December 31, 2023

1402 Views

How to Celebrate Family Birthdays While on Travel Assignment

Posted on December 31, 2023November 30, 2023 by Nadine Westwood

Distance and work schedules can challenge the emotional bonds we share with our families. Yet, when it comes to birthday celebrations, technology and creativity can lessen the miles.

In this guide, we’ll explore various ways that you, as a travel nurse, can celebrate family birthdays while on travel assignment.

1. Send a Bouquet of Flowers

Nothing quite says “I’m thinking of you,” like the surprise delivery of a beautiful bouquet. Online florists offer a vast selection of flowers under $50, perffor youron a budget. What’s more, blooms from reputed services cater to all types of occasions, including birthdays.

Simply pick a bouquet that matches the style and preferences of your family member. Choose a delivery date, add a personalized message, and let the florists take care of the rest!

Social media platforms have made it easier to connect, especially if you’re across the country. It’s one of the ways to keep in touch when working from miles away. Create and post a birthday collage filled with photos or share videos capturing special moments on Instagram or Facebook.

You can also add a lovely birthday message that appreciates all the amazing qualities of your loved one. This not only makes their day special but also broadcasts your love for them publicly – showing just how proud you are to call them family.

3. Heartfelt Video Messages

If time zones make a live birthday call difficult, consider creating a heartfelt video message instead. You could share your favorite memories together or express how much they mean to you.

The beauty of a recorded message is that it can be watched again and again, bringing comfort and warmth each time. Plus, you can get creative with the video format. Think of singing Happy Birthday, using props, or even involving colleagues in your birthday wishes.

4. Schedule Birthday Calls

Amidst your busy schedule as a travel nurse, remembering to set aside time for a birthday call is crucial. Even a simple phone call can mean the world on such occasions.

Coordinate with family members back home to find a convenient time, possibly when everyone’s together, so you can wish the birthday person en masse. The joy of hearing your voice and seeing you, if it’s a video call, creates memories they’ll cherish long after their special day.

5. A Surprise Visit Home

Now, this isn’t possible for every situation, but if you can coordinate it so your leave aligns with a family member’s birthday, the look on their faces when they see you walk in unannounced would be priceless.

It might require some secret planning and cooperation from other family members. Yet, the effort becomes worth it once you see their tears of joy rolling down past the surprised smile. After all, nothing replaces the warm embrace of family!

6. Set Up Online Gaming Sessions Together

If the birthday person is a game lover, setting up an online gaming session could be a fun way to celebrate. Choose a game that you both enjoy or one that brings back memories.

You can make it a virtual party by inviting other family members or friends to join.

Not only is this a fantastic way to spend quality time together, but it also caters to their hobbies or interests, making their day extra special.

7. Virtual Watch Party for Their Favorite Movie or Show

Consider setting up a virtual watch party of their favorite movie or TV show. Thanks to streaming platforms like Netflix’s Telepathy (a Google Chrome extension) or Amazon Prime’s Watch Party, family members can synchronously watch and comment on the same content.

Not only does this feel like you’re “in the room” to,gether balso ut it opens up conversations and shared laughter – elements that make birthday celebrations even more memorable. Plus, you could coordinate snacks to create a cinema-like atmosphere at home.

8. Mail Them Homemade Treats or Cards

Lastly, consider something traditionally heartfelt, like mailing homemade cards or treats. They encompass the essence of thoughtfulness and personal touch.

Whether it’s a hand-written poem or their favorite cookies, these gestures reflect your effort and love in a very tangible way. Besides, who wouldn’t appreciate a surprise package of homemade goodness?

In Conclusion…

Being far from home as a travel nurse shouldn’t stop you from celebrating your loved ones’ birthdays meaningfully. Whether you choose to send flowers, schedule calls, or surprise them with a visit, the key is to make them feel loved and cherished even from afar. After all, distance is made smaller through the heart’s connection.

We hope you found this article on ways to celebrate birthdays while on travel assignments helpful. Do you have any ways you celebrate birthdays while on travel assignment? Comment them below.

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:

START HERE

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

By Nomad Health

December 30, 2023

2384 Views

How Clinical Interviews Can Help You Clinch the Job

Posted on December 30, 2023January 2, 2024 by Nomad Health

Nomad Health provided this article.

By Valerie Gale, MAOM, BSN, RN, vice president of clinical excellence and credentialing operations, Nomad Health

It’s been a few years since the pandemic upended our society, but the healthcare business is still reeling from the disruption. The demand for nurses and allied health professionals continues to climb, making this a great time for traveling nurses to explore new opportunities.

For nurses new to traveling, one of the best ways to navigate the world of potential travel assignments is with a temporary healthcare staffing organization. At Nomad, nurses and allied health professionals can search for attractive jobs and create an application that will get noticed. We also provide expert guidance and support throughout your entire journey, from search to application to assignment completion.

One of the most often overlooked components of an impactful application is the clinical interview (CI), which applicants may hesitate to record, thinking it may delay the process and take too long. The truth is virtual clinical interviews make the hiring process faster, easier, and much more successful for you, as the applicant, and the hiring manager.

Put your best foot forward with clinical interviews.

Clinical interviews are pre-recorded video interviews where clinicians have the opportunity to answer five questions related to their specialty – two behavioral and three clinical-based – giving hiring managers insight into their knowledge and expertise. With years of experience working in hospitals and health systems across the United States, our clinical excellence team has collaborated to create a robust library of specialty-specific questions that are randomly selected for each candidate interview to ensure non-biased responses.

No matter what nuances a position may have, an applicant’s relevant expertise shines through in the answers. Each response takes about 90 seconds to record, with the entire clinical interview easily completed in just six or seven minutes. The process is flexible, clinician-centric, and can be recorded at your convenience.

Our clinical excellence team provides guidance to our nurses and allied health professionals on demand if they have any questions about recording their clinical interview. Once recorded, interviews are reviewed by clinical navigators who evaluate factors including competency, attitude, and demeanor, as well as confirm that answers are clinically sound and align with the position being applied for. This helps to ensure that your qualifications and knowledge are quickly matched with an assignment and facility suitable to your skillset and expertise.

Clinical interviews remain valid for one year and can be used to apply for numerous positions, in fact, most candidates average four. After a year, our team reminds clinicians to update their interviews, which allows them to showcase any new skills and experience gained during the past 12 months.

We can’t overstate the value of clinical interviews in helping you stand out from the crowd during the application and review process by the hiring manager. Our data indicates that clinicians who complete a CI receive offers one-third of the time that it takes a clinician who hasn’t completed one.

One reason for the high success rate is the reassurance that your clinical interview provides hiring managers. Rather than evaluating a clinician based solely on a digital application, they can observe candidates virtually, get the answers to baseline questions, and determine whether you possess the expertise they are seeking. They are able to evaluate professionalism and attitude, which helps them determine whether a nurse will be a good fit for their facility. Equally important, clinicians love our system and have given us a satisfaction rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

So don’t wait any longer! Here are some tips to keep in mind to get the most out of the clinical interview process:

Be prepared!

Take the time to gather your thoughts before the interview. Clinical interviews are timed, so avoid rambling or repeating items. Practice the answers ahead of time to make sure you can cover all the points you want to concisely. Remember, you don’t get unlimited do-overs. If you’re not happy with your first try, you will get one more shot at improving it.

Embrace the flexibility, but don’t rush.

While the interview process was designed for convenience and flexibility, be thoughtful about when and where you record your interview. Be wary of doing this under pressure or when rushed. Time constraints can fluster anyone and result in a less-than-optimal outcome.

Take it seriously

Just because we’ve made the process easy doesn’t mean it’s not the real deal. This is still an interview and should be treated like one. Be mindful of how you present yourself. Look the part, dress for the role you want, and present yourself professionally. Make sure your first impression is a positive one!

Don’t be intimidated.

The thought of recording an interview might seem overwhelming, but don’t let that deter you. This is a very streamlined, straightforward process. We’ve found that most interviews average less than six and a half minutes. Simply discuss your skills and answer the behavioral questions that fit your specialty. These aren’t trick questions, and you already know the answers.

Keep it current

We urge our clinicians to update their clinical interviews every year. Odds are, you’ve grown in the past 12 months, gained new skills, and acquired more experience, so tell the world about it!

Just do it!

There are many things to consider when preparing to record a clinical interview. For all the angst it may cause, it is well worth it on the backend for the speed and efficiency they add to the hiring process. Approach it as an opportunity to showcase yourself in securing desirable positions that will help advance your career. A strong clinical interview is key for all parties involved and helps expedite getting you to the bedside to provide the best patient care!

We hope you found this article on how clinical interviews can help land the job helpful. Do you have any tips about clinical interviews that you find helpful? Comment them below.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

Valerie Gale, MAOM, BSN, RN, is vice president of clinical excellence at Nomad Health. In this role, she leads the clinical excellence team, committed to educating and coaching travel clinicians through their assignments to ensure they are delivering the highest quality patient care at health systems across the country. Valerie holds a Bachelor of Nursing degree from the University of Calgary and a master’s degree in Organizational Management from Dallas Baptist University.

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 TRS Healthcare

December 29, 2023

1774 Views

Tips for Adjusting to a New City While Travel Nursing

Posted on December 29, 2023December 14, 2023 by TRS Healthcare

TRS Healthcare provided this article.

While being able to experience new places is one of the major benefits of a travel nursing career, moving to unfamiliar places can sometimes be stressful. If you need help adjusting to new settings, check out these helpful tips for feeling more at home on your next travel nursing assignment!

Tips for Adjusting to a New City While Travel Nursing:

Research the Area

Before taking off for your travel assignment, take some time to research the area you’re headed to. Not only will having this information help you know what to expect when you arrive, but it can also get you excited about relocating to a new place. Start with common local details, such as what the weather is like, how quickly traffic moves, where the closest grocery store is, etc. Then, expand your research into activities you want to try during your downtime, such as landmarks you want to see, outdoor spaces you want to explore, and local cuisine you want to sample.

Break in Your Living Space

It’s hard to feel at home when you’re living out of a suitcase, which is why one of the first things you should do when relocating for a travel nursing job is to make your living space feel like home. Even if it’s a temporary place to settle down during your assignment, it’s nice to have somewhere cozy to come back to after a long day. Be sure to unpack any boxes and unload your suitcases. In addition, if you’ve brought along any personal items—such as pictures of family and friends or treasured knick-knacks—display those prominently in your living space so that you feel more comfortable.

Stick to Your Routine

Even though it may not be exactly the same while you’re traveling, maintaining your daily routine in a new place can provide structure and help you adjust quicker. For instance, if you go to the gym every day, find somewhere to work out in your new city. Or, if you like to start your mornings with a cup of coffee, find a coffee shop or cafe that reminds you of your favorite spot back home.

Explore Local Hot Spots

Adjusting to a new place isn’t all about relying on familiar feelings. It’s just as important to embrace new experiences, too. While you’re on a travel assignment in a new city, use your downtime to check out local hot spots, such as restaurants, lounges, music venues, boutiques, parks, and more. If you aren’t sure where to start, you can always get great recommendations by asking your new coworkers about their favorite places to go around town.

Get to Know Your Coworkers

As with any industry, it can be hard to come into an established workplace as a fresh face. This is why it’s important for you, as a travel nurse, to get to know your coworkers. Not only can fostering a positive, professional relationship with permanent staff help you get settled faster, but it can also provide you with a built-in social group whenever you want to explore the town after work.

Stay in Touch with Your Support System

While you’re on assignment, don’t forget about the friends and family you have. Having a support system helps boost your mood, make you feel more connected to your loved ones, and puts you in a better emotional state to embrace your new environment. Try to schedule regular phone or video calls with friends and family to share what’s going on with your assignment and get updates from them about what’s happening back home. This can help keep you grounded while traveling.

Have more ideas or tips on how to adjust in your new city while travel nursing? Comment below! We’d love to hear from you.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

By Joseph Smith @ Travel Tax

December 27, 2023

7499 Views

It’s Time to Think About Tax Returns

Posted on December 27, 2023December 18, 2023 by Joseph Smith @ Travel Tax

Once Christmas and New Year’s holidays have passed and you have moved on from wondering where 2023 went, one of the first rituals you will embark on is your tax returns. For many travel healthcare professionals, this can be a headache gathering the info, making sure you have all the documents, and then getting the return done. If you have many oars in the water, there is work to do.

Gathering your documents – the most common

W2s and 1099NEC

These are the basic forms that report income as employees and contractors. Travelers can frequently forget all the agencies and employers they worked with (remember the last two weeks of December 2022 that you were paid for in January 2023?) If you worked in more than one state, you want to make sure that your W2s show every state unless the one did not have an income tax or was a reciprocity state to your home state. This is where many travelers realize that they forgot one basic task during the year- checking the first pay stub of a new contract. If you worked in, say, Oregon and there is no Oregon withholding, then something is wrong. Always check the first pay stub of each contract. W2s and 1099NECs are supposed to be sent by the end of January. You should receive a W2 or 1099NEC from each agency you worked with in the 2023 tax year.

1099 INT, 1099DIV, 1099B

If you have a bank account with interest, own stocks with dividends, or buy/sell stocks, then it will be recorded on these forms. Many brokerages will issue a 1099 Composite to include all of these in one report. These 1099s come LATER than the W2s and 1099 and are not required until February 15. There are often corrections to these documents or delays that can mess up your tax return. Also, remember that just because you didn’t take money out of your brokerage account doesn’t mean you are not taxed. If the interest, dividends, or sales of stocks generated cash flow, you are taxed on these distributions. Also, if you have a 1099 Composite, don’t ignore the gobbledygook after the first few pages. There are possibly reportable transactions or deductible interest buried in those pages. Your tax professional will know what to look for.

1099R, 5498

Retirement statements. The number one thing travelers forget to give their tax preparer are 1099R or 5498s for retirement transactions. Did you contribute to a retirement account that was NOT managed by your employer? Then, likely you have some report for that that shows how much and to what type of account it was for. Did you withdraw, rollover, characterize, or convert funds to a different type of account? You will probably have a 1099R for that. The amount contributed to an employer’s plan will show on your W2s, so you don’t need anything for that.

1099G

This is an odd form used to report state refunds paid to you during the year and unemployment compensation. It’s used to report payments from the Federal or State governments. Unemployment is taxable at the Federal level, but many states exempt it.

W2G

Gamble? Did you win? It gets reported here and, in some cases, on a regular 1099MISC. Gambling winnings are considered income, and there are at least 2 methods of determining how much is taxable, but most people who gamble do it a LOT. We have seen clients with over 50 W2Gs, and making sure you have all of them can be a challenge.

K1s

If you are involved in any partnership, a shareholder in an S-Corp, or a beneficiary of a trust /estate, you are bound to receive one of these. If you had a relative die recently and received an inheritance, there is a very strong chance that you will get one. These can take FOREVER, especially when dealing with the competing interests of relatives when they bicker over a deceased person’s estate. Some investments are actually partnerships where you own a certain percentage of the investments.

1099K

This is the form that everyone was scared of – the new rules required every 3^rd party payment system like PayPal, Venmo, etc., to issue 1099Ks to each person who received more than $600 during the year. The IRS has delayed this till the 2024 tax year, so that is a problem for next year. When implemented this can affect everyone sharing the cost of a meal or reimbursing a friend.

1099MISC

This form reports many miscellaneous items, but the most common for travelers are rents (for renting your home out) and Royalties. If you use a property manager for your rental, they will often report your gross rent on a 1099MISC. Sometimes, gambling winnings show up on a 1099MISC as well.

Tax Law Changes, Opportunities and Bummers

IRS Personal Account

All taxpayers should open an Online Account with the IRS. You can see all of your statements and items reported on your behalf, make payments, and communicate with the IRS. It is simple to sign up. https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account

Home Energy Credits

Credits for energy improvements to your home were greatly expanded for the 2023 tax year. There are no longer any lifetime limits like there were before. Only annual limits. That new HVAC system, windows, insulation, or doors are worth a lot more credit now.

EV Credit Transfers

If you purchase an EV, you can request that the credit offset the purchase price of the vehicle. Since there are income limitations, you can now use the income from the year of the tax return or the previous year to qualify. Transferring credit can be tricky if you exceed the income limits during the year unexpectedly. If the previous year’s income does not allow you to qualify, you will have to pay the credit back on the tax return. Credit transfers can only be done through dealers, not private sales.

Beneficial ownership reporting

Do you own or are a part owner of an LLC, Corporation, or any entity formed in a state? You are now required to disclose all owners of 25% or more annually, 30 days after any changes, and 90 days after forming a new one. The penalty for not filing is steep and can be as high as 10K or imprisonment if the lack of disclosure is willful. The report does not go to the IRS but to FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network). Information can be found here https://www.fincen.gov/boi-faqs

By Emma Joyce

December 26, 2023

1955 Views

Travel Nursing with a Family: Everything You Need To Know

Posted on December 26, 2023November 30, 2023 by Emma Joyce

Travel nursing is a stimulating and fulfilling career choice that lets medical professionals see the world while offering essential treatment. But the journey changes when you’re not going alone—rather, you have a family to think about. It takes considerable planning and thought to combine your employment as a travel nurse with your family life because there are many factors involved that can have a big impact on both your family’s well-being and your own professional development. In order to help you negotiate the intricate and varied world of being a travel nurse while simultaneously tending to the needs and goals of your family, here is all you need to know about travel nursing with a family.

The Benefits of Travel Nursing with a Family

Travel nursing with a family offers several benefits, one of which is the chance to see new places. Every assignment has the potential to be a brand-new journey that gives your family the opportunity to see various communities, climates, and cultures. Your kids might learn a great deal from this, and the whole family could be inspired, developing a spirit of curiosity and adaptability that will help them in their future pursuits.

Furthermore, travel nursing frequently offers competitive benefit packages that include increased pay rates, sizable incentives, and a range of other advantages that might support your family’s financial security. These financial benefits can serve as a catalyst for giving your loved ones greater possibilities, such as unforgettable holidays and high-quality education, as well as for creating a more stable future for your family. In this way, the journey can serve as both a source of exploration and an engine of prosperity, and you can use the time between assignments to learn new things and enjoy life with your family.

Preparing Your Family for the Journey

Given the intricacy of often uprooting your life, it is imperative that you make extensive preparations before setting out on your travel nursing adventure with your family. This involves looking into schools, locating acceptable housing, and building a strong support system in your new community. Selecting the housing choice that best fits your family’s needs and tastes is crucial, so finding cozy apartments for rent might make your family feel at home in any new location. Furnished apartments and extended-stay lodgings are just two examples of available housing alternatives.

Furthermore, since securing your kids’ access to a top-notch education is a primary concern, it is imperative that you conduct thorough research on nearby schools and educational establishments. If your tasks need you to move frequently, you can also think about homeschooling, which would enable you to keep your kids’ education consistent while also giving them the opportunity to experience new things. Creating a network of support is essential; this can include other travel nurses, your neighbors, local community resources, and even online communities that can help and give you a sense of community while you’re on assignment.

Dealing with Challenges

Providing travel nursing care to a family might present some difficulties, which must be overcome with a blend of adaptation, resilience, and proactive problem-solving techniques. Every new place has its own set of conditions, from temperature and culture to local amenities and healthcare facilities, making it difficult to adjust to new habits and situations. Another typical problem is overcoming homesickness, which is a normal emotion brought on by being apart from loved ones and familiar settings.

It can be difficult to manage your family’s healthcare needs since you have to make appointments, locate qualified healthcare providers, and make sure everyone in your family gets the treatment they need. Nonetheless, these difficulties are surmountable and can even present chances for individual and family development if the proper mindset and support networks are in place.

Managing Work-Life Balance

For travel nurses who have families, striking a healthy work-life balance and avoiding burnout may be rather difficult because it requires balancing a lot of responsibilities and making sure that your family’s needs are satisfied in addition to your professional obligations. Before starting any task, it’s critical to talk about expectations with your employer and family. Clear and honest communication is the foundation of a happy and successful trip.

You can achieve a balance that lets you succeed in your nursing career and be present for significant family events and milestones by making sure that your family’s needs are taken into consideration as much as possible while planning your work schedule. It’s important to keep in mind that spending quality time with your loved ones is crucial for both their well-being and the success of your trip.

A unique and fulfilling experience, travel nursing with your family can leave your loved ones with priceless memories and a strong sense of resilience. You can overcome the obstacles you encounter along the path if you have perseverance, flexibility, and a network of people who are there for you when you need them. You are prepared to start your trip as a travel nurse with your family by your side, eager to embrace the adventure in all its forms, thanks to the knowledge and insights offered in this guide.

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:

START HERE

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

By Alex McCoy

December 25, 2023

1952 Views

Nontraditional Ways to Travel Nurse With a Family

Posted on December 25, 2023December 5, 2023 by Alex McCoy

One of the best things about travel nursing is the way you can tailor the experience to fit your lifestyle. Whether that be traveling with friends or significant others, traveling with pets, or even traveling with children, you can make it work. The idea of traveling with a family at first may seem intimidating, but there are several ways families are making the travel nurse lifestyle work for them!

One Spouse Stays “Home” on Assignment

A popular way for families to make travel work for them is to have one stay-at-“home” parent while on the road. This could mean the spouse that does not work in healthcare, or if both work in healthcare, they could take turns on who stays home and who works the contracts.

This option is great because it allows your family to stay together in one place. However, it may be an adjustment for the stay-at-home parent if that role is new for them.

Both Spouses Work Contracts on Opposite Shifts

If you want to get the most “bang for your buck,” this is the route to go. In this scenario, both spouses are healthcare workers and manage to coordinate contracts so that they work opposite shifts. This may also require some agreement with management regarding how shifts will be scheduled and coordinated in relation to your spouse, but it can be done!

The downside here is that the spouses may not actually get a lot of time together. Also, the spouse working the night shift may have unpredictable sleep schedules, which can be wearing over time. On the other hand, if you really want to save money or pay off debt, this is a great way to do that quickly!

One Spouse Stays at the Tax Home

If you have older children who may be reluctant to move or have other responsibilities back at your tax home, this may be a great option to make extra money travel nursing while also giving your kids a steady home.

In this scenario, a lot of travel nurses try to find jobs that will allow them to block schedule their shifts. This means they work a block of shifts in a row and then get a block of days off. This way, they can travel home on their days off for a longer period.

Another great option here is to look into semi-local travel. This means taking assignments that are within a reasonable driving distance so you can travel home easily on days off without worrying about plane tickets.

Someone Works From “Home” on Assignment

Thanks to all of the jobs that have moved to fully remote, there are now a lot of opportunities for a partner to work from home–from anywhere!

This option may be a little tricky or require jobs with a little more flexibility if you have smaller children at home OR if you have to be hands-on with a homeschool program. However, just like having partners coordinate contracts, this option can be rewarding in that it allows both partners to work and earn income for the family.

Another option is to see if your spouse’s company will do a hybrid option–where they are mostly remote but are required to be in the office once a month or less. You could even coordinate this with days off in your contract. You never know if you don’t ask!

Regardless of what seems like the “best” option for your family, the beauty of all of this is that you have options. Some travel nurses travel with their families for years. Others do it for a short period of time to save money for something specific. And as always, if the first approach doesn’t work, you can always try a different one!

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:

START HERE

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

By NuWest

December 23, 2023

1672 Views

How to Build Cultural Competency in Travel Healthcare

Posted on December 23, 2023December 1, 2023 by NuWest

NuWest provided this article.

Cultural competency, as defined by the CDC, is the capability of understanding and serving people across cross-cultural situations. Building a healthcare workforce that reflects the needs and beliefs of its patients is a cornerstone of patient-centric healthcare.

In our experience working with close-knit cultures in Guam, Saipan, and American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) tribes and organizations, the benefits of understanding the unique cultures, concerns, and languages of patients are truly remarkable.

For clinical travel staff, understanding various cultural norms is also a great way to get a leg up in competitive job opportunities. For example, in our work with Seattle-area tribes, patients and administrative staff are pleased that NuWest Group has an interview and onboarding process that “blinds” applicant profiles to avoid bias while helping identify applicants with experience working with American Indian and Alaskan Native (AI/AN) groups.

Honing our cultural competency clinical skill set doesn’t mean you need to commit extensive time to learning languages or delving into anthropologic studies. But, we’ve found there are certain resources that can be incredibly useful in this area.

CEUs with a Cultural Competency Focus

Many Travel Healthcare agencies will reimburse the cost of CEUs for active travelers, so be sure to ask your recruiters if this is part of their compensation plan. At NuWest, it is one of our many perks and benefits. But whether you foot the entire bill and can get reimbursed, several programs can help develop your cultural competency. Here are just a few:

Nurse.com CE: Their cultural competency section is one of the most robust we’ve seen, with specific course offerings by culture, religion, race, gender, and sexual orientation.
CEU Academy: Here, you can take 1-hour educational, and cultural courses for $3.50/ course.
Think Culture Health: They offer free educational courses broken down by care focus areas.
EDX Learning: Check out the free course on unconscious bias created by Stanford’s online program.
EmblemHealth Training Guide: You’ll find a TLDR pdf with tips, communication strategies, and information on how to serve minority patient populations.
Quantum Units Education: They offer 6-course options covering a variety of treatments and interventions based on data from diverse communities.

Expanding Your Language Skills

A great way to understand and communicate with various cultures as a traveling nurse is to learn multiple languages. If you are interested in expanding your language skills, there are a plethora of medical terminology language resources for healthcare professionals (including American Sign Language (ASL) learning). If you aren’t sure where to start, you can choose whatever language is most abundant in your region or city of work. In certain parishes of Louisiana, that might be French. Of course, Spanish is the second most common language in the U.S. To help you decide, below are the top 5 most common languages in the U.S. broken down by percentage of the population.

English – 245 million (78.5%)
Spanish – 41.3 million (13.2%)
Chinese (all varieties) – 3.40 million (1.1%)
Tagalog (including Filipino) – 1.72 million (0.5%)
Vietnamese – 1.52 million (0.5%)

Whatever language(s) you choose to learn, luckily, in today’s world, learning language has never been easier. Tools like Google Translate* and MediBabble* can help in a pinch but aren’t ideal long-term and may even be restricted* from use at your place of work. Some other top language learning options include:

Babbel: Learn everything you need via real-world conversations, from vocabulary words to culture, in as little as 10 minutes a day.

Duolingo: Free and paid plans of gamified learning through quick, bite-sized lessons. You can earn points and unlock new levels while gaining real-world communication skills, including options such as a Spanish medical lesson.

HelloTalk: Uses direct connections to peers to help users learn a language for free by chatting with native speakers around the world.

Rosetta Stone: Explore free and paid plans from $48 for 3 months or $200 for lifetime use on some language courses.

Disclosure: Some hospitals have policies against using apps like Google Translate and MediBabble to avoid any miscommunications in care due to their translations (they’re good, but not perfect!). Beware and ask before using. And never rely on a computer translation tool when communicating important medical information.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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 Miles Oliver

December 22, 2023

1588 Views

Synchronizing Personal and Professional Journeys in Travel Nursing

Posted on December 22, 2023December 13, 2023 by Miles Oliver

The demand for skilled nursing professionals is high. Travel nursing has emerged as a dynamic and fulfilling career path. However, if you are a travel nurse, you understand the delicate balancing act you must play daily. From uprooting your home to finding adventure in new places to working long hours on an unfamiliar hospital floor, you can understandably stretch yourself too thin. Use the following tips to synchronize your personal and professional journeys in travel nursing and safeguard your future.

Tips for synchronizing personal and professional journeys in travel nursing:

The Intersection of Personal and Professional Life

Everyone says to leave your work problems at the door when you come home for the night. As a travel nurse, this isn’t always possible. Your personal and professional lives are intertwined — so much so that your safe haven has to move with you every time there is a need for a nurse in another location. It makes it a little bit more difficult to unwind and relax.

Luckily, you can mitigate the negative effects of this process. First, you must understand how your personal life can impact you professionally and vice versa. This can include issues with taxes from moving and personal distractions like stress impacting your performance on the job. The best way to cope is to take a proactive approach.

Try recognizing signs of stress in your body and find ways like yoga or meditation to minimize stress. Learn how to say no to jobs that won’t be fruitful for you in the long run. Find a support system to pick you up when you are down and allow you to vent when you need it most. This support system can be remote friends or family who give you someone to touch base with and feel more connected on the road.

Creating an Environment Conducive to Travel

Since “travel” is in your job title, you should create an environment conducive to your needs. For example, working on the road can leave you feeling like you don’t have a safe place to land. Instead of staying in unfamiliar hotels, try to stick with the same chain, rent cozy Airbnb’s, or even rent homes that you can make your own if you know you’ll be staying for a longer period.

Having a well-organized, clutter-free, relaxing space to come home to at the end of your long shifts is important. This way, you can maintain your professional focus and simultaneously take care of your mental wellness.

Prioritizing Interpersonal Relationships

As mentioned above, it’s important to have a support system as a travel nurse. Even if you are more introverted, it’s still crucial to proper functioning and mental health to have people to talk to and confide in. There are the people you work with on the floor every day, but they are bound to change with the nature of your role. You can form relationships with them, of course, but also have a support system back home or online.

Try looking for support groups in your area, travel nurse forums, or simply having nightly calls with your friends or family. Knowing that you’re not alone can help your morale tremendously and keep you focused on thriving in your dream career.

Managing Stress

It’s no secret that travel nursing can be stressful. Instead of accepting that as the harsh reality, you can take steps to minimize your anxieties and stressors every day. A little cortisol is important to help you get through difficult situations, but chronic stress can have adverse effects on your mental and physical health.

As a travel nurse, it’s easy to put yourself on the back burner to help patients. However, you will be able to perform your best if you manage your stress and focus on self-care. Try a variety of self-soothing strategies, such as taking sensory items to work or seeking professional therapy. A combination of techniques can help you be the best you can be for your patients. That way, you can show up every day and know you’re continuing on the travel nurse path that is meant for you in a lasting, sustainable way.

We hope you found this article on synchronizing personal and professional journeys in travel nursing helpful. How do you synchronize your personal and professional journeys in travel nursing? Comment below.

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:

START HERE

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

By Gifted Healthcare

December 21, 2023

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Deck the Halls with 15 Decorating Tips for Travel Nurses’ Temporary Housing During the Holidays

Posted on December 21, 2023December 18, 2023 by Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare provided this article.

The holiday season is a time for warmth, joy, and festive celebrations. However, for travel nurses on the move, finding a sense of home and holiday cheer in temporary accommodations can be a challenge.

Decorating your living space not only transforms it into a cozy retreat but also brings the spirit of the season to life. In this blog, we’ll explore creative and practical decorating tips for travel nurses looking to deck the halls in their temporary homes, turning them into festive sanctuaries.

1. Start with a Festive Foundation

Before diving into the decorations, consider the foundation of your space. Choose warm, inviting colors for items like bedding and furniture to give you a neutral base. Then, opt to add touches of deep red, green, and gold in throw pillows and trinkets to create a festive ambiance. You can elevate this with a holiday-themed duvet cover or cozy fleece blankets in seasonal patterns to set the tone for the entire room.

2. Personalized Ornaments as Décor

Bring a touch of home by incorporating personalized ornaments into your décor. Hang ornaments that represent your interests, hobbies, or memories from past travels. This not only adds a personal touch but also serves as a conversation starter for fellow healthcare professionals when hosting friends in your temporary housing.

3. Adorn the Walls with Removable Decals

Since travel nurses are often limited in how much they can modify their temporary spaces, removable wall decals are an excellent option. Choose holiday-themed decals that can be easily applied and removed without damaging the walls. From snowflakes to festive quotes, these decals add a cheerful touch to any room.

4. Create a Cozy Corner with String Lights

String lights are a versatile and budget-friendly way to add a warm and cozy glow to your living space. Drape them over curtains, headboards, or along shelves to bring your holiday cheer into your home. Opt for warm white or multicolored lights, whichever suits your personal style. The best part is that these lights will last you years, so pick your favorites!

5. Repurpose Everyday Items

Look around your temporary housing for items that can be repurposed for holiday decorating. For instance, use mason jars as candle holders and fill them with small ornaments or pinecones. For a yummier filler, add red and green M&M’s!

6. Miniature Christmas Tree

If space allows, consider bringing or purchasing a miniature Christmas tree. These can be tabletop-sized and easily decorated with small ornaments and lights. Not only does a mini tree serve as a focal point, but it also brings the enchantment of the season into your temporary home.

7. Create a DIY Wreath for the Front Door

Welcome yourself and your guests with a festive DIY wreath on your front door. Craft stores often offer plain wreaths that can be customized with ribbons, ornaments, garlands, or even miniature trinkets that bring you joy. This will instantly transform the entryway and greet you home after a long shift.

8. Seasonal Fragrances

Enhance the holiday atmosphere by incorporating seasonal scents into your décor. Scented candles, diffusers, or potpourri in fragrances like cinnamon, pine, or gingerbread can evoke the spirit of the holidays and create a warm and inviting ambiance. It might even remind you of home.

9. Incorporate Soft Textiles

Layer soft and comforting textiles to enhance the coziness of your space. Faux fur or knitted throws, festive pillows, and holiday-themed blankets not only add warmth but also contribute to the overall holiday aesthetic. This is especially crucial if you are traveling in a cold climate. There is nothing better than cozying up on the couch with a comfy blanket and a good book while the snow falls outside.

10. DIY Garlands

Craft your own garlands using materials like pinecones, twine, and dried citrus slices. This simple yet effective DIY project allows you to personalize your space with handmade decorations, adding a touch of your creativity to the holiday ambiance. You can hang them with temporary adhesive hooks or even lay them across a long table – maybe even a centerpiece at the kitchen table.

11. Festive Table Settings for Shared Meals

If you’re sharing accommodations with fellow travel nurses or friends, consider creating a festive dining experience. Invest in holiday-themed tablecloths, placemats, and dinnerware to make shared meals feel like special occasions.

12. Hang a Memory Garland

Create a memory garland using photographs, postcards, or small mementos from your travels. String them together with twine or ribbon and hang the garland in a prominent place. This not only adds a personal touch to your décor but also serves as a visual reminder of your journey as a travel nurse.

13. Bring Nature Indoors with Evergreen Branches

If you’re in a location where evergreen branches are accessible, bring a touch of nature indoors. Place small branches in vases or place them in your DIY wreath. The fresh scent and vibrant greenery instantly evoke the holiday season.

14. Set Up a Festive Reading Nook

Designate a cozy corner as a festive reading nook. Arrange a comfortable chair or floor cushions, add soft lighting, and decorate the space with holiday-themed books. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and embrace the joy of the season.

15. Coordinate with Roommates for a Unified Look

If you’re sharing your temporary housing, coordinate with your roommates to create a unified and harmonious look. Choose a color scheme or theme that everyone agrees on to ensure a cohesive and festive living space.

Happy Holidays from Gifted Healthcare

Transforming your temporary housing into a festive haven doesn’t require a complete overhaul. By incorporating these creative decorating tips, travel nurses can bring the holiday spirit into their homes away from home. Gifted Healthcare wishes all travel nurses the happiest of holidays!

Gifted Healthcare is here when you are looking for your next travel assignment. Our team of recruiters prioritizes your career and will connect you with premier healthcare facilities across the nation. Connect with a recruiter today to discover your next assignment.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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

START HERE

1. Send a Bouquet of Flowers

2. Using Social Media to Celebrate

3. Heartfelt Video Messages

4. Schedule Birthday Calls

5. A Surprise Visit Home

6. Set Up Online Gaming Sessions Together

7. Virtual Watch Party for Their Favorite Movie or Show

8. Mail Them Homemade Treats or Cards

In 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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