By Medical Edge Recruitment

December 20, 2023

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The Importance of Mental Health in Nursing and Practical Self-Care Tips

Medical Edge Recruitment provided this article.

By: Zachary Hall, Key Account Manager, Medical Edge Recruitment

As a travel nurse, committing to contracts lasting 8-13 weeks or longer often places you far from home. In this role, you may work long hours and care for a diverse range of patients. Despite being a dedicated professional, it’s essential to recognize your human side. The medical field can be both physically and mentally demanding, emphasizing the need to prioritize mental health both during and between assignments.

Mental Health and Self Care

Why is Mental Health Crucial, Particularly in Nursing?

Mental health refers to a person’s psychological and emotional well-being. Indicators of good mental health include the ability to experience joy for others, a desire for social interactions, maintaining healthy relationship boundaries, balanced routines, and an overall sense of energy and happiness. Conversely, signs of poor mental health encompass excessive worrying, mood swings, persistent fatigue, changes in appetite, decreased functioning, and more. Mental health challenges can permeate personal and professional life, affecting productivity, increasing absenteeism, and impacting overall performance. In the medical industry, maintaining good mental health is not just a personal choice; it can be a matter of life and death. Therefore, prioritizing mental health is imperative for nurses.

How to Prioritize Mental Health? The Solution is Self-Care.

Burnout resulting from overworking can significantly contribute to poor mental health, preventing the body from recovering adequately. It’s easy to become caught up in consecutive shifts during an assignment, neglecting essential downtime. A proactive approach to avoid overworking involves pre-planning time off and strategically incorporating days of requested time off (RTO) to catch up on much-needed rest and relaxation.

mental health and self-care

During RTO days, it’s crucial to avoid tasks that induce stress or overexertion, as these defeat the purpose of taking time for yourself. These days can serve as opportunities to engage in self-care activities, defined as behaviors focusing on mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Self-care encompasses a broad spectrum, including exercise, napping, spa treatments, walks, cooking, dining out, pursuing joyful hobbies, and more. While self-care isn’t limited to these activities, they can serve as starting points for those seeking inspiration.

Mental Health and Self-Care for Nurses

Reiterating the importance of mental health for nurses is crucial due to the demanding nature of the profession. As a hard-working professional, recognizing your humanity is vital, making your mental health as important as anyone else’s. Boosting your mental health involves engaging in acts of self-care to relax and reset. Since self-care is individualized, finding activities that resonate with you is key. Investing time in self-care pays dividends in the long run, contributing to your overall well-being and resilience in the challenging field of nursing.

Working with an agency that prioritizes self-care is important. Searching for an agency that will support you?

Medical Edge Recruitment is a 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!

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:

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

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

December 18, 2023

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Travel Nurse Referral Bonuses 101

TNAA-Travel Nurse Across America provided this article.

Travel nursing offers an abundance of perks, such as getting to explore new places, building your professional network, and utilizing your nursing skills in a variety of facilities and communities. But there’s another perk many travel nurses may not be aware of: referral bonuses.

Many, but not all, travel nurse agencies offer referral bonuses to thank their nurses for recommending their services to others. Read on to learn more about referral bonuses and how nurses can benefit from referral programs.

Travel Nurse Referral Bonuses

Types of Travel Nurse Referral Bonuses

Travel nurse referral bonuses come in various amounts and vary from agency to agency. Understanding the different types of bonuses can help you choose the one that aligns with your preferences and goals.

Here are some common referral bonus structures:

Flat Rate:

These types of referral bonuses offer a flat rate across all specialties and are often limited to your first referral, which is a flat rate across all specialties. 

Tiered Structure: 

Tiered structure referral bonuses will offer varying amounts depending on the specialty you are submitting a referral for. For example, referring a PICU nurse may earn you a higher referral bonus than referring a MedSurg nurse. 

Capped Referrals:

Some bonus structures set a limit to the amount you can earn through referral bonuses or the amount of referrals you can submit to them.

Unlimited:

Travel Nurse Referral Bonuses

As opposed to capped referrals, some agencies do not limit you to a set number of referrals or cap the amount you can earn in referral bonuses.

Recurring Bonuses

Some travel agencies, like TNAA, offer recurring bonuses for referrals, meaning you will earn additional rewards when your referral continues to take assignments with your travel agency. Depending on the agency, these can be in addition to initial bonuses.  

Gift Cards and Other Incentives: 

In addition to other monetary bonuses, some agencies offer gift cards or other incentives for referring your travel nurse friends. Referral bonuses are often paid once your colleague has accepted their assignment or completed a certain amount of their assignment, but some agencies offer additional incentives to referring nurses that will be paid to the referrer even if an assignment does not work out for their referral.

Other Benefits to Referral Bonuses

Beyond the obvious financial gains, referral bonuses offer additional benefits. Referrals strengthen the sense of community among travel nurses, create networking opportunities, and contribute to a positive working environment. Plus, you’re actively playing a role in a fellow nurse’s decision to embark on a travel adventure, helping build the travel nurse industry.

And if you love your travel nurse agency, there really is no better way to say thank you than to refer your colleagues to travel with them.

Check with Your Recruiter About Your Agency’s Referral Bonus Program

Interested in earning referral bonuses? The first step is to have a conversation with your recruiter. They can provide insights into the specific referral programs offered by the agency and guide you on how to refer your colleagues or friends. It’s a win-win situation – you help your connections discover exciting opportunities, and you get rewarded for it!

Taking advantage of referral programs can enhance your journey, financially and otherwise, and create a ripple effect of positivity within the travel nursing community. So, don’t hesitate – contact your recruiter to talk about referral bonuses today!

The Gypsy Nurse 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:

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

By Furnished Finder

December 17, 2023

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Discovering Joy in New Places: The Delights of Being a Travel Nurse

As a travel nurse, you have the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in new places and embark on exciting adventures. While the constant change might seem daunting at first, there are immense joys to be found in this rewarding career. Here are some of the delights you can experience as a travel nurse:

new places

1. Cultural Immersion and Diversity

One of the greatest joys of being a travel nurse is the chance to immerse yourself in different cultures and experience the diversity of the world. Each new place offers its own customs, traditions, and ways of life. Bask in the opportunity to learn from and appreciate the rich tapestry of cultures that you encounter on your travel nursing journey.

2. Exploration and Adventure

Every new assignment presents a fresh chance to explore and discover. From exploring breathtaking natural landscapes to uncovering hidden gems in the city, being a travel nurse allows you to satisfy your adventurous spirit. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains, visiting museums, or trying local cuisine, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences awaiting you.

3. Professional Development

Travel nursing offers exceptional professional growth opportunities. Working in different healthcare settings exposes you to various specialties, techniques, and practices. You’ll have the chance to expand your skill set, learn from diverse healthcare professionals, and broaden your professional network. This continuous learning and growth can tremendously enrich your career as a nurse.

new places

4. Building Resilience and Adaptability

Being a travel nurse requires resilience and adaptability, and these qualities can bring immense joy. Facing new challenges and overcoming them builds your inner strength and boosts your confidence. As you navigate unfamiliar environments and healthcare systems, you’ll become more adaptable and resourceful, developing skills that serve you both personally and professionally.

5. Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

Stepping into the unknown and embracing new experiences fosters personal growth and self-discovery. Being a travel nurse pushes you out of your comfort zone and encourages you to try new things, face your fears, and learn more about yourself. The joy of self-discovery and personal transformation can be immensely fulfilling and rewarding.

Being a travel nurse is an exhilarating journey filled with unique joys and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Embrace the adventure, forge connections, explore new horizons, and make a difference. Let the delights of being in a new place as a travel nurse enrich your life and bring you immeasurable joy. Happy travels!

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issueour 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!)

By Amare Medical Network

December 15, 2023

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Festive Cheer from Afar: Embracing the Holiday Spirit as a Traveling Healthcare Professional

Amare Medical Network provided this article.

The holiday season is a time of joy, family, and tradition. However, for traveling healthcare professionals, this special time of year can also bring a pang of homesickness. The hustle and bustle of the hospital, coupled with the distance from loved ones, can make it challenging to fully embrace the festive spirit. But fear not; there are plenty of ways to spread holiday cheer even when you’re away from home.

traveling healthcare professionals

1. Embrace the Local Holiday Flair

Every city and town has its unique holiday traditions and festivities. Take advantage of your temporary location by immersing yourself in the local culture. Visit festive markets, attend community events, and try traditional holiday treats. You might be surprised at the hidden gems you’ll uncover!

2. Create Your Own Holiday Oasis

Even if you’re living in temporary accommodations, you can still create a festive atmosphere. Decorate your space with lights, ornaments, and other holiday cheer. Bake your favorite holiday treats or boil a festive stovetop potpourri to fill your home with the aroma of the season.

3. Connect with Colleagues and Friends

Your fellow travelers are like your extended family away from home. Plan a potluck dinner, host a holiday movie night, or organize a festive outing. Sharing the holidays with your colleagues can create lasting memories, make you feel less alone, and who knows, it might even create new traditions!

4. Stay Connected with Family

Technology makes it easier than ever to stay connected with loved ones, no matter where you are. Schedule regular video calls, exchange holiday cards and gifts, and share stories about your experiences. These connections will help you feel like you’re part of the festivities back home.

5. Embrace New Traditions

While it’s important to honor your family traditions, don’t be afraid to start new ones as well. Explore new holiday cuisines, participate in local cultural events, or create your own unique traditions with your colleagues, friends, and loved ones.

traveling healthcare professionals

6. Volunteer and Spread Joy

The holiday season is a time for giving back by donating your time or resources. Make a difference by volunteering your time at a local shelter, hospital, or community center or by donating toys, clothing, or food to a cause you believe in. Helping others is a rewarding experience that will fill you with the spirit of the season.

7. Take Care of Yourself

The holiday season can be stressful, even when you’re surrounded by loved ones. Make sure to take care of your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and engage in activities that bring you joy.

Remember, the holidays are about more than just being in the same place with loved ones. It’s about the spirit of giving, sharing, and creating memories. Embrace the opportunities that come your way as a traveling healthcare professional, and you’ll find that the holiday spirit can shine brightly even when you’re far from home.

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:

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

By Medely

December 14, 2023

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5 Ways to Beat Homesickness During the Holidays

Medely provided this article.

Travel nurses often work during the holiday season, either because it’s built into their contract to work a major holiday or because they raised their hand to take advantage of great pay rates and an interesting adventure in a new city. Either way, it can be hard to be away from home while everyone else is in the holiday spirit. With Thanksgiving coming up and everything that December brings, we wanted to share 5 ways that travel nurses can keep that homesick feeling at bay while they’re on a travel assignment: 

being homesick

1. Get yourself settled

First and foremost, make sure you feel at home in your home in your current location. Get that cozy blanket you’ve been eyeing on Etsy. Have some happy and healthy snacks, beverages, and meal options in the fridge for when you get home from your shifts. Is there anything you like to have over the holidays? (Apple cider? Break-and-bake cookies? Instant stuffing?) Grab that from the store as well

When your mind starts to wander thinking about home and being homesick, it’ll be a great idea to have a nice, cozy space where you can relax and enjoy your time there while you’re there.

2. Get in a routine

Chances are, as a travel nurse, you’ve been so busy working and exploring that you haven’t gotten into a solid routine yet. Routines can help when you’re struggling with things that are out of your control – like being away from friends and family over the holidays.  “An effective routine can help reduce stress, which can lead to better mental health, more time to relax, and less anxiety,” according to Northwestern Medicine.

Try to make sure you can at least have your morning (or midnight) coffee at the same time every day, incorporate a self-care regimen, get outside if you can and take a walk at the same time every day, and use apps like Calm or Headspace to take your mind off things, even for a little while. 

3. Get in the spirit

So, you know you’ll be working shifts over the holidays, so why not get in the spirit and make the most of the situation? 

being homesick

You can make or buy some holiday decor for your space (or for work), get some recipes together to create some holiday feeling or make a plan to watch holiday shows and movies to feel nostalgic and happy about the season. (You can even sync up and do a watch party on some streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and Hulu and watch movies with people you love at the same time!)

4. Get out there and make some new memories

Being on a travel assignment during the holidays is the perfect time to experience the holidays in a new way. Don’t get homesick – get out there! Find some local events or shows, or find a local holiday market or farmer’s market. Travel nurses are skilled at building community wherever they are – use social media to find other travelers in your area. You can also bond with your coworkers at your current facility and see what they’re up to over the holidays. You might find a friend that you can spend time with and have some holiday-themed adventures. 

Plus, the holidays are a good time to bond with your patients and make them feel seen and loved. Some of your patients will be in the same boat as you, missing friends and family and looking for a little holiday cheer. You might be just what they need to get through these tough days. 

5. Get a plan together to see friends and family soon

Now that you have a plan to get through the holiday season and beat homesickness while on a travel assignment, you can also start planning ahead. Book your next assignment strategically so you can see the ones you love and miss most during the holiday season. As you may know, most new travel contracts start in January, so it’s time to start planning to see friends and family and start the New Year off on a happy foot. 

Want to use Medely to sign up for your next travel assignment? We’ve got you covered. Medely works with thousands of the best facility partners across the U.S. 

Check out our app here.

We hope you found this article on being homesick and ways to beat it helpful. Do you have any ways to beat homesickness to share? Comment them below.

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

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 Advantage Medical Professionals

December 12, 2023

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Snow-Capped Opportunities: A Travel Nurse Guide to Living & Working in a Winter Wonderland

Advantage Medical Professionals provided this article.

As winter blankets the world in a serene layer of snow, travel nurses have the unique opportunity to embark on a journey to some of the most enchanting destinations. The chilly season opens doors to experiences both magical and invigorating, inviting healthcare professionals to embrace the winter wonderlands while fulfilling their crucial roles. In this blog, we will explore the best winter travel nursing destinations where healthcare meets adventure.

a travel nurse

From ski resorts nestled in the mountains to charming towns adorned with festive lights, these destinations not only offer career opportunities but also promise unforgettable memories. So, bundle up and join us on a journey through the top winter havens for travel nurses seeking both professional growth and the joy of winter exploration.

Tennessee

With the Volunteer State being ranked 10th in the nation for affordable cost of living*, travel nurses working and living in Tennessee can actually afford to visit famous locales like Music City (Nashville) or cozy up in one of the rustic cabins in Gatlinburg for a long weekend. Now that’s music to our ears!

Attractions: The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg

a travel nurse

Washington

Washington State’s freshly minted status as a compact state has more travel nurses looking into travel assignments in and around the Evergreen State. Seattle and the surrounding areas are already credited with having competitive pay rates, safe ratios, and an established travel nursing community.

Attractions: Pike Place Market, Bainbridge Island, Bavarian village of Leavenworth

Texas

Embrace the rich history and moderate winter climate of the Lone Star State. With a thriving healthcare sector and cultural attractions, Texas is a great destination for a winter travel nursing assignment.

Attractions: San Antonio Riverwalk, Magnolia Market in Waco

North Carolina

Whether you drive up the famous Blue Ridge Parkway for Asheville’s vibrant art scene or a brisk mountain hike in the Appalachian Mountains, The Tar Heel State has a little something for everyone – in fact, “The Variety Vacationland” is one of North Carolina’s other state nicknames of record.

Attractions: Grandfather Mountain, The Great Smoky Mountains

North Dakota

a travel nurse

If the thought of bustling city streets or another crowded commute to work makes your blood pressure spike, just take a deep breath….and head up to the tranquil prairies of North Dakota. Thanks to the rural landscape and simple way of life North Dakota natives have come to cherish, rush hour traffic, and overpriced city living are two things you’ll see very little of in The Peace Garden State.

Attractions: Downtown Fargo, Bonanzaville in West Fargo, The Rendezvous Region

Louisiana

For those who prefer to flock down to a warmer climate during the colder months, you can leave your parka behind. Even if you don’t come down for the weather, come for the rich music and food culture throughout the entire state.

Attractions: Christmas in the Oaks in New Orleans, The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Arizona

For a warmer winter, head west to Arizona. The Grand Canyon State isn’t just home to one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. It’s also home to several up-and-coming travel nursing hotspots like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Flagstaff.

Attractions: The Grand Canyon, Lake Havasu City

Montana

Montana

With access to outdoor adventures like skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking, coupled with a thriving healthcare sector, the Treasure State is an appealing destination for travel nurses.

Attractions: Big Sky Country in Bozeman, Yellowstone National Park, Flathead Lake in Polson

>> Start planning your next travel nursing adventure with Advantage Medical Professionals TODAY!

[Sources]

Housing affordability & cost of living rankings: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/rankings/opportunity/affordability

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:

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

By Medical Solutions

December 11, 2023

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Earning Potential in Nursing: How Different Degrees Affect Salary

Medical Solutions provided this article.

Embarking on the compassionate journey of nursing involves not only caring for others but also navigating the many education paths. Obtaining certain degrees or certifications can make all the difference in your salary in many industries, but does the same apply to nursing? From LPNs to advanced practitioners, we’ll explore how different degrees can shape both your knowledge and compensation.

salary

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)

To be an LPN, you typically complete a diploma or certificate from a one-year practical nursing program, which is a shorter and more focused education compared to RNs with higher degrees. While LPNs are invaluable contributors to healthcare, the scope of their practice is more limited to basic nursing care, which leads to a lower salary compared to other degrees.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An associate degree not only broadens the scope of practice but also offers a bump in salary compared to an LPN. Nurses with an ADN are better equipped to treat patients, administer medications, and perform diagnostics, and their increased responsibilities are reflected in higher compensation.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

While RNs with a BSN have the same main job responsibilities as those with an ADN, BSN-prepared nurses have a more extensive education, especially with leadership-focused classes, that help qualify them to take on nursing supervisor or nursing management roles. This opens up opportunities for more career advancement with higher earning potential.

salary

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Registered Nurses with a master’s degree often take on advanced practice roles in either a clinical setting or non-clinical setting. Some of these jobs include nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, nurse educator, and forensic nurse. The mastery of skill and ability to provide more specialized care—such as analyzing tests, prescribing medications, and diagnosing health issues—contributes to a higher salary.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The highest level of degree you can achieve within nursing is a DNP or Ph.D. Nurses with doctoral degrees are not only caregivers but also healthcare leaders, contributors to research, or educators for future nurses. With the ability to take on roles at the academic and executive levels, nurses with a doctorate tend to have the highest salary.

It’s crucial to note, though, that the type of degree you have is not the only factor when it comes to salary. Location, years of experience, certifications, specialization, and even healthcare setting are also major contributors to your salary. So, while continuing your education can create more opportunities for your professional and financial growth, the spectrum of earning potential as a nurse is vast. What’s important is making sure you know what you want to achieve in your career and finding a recruiter who will help get you there!

Our job board is the perfect place to look when you are ready for your next assignment or looking for your first assignment! Find both the role and the location that speak to you and your priorities.

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 CareerStaff Unlimited

December 8, 2023

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Packing for Cold Weather: 30 Travel Nursing Essentials

CareerStaff Unlimited provided this article.

White blankets of snow, cozying up after a long shift, magical holiday events warmed by the fire, hot chocolate, and long-standing traditions – there are endless reasons to choose a cold weather destination for your next travel nursing assignment!

Not sure how to prepare or unfamiliar with packing for cold weather? Consider this a travel nursing essentials guide for your fun, frosty adventures ahead!

travel nursing essentials

Benefits of Cold Weather Assignments

While they might not be as popular, there’s a long list of reasons to choose a colder climate for your next travel nursing assignment. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Better Pay & Opportunities

Let’s face it — almost everyone applies for positions in the warm-weather states during the winter months. Cut past the competition and embrace the opportunities in cold-weather states. With less competition and higher demand, you might just find more options and higher pay.

  • Seasonal Festivities & Events

Skip the long lines and crowds of tourists and explore the area’s top spots during the off-season.

Plus, cold-weather regions tend to be the best at holidays. See if the area has any holiday markets or events you can attend. Who knows — you might even get to try your hand at winter sports!

Tips for Preparing & Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Assignments

travel nursing essentials

Ready to brace for the cold? With a bit of preparation and packing for cold weather, you’ll go from chilly to cozy in no time:

  • Research the Climate.

Look up the monthly weather averages in the city you’ll be living in, including the highs, lows, rainfall, and snowfall when packing for cold weather.

  • Invest in Warm Clothing

A quality winter coat, footwear, and gloves will be your best friends when packing for cold weather. However, if you need to pack light, remember you can purchase more winter travel nursing essentials once you get there.

  • Learn How to Travel in Snow & Ice.

If you aren’t used to driving in the snow, take some time to learn and practice safe winter driving techniques. Map out your driving, walking, or public transportation path to work.

Packing for Cold Weather: Travel Nursing Essentials

Throw on your sweater, blast your winter playlist, and grab a pen — it’s time to pack! Packing for cold weather is a whole different experience if you’ve never done it before. Here’s a list of travel nursing essentials to help you get started.

Remember: Some items may be better to get once you arrive. Use this as a packing and moving checklist of travel nursing essentials!

  • Clothing & Accessories
    • Winter-friendly scrubs and moisture-wicking base layers (Pro tip: Remember to layer your scrubs for cold weather!)
    • Warm, water-resistant winter coat
    • Insulated gloves or mittens
    • Scarves and/or neck gaiters
    • Sweaters and thermal tops
    • Thermal bottoms and/or fleece-lined leggings
    • Insulated, waterproof boots
    • Wool or thermal socks
    • Hats or beanies to cover your head and ears
    • Heavy-duty snow boots for extreme conditions (if necessary)
    • Sunglasses to protect your eyes from harsh winter glare
    • Waterproof, insulated backpack or tote bag for carrying travel nursing essentials
  • Personal Care
    • Sunscreen with a high SPF (Yes, you still need it in winter!)
    • Lip balm or chapstick with SPF
    • Travel-sized first aid kit with basic supplies
    • Medications and any necessary medical supplies
    • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
travel nursing essentials
  • Home Essentials
    • Extra blankets and bedding for added warmth
    • Space heater (if permitted and necessary)
    • Electric blanket and/or heated mattress pad (if needed)
    • Flashlight with extra batteries
    • Emergency kit with essential supplies (e.g., non-perishable food, water, first aid items)
    • Rock salt or ice melt for walkways and driveways
    • Snow shovel or snow removal equipment
    • Entertainment (something to cozy up with when it’s cold out!)
  • Documentation
    • Health insurance information and contact numbers
    • Recruiter and travel nursing agency contact information

Find Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment

Packing for cold weather assignments? From thrilling hotspots to chilly escapes, your career can be an endless journey of adventure. However, don’t forget one of the biggest travel nursing essentials: your recruiter!

Discover how travel nursing agencies like CareerStaff can guide you through the entire process of finding the right position, location, and healthcare facility that aligns with your career goals. Happy travels!

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:

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

By Host Healthcare

December 7, 2023

1912 Views

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How To Write a Stand-Out Travel Nurse Cover Letter

Host Healthcare provided this article.

Are you a travel nurse eager to embark on a new professional journey but finding yourself challenged by the task of crafting a compelling cover letter? 

best agencywinners carousel ()

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler in the healthcare industry or just starting your adventurous career, the cover letter is your gateway to making an impactful first impression. In the competitive world of travel nursing, where each assignment presents a unique opportunity, the cover letter serves as your personal narrative, a chance to convey your passion, skills, and dedication. 

It’s more than just a formal introduction; it’s your story, a reflection of your adaptability, resilience, and commitment to thriving in dynamic healthcare environments.

From highlighting your broad skill set to demonstrating your ability to seamlessly transition between assignments while embracing new challenges, let’s explore the art of crafting a cover letter that resonates and distinguishes you in the competitive landscape of travel nursing.

nurse cover letter

#1 Personalize for Each Opportunity

Tailoring your cover letter for each application is crucial. Start by thoroughly understanding the job description and researching the facility. From there, identify keywords and specific requirements mentioned in the job posting. You can then use this information to craft a personalized introduction that captures attention. For instance, if the facility emphasizes the need for nurses with expertise in critical care, highlight your experience in that area and how it aligns with their requirements.

Furthermore, connect your experiences as a travel nurse to the facility’s needs, discussing how your adaptability and varied experiences have equipped you to thrive in their unique environment. Always address the cover letter to the hiring manager if possible, as it demonstrates your attention to detail and interest in the specific role.

#2 Highlight Your Travel Experience

Illustrate your travel nursing experience by describing the range of healthcare settings you’ve worked in. Discuss various patient populations you’ve cared for and the challenges you’ve navigated successfully. For example, share how working in different states or countries expanded your clinical knowledge, cultural competence, and ability to adapt in diverse environments.

Additionally, discuss how your experiences have honed your skills in handling unexpected situations, fostering resilience and resourcefulness as a travel nurse. By highlighting these aspects, you showcase not only your versatility but also your ability to excel in demanding and ever-changing healthcare settings.

#3 Show Off Your Skills 

Identify the skills and achievements that directly correlate with the requirements of the travel nursing job you are applying to. Whether it’s specialized certifications, proficiency in certain procedures, or achievements in improving patient outcomes, highlight them concisely. For instance, if the job posting emphasizes the need for strong leadership skills, discuss a scenario where you effectively led a team in a challenging clinical situation.

Quantify achievements whenever possible. If you’ve reduced hospital readmission rates or implemented a successful protocol, provide specific statistics or percentages to underscore your impact. Moreover, don’t just list skills; demonstrate how you’ve applied them to enhance patient care. Use engaging storytelling to convey how your skills have positively influenced patient experiences, team collaboration, or workflow efficiency. 

nurse cover letter

These tangible examples provide credibility and depth to your claims, showcasing your value as a potential asset to the facility.

#4 Use a Professional Tone 

Maintaining a professional tone throughout your cover letter is essential as a travel nurse. Aim for a tone that strikes a balance between being friendly and formal. Avoid overly casual language or slang, maintaining a level of professionalism that aligns with the healthcare setting. 

Use clear and concise language to express your qualifications and experiences without being overly verbose. Additionally, ensure the structure and formatting of your cover letter are polished and organized. Remember, a well-crafted cover letter with a professional tone not only conveys your capabilities effectively but also sets you apart as a competent and reliable travel nurse candidate.

#5 Keep it Concise

A concise cover letter respects the reader’s time, especially when hiring managers review numerous applications. Being brief ensures your most important qualifications stand out immediately, captivating their attention from the start. Short, impactful sentences maintain engagement, preventing the risk of losing the reader’s focus.

In the healthcare field’s fast-paced environment, concise communication reflects your ability to convey essential information efficiently—an invaluable skill in nursing where clear and quick communication is vital. Prioritizing quality over quantity lets you highlight key achievements and skills relevant to the job, making your cover letter focused, compelling, and memorable.

#6 Explain What Makes You The Perfect Fit

Articulating why you want the job and how you’re an excellent fit is a golden opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm and compatibility. Employers seek candidates genuinely passionate about the position, the facility, and its objectives. 

Share your motivations clearly, highlighting what draws you to the role and the facility. Whether it’s their patient-centered approach, commitment to innovation, or the chance to contribute your skills in a specialized area, emphasize your alignment with their mission and values.

From there, demonstrate your suitability by aligning your skills, experiences, and professional goals with what the facility seeks. Discuss how your background uniquely qualifies you for the role and how your contributions align with the facility’s needs. It’s about presenting a compelling narrative that shows not just your qualifications but also how your strengths perfectly complement the organization’s goals.

#7 Proofread, Proofread, and Proofread Again

Proofreading your cover letter is the final touch that transforms it from good to exceptional. It’s crucial to meticulously review your writing for any spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, or typos. Even the smallest oversight can detract from your professionalism and attention to detail.

Take the time to read your cover letter aloud or ask a trusted friend or colleague to review it for you. Fresh eyes often catch mistakes that might have slipped your notice. Additionally, consider using online grammar tools or proofreading apps to help identify and rectify any errors.

Empower Your Travel Nursing Journey with Host Healthcare

In the dynamic world of travel nursing, crafting an outstanding travel nurse cover letter is a key step toward securing your dream assignments. Tailoring your message, maintaining a professional tone, and showcasing your unique fit for each role can significantly elevate your application. 

At Host Healthcare, we understand the importance of standing out in a competitive field. Our dedicated team of recruiters is committed to supporting travel nurses like you on their journey, providing resources, guidance, and exceptional opportunities. 

Whether you’re seeking a new adventure or aiming to enhance your career, Host Healthcare is here to help you find your ideal assignments and thrive in the world of travel nursing. Apply today to begin your journey with us and unlock a world of possibilities in nursing.

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:

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