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

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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.

By Travel Nurses Inc.

August 22, 2024

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Packing Tips and Knowing When to Leave for Your Assignment

Travel Nurses Inc. provided this article.

Whether you’re packing for your first assignment or your tenth assignment, it can be overwhelming. You’re packing your life up for three months (or more) and going to a new place. Knowing what to pack and when to leave for your assignment is crucial.

In this blog post, we will discuss packing essentials, smart packing tips, and knowing when the best time is to leave for your assignment. Let’s prepare for your next adventure.

Packing Tips and Knowing When to Leave for Your Assignment

Essentials to pack:

packing tips

For healthcare professionals embarking on a travel assignment, certain items are non-negotiable for packing. A critical aspect of preparation is confirming the color of scrubs required for your unit. Initiating this conversation with your manager during your phone interview ensures you arrive with the appropriate scrubs, avoiding any first-day mishaps. Should you discover your scrub collection lacks the necessary color, purchasing scrubs before leaving becomes essential.

Remembering to pack identification and official documents is also important for orientation. The specifics of these requirements will be outlined in your first-day instructions (FDI) with your recruiter. Additionally, if you have online orientations or mandatory modules, you will need to bring your laptop.

While it’s tempting to pack every possible need, remember the virtues of traveling light. Essential electronics aside, you can purchase daily necessities such as toiletries at your destination. This approach not only saves suitcase space but also lightens your load, allowing you to focus more on the adventure ahead.

Smart packing tips:

Packing efficiently is one of the biggest challenges when embarking on a new travel assignment. Investing in packing cubes can revolutionize the way you organize your suitcase. These handy organizers compartmentalize your belongings. This makes it easier to find what you need upon arrival and keeps your items in pristine condition throughout your journey.

Remember to review the climate and weather forecasts of your destination. Packing appropriate clothing for expected weather conditions will ensure comfort and preparedness for any situation. Consider the versatility of each piece of clothing you pack.

Choosing garments that can be mixed and matched for different settings not only maximizes your wardrobe options but also conserves valuable suitcase space. Another effective strategy is rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This method not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles.

Lastly, while it’s essential to pack efficiently, remember the importance of leaving some room in your luggage for personal items that will make your new space feel like home. Whether it’s a favorite book, photos of loved ones, or a small keepsake, these personal touches can greatly enhance your comfort and well-being during your assignment. By adopting these smart packing strategies, you’ll navigate your travel experience with ease, allowing you to focus on the exciting professional opportunities ahead.

When to leave:

packing tips

Navigating the timeline for your departure requires clear communication and coordination with your assignment’s support team. Engage regularly with your compliance specialist and your recruiter to stay up to date on requirements that must be fulfilled prior to your departure. At Travel Nurses, Inc., you will receive the email and phone number of the compliance specialist assigned to you. They will be your first line of support for all things related to your drug screen, background check, vaccination records, etc.

Receiving your FDI serves as a green light for beginning your journey. This crucial step ensures that all necessary background checks, certifications, and paperwork have been approved and processed.

In situations where the start date is rapidly approaching, and you find yourself waiting on final clearances, maintaining open lines of communication becomes even more vital. Informing your recruiter of your plans and any concerns will enable them to provide assistance and advocate on your behalf if necessary. While the anticipation of starting a new assignment is understandable, ensuring that all systemic and procedural boxes are checked will pave the way for a successful and fulfilling travel experience.

Turning in compliance items early helps ensure that you receive your FDI with enough time to get to your assignment. However, there are times when facilities ask for last-minute items and this moves the timeline for things. Keeping informed of any outstanding requirements, to the best of your ability, is key.

By staying informed, flexible, and in constant communication with your support team, you can mitigate the challenges and keep your focus on the exciting opportunity ahead.

We hope you found these packing tips and when to leave helpful. Do you have any packing tips to share or tips on when to leave for your next travel assignment? Comment any packing tips or tips on when to leave for your assignment below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

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

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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

By Medical Solutions

August 21, 2024

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What States Are RNs in Highest Demand?

Medical Solutions provided this article.

Where would your nursing skills make the biggest impact? Some states are desperately seeking RNs to keep up with patient care demands. An aging population, nurse burnout, and a wave of retirements among experienced nurses have left many facilities scrambling to fill gaps. If you’re considering travel nursing and want to go where help is needed most, here’s a friendly guide to the states where RNs are currently in very high demand.

States with the Highest Immediate Demand for RNs:

rns

California

California isn’t just famous for its sunny beaches and Hollywood glamour—it’s also at the top of the list for nursing demand. As the most populated state in the U.S. and the highest-paying travel nursing location, California has about 8.34 nurses per 1,000 people and has an average of 23,420 job openings each year. Sure, the cost of living is high, but so are the pay rates for travel nurses. So, if you’re drawn to the state’s laid-back energy and the serene beauty of the coast, there are always plenty of assignments in California for any specialty.

Texas

Texas, the Lone Star State, has a huge demand for nurses due to its growing population and sheer state size. Texas has about 7.69 nurses per 1,000 people with an average annual of 16,900 RN openings. Rural areas, in particular, are feeling the pinch, which led Texas facilities to offer more incentives to attract nurses. This means there are plenty of travel nursing opportunities across Texas, from urban hospitals to charming rural clinics, each offering you a chance to make a real difference in underserved communities.

Florida

Florida, known for its retirees and tourists, is also a hotspot for nurses, especially in long-term care and emergency services. With 8.88 nurses per 1,000 people, Florida has an average of 14,110 job openings each year. The state’s frequent hurricanes add to the need for emergency care expertise, but an assignment there is not all work and no play—Florida life is vibrant and diverse, an appealing destination if you’re looking for a warmer climate.

States with the Fastest-Growing Demand

rns

New York

New York’s need for nurses skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to remain high. With over 19 million residents and a healthcare system known for its research and innovation, New York needs a steady flow of nurses to meet its diverse healthcare needs. The state currently has about 9.68 nurses per 1,000 people and is projected to need 33,420 more by 2030, making it one of the fastest-growing  From the fast-paced environment of New York City to the serene upstate regions, travel nurses can find roles that offer both professional growth and personal fulfillment.

Arizona 

Arizona’s warm climate and affordable living attract both retirees and young professionals. The state has about 7.61 nurses per 1,000 people and is projected to need 22,980 more RNs by 2030. As the state’s population grows, so does the need for nurses. Arizona is actively working to prevent a severe nursing crisis by 2025, and travel nurses can play a crucial role in supporting this effort while enjoying everything this great state has to offer.

What Causes a Nursing Shortage?

Several factors are at play, creating both challenges and opportunities for travel nurses like you:

  • Aging Population: The Baby Boomer generation, roughly 73 million people, is at retirement age, dramatically increasing the need for geriatric and chronic illness care.
  • Aging Workforce: Many nurses are nearing retirement, creating a gap of nurses that needs to be filled by new, skilled professionals.
  • Nurse Burnout: The pandemic worsened already high levels of stress and burnout among nurses, leading many to leave the profession in search of better work-life balance.
  • Faculty Shortage: Nursing schools are turning away qualified applicants due to a lack of faculty, clinical sites, and resources, limiting the number of new nurses entering the workforce.

Ready to Make a Difference and Earn More? Travel With the Best Nursing Agency

If you’re ready to take your skills where they’re needed most, explore travel nursing opportunities in these high-demand states and join the effort to provide top-notch patient care across the nation. Apply with Medical Solutions today to find the perfect fit for your skills and preferences and start your journey toward making a meaningful impact in these amazing states.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

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

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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

By Vibra Travels

August 19, 2024

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Seize the Summer on a New Assignment!

Vibra Travels provided this article.

🌞 Why this is an ideal time to embark on a new assignment! 🌞

Here are some compelling reasons to seize the summer and consider an end-of-summer assignment:

  1. Beautiful Weather: Take advantage of more opportunities for new places and sightseeing! Summer is the time to explore destinations you may not consider at other times of the year.
  2. High Demand: The summer vacation season brings an increased demand for travelers, which means greater availability of assignments and perks!
  3. Less Competition: Fewer clinicians are on the move in the summer. Take advantage of this and secure a preferred assignment and sought-after location.

Maximize fun while on a new assignment

new assignment

A new assignment doesn’t mean missing out on summer fun! Engaging in local activities can enhance your experience and help you feel more connected to your temporary home. Here are some tips to help you find things to do and make the most of your time off:

  1. 🔎 Learn about Local Attractions: Stop by tourist centers for local insights or use websites like TripAdvisor and Yelp to scope out top-rated attractions. Join Facebook groups or follow Instagram accounts for local events, and be sure to check out event apps like Eventbrite for nearby activities.
  2. 👍 Connect with Colleagues: Ask for recommendations and participate in outings. Your coworkers will know the best spots in town!
  3. 🌄 Get Outdoors: Look for local parks, hiking trails, and nature reserves. Check local listings for seasonal events like fairs and festivals, too!
  4. 🍉 Explore the Culinary Scene: Try new cuisines and dining experiences. Take a guided food tour to sample the best local eats, or visit farmers’ markets for local produce and crafts!
  5. 🚌 Take a Day Trip: Plan short trips to explore neighboring areas.
  6. 🎨 Engage in Hobbies: Check out what classes and workshops are available in the area. Find local classes to learn something new or keep up with hobbies while on the road.

Happy exploring!

Fuel up with homemade energy bites

We had a great response to these simple, no-bake energy bites at Vibra Travels, so we thought we’d pass the recipe on to you! Maybe you can share them on your new assignment. They’re made to keep you energized and focused during your busy day and are easy to bring anywhere, providing a tasty and homemade way to maintain energy levels. 💪

new assignment

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup oats
  • 2/3 cup coconut flakes
  • ½ cup ground flax seeds
  • ½ cup honey or agave
  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

🥣 Directions: Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl (this may take some muscle because the batter is very sticky!). Cover and place the bowl in the freezer or refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes (this will make it easier to roll into balls). Roll the batter into 24 bite-sized balls. For maximum freshness, store in the refrigerator until ready to eat.

Nutrition Facts: Serves 12 (serving size: 2); Calories: 220; Total Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 35 mg; Total Carbohydrates: 25 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 16 g; Protein: 5 g

We hope you found these tips on seizing summer on a new assignment helpful! How do you seize the moments when you start a new assignment? Comment them below.

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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 TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

August 17, 2024

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6 Safety Tips for a Traveling Nurse

TNAA Healthcare provided this article.

Your assignment is booked, your bags are packed, and you’re ready to embark on this grand adventure of being a travel nurse. It’s time to explore new places, try new things, and meet new people!

Many travel nurses choose to drive between their assignment destinations. It’s a great way to see more sights and discover hidden gems. Before you hit the road, take a few precautions to keep yourself safe on your travels. 

Safety Tips to Remember as You’re Traveling to Your Assignment

1. Make well-lit pit stops.

Whether you’re stopping to fill your tank, take a bathroom break, or grab a quick bite to eat, you want to ensure your pit stops are in well-lit, busy places. This is especially important if you’re traveling solo. Looking ahead and planning where you’ll stop can help you ensure you’re stopping at safe places with plenty of people around. 

2. Set realistic daily drive times. 

Getting to your next destination as soon as possible can be tempting, but don’t plan to be on the road longer than is safe for driving. Make sure you plan realistic drive times between each place you will stop for the night. A bonus to taking a few extra days on the road means you can explore new places and not feel rushed to get to your next place. If you ever feel tired while driving, stop and rest – but do so in a safe place. 

3. Look ahead at weather, construction, and road closures. 

It’s essential you are prepared for anything on the road. Being caught in a bad winter storm or extended traffic in hot weather can get you in trouble quickly. Make sure you bring extra water, snacks, and weather-specific items you may need in case you are stranded or stuck in traffic. In cold weather, you will need a heat source, like a candle with matches, a sleeping bag or warm blanket, winter hats, mittens, and other things to keep you warm. In the summer, you’ll want sunscreen, a sun hat, a way to create shade, and extra water to keep yourself cool. 

Also, look ahead for any construction or road closures that may impact your route or drive time. Apps like Weather on the Way allow you to enter your route and will give you real-time updates on weather conditions and road closures that could affect your trip.  

4. Keep a loved one updated on your location.

Having an emergency contact is essential, but take it one more step and share your itinerary with them. Let them know your route, when you are leaving, and when you expect to arrive, and alert them whenever you stop or if you run into car troubles along the way. Utilize your phone to share your location for an easy way to share your exact location. Apps like Waze are a great way to do this and let your contact know precisely where you are and where you are going. You’ll also want to check in once you’ve arrived at your new assignment destination so they can rest easy that you are safe and sound. 

5. Limit the information you share with strangers.

Meeting new people on your travels is part of the fun, but be cautious about what you share on your road trip. You can still be cordial while not giving away your life story, your location, or that you’re traveling alone.

6. Update your agency on your assignment address.

As your support system on the road, your agency will want to know that you’re okay in the event of an emergency. You might be going to a region with natural disasters – like earthquakes, hurricanes, or wildfires – that you’re not used to experiencing. Your agency’s first priority is making sure you’re safe, and they’re likely watching the emergencies that could threaten your area. Ensuring your agency has your updated address makes it that much easier for them to update and prepare you.

Learn More Safety Tips for Travel Nurses

If you want to learn more safety tips to keep you safe throughout your travel journey, join TNAA’s upcoming masterclass, Stay Safe on Your Travel Adventures. We’ve partnered with Brandy Pinkerton of Travel Nurse 101 to give you an in-depth look at how to stay safe on and off the job as a travel nurse. Brandy has been traveling for over 20 years. From encountering grizzlies on solo hikes to cross-country road trips, she’s ready to share her secrets for staying prepared and thriving on the go!

We hope you found this article on 6 safety tips for traveling nurses helpful. Are there any safety tips we missed? Comment some of your top safety tips for travel nurses 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

August 12, 2024

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What to Do Between Travel Nurse Contracts

Jackson Nurse Professionals provided this article.

As a travel nurse, the period between contracts offers a wonderful chance to rejuvenate, contemplate, and possibly enhance your earnings. This time is an exciting adventure, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and professional engagement. In this blog, we’ll delve into diverse strategies to make the most of the time between travel nurse contracts, aiding you in steering clear of nurse burnout and fostering a rewarding career.

What to do between travel nurse contracts?

between travel nurse contracts

Embracing Rest and Rejuvenation

First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge the hard work and dedication you’ve invested in your recent assignment. Travel nursing can be both rewarding and challenging, often leading to long hours and adapting to new environments. Therefore, taking time to rest is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Between travel nurse contracts, consider activities that replenish your energy and bring joy. This might include spending quality time with loved ones, indulging in a hobby, or simply taking a well-deserved vacation. Remember, avoiding nurse burnout is essential for a sustainable career in travel nursing, and rest plays a pivotal role in this.

Exploring Supplemental Income Options

between travel nurse contracts

While rest is vital, some travel nurses might find themselves wanting or needing to supplement their income during their time off. Fortunately, there are numerous flexible job options that can fit into the unique lifestyle of a travel nurse.

Per Diem Nursing: Many travel nurses opt for per diem work between travel nurse contracts. This allows you to work on an as-needed basis, often in your local area. It’s a great way to keep your skills sharp while enjoying the flexibility of choosing when you work.

Telehealth Services: With the rise of digital healthcare, offering your services through telehealth platforms can be a convenient and flexible option. This role allows you to provide care and consultation from the comfort of your home.

Healthcare Education and Training: Utilize your expertise by offering training or education sessions. This can range from CPR classes to nursing student tutoring, all of which can be fulfilling and financially rewarding.

Freelance Writing or Blogging: If you have a knack for writing, consider creating content related to healthcare or travel nursing. Websites, blogs, and healthcare publications often seek experienced nurses to contribute valuable insights.

Planning for the Next Adventure

While enjoying your time off between travel nurse contracts, it’s also wise to start planning for your next travel nurse contract. This includes updating your resume, researching potential locations, and networking with other professionals in the field. Staying proactive ensures that when you’re ready to return to work, you’ll have exciting opportunities waiting.

between travel nurse contracts

The period between travel nurse contracts doesn’t have to be a time of uncertainty. Whether you choose to rest, work, or a combination of both, it’s an excellent opportunity to take care of yourself and prepare for future endeavors. By embracing this time, you can effectively prevent nurse burnout and continue to thrive in your dynamic and rewarding career as a travel nurse.

Remember, every journey as a travel nurse is unique, and how you spend your time between travel nurse contracts is a personal decision that should align with your needs and aspirations. Stay informed, stay rested, and stay ready for the next chapter in your travel nursing journey.

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.