By Jogan Health

July 22, 2023

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The History of Travel Nursing

Jogan Health provided this article.

When examining the history of travel nursing, one thing becomes glaringly obvious: it runs side by side with the history of nursing in general! Both professions were born at the same time – due to a high demand for professional and approachable assistance for patients – and both remain crucial today. During the COVID pandemic, for example, travel nurses became irreplaceable as a temporary solution measure against a virus that was ravaging healthcare providers almost as often as it was affecting patients.

But how did all this start? What are the major events that led to the modern version of our industry? How has it changed over the years? Read on below to answer these questions and more!

history of travel nursing

The History of Travel Nursing: A Timeline

Florence Nightingale and 37 other nurses are considered the first nurses in history. If you are a student of history, you will know that they were also the first travel nurses! When they sprang into action, they did so by traveling to Turkey to assist wounded English soldiers who were victims of the Crimean War. However, these women were not technically “travel nurses,” according to the mainstream definition of the phrase.

The emergence of the modern definition of travel nursing stems from New Orleans, Louisiana. During 1978 Mardi Gras Week, a time that is usually associated with festivities and community in the Pelican State, there was an unprecedented number of injuries. Due to local hospitals being overwhelmed by the massive number of patients, they began to contract nurses from all around the country to provide extra support for a few weeks.

Though this was the birth of the concept, it did not really kick off until a decade later. In the 1980s, the nursing industry was under threat for much the same reason as it is today: a nationwide nursing shortage. By the end of the decade, open travel nursing positions were widely available. They were recognized by the wider healthcare community as a cost-effective way for organizations to fill gaps in their roster and keep the ship afloat.

Travel Nursing in the Digital Age

We’ve come a long way since the ’80s. Nowadays, travel nurses are almost as common as traditional nurses. One of the major changes that facilitated this ubiquity is the advent of the internet. This digital age has empowered nurses to take control of their own careers. Many social forums and platforms now exist that offer placement and travel assistance, which makes the position more appealing than ever before. Jogan Health knows a thing or two about this and has made a traveling career possible for countless nurses all over the nation.

Key Takeaways

As we previously mentioned, the healthcare community had to deal with staffing shortages in the 80s and continues to do so today. While this might seem like a reason to leave nursing by the wayside as a career choice, it’s indicative of quite the opposite. Our industry has been through this before and will overcome this hurdle again. Nursing is here to stay, and regardless of how many times a shortage has threatened to end it, it has remained a viable source of work for people looking to care for others.

At its heart, the job is about spreading compassion and care as far and wide as possible. What better way to do that than to hop on a plane, see a new city, and help save the lives of those you have never met? Empathy is a cornerstone of human experience, and few professions exemplify it to such a degree. So long as we remain human, so long as the health of others continues to concern us, and so long as we are willing to help our fellow man, nursing will not go away.

It might change, as it did when the digital age began, and it might adapt to shifting circumstances, such as patient influxes, but the truth is that, so long as people need care, nurses will be a part of our communities. With a world where traveling has become more and more common, this is also true for travel nursing specifically. So, if you are a nurse or travel nurse, we encourage you to stay on course. You will always be one of the most important parts of any community. And to think this all started with a wild Mardi Gras party!

We hope you found this article on the history of travel nursing helpful. Did we miss anything of importance? Comment 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.

By Furnished Finder

July 20, 2023

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Packing for Travel Nurses: A Comprehensive Guide

As a travel nurse, one of the most daunting tasks that come with a new assignment is packing. You might have limited space to carry your belongings, which means you need to be strategic in your choices. However, with a bit of planning and organizing, you can make sure you have everything you need while keeping your luggage manageable and easy to carry. In this article, we will dive into the essential items that every travel nurse should consider packing for their next assignment.

Packing for Travel Nurses

1. Clothing and Shoes

When packing your clothes, think about the climate at your destination and the duration of your trip. Make sure you have enough clothing to last at least a week. You can pack neutral colors that can be mixed and matched and don’t forget to include comfortable and durable shoes. Apart from work shoes, you might need sneakers for your leisure activities and flip-flops if you’re headed to a sunny spot.

2. Toiletries and Medications

Pack your toiletries, including toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, in a toiletry bag. Also, ensure that you have enough medication for the duration of your assignment. Don’t forget you can always buy more supplies at your destination. You could also carry essential oils or aromatherapy to help you relax after a long day.

3. Electronics and Entertainment

Bring your cell phone, charger, laptop, and any other electronic gadget useful for you. You could bring along an ebook reader, tablet, or music player to help pass the time during a long shift or on days off. Additionally, you should also invest in a good power bank, in case you can’t get access to electricity.

Packing for Travel Nurses

4. Personal Items

Personal items might include jewelry, purses, and decorative items for your mid-term rental. You could also include task-specific tools, like a stethoscope or work log books necessary for your assignment. Don’t forget to carry some cash, credit card, or ATM card, as well.

5. Documents and Paperwork

Finally, make sure you have all your essential documents and paperwork when traveling. You might need your nursing license, travel documents, passport, health insurance, and more, depending on your assignment’s specifics. Keep all these documents in a zipped folder and label them so you know what’s in there.

Packing as a travel nurse can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With careful planning, you’ll know exactly what you need to bring and what you can leave behind. Also, packing essentials can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and stresses during your trip. By focusing on the essential items, you’ll pack in a way that gives you peace of mind, no matter where your travel nurse journey takes you. Happy packing!

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

July 18, 2023

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Washington State Nursing License and Compact State Status

TNAA-Travel Nurse Across America provided this article.

Earlier this year, Washington state became the 40th jurisdiction to join the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), and the new law goes into effect on July 24, 2023. This is exciting news for travel nurses who have had the Pacific Northwest in their travel nurse assignment sights and for nurses with a Washington state license who want to expand their travel nurse assignment locations. In this article, we’ll dive into what a compact nursing license is and share some unique Washington destinations to check out if you take an assignment there.

washington state

What is a Compact Nursing License?

A compact nursing license, also called a multistate nursing license, is an agreement allowing nurses to practice in any jurisdiction within the NLC. The NLC was established in 2000, and 25 states had joined it by 2015. In 2018, the NLC streamlined the licensure process for nurses through the Enhanced Nursing License (eNLC).

Despite the benefits of the compact nursing license, many other states were reluctant to join. However, the increased demand for nurses throughout the COVID-19 pandemic illuminated the need for a faster, more efficient system for nurses to gain licensure, and there are now 40 compact license states included in the NLC.  

The Impact of Compact Nursing Licenses

A multistate nursing license makes a big difference for nurses and facilities. It eliminates the need for nurses to obtain a license for each state or jurisdiction they wish to practice in, often a time-consuming and expensive process. Because nurses with an eNLC can practice in any participating state, traveling nurses can start assignments anywhere they wish without waiting to get their license first.

The compact nursing license benefits hospitals and facilities, too, providing them with a more extensive network of nurses available to hire for open positions. It also helps facilities expand their telehealth services.

Getting Your Compact Nursing License

If you’re interested in obtaining an eNLC, you must meet the eligibility requirements and apply through your board of nursing. There are several requirements, including residing in a compact state, so it’s important to research what you need before you begin the application process.

The good news is that your travel nurse agency’s quality assurance team can help. They can tell you the required licenses, certifications, immunizations, and training for all states you wish to take travel nurse assignments in, including non-compact states. Check with your agency to see if they have a Quality Assurance team who can help.

What to do While on Assignment in Washington

washington state

Now that the Washington State Compact license law is going into effect, travel nurses can add Washington to their desired assignment destinations list. Taking a travel nurse assignment in Washington is a decision you won’t regret. The Evergreen State offers an abundance of activities all year round. And the best news is that the state is small enough that no matter where your travel nurse assignment is based, you can easily explore everything this unique state offers through day trips or weekend getaways.

Here are a few Washington State attractions to add to your WA travel bucket list:

  • Mt Rainier National Park
  • The Olympic Peninsula
  • The Gorge Amphitheater
  • Leavenworth
  • Greater Seattle Area
  • Spokane
  • Columbia River Gorge
  • San Juan Islands
  • Washington Wine Country

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 Miles Oliver

July 16, 2023

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How To Turn Your Travel Nurse Job Into a Workcation

Being a travel nurse is exciting and invigorating. You get to explore places of the globe that many others don’t, helping people along the way who might not otherwise receive the care they need.

But there’s also no question that travel nursing is a lot of work, and it can be stressful at times. However, you do have a unique opportunity to have extraordinary adventures, and it can be done by combining work and leisure to make the most of your career.

While you can’t avoid your duties, there are things you can do to turn your travel nurse job into a workcation. With that in mind, let’s cover a few tips you can use to strike a healthy work-life balance as a travel nurse, as well as financial tips you can use to explore your destinations.

How to turn your travel nurse job into a workcation:

travel nurse job

Dream Destinations

You won’t always get to choose where you’re going as a travel nurse. The idea is to travel wherever there is a need. This can make your career feel more like a journey, and your eyes might be opened to destinations and experiences you never expected.

If you do get to choose your destination, consider places you might like to go if you were taking a vacation. Think about your interests and your needs. Are you an outdoorsy person? Places like the Santa Barbara region, Flagstaff, and Salt Lake City will all be up your alley.

Do you have bigger bucket list locations and adventures on your list? Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and volunteer to get out of the country. Some of the most beautiful, adventure-filled locations are waiting across the globe. Not only are they great for exploring, but leaving the country allows you to immerse yourself in other cultures. Working and vacationing like a local – in any country – is better than falling into any tourist trap.

Striking a Balance

You can’t always slip away from your responsibilities as a travel nurse to go exploring or find local restaurants. But it also isn’t realistic or sustainable to focus all of your attention on your job while you’re in a different location.

Nursing is stressful, and large amounts of consistent stress can take its toll on the body and mind. Some symptoms of long-term stress include:

  • Feeling overwhelmed or as if you are no longer in control of your own life;
  • Procrastination, difficulty concentrating, or problems managing your time;
  • Having a hard time relaxing.
travel nurse job

However, with proper stress management, these symptoms can be alleviated. In addition to getting enough sleep and exercise, taking the time to balance your career with the excitement of traveling can also help.

When you find a good work-life balance, you’ll perform better on the job and enjoy your time in a new location. Not sure how to achieve the ideal balance? Form a routine, as much as you’re able, and stick with it. Make a point to do at least one self-care item for yourself each day, whether that’s a walk in the morning to explore your surroundings or enjoying a unique meal at a local restaurant after work.

Plan for your next destination to ensure it has everything you need to be comfortable. That includes reliable internet so you can get information about your destination as needed and connect with friends and family back home. Depending on your mobile provider, you should be able to gain 5G internet access on your workcation, so you don’t have to worry about paying extra or accessing public WiFi that isn’t secure. If you’re staying somewhere for an extended period, researching the home options your provider has to offer can help.

Be Smart With Your Travels

It’s important to remember that you’re in a unique position with equally unique opportunities as a travel nurse. With that in mind, there’s no reason you can’t go the extra mile (literally) with your travels and take advantage of some of the financial perks you might get from setting the country or the world.

For example, most of your travel expenses will be taken care of when you’re heading somewhere for work. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the perks of travel-focused credit cards. Consider opening one and using it for all of your expenses — even the ones you’ll be reimbursed for, as long as your employer allows it. Many travel cards have incentives like cash-back rewards, points rewards programs, mileage rewards, and airline and hotel loyalty programs.

When you use a travel card and take advantage of the benefits, you and your loved ones can enjoy extra vacations and amenities when you choose to take some time away from work.

Chances are, you began your career as a travel nurse because you wanted to help people across the globe. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you have the opportunity to work in unique destinations, make sure you’re striking a healthy work-life balance and turning every job into a workcation you won’t forget.

Have you turned your travel nurse job into a workcation? Tell us about it in the comments 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.

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 StaffDNA

July 13, 2023

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Travel vs. Per Diem vs. Staff Nursing–Which One is the Best Fit for You?

StaffDNA provided this article.

As a nurse, there are a number of ways you can leverage your nursing license to find the best job to fit your goals and personal needs. If you have only ever worked a “traditional” staff nursing job, it can be confusing if you are trying to decide if other types of employment would work for you. In order to make the best decision for you and your career, it is important to understand the different ways a nurse can be employed and what the pros and cons are of each type of employment.

The three most common types of employment for nursing are travel, per diem, and staff nursing. These refer to the level of commitment and guarantee you give and receive from the health system you work for. These positions are more commonly seen across clinical roles, but you can sometimes find positions for non-clinical jobs as well.

staff nursing

Travel Nursing

Most nurses have a general understanding of how travel nursing works, but let’s take some time and look at some of the common misconceptions that lead nurses to believe travel nursing isn’t for them.

Just because you take a “travel nursing” contract does not mean you have to travel far from home. Some nurses travel in their hometowns or within a short radius of their homes but do not take tax-free stipends. The key here is to be knowledgeable about tax rules and what you can and can’t do regarding stipends and housing if you are staying relatively close to home.

Some pros of travel nursing are higher pay, tax-free income, contracted time off (if approved before you are hired), and unlimited time off between contracts. Travel nurses also typically get some form of guaranteed hours or maximum call-offs per contract, so you don’t have to worry too much about not being needed. You also do not have to take any particular assignment in any specific location. It is up to you where you submit for jobs.

On the other hand, the travel nursing job market has its highs and lows, like all industries do. Job opportunities may be seasonal, and pay rates follow this trend. In addition, contracts can be canceled or altered so long as the hospital gives its workers the notice required by the contract.

staff nursing

Per Diem Nursing

Per diem nursing is sometimes also referred to as PRN. Sometimes per diem nurses work directly for a hospital, or they may work for an agency. Either way, the nurse decides not only when and where to pick up a shift but also how often.

Per diem nursing can be a great way for nurses to have more flexibility and control of their schedule without having to commit to time away from home. You can work per diem locally or out of town. You just usually receive higher hourly pay than staff nurses without tax-free money.

One thing to be aware of with per diem nursing is a lack of guaranteed hours. Generally, per diem jobs will have a minimum amount of shifts you have to sign up for each month, but they do not guarantee you will actually work those hours. Per diem nurses are generally more expensive than staff nurses and don’t have the guaranteed hours that travelers do, so they may have their hours decreased first.

If you are in need of extra money or a place to work in between travel contracts, per diem is a great way to do this. For example, many travel nurses will keep a per diem job near their home so they can work a bit if they take extended time off. Just be sure to check the minimum requirements in case you have to travel back to work those shifts!

Staff Nursing

Staff nursing is the most common type of career path for nurses and one that everyone has to take in the beginning.

Staff nursing is a great way to build a foundation in your skills and to gain confidence as a nurse. In these types of jobs, you will have consistency both in hours and types of patients, which allows you to really focus on your skill set.

staff nursing

Some benefits of staff nursing include consistent hours, PTO, certifications and credentials paid for by your employer, and the opportunity to build relationships with leadership and grow beyond the bedside.

As a staff nurse, you are able to be more involved in your unit and take on more responsibility and leadership roles if you choose to. There are often opportunities to join committees or participate in hospital-wide councils, which are great ways to expand your skillset beyond basic nursing care.

The downside of staff nursing, when compared to travel nursing and per diem, is less pay and less control of your schedule.

So Which is the Best?

Some nurses will certainly tell you that one type of nursing path is better than the other. However, there is a time and place for each type of career. The beauty of nursing is that you have options beyond a standard Monday-to-Friday job. Life changes and your needs surrounding work will likely change as well.

Often, nurses will find that a combination of the different options works best for them. For example, it might be nice to work a staff job and have a per diem job on the side when you want to make extra money. Or, you could work travel contracts most of the year and head home and pick up per diem shifts every once in a while.

Of course, every option has its pros and cons, but you have to decide what your non-negotiables are and what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to mix up your schedule a bit. Chances are there will be plenty of opportunities available if you change your mind.

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. There you can search for what you are looking for in housing.

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

July 12, 2023

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10 Tips to Maximize Your Travel Nurse Salary

CareerStaff Unlimited provided this article.

Travel nurse salaries hit record highs during the pandemic. And while those numbers have come back down a little in the past year, travel nursing jobs still usually pay much more than staff positions.

With travel nursing, there’s no reason not to seize a well-deserved opportunity to maximize your wages. With that in mind, here are a few helpful tips to make sure you earn as much as possible during your next travel nursing job!

travel nurse salary

1. Don’t be afraid to be upfront.

When discussing with your recruiter, it’s perfectly okay to ask about the salary range for your desired position and share your own pay expectations. After all, it’s essential to have an idea of what you could potentially earn before diving into a job search. Being upfront about your worth can give you a better shot at getting the amount you want.

2. Be ready to justify your request.

It’s also reasonable to expect to be asked why you deserve the amount you’re requesting. Be ready with a list of what you’re bringing to the table — especially if that includes particularly valuable skills like OR, acute care, or telehealth experience.

3. Practice your negotiation skills.

Because they’re in such high demand, travelers have room to negotiate for their desired salary. But negotiation skills may not come naturally for people whose main focus is usually empathy and caring for others. If you’re that type of person, it’s a good idea to work on building those skills. Try practicing with a friend, colleague, or loved one.

4. Factor in stipends, benefits, and bonuses.

You can expect to receive certain stipends as a traveler — in other words, extra cash for common expenses like housing and getting to your assignment. You may be offered benefits, too, as well as an extension bonus if you stay on after a certain time. Make sure you’re clear on whether all of this is part of the base salary you’re offered or in addition to it.

5. Be clear on job expectations.

Make sure you understand just how many hours you’ll have to work to get the compensation package they’re offering. Getting an offer based on a 48-hour week isn’t unheard of, after all. And that means you’ll literally be working overtime to get the salary you want.

travel nurse salary

6. Factor in the location.

Nursing salaries vary widely from state to state and city to city. For instance, you can expect to earn more in a high-paying place like California or Massachusetts as opposed to one on the lower end, like Nebraska or Tennessee. Make sure you consider this before accepting or turning down an offer, and explore where your state fits in.

7. Factor in the cost of living.

Nurse salaries also tend to be higher in cities than in rural areas. Before you let that affect your decision to accept a travel assignment, though, you should also consider that it’s usually cheaper to live in the country than in the city. So, even though your base salary may be lower, you could end up earning more by saving on rent for a few months.

8. Ask about extra opportunities.

Even though overtime shouldn’t be included in a salary package, it could still be a good option if you’re looking to maximize your earnings while traveling. Asking if you’ll be able to pick up extra nursing shifts (especially weekends and holidays) could also make you a more appealing candidate. In addition, that can give you a better chance of getting hired and getting the salary you want.

9. Understand your tax liability.

Depending on your employment situation, you may not have taxes withheld from your paycheck. Some parts of your compensation, like stipends, are also usually taxed differently than your salary. Your best bet is to calculate your overall liability in advance and set aside that amount each week. If you have trouble understanding this, consider consulting a tax specialist.

10. Consult an expert!

There’s a good reason why so many travel nurses rely on agencies to find the best jobs and the best pay. Leading travel nurse companies offer expert-level recruiters who walk you through every detail, which is a great resource even for seasoned travelers. So, before you accept your next travel job, talk with a recruiter about your specific situation, whether your pay expectations are reasonable, how to avoid any unpleasant tax surprises, and anything else you need to know.

We hope you found these tips on how to maximize your travel nurse salary helpful. Have you found any ways to maximize your travel nurse salary? Comment them below.

Good luck with your next travel adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice and a competitive salary, CareerStaff is a great place to find both. We’ve got opportunities across the United States and amazing recruiters to help you maximize your travel nurse salary. Visit CareerStaff.com today for all the details.

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 Fastaff Travel Nursing

July 11, 2023

1658 Views

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Travel Tips for Travel Nurses: Making the Most of Your Journey

Fastaff provided this article.

As a travel nurse, you have the incredible opportunity to combine your passion for healthcare with your curiosity for adventure. However, navigating the world of travel nursing requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth transition. Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse or embarking on your first assignment, these essential travel tips will help you make the most of your journey.

your journey

1. Be sure to utilize your recruiter:

Staying connected with your recruiter is an essential part of the job. Recruiters will have all the important information you need to ensure success on your travel assignment.

2. Determine your availability:

One of the major perks of being a travel nurse over a staff nurse is that you can decide when you want to work. It is of extreme importance to speak with your recruiter about your availability, so you can avoid assignments that conflict with your schedule.

3. Embrace flexibility:

Be prepared for unexpected changes and challenges. Being flexible is a key component of travel nursing. Adaptability will help you navigate new environments and handle any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.

4. Research your destination:

your journey

Before heading to a new location, take the time to research the area thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with the local culture, climate, and cost of living. Being well-informed about your destination will help you adapt more quickly and make informed decisions.

5. Networking:

Creating a strong professional network is crucial for a travel nurse. Connecting with colleagues, fellow travel nurses, and healthcare professionals in your new location. They can provide guidance, support, and insights about the local healthcare system and community.

6. Take Care of Yourself:

Self-care is essential for travel nurses. Maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritize your well-being. Find time for yourself while on assignment. Stay active, eat well, and get enough rest. Remember to take breaks and recharge between assignments to prevent burnout.

7. Keep Learning:

Each assignment presents an opportunity for professional growth. Take advantage of continuing education programs and training opportunities. Ingenovis Health and its family of brands, including Fastaff Travel Nursing, has The ACT Program that offers training and development services to travel nurses and clinicians. The ACT Program is a great benefit for travelers and was designed based on feedback from frontline healthcare workers. Utilizing continuing education services, such as The ACT Program, will help to enhance your skills and broaden your knowledge.

Use these tips to make the most out of your journey!

We hope these tips will help you on your upcoming travel assignment. Travel nursing offers an exciting and rewarding career path. By following these essential travel tips, you can maximize your journey, make lasting connections and create cherished memories along the way. For more travel tips, check out Fastaff Travel Nursing Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Safe travels, and enjoy the fulfilling world of travel nursing!

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse 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 ONESTAFF MEDICAL

July 9, 2023

2873 Views

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How to Overcome Language Barriers as a Travel Nurse

Onestaff Medical provided this article.

Traveling across the country means travel nurses will be treating a number of diverse patients. This can quickly create language barriers for travel nurses and patients who aren’t fluent in a certain language.

To ensure each patient is receiving the healthcare and support they need and are entitled to, it’s important for travel nurses to not only be mindful of diversity and inclusion but to also take certain communication strategies into consideration.

language barriers

Why Is It Important to Overcome Language Barriers in Healthcare?

Failing to overcome language barriers with patients can be the difference between receiving proper versus insufficient healthcare for your patients. Learning how to communicate with patients who speak a different language, especially those who don’t speak English, is critical in ensuring equal opportunity for proper care.

Currently, about one in five Americans speak a language at home other than English. This means that the likelihood of communicating with non-English speaking patients is incredibly high for travel nurses.

Considering the mass amount of Americans who speak another language, as well as the importance of providing equal care to all patients, it’s very important for travel nurses to learn how to overcome any language barriers that may arise in their healthcare facility.

7 Tips for Communicating With Non-English Speaking Patients as a Travel Nurse

It can be challenging to overcome language barriers in a healthcare setting, especially for travel nurses who may not know a language outside of English. Fortunately, OneStaff Medical has a few tips to consider as you interact with non-English speaking patients.

1. Consider All Cultural Differences and Be Culturally Sensitive

People come from many different backgrounds and all walks of life. Everyone has an origin story for who they are, where their family is, and what traditions they have. Being culturally sensitive to every patient and their unique situation is the first step in overcoming any language barrier that may be present.

Beyond having a baseline understanding of a patient’s perspective, there are other things that must be considered when communicating with them. For example, it’s important to be mindful of certain cultural sensitivities. Travel nurses may need to err on the side of caution when approaching certain topics related to healthcare, including death, gender, sexuality, and more.

Additionally, the English language contains a myriad of euphemisms, jokes, and other sayings that don’t necessarily translate well into other languages. Using these types of phrases may create an awkward situation where the patient may not understand what you are saying and may even find it offensive.

To be more culturally sensitive, travel nurses may want to consider learning a few polite expressions in common languages they encounter day-to-day. It can also help to familiarize yourself with the cultural norms of these languages. While you aren’t expected to know everything, having some understanding of other cultures and languages is better than having none.

language barriers

2. Speak Slowly But Not Loudly

For some, it may be inherent to speak loudly when someone else doesn’t understand the language or what you are trying to communicate to them. However, speaking loudly can be ineffective and may even come off as rude to some patients.

Instead of focusing on your voice’s volume, focus on speaking clearly and slowly. Patients who use English as a second language may not be proficient enough to understand the fast, conversational elements of the English language.

Therefore, be mindful that non-English speaking patients may need more time to comprehend certain words or sentences. Talking deliberately with a slow, clear tone is one of the best ways to overcome language barriers with a patient.

3. Use Body Language Appropriately

Like certain English euphemisms, elements of body language may come off the wrong way if travel nurses aren’t aware of cultural differences or how they may look to non-English speakers. For this reason, you’ll want to pay close attention to your body language.

Actions usually do speak louder than words, and your patients may find more understanding of what you’re communicating based on your body language than they would from the words you’re speaking. Always be aware of what you may be conveying with your body language, especially when it comes to facial expressions. The right expressions can be vital clues for patients and help them to better understand you.

It’s important to be aware of how your arms are positioned, how you are standing, the way you move your hands when speaking, and more. For example, standing with your hands on your hips or with your arms crossed can nonverbally communicate a more closed-off and unwelcome persona. On the other hand, using your body and facial expressions to convey a warm environment can make patients a lot more comfortable.

4. Use an Interpreter

Sometimes, travel nurses may encounter situations where the patient doesn’t speak any English at all. This can be incredibly challenging and make it difficult for the patient to express their concerns to you and for you to communicate back any information or treatment plans.

Miscommunication with a patient can put travel nurses in risky situations, as they likely won’t have all the information at their disposal to know the correct course of action for the medical situation. In these instances, using an interpreter can help make nursing communication with non-English speaking patients a lot easier.

However, it’s also important to note that interpreters may not always be at your disposal when you need them. This can be especially true in dire situations where there isn’t enough time to call a translator, such as in an emergency.

For that reason, travel nurses should not rely solely on the idea that an interpreter will always be there; instead, focus on continuing to be culturally competent in the case that an interpreter is not available.

5. Make Eye Contact

language barriers

Making direct eye contact with a non-English speaking patient is not only respectful but is also important in ensuring your patient understands what you are communicating to them. Even if an interpreter is present in the room, it’s important to always talk to the patient directly and maintain eye contact rather than looking at the interpreter.

Conversely, retain eye contact when the interpreter is translating from the patient to you, as well. Whether the care situation is minor or severe, all patients want to feel heard and understood. Maintaining eye contact is a great way to show that you care and are there to listen to their concerns.

6. Build Trust and Be Respectful

To provide the right care, your patients must be able to trust you and your expertise. Putting patients at ease by showing kindness and respect is one of the best ways to ensure proper healthcare is provided.

Above all else, it’s important to be respectful. When communication becomes a challenge, it may be easy to become frustrated or impatient. However, it’s imperative that travel nurses not let this happen.

Instead, practice patience with all non-English speaking patients. You are likely to have a more successful outcome with the patient, as well as build the trust you need to be successful. Show respect by giving them the space and time they need to understand.

7. Learn a Few Key Phrases

Learning a new language may seem daunting, but even knowing a few key phrases can make a huge difference when treating and communicating with non-English speakers. Put your patients at ease by coming into the conversation with common phrases in their language.

Even simple phrases and words such as “eat”, “drink”, “where”, “pain”, “sit down”, and more can make a huge difference and leave a lasting impression on those you’re caring for and treating.

Overcoming language barriers as a travel nurse can be a challenge, especially when considering how unpredictable a patient’s situation may be. However, using the right body language, practicing respect, and even knowing a few words in common languages you’ve encountered can help in overcoming any language barrier that may be present.

Are you looking to start your career as a travel nurse? Contact OneStaff Medical today to learn more!

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 Nathan Campbell

July 7, 2023

1690 Views

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Will Artificial Intelligence Take Over Nursing

I have been a nurse for three very long years. As a baby nurse, I emerged into the chaos of a worldwide pandemic. Fumbling my way through nursing during my early days felt like walking a tightrope over a pit of snakes while juggling chainsaws. I learned, laughed, and cried. Met my wife, bought a house, and became a travel nurse.

As I lay a foundation for my future career, I can’t help but wonder how the latest buzzword in every media headline will affect nurses everywhere: artificial intelligence.

artificial intelligence

I pull out my new tracker and search for the button I haven’t had much of a reason to press yet. I speak into the microphone, ‘Should I give Mr. Jones in ICU Bed #3 his P.M. dose of furosemide?’ I wait patiently while a text box automatically fills the computer screen on my portable rover. The latest virtual assistant powered by the buzziest Silicon Valley company immediately spits out this helpful instruction, ‘Mr. Jones is currently in a worsening stage of renal failure. His nephrologist saw him today; his note contains instructions to hold all diuretics. His nephrologist ordered gentle I.V. fluid hydration in the hopes of improving his renal function. Normal saline is currently ordered at 50mL/hour. This medication is currently infusing; it was last scanned at 1647. It may be helpful to grab a new bag of normal saline.

According to my calculations, you may need to hang a new bag soon.

If you have any further questions, I can compose an encrypted message to Dr. Hughes seeking further clarification.’ I was 90% sure of all the information that was just synthesized for me. Peace of mind is priceless in a profession where small mistakes can lead to irate physicians or dead patients. I also don’t have to waste my time sending a message to an on-call nephrologist who has never seen Mr. Jones, is unfamiliar with his health history, or could be sleeping. Waking up a doctor for silly questions like that can easily lead to loss of hearing or, quite possibly, a limb in the right circumstances. 

artificial intelligence

The potential of artificial intelligence

I marvel at the potential of artificial intelligence while recognizing that these advances are decades away. I also rest easy in the knowledge that artificial intelligence cannot restrain a violent patient, provide a hug to a distraught family member, or do any of the hundreds of other tiny human things that make nurses some of the most amazing people I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. My most sincere hope is that AI will make good nurses into great nurses. And great nurses into superheroes. 

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!)