Follow travelers like Leah from Off the Clock Nurse and Brandy from Travel Nurse 101 and get inspired by their authentic and candid discussions, sure to have you booking your next assignment and adding to your travel bucket list!

And don’t forget to join The Gypsy Nurse Travel Nurse Network Facebook group – 186,000 members strong, ready to answer your burning questions and share insights on the best recruiters, agencies, and travel locations.

Continuing Education

Earning continuing education credits is a must for travel nurses. In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, continuing education units guarantee that travel nurses are up to speed with the latest skills, techniques, and industry knowledge. Nurse.com offers many online continuing education courses, many of which are low-cost or free for their premium subscription members. But if you want to connect in person, head to TravCon! TravCon is the largest healthcare conference in the U.S., and it’s all about travel. You can earn your C.E.s, connect with other travelers, build your professional network, and have a lot of fun at this amazing event!

These are only some of the best educational resources for travel nurses. Taking time to learn more about your industry and learn from other travelers will only help you take your travel career to new heights. With the right tools and knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic world of travel nursing. Happy learning!

We hope you found this article on educational resources for travel nurses helpful. Are there any educational resources you think we should have included in this article? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

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 AB Staffing Solutions

February 16, 2024

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Effective Ways to Maximize Your Earnings as a Travel Nurse

AB Staffing Solutions provided this article.

If you’re considering becoming a travel nurse or have been a traveler for a while, it is worth your time (and money) to consider whether you’ve been maximizing your earnings and, if not, find ways to maximize your earnings. As we like to say, communication, especially with your recruiter, is key to meeting your expectations. That means you need to be clear about what you desire regarding location, facility type, and compensation. This article will provide tips, best practices, and explanations of common terms for our industry.

maximize your earnings

Ways to maximize your earnings as a travel nurse:

  • When was the last time your resume was updated? You should be updating your experience and skills regularly. For travelers, update after each contract to capture everything you’re learning and skill building. For shift nurses seeking to become travelers, review your resume with skills and experiences every quarter. This will build a strong resume highlighting relevant skills for the positions you are applying for.
  • What do you desire in an agency and recruiter? We offer our best practices in the article How to Choose a Travel Healthcare Agency. Our travelers tell us they like that AB Staffing matches them with one dedicated recruiter who guides them through the process. We also have Housing Specialists and healthcare benefits that may interest you and aren’t offered by other agencies. Find the right agency for you.
  • What do you desire in a travel experience? List everything from dream locations and facilities to whether you are traveling with a spouse, kids, and/or pets. This will help your recruiter find the best position for you. We never guarantee but always do our best to find the right match for you.

To maximize your earnings as a travel nurse, it is essential to understand the compensation package offered, different types of pay, and other factors.

The typical components of travel nurse pay are hourly rate, Overtime (OT) pay, and stipend for housing and/or travel. Hourly and OT* are taxable, whereas housing, meals, and/or travel stipends are not taxable. As a contractor, you will be responsible for paying taxes and will receive a 1099 from your agency(s) that will be submitted with your taxes.

Make sure you read the contract and ask questions before signing anything.

* According to the FLSA, non-exempt employees, such as travel nurses, are eligible for overtime earnings once they have worked a 40-hour work week. States may have different overtime thresholds, and travel nurses must be aware of state and federal regulations. When seeking an assignment, especially if pay is a top priority, ask your recruiter what the average overtime hours are. Some facilities will have many hours available while others will not. Make an informed decision.

maximize your earnings

Tips to maximize your earnings.

  • Ask if there is OT available. In the current market, overtime is not as plentiful as it used to be during the height of COVID-19, but this is a great question to ask your recruiter when considering a facility to work at.
  • Offer to be on-call or work extra shifts, weekends, or holidays. If a facility knows you are willing to work and they need to cover shifts, this is a great way to earn extra.
  • Utilize float pool opportunities. In some cases, nurses may be able to float back and forth to nearby locations. Ask your recruiter to check on this for you.

What influences your earnings as a travel nurse?

Your specialty and in-demand skills, the location and season of work, and experience and skills influence your earnings potential.

A contract in the winter in a warm place like Phoenix, Arizona, may not pay as much as a contract in snowy Idaho. That’s called location-based variations in pay. If you prefer the sunshine, you may be okay with less money, but if you’re looking to get paid the most, a snowy rural location may be the best. It depends on what and where your skills are most needed. At the height of the pandemic, nurses in highly populated areas like New York City were paid the most but at the most risk of getting sick.

Urban areas like New York City and Phoenix will differ in cost of living, so factor that into your rate request.

If you’re a few years out of nursing school, you may make more as a traveler than a shift nurse but still less than an experienced travel nurse with certifications in specific skills or more education. As you gain skills and experience, you will become a higher earner. Learn from the experienced nurses you work with by asking questions and showing interest.

Other factors to consider are healthcare and retirement benefits. Each contract will differ, so check with your recruiter and read the details.

Finding the right travel nurse assignment and finding ways to maximize your earnings as a travel nurse takes time and effort, but the rewards can be great. In addition to earning power, you can live in a place where you’ve always wanted to live while growing your resume experience and your professional network.

Ready to get started? Contact AB Staffing today!

Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel healthcare assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

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 Furnished Finder

February 15, 2024

1516 Views

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Fitness Tips for After the Holidays: Back to Travel and Staying Healthy

The holiday season is a delightful time filled with family gatherings, gift exchanges, and indulgent feasts. It’s easy to let healthy habits slip during this festive period, but as a travel nurse, maintaining your physical and mental well-being is crucial. Here are some fitness tips to help you get back into travel and stay healthy after the holidays.

Fitness tips for after the holidays:

fitness tips

1. Set Realistic Goals

Starting your fitness journey after the holidays can be overwhelming if you set unrealistic expectations. Instead, set realistic and achievable goals for yourself. Whether it’s losing a few pounds, increasing your daily steps, or improving your strength, establish goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). These goals will guide you in creating effective strategies to reach your desired fitness level.

2. Plan and Prioritize Exercise

As a travel nurse, your schedule may be demanding, but prioritizing exercise is essential for your physical and mental well-being. Plan your workouts in advance, considering your work schedule and personal commitments. Find a consistent time slot that works for you and stick to it. Booking exercise into your schedule ensures that you make time for it and increases the likelihood of follow-through. Remember, even small bursts of physical activity throughout the day can make a significant difference.

3. Incorporate HIIT Workouts

fitness

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workouts are efficient and effective for travel nurses who may have limited time for exercise. HIIT workouts involve short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief periods of rest or active recovery. These workouts elevate your heart rate and burn calories effectively in a shorter amount of time. Look for HIIT workouts online or download fitness apps that offer pre-designed HIIT routines. Incorporating these workouts into your fitness routine can help you maximize your exercise time.

4. Embrace Mobility and Stretching

Being constantly on the move as a travel nurse can take a toll on your body. Prioritize mobility exercises and stretching to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. Dedicate a few minutes each day to perform dynamic stretches and mobility exercises that target different muscle groups. Not only will this help you stay injury-free, but it will also improve your overall range of motion and make your daily activities more comfortable.

5. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness

Physical fitness is not only about exercise and nutrition. Taking care of your mental well-being is equally important. Set aside time each day for self-care activities that help you relax and unwind. This could include meditation, deep breathing exercises, journaling, listening to calming music, or engaging in a hobby you enjoy. Building these moments of mindfulness into your routine will help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

Remember, your fitness journey is unique, and it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your routine as needed. As a travel nurse, you have the opportunity to inspire and motivate others to prioritize their health and well-being, too. By incorporating these travel nurse fitness tips into your routine after the holidays, you’ll bounce back, stay healthy, and continue thriving in your nursing career. 

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

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!)