By Travel Nurses Inc.

September 18, 2024

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Travel Nursing Etiquette: Tips and Tricks for All Travelers

Travel Nurses Inc. provided this article.

Professionalism is an essential aspect of being a successful and respected traveler in the healthcare industry. Whether you are a seasoned travel nurse or just starting out in the field, understanding the unspoken rules of travel nursing can make a significant impact on your experience at each facility you work at.

In this blog post, we will explore some tips and tricks for travel nursing etiquette, as well as maintaining professionalism, communication, and relationships while on assignment.

Travel Nursing Etiquette: Tips and Tricks for All Travelers

Travel Nursing Etiquette: The Art of Professional Communication in Travel Nursing

Travel Nursing Etiquette

In the dynamic world of travel nursing, mastering professional communication is non-negotiable. As a traveler, your words and actions reflect not only on yourself but also on the agency facilitating your placement. It’s important to exercise discretion and always maintain a professional demeanor on the unit.

Engaging in workplace venting can seem harmless, but remember, walls have ears, and misinterpreted words can jeopardize your position and future opportunities. This happens more often than you may think. When the urge to vent arises, opt for a private conversation with your recruiter once your shift concludes. This approach ensures you maintain professionalism while providing an outlet for your frustrations.

Additionally, differentiate between seeking solutions and simply venting. Direct conversations on your unit towards resolving issues rather than dwelling on them. This fosters a positive and solution-oriented work environment. This level of professional communication upholds the integrity of your role and contributes to a more cohesive and respectful workplace atmosphere.

Travel Nursing Etiquette: Managing Unexpected Absences Gracefully

In the realm of travel nursing, it’s inevitable that unforeseen circumstances will arise that require you to miss a shift. However, how you handle these absences can greatly affect your relationships within your current assignment.

Proactively offering to make up any missed shifts is a gesture that underscores your reliability. It shows an understanding of the role you play in maintaining the unit’s operations and the commitment you have towards fulfilling your contract.

This approach not only helps to mitigate the impact of your absence on the team but also reinforces your professional image in the eyes of your unit manager. It’s an effective strategy to navigate the unpredictability of life while maintaining the trust and respect of your colleagues and superiors.

Travel Nursing Etiquette: The Importance of Honoring Your Contract

Travel Nursing Etiquette

When embarking on a travel nursing assignment, the significance of adhering to your contract cannot be overstated. This commitment begins the moment you accept an assignment and extends through every aspect of your job. This means timely and thorough completion of all credentialing tasks. Procrastination or neglect in completing necessary background checks, drug screenings and educational modules could result in a contract cancellation if it means your start date will be pushed back.

Accurately listing all requested time off during your submission is equally critical. Facilities are growing increasingly strict with their scheduling and often will not accommodate changes or additions to requested time off once an offer has been extended. Ensure all your ducks are in a row from the get-go for a successful assignment.

Travel Nursing Etiquette: Building Positive Relationships with Permanent Staff

One of the most rewarding aspects of travel nursing is the opportunity to connect with a diverse array of healthcare professionals in various settings. Part of the professional growth available to you while traveling comes with learning from your new colleagues. Their insights and experiences can be invaluable, offering you a deeper understanding of the unit’s dynamics and new patient care strategies.

Engage in active listening and show respect for the opinions and practices of the permanent staff. Their guidance can be instrumental in helping you adapt to the new environment quickly. Adaptability is one of the most crucial soft skills for travelers to possess. Be proactive in offering your assistance and be willing to share your knowledge and skills. This reciprocal approach to learning and collaboration underscores the value of teamwork and mutual respect.

Recognizing your colleagues’ contributions goes a long way in building rapport. Small gestures of appreciation can foster a positive atmosphere and make your integration into the team smoother. By being adaptable, open-minded, and communicative, you contribute significantly to creating a supportive and cohesive work environment. Embrace the chance to make meaningful connections that enrich your professional journey and possibly lead to lasting friendships.

We hope you found these tips and tricks for travel nursing etiquette helpful. Are there any other tips and tricks for travel nursing etiquette you think we missed? 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 housing search.

By AMN Healthcare

September 9, 2024

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Becoming a Travel Nurse: 5 Steps to a New Exciting Career

AMN Healthcare provided this article.

Imagine merging your nursing career with the excitement of traveling to new places. As a travel nurse, you not only get to explore different regions, but you also play a vital role in patient care across various healthcare settings. Welcome to the dynamic world of travel nursing.

In this article, we’ll explore the steps to becoming a travel nurse. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse or just starting your career, this guide will help you navigate the journey to a fulfilling career that offers both adventure and professional growth.

becoming a travel nurse

What Does a Travel Nurse Do?

Travel nursing originated in the late 1970s as a response to nurse shortages. Today, it has developed into a popular and flexible career path for many healthcare professionals. Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who are employed by staffing agencies. These agencies assign them to different healthcare facilities on a temporary basis to address short-term staffing needs, whether due to seasonal patient surges, staff absences, or emergencies.

Derick J., BSN, RN, CCRN, who works with AMN Healthcare, emphasizes the unique flexibility of travel nursing. “We enjoy a level of flexibility that’s rare in other professions,” he shared. “If I want to work in a particular location, I simply obtain the necessary licensure and coordinate with my recruiter. After completing a contract, if I want to take a break, I can easily do so. Many of my friends in other careers don’t have this kind of freedom—they’re tied to the typical 9-to-5 and can’t just take a month off whenever they choose.”

Beyond flexibility, travel nursing offers numerous benefits, including free housing provided by the agency, comprehensive health insurance, travel cost reimbursements, 401(k) retirement plans, and opportunities for continuing education. Below are the steps to becoming a travel nurse.

Steps to Becoming a Travel Nurse

Step 1: Earn a Nursing Degree. Start by earning a nursing degree. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is particularly valuable, especially if you aim to work at ANCC Magnet hospitals or large academic medical centers.

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN. After completing your degree, the next step is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam assesses the readiness of nursing graduates in the United States and Canada.

Step 3: Obtain RN Licensure. With your NCLEX-RN behind you, the next step is securing your RN licensure. This process includes submitting an application, completing a fingerprint check, and passing a criminal background check through your state’s nursing board.

Step 4: Gain Clinical Experience. Before embarking on your first travel assignment, you’ll need hands-on nursing experience. While you may start applying for travel nursing roles after 6-9 months of experience, most agencies prefer candidates with at least one year of clinical experience.

Step 5: Partner with a Travel Nursing Agency. Finally, connect with a trusted travel nursing agency like AMN Healthcare. Your recruiter will help match you with assignments that suit your preferences and guide you through the remaining steps.

becoming a travel nurse

Derick J. attributes much of his success to the support of his recruiter at AMN: “A key element in travel nursing is having a recruiter who really understands your needs and goes the extra mile for you,” he noted. “I’ve been lucky to have a recruiter who consistently makes sure an assignment works well for me. She’s been exceptional in helping me navigate this career.”

Ready to get started on your journey of becoming a travel nurse? Browse our available travel nursing jobs, then complete our quick online application to connect with a recruiter!

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

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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 Fastaff Travel Nursing

September 8, 2024

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Navigating the Fall as a Rapid Response Nurse: What You Need to Know

Fastaff provided this article.

As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures drop, the healthcare landscape shifts as well, particularly for Rapid Response Nurses. These skilled professionals are crucial in managing sudden patient emergencies and stabilizing situations before they escalate. But what exactly does this role entail, and how can Rapid Response Nurses best prepare for the fall months? Let’s explore this vital nursing specialty and how to navigate the unique challenges of the autumn season, all while highlighting the top opportunities and resources available through Fastaff.

rapid response nurse

What is a Rapid Response Nurse?

A Rapid Response Nurse is a highly trained registered nurse specializing in responding to critical situations within a hospital or healthcare setting. Their primary responsibility is to quickly assess and intervene when a patient’s condition deteriorates, often acting as the first line of defense to prevent further decline. These nurses must be adept at making swift decisions, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, and providing immediate care under pressure.

How to Prepare as a Rapid Response Nurse

Preparation is key for any nursing role, but for Rapid Response Nurses, it’s even more crucial due to the unpredictable nature of the job. Here are some steps to ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way:

rapid response nurse
  1. Stay Current with Certifications: Make sure your certifications, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), are current. Continuous education is essential to maintaining the skills necessary for rapid response.
  2. Refine Your Critical Thinking Skills: Rapid Response Nurses must be able to think on their feet. Regularly engage in simulations or case studies to keep your problem-solving abilities sharp.
  3. Know Your Team: Familiarize yourself with the healthcare professionals you’ll work with. Understanding each team member’s strengths and how to communicate effectively can make a significant difference during emergencies.
  4. Mental and Physical Readiness: The demands of rapid-response nursing can be physically and mentally taxing. Ensure you’re taking care of your own health, getting enough rest, and managing stress effectively.

Navigating the Transition into the Fall Months

The fall season brings unique challenges for Rapid Response Nurses, from the onset of flu season to changes in patient demographics. Here’s how to navigate this transition smoothly:

1. Be Prepared for Seasonal Illnesses: Fall often marks the beginning of flu season, which can lead to an influx of patients with respiratory issues. Stay informed about the latest treatments and protocols for flu and other seasonal illnesses.
2. Adapt to Changing Workloads: The patient population can fluctuate during the fall, with some facilities experiencing higher volumes of certain cases. Stay flexible and be ready to adjust to varying workloads.
3. Embrace the Change in Atmosphere: Fall can bring a sense of renewal and change, both in and out of the hospital. Use this time to reassess your goals, connect with colleagues, and refresh your perspective on your role.

Fastaff: Your Go-To for Top Rapid Response Assignments

Fastaff is known for providing premier assignments for Rapid Response Nurses, especially during the high-demand fall months. With an extensive network of healthcare facilities across the country, Fastaff offers opportunities that allow nurses to apply their skills in dynamic environments while earning competitive pay. Whether you’re looking to work in a bustling city hospital or a rural community setting, Fastaff has the assignments to match your career goals.

Leveraging the ACT Program for Career Success

To support Rapid Response Nurses in their careers, Fastaff offers the ACT (Advocacy, Career, and Tools) program as part of the Ingenovis Health family of brands, a comprehensive resource designed to help you excel. The ACT program provides:
• Advocacy: Guidance and support in navigating your career path, including negotiating contracts and understanding your rights as a traveling nurse.
• Career Resources: Access to continuing education, certification renewal assistance, and professional development
opportunities to keep you at the top of your game.
• Tools: Practical tools to help manage your assignments, from housing assistance to travel logistics, ensuring you can focus on what you do best, saving lives.

In conclusion, as a Rapid Response Nurse, your role is critical year-round, but the fall months require particular preparation and adaptability. By staying current with your skills, being mindful of seasonal challenges, and leveraging the top-tier assignments and resources offered by Fastaff, you can navigate this season with confidence and continue to make a profound impact on patient care. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the rapid response role, fall is the perfect time to take your career to the next level with Fastaff and the ACT program. 

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 Miles Oliver

September 6, 2024

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Creative Ways for Travel Nurses to Show Appreciation to Coworkers at the End of Their Contract

It can be a bittersweet moment when a nursing contract comes to an end. On one hand, many folks may be excited for a chance to see what comes next or take some time off. On the other hand, it’s easy to miss the work and the people that made the job so enjoyable along the way.

That’s why, as part of your end-of-contract checklist, you should make it a point to show appreciation to your coworkers with a physical present, card, or other creative gift. Here are some ideas and suggestions that may be just right.

Creative Ways for Travel Nurses to Show Appreciation to Coworkers at the End of Their Contract:

appreciation

Start With a Thank You Note

First, remember that you don’t necessarily need to go overboard or spend a lot of money to make an impression. Not all nurses will give a parting gift, so any effort will likely be appreciated. Often, even a simple but sincere thank you card will do.

You can buy cards at the store or make your own thank you cards at home. You’ll be surprised at what you can pull off with markers, colored paper, and a pen. If you’re giving a card to the entire staff, it’s best to write each one to the individual recipient so it’s more memorable.

Remember that in addition to being nice, showing appreciation is also a great way to try to stay connected. After all, you never know when the person you worked for in the past can help you in the future or vice versa. So, think about writing something nice on the card. Tell them you appreciate their work and attitude, and mention how you would like to work with them again. Don’t forget to provide your contact information.

Make a donation in someone’s name to make your card extra special. It’s a great way to show you care about them and do something nice for the world. Research the charities your coworker might like so it’s more personal and impactful.

Food and Drink Make Nice Gifts

Gifts involving food and drink are usually well-received as long as you’re sure the recipient enjoys what you get. Try healthy snacks that a busy nurse can eat while on the go. Nuts, dried fruit, and jerky can also provide a boost of energy during future busy shifts.

appreciation

If you enjoy cooking, look up new healthy snack ideas and make your giftees something delicious. The sky’s the limit to what you can create. A few great dishes include a shrimp and avocado cup, spicy jicama sticks, and parmesan popcorn. Your coworkers will be delighted that you thought of them this way. You could even host a potluck. Have everyone bring in a tasty dish so the whole team can get together and reminisce one last time.

While the gift may not be for everyone, you could choose to give a carefully selected wine. Nursing can be stressful, and some people unwind with a drink after work, so this could be perfect.

However, instead of just giving everyone the same bottle, you should research ahead of time and choose the best wines to gift your coworkers. One way to do so is to consider their food preferences and try to match. For instance, most Riesling wines go well with gourmet cheese. If you’ve never purchased wine before, go with those that are universally enjoyed, such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. If you really want to leave an impression, give a memorable or limited edition wine.

Gifts That Make Life Easier

Perhaps the best gift you can give to show appreciation for a fellow nurse is something that’ll make their life and shifts easier. For instance, a great gift that most nurses will really love is a pair of gel inserts. You can buy them almost anywhere, and they’ll make a world of difference. Just try to get the recipient’s foot size first.

You can also consider gifts to help your coworkers achieve a better work-life balance, like a gift basket full of items that can help them get quality sleep at night. It can include sleep masks, ear plugs, and even a portable white noise machine. Another idea in this vein is a gift certificate for coffee, food delivery, or a yoga class.

Conclusion

It’s a lovely gesture and well worth the effort to show appreciation for a coworker who has been so nice and helpful during your time on the job with a gesture or gift perfect for them. Think about their preferences, your budget, and what would make them happy, and they’ll likely love what you come up with.

We hope you found this article on ways to show your appreciation at the end of your travel nurse contract helpful. Do you show your appreciation at the end of your contracts? What are some ways to show appreciation to those you have worked with? Comment 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 Jackson Nurse Professionals

September 1, 2024

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How to Cope with Compassion Fatigue as a Travel Nurse

Jackson Nurse Professionals provided this article.

Have you ever felt so emotionally drained at the end of a shift that you wondered how you could keep going? Travel nurses pour their hearts into their work, constantly moving from one assignment to another, bringing their skills and compassion to different healthcare settings. While the rewards of travel nursing are immense, the challenges can sometimes be overwhelming. One of the most significant challenges is compassion fatigue, an emotional state that can significantly impact your ability to care for patients effectively.

Understanding Compassion Fatigue

compassion fatigue

Compassion fatigue is a state of emotional exhaustion and stress resulting from the continuous demand for empathy and compassion in caregiving roles. It can manifest as physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, irritability, reduced job satisfaction, and feelings of helplessness. For travel nurses, who often face the added stress of frequent relocations and adapting to new environments, managing compassion fatigue is crucial for maintaining both personal well-being and the quality of care provided to patients.

In this blog, you will find practical tips and personal insights on how to cope with compassion fatigue and continue thriving in your travel nursing career.

Practical Coping Strategies

  1. Self-Care Practices
    • Prioritize Self-Care: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep are foundational elements of self-care. Physical well-being is directly linked to emotional resilience.
    • Engage in Hobbies: Dedicate time to activities that bring you joy and relaxation outside of work. Whether it’s reading, painting, hiking, or any other hobby, these activities can provide a much-needed mental break.
  2. Mindfulness and Relaxation
    • Mindfulness Techniques: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine. These techniques can help reduce stress and increase emotional awareness.
    • Scheduled Relaxation: Allocate specific times in your schedule for relaxation. This could be a quiet evening at home, a spa day, or simply a walk in nature. Consistently setting aside time for relaxation can help prevent burnout.
  3. Setting Boundaries
    • Emotional Boundaries: Learn to set emotional boundaries to protect yourself from becoming overly involved in your patients’ struggles. It’s important to care but also to recognize your limits.
    • Physical Boundaries: Avoid overextending yourself physically by taking on too many shifts or working excessive hours. It’s okay to say no and prioritize your health.
  4. Professional Support
    • Seek Therapy or Counseling: Engaging with a mental health professional can provide a safe space to process your emotions and develop coping strategies. Therapy can offer new perspectives and tools for managing stress.
    • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many healthcare facilities offer EAPs, which provide confidential counseling and support services. If available, take advantage of these resources.
  5. Peer Support
    • Connect with Fellow Travel Nurses: Building a support network of peers who understand the unique challenges of travel nursing can be incredibly comforting. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes with colleagues can foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
    • Online Communities: Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to travel nurses. These platforms can offer a wealth of advice, support, and resources from a community that understands your experiences.
compassion fatigue

Organizational Support

  1. Advocate for Better Support Systems: Speak up for better staffing ratios, regular debriefings, and wellness programs at your assignments. Institutions have a responsibility to support their staff, and advocating for systemic changes can lead to a healthier work environment for everyone.
  2. Utilize Resources Provided: Many organizations offer resources such as resilience training, wellness workshops, and support groups. Make use of these opportunities to enhance your coping skills and well-being.

Long-term Strategies

  1. Ongoing Education: Continuously educate yourself about compassion fatigue and its impact. Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you recognize them early and take proactive steps to address them.
  2. Self-Awareness: Cultivate self-awareness to recognize when you are beginning to feel overwhelmed. Regular self-reflection can help you stay attuned to your emotional state and take necessary actions before reaching a crisis point.

Conclusion

Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. As a travel nurse, your ability to provide compassionate care to your patients depends on your own well-being. By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, seeking support, and advocating for better workplace conditions, you can manage compassion fatigue and continue to thrive in your career. The dedication and passion that inspired you to become a travel nurse are invaluable, and maintaining your health and well-being ensures that you can continue to make a positive impact in the lives of your patients.

We hope you found these tips for coping with compassion fatigue helpful. Have you dealt with compassion fatigue as a travel nurse? How did you cope? Have tips to share with your fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

About Jackson Nurse Professionals

As one of the premier nurse staffing firms, Jackson Nurse Professionals provides world-class travel nurse solutions to thousands of healthcare facilities across the country while connecting the brightest nurse professionals with the placements and career opportunities they desire. Powered by a national talent pool of Joint Commission Compliant Registered Nurses who adapt quickly to new environments and technologies while integrating easily with established teams, Jackson Nurse Professionals helps ensure highly skilled, compassionate nurses are available to deliver quality patient care in client environments, helping prevent staffing shortages and alleviate burnout.

Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse seeking your next assignment or you’re ready to dive into the dynamic world of travel nursing for the first time, our comprehensive job search portal is your gateway to exciting positions across the country. Connect with us today and take the first step toward fulfilling your next travel nursing adventure! Jackson Nurse Professionals is part of the Jackson Healthcare® family of companies. Learn more by following us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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 RNnetwork

August 27, 2024

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10 Tips for Nurses Who Travel With a Partner

RNnetwork provided this article.

Travel nursing can be a dream job for two. When you and your companion are both passionate about travel and new experiences, traveling together can be a dream job and a dream lifestyle in one. Here are tips for travel nurses with partners on what it really takes to make traveling together work.

Tips for Travel Nurses with Partners:

travel nurses with partners

1. Get on the same page

Make sure you and your travel partner are clear on the places you’d like to travel to, for how long, for what assignments, and what you’d like to get out of being there. Do you want to spend every free day together, or does one of you need “me” time?

Neonatal nurse Brian Flake loves learning from different hospitals. While he and his wife Bethany consider the cost of living, they’re most concerned with answering the question, “Where would be the coolest place to live?”

Travel nursing is also great for restless empty nesters. Home healthcare nurse Audra Belden explains that for her and her husband Jim, “Part of the travel deal is we’re just sort of scoping out the country just to see if there’s a better place for retirement.”

2. Figure out your living situation

You and your companion can easily seek out and find tried-and-true housing — like a short-term lease on an apartment, an Airbnb, or a hotel close to your facility. Or, you can rethink housing entirely. Audra and Jim Belden carry their home on their back “like a turtle,” living and moving in a 5th-wheel trailer, which Audra says makes it nicer to “come home after work.” Another travel nurse, Julie Stoddard, also uses a camper and finds it homier and less stressful for her and her kids than renting a stranger’s home. And Brian and Bethany Flake? They tow a custom-built tiny home to each assignment.

3. Make sure your recruiter is on the same page, too

travel nurses with partners

Let your recruiter know what really matters to you — location, professional goals, shift preferences, etc. They’re there to get a contract that works best for you. This is especially true if both you and your partner are nurses.

“When we started traveling, we explained to our recruiter that we only want to go to places that need at least two nurses,” explains William Cantwell, who does travel nursing alongside his wife, April. “Everywhere we’ve gone was with the understanding that it’s a package deal. You don’t get me without her, and you don’t get her without me.”

4. Make yourselves easy to interview

While you may come together as a set, you and your companion are different nurses, so you need to make sure your recruiter can tell hospitals when and where they can reliably reach you both for interviews. The sooner you both lock down great interviews, the sooner you get to hit the road to new horizons.

5. Let your recruiter know who to contact

Be honest: which of you is better at returning emails? Maybe that person should be the point person for both of you — or maybe you’ll keep your contracts separate. Either way, let your recruiter know what communication lines to use so you can get your contracts moving forward.

6. Stay flexible

Make sure your schedule is flexible so that you can get the assignments that make life in your temporary home livable — for both of you. If you both get on the right schedule, you can spend your downtime taking road trips, enjoying the local outdoors, and getting to know the community around you.

7. Consider one stay, two facilities

travel nurses with partners

One hospital in an area may not have the need for you and your companion, so opening yourselves up to working at different hospitals in the same city or area can help you find more work opportunities. Compromise in this area and see if it doesn’t land you and your travel companion in your number-one wish list city.

8. Share your commuting plans

It’s also important to let your recruiter know how you plan to get to work. If you’re sharing a car with your companion, it can make it hard to split you up between hospitals. For your recruiter to fill in the gaps, they need to know the details — like if you’re in a camper trailer!

9. Don’t forget that your contract is your own

Just because you’re traveling as a pair doesn’t mean you’re working as a pair — if something happens that forces your companion to cut their contract short, you’re still responsible for completing it. Create a backup plan for an emergency, such as if someone has to take the car you share to handle a personal situation.

10. Teamwork makes the dream work!

Be an accountability buddy and help each other meet your credentialing requirements. The sooner you both complete it, the sooner you can hit the road!

We hope you found these 10 tips for travel nurses with partners helpful. Have you traveled with a partner? Do you have any tips for travel nurses with partners you think we missed? Comment them below.

Rnnetwork can help you with your next travel nursing adventure! Call 800.866.0407 or view our open travel nursing jobs to find an opportunity that’s right for you.

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 Emily Haynes

August 25, 2024

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Travel Nursing: Getting Started With Immunization and Testing Requirements

Maybe you just signed your first travel nursing contract or maybe you’re still exploring options before you apply for your first contract. If you’re wondering what you can do in advance to make the onboarding process easier, keep reading. Once you’re a few contracts in, this will all be easy.

            Before you get to the facility for any in-person orientation and before you complete any online modules, you’ll have to complete some health requirements. These can include vaccines, immunizations, tuberculosis (TB) screening, medical clearance for respirator use, color vision screening, or drug testing. This article discusses only vaccination and TB screening requirements.

Getting Started With Immunization and Testing Requirements:

immunization

Getting a Head Start

            Your agency will make arrangements for you to complete the health requirements at an occupational health clinic in your area. Having your records organized in advance can save you some trouble and potentially avoid the need to repeat labs and vaccines that you may have already received. Are you one of the nurses who listened to the advice to save all your records when you were in college, or are you like many nurses who request their records again every time they need them? If you need to look for your immunization records, here are some places where you might get started:

  • Your current employer: This may be the most up-to-date and complete record, but if you don’t have any concrete plans yet, you may not want your employer to know that you’re looking for a new job.
  • School records: If you graduated from college recently, your school may be able to help since you had to meet the immunization requirements for healthcare workers before you started any clinical.
  • Your primary care provider: Depending on your age and your state’s immunization registry, your PCP may have all your immunization records since childhood, only recent adult records, or none at all.

            Keep in mind that obtaining an old record does not mean that you will meet current requirements, even if you were up to date with the requirements of your current job when you started. Requirements change, and you may have met the state requirements when you started your job, but changes do not always require that current employees meet the same requirements as new employees. Working in a different state may also mean more requirements.

What’s Required?

immunization

            Requirements vary from state to state and between facilities so your agency will need to provide a list of requirements from the facility you are headed to. Requirements and recommendations are based on the recommendations of federal agencies. You can expect to see a recommendation or requirement related to each of these diseases:

  • Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap)
  • Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
  • Varicella (chicken pox)
  • Hepatitis B
  • Influenza
  • COVID-19
  • Tuberculosis (TB) 

            The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends these vaccines for healthcare workers: Tdap, MMR, varicella, and hepatitis B.1 For hepatitis B, employers are required to offer the vaccine to healthcare workers who have no evidence of immunity and are at risk of exposure to blood or body fluids.2 Influenza and COVID-19 vaccination are quality measures so facilities will strongly encourage if not require vaccination.3,4 The CDC provides many recommendations about preventing the spread of TB in healthcare facilities, including a recommendation for baseline TB screening for any healthcare workers new to a facility.5

            State departments of health use these recommendations and regulations to create state-specific immunization and testing requirements for healthcare workers. What is accepted in place of vaccines (a documented history of disease, laboratory evidence of immunity, or declination of vaccines) may vary from state to state, so you can expect that some of the testing and vaccines you receive at your pre-employment appointment may seem like they must be above and beyond any requirements. You’d probably prefer to do labs to test for immunity to varicella rather than get called back because the facility didn’t accept your documented history of chicken pox.   

Preparing for Next Time

            As a travel nurse, you expect and welcome frequent job changes. Maybe your next contract will be through the same agency, or maybe a different agency will have something better to offer. Thinking ahead to future contracts can only make it easier on you next time. If you receive any vaccines or TB screening at your pre-employment appointment, ask about how you can request those records. Yes, your agency will receive the records and forward everything to your facility, but what if you find a different agency for your next contract?

Or you decide to apply to graduate school next year and need to provide your immunization record before you can start clinicals. In that situation, you wouldn’t have your employer footing the bill if you need to repeat anything because you don’t have the records.

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.

References

  • 1.         Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases. 14th Edition. Public Health Foundation; 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/pinkbook/hcp/table-of-contents/index.html
  • 2.         Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Occupational Safety and Health Standards: Bloodborne Pathogens. Vol 1910.1030.; 2019. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.1030
  • 3.         Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases. The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) Manual: Healthcare Personnel Safety Component Protocol, Healthcare Personnel Vaccination Module: Influenza Vaccination Summary.; 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/nhsn/pdfs/hps-manual/vaccination/hps-flu-vaccine-protocol-508.pdf
  • 4.         Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Healthcare Safety Network. FAQs on reporting COVID-19 vaccination data – June 2024. Published June 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/nhsn/hps/weekly-covid-vac/faqs.html#Data-Reporting:-Requirements
  • 5.         Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Guidelines for Preventing the Transmission of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis in Health-Care Settings, 2005.; 2005. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/rr/rr5417.pdf

By Sophie B

August 24, 2024

1075 Views

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The Ultimate Road Trip: How to Make the Most of Your Move as a Travel Nurse

As travel nurses, we move a lot. That’s a given. How we spend our time while moving can be stressful, or it can be a fun adventure. I tend to like adventure myself, and since I grew up road-tripping with my family, I love taking a solo road trip and exploring new places on the way. How do I start planning? Keep reading to find out and to start planning your next cross-country move!

Note: If you are someone who prefers shipping their car across the country and flying to your new location to pick it up, this article is not for you! 🙂

Tips for making the most of your road trip as a travel nurse:

road trip

Some things to consider early on:

How long do you want your days on the road to be, how long will it take you if you eliminate multi-day stops, and how much time do you have to spend on this trip? So first, can you manage 12-14 hours of driving on your own? Or do you prefer shorter driving days of 6-8 hours? Second, if you drive straight through, will it take 2, 3, 4 + days to drive to your new home? And third, how many days total do you have in between contracts to spend on enjoying the road trip?

For example, I drove from Northern California to Iowa, which normally takes 3 full (long) days of driving straight through. I had 7 days of free time to spend on the road trip. So I drove 12+ hours my first day, and stayed in Salt Lake City, Utah for 2 days. Then I did a 10-hour day of driving and stayed in Denver, Colorado for 2 days. And lastly, I did another long haul drive to Iowa to finish off the road trip. 3 days of driving plus 4 days of enjoying new places made 7 days total.

Once you know those key things, you can get out the map –

Physical or electronic, whatever you prefer! This will allow you to see the different routes you can take and where you might want to stop along the way. If you have a specific route in mind (ex, on the trip I took above, I mainly drove on Interstate 80), it makes it a bit easier to see where you might be willing to make stops or detours. Once you’ve got a general route chosen, you get to do all the fun things!

This is my favorite part of the planning process because I like to try to take trips that will allow me to see new places and visit friends or family along the way. Again, referring to the example I made above, I chose Salt Lake City and Denver (and Iowa as my ending point) because I have friends and family in those places.

Not only was this a great way to see somewhere new (since I had a personal tour guide), but it also gave me a place to stay. That really helped lower the cost of this road trip. Plus, what better way to see friends than by coming to them? It’s hard for people to travel to see me sometimes in new places. This is one way I implement seeing friends and family into my busy life.

Over-night stays during your road trip

road trip

If you’re planning a trip with stops that don’t include a place to stay, here are my recommendations. If your stop is more than one night, book that stay in advance. I like using my credit card portals to book stays because I get extra points for doing so, but use whatever booking site you normally would!

If your road trip stop is just a one-night stay to get to your next destination, I recommend waiting to see how you’re feeling that day. You may encounter delays or car troubles, and if you’ve already booked your stay, you might have a hard time making it to that spot. If you do book in advance, just be sure to have a refundable option.

What I normally do is aim for a specific town or city to stay in that night. Then, I will search and book a room when I’m a few hours out – like on my lunch or dinner stop. As long as there isn’t a big event going on in the area, you shouldn’t have trouble getting a hotel room the night of. And in my experience, prices don’t vary that much to make it worth booking before.

Now that you’ve got your timing, your stops, and your route all figured out, you’re ready to go!

Be sure to keep in mind stops for gas and bathroom/meal breaks because sometimes, when you hit the open road, you won’t see a town or rest stop for miles. I like to bring snacks and drinks with me, and sometimes, even for the first day, I will pack a salad or something nice for lunch, so I’m not eating fast food the whole trip.

One last thing I think is worth mentioning is to inspect and take care of your car before your road trip. Things like oil changes, tire tread, functioning headlights, jumper cables, and having a spare tire can all make a big difference and prevent accidents or delays on your journey! Be safe out there, and have a great time on your next big road trip adventure!

If you want to read more travel content, check out Sophie’s blog at thetravelingsopha.com.

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 Triage Healthcare Staffing

August 23, 2024

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How to Make the Most Out of Your Travel Nurse Pay

Triage Healthcare Staffing provided this article.

Even post-pandemic, travel nursing can be a way for nurses to make more money than they would if they were a staff nurse. If you’re traveling for the money (no shame in that game), look for ways to stretch your dollars so you can maximize your take-home travel nurse pay.

How to make the most out of your travel nurse pay:

travel nurse pay

Look For a Contact with Paid Housing

One of the easiest ways to stretch your funds is to look for a good-paying job that includes housing. Not all agency-provided housing is created equal. Everyone has heard horror stories of roach-infested apartments with moldy bathrooms and gross kitchens. For this reason, check to make sure you know exactly where you’re staying and talk to the recruiter about what to do if the housing isn’t up to par—you don’t want to be stuck living somewhere for three months if you’re not happy.

For that reason, we recommend a hotel if the agency is providing your housing. Even better is if the hotel offers amenities like free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a free continental breakfast. When the hotel offers breakfast items like yogurt, fresh fruit, and other breakfast foods, you can get a meal before or after work (if you’re on the night shift) and even get a grab-and-go snack for later, which can help stretch your meal budget even further.

Many hotels will provide a small fridge if you request it, but if they don’t have any available, you can usually find a second-hand one on Facebook marketplace and then pass it along to another travel nurse or resell it when you leave.

Travel With a Buddy and Share Housing

travel nurse pay

If hotel life isn’t for you, or you struggle with finding an assignment that offers paid housing, you can usually find a travel buddy and split the cost of an apartment. This will help you make the most of your travel nurse pay. To do this, it’s best to find a traveler who works with the same agency so you can better coordinate your travel assignments. Two is better than one, especially when you’re paying for housing!

Rent a Room Instead of an Entire Apartment

We know this won’t be for everyone, but it is an option, so we want to bring it up. One big way to save money is to rent a single room instead of an entire apartment. If you do go this route, you’ll want to thoroughly vet your landlord, as well as the room—we don’t recommend signing a lease for these situations sight unseen.

If you don’t want to arrive early to your assignment, it’s a good idea to rent a hotel room for at least a few days so you can evaluate your living situation in person to see if it works for you. The last thing you want to do is sign a lease for a room with loud kids, barking dogs, and an overbearing landlord who lives in the next room.

If you’re looking for ways to cut expenses while on a travel assignment, look no further than housing. Use these tips during your next travel nurse assignment to save on housing costs so you can put more money directly into your own pocket.

Looking for travel nurse jobs? Connect with a Triage recruiter and let them do all the work of finding you a new position.

We hope you found these tips on making the most of your travel nurse pay helpful. How do you maximize your travel nurse pay? Comment any tips you have 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.