By Medical Edge Recruitment

May 18, 2022

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Balancing the Wheels of Motherhood as a Travel Nurse

Medical Edge Recruitment provided this article.

Written by: Grace Williams, Administrative Coordinator, Medical Edge Recruitment

What better to way to benchmark Mother’s Day this year than by paying tribute to our all-around boss moms, our Travel Nurses! We salute every mother who has been balancing the wheels of motherhood and traveling as a nurse. You are a true hero of society. We salute you for every time you’ve had to trade in a pacifier, a soccer game, or a dance recital for scrubs. Your journey is unmatched and is truly impactful to the world. You have trailblazed the world through one of the biggest crises it has ever seen, the pandemic. It was your unwavering dedication as a mom and travel nurse that allowed a plethora of hospitals to be staffed during the pandemic. On behalf of children, husbands, and patients everywhere, we thank you!

Did you know that recent statistics released by the US Labor Department show an average of 4,883 mothers are employed with children under three (3) years old? Travel nurses are appropriately represented within that average. This is straightforward immaculate; it is no secret that women have bulldozed the ideologies of gender roles. It is no secret that women have quite frankly kicked through the glass ceiling into the workforce and earned their seats at the table. We salute all Travel Nurse moms for conquering the odds. Equally remarkable is your role as the balancer. Sociologists describe this role as the second shift. After the scrubs come off, there’s homework to complete, a dinner to prepare, an awesome idea your kid had, and now they want to show everyone! You are an amazing balancer.

Just like the repairman balancing the wheels of a car. When the wheels of a car are slightly off-balanced, it can cause several issues and challenges. Usually, when someone takes their car to the repair shop, they’d say to the repairman, can you balance the wheels? It is an act that distributes air evenly on all the wheels of the car to ensure a smooth, safe journey for the driver of the day. Just like the repairman, our Travel Nurse moms have been balancing the wheels of the car of their lives to ensure smooth sailing for their trip in the journey of their life.

Just like everything else, there may be challenges:

  • The challenge to maintain a work-life balance. Some days you’re crushing it, everyone is on time, accomplishing every single goal, tripling it as chef, housekeeper, and everyone is gleaming rainbow smiles. And some days, you’re ordering takeout for every possible meal while struggling to bring everyone together with not-so-rainbow smiles. Either way is fine; remember to show yourself the same grace you so often give to others!
  • The challenge to find time for yourself while being the best boss, mom, and Travel Nurse. Selfcare is not always the first item on your checklist.
  • The challenge between your zeal for work and your motherly duties. There is always a background tussle between what a mother wants to do and what she must do.

All in all, you have overcome those challenges because you are here today. Remember to plan, organize and schedule time for self-care. Remember that your personal dreams, values, and ambitions are as important as balancing the wheels of motherhood and being a travel nurse. Remember that, on your way to your next travel nurse adventure that, you are doing an awesome job! You have managed to keep a healthy career going while doubling as a nurturer and a provider for your children.

Just like how the driver of a car must pull over to check his wheels if they feel off-balance, it’s okay to stop and pull over. Reevaluate, regroup and air up your tires to go again! This may look like taking a day off, hiring help, or even tending to your needs emotionally. Remember to rest and pull over if you need to do so.

So, thank you!

Thank you to all the Travel Nurse moms who have dedicated their lives to a prestigious profession. It not only displays your courage, but it is also exemplary for a younger generation of women determined to rise as both a travel nurse and a boss mom.

Medical Edge Recruitment is the premier travel nursing recruitment agency specializing in providing top talent to clients in the healthcare industry. We connect clinical and allied providers to their ideal opportunities, focusing on building long-lasting relationships through honesty and transparency. In travel nursing, bigger does not always mean better. While we have an extensive network of job opportunities, our experienced team is dedicated to making a personalized provider experience a priority. There are a lot of moving parts in getting set up for a new assignment, but we take care of all the details along the way. Adventure awaits; let Medical Edge Recruitment show you where to go next!

We hope you enjoyed this article on balancing the wheels of motherhood as a travel nurse; how do you balance motherhood and travel nursing? Comment your travel nurse/motherhood tips below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming travel nurse assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Kevin Devoto

May 17, 2022

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8 Ways To Boost Your Immune System as a Travel Nurse

Have you landed a job as a traveling nurse? If so, you’re fortunate; the pay and flexibility are big advantages. Also, you get the opportunity to explore unfamiliar areas and meet new people. It’s never dull. Plus, you’ll likely avoid some of the in-house issues that regular nurses experience. There’s a caveat, though. Traveling nurse jobs can be stressful, and your health and immunity might take a hit as a result. Fortunately, there are things you can do to boost your well-being and immunity. Read on for several. 

1. Nutrition

The level of your nutrition plays a major role in your overall vitality and immunity. Though it may be tempting to eat a bag of chips at the end of your shift, resist the urge! Instead, reach for healthy comfort foods like nut butter, low-glycemic carbs, and fruit. Remember to get plenty of protein, healthy fats, and greens. Is it a challenge to find greens on the road? Do a search using terms such as green superfood to find a high-quality product. 

2. Rest

Sufficient rest and sleep are essential to maintain your wellness and immunity. During sleep, important processes take place to maintain and repair all systems of your body, including your immune system. Don’t skimp in this area! Be sure to pack earplugs, a sleep mask, a favorite blanket or pillow, and anything else that helps you feel cozy and ready for sleep. 

3. Supplements

Whatever supplements you take at home, make sure to pack them for your trip. Organize them in a way that makes them easy to take when you’re on the go. Your body is used to a specific pattern of nutrient and supplement intake; keep your routine as consistent as you can. 

4. Exercise

Before, during, and after your traveling job, develop and maintain a well-rounded, sustainable exercise routine. Be sure it includes strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular training. Consider packing fitness bands or portable weights if your lodging doesn’t include a gym. Since you’ll be spending a great deal of time on the road or indoors, try to get outside once you arrive at your destination. Also, incorporate a relaxing practice such as yoga to counteract stress. 

5. Relationships

Yes, you’ll be in contact with a lot of people during your traveling nurse job. Solitude and downtime are important. It’s also critical that you maintain supportive relationships while you’re on the road. There’s nothing like a quick phone call or a funny text to give you perspective and joy. 

6. Mindfulness

While you’re away from home, it’s even more important to maintain a mindfulness practice that suits your preferences and spiritual orientation. Some people enjoy meditation or prayer; others prefer more embodied practices. Mindfulness is demonstrated to help the immune system. 

7. Maintenance

If it’s been a while since you’ve had a medical checkup or you have any kind of chronic condition, check in with your trusted health practitioner to give you peace of mind before you travel to your job. Do you go to a counselor regularly? Make an appointment shortly before you leave for an extra measure of nurturing and support. 

8. Fun

Joy, pleasure, and fun are good for your overall health, which in turn improves your immune system. Take a stroll through your temporary town and enjoy the sights. Bring a portable hobby along. If you get along well with your co-workers, plan some recreation. Have an old friend in the area? Carve out some companionship. 

Conclusion

Boosting your immune system as a traveling nurse involves caring for yourself holistically. Give these suggestions a try to improve your experience and bolster your defenses. 

We hope you found this article on 8 ways to boost your immune system helpful. Do you have any tips for boosting your immune system that we didn’t mention here? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Susan Keller

May 16, 2022

3498 Views

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Pros and Cons of RV Travel Nursing

Travel nursing can take sightseeing to a whole new level, considering the different states you get to work in. While it has some great pros, it also comes with a set of cons. That said, you have to weigh them to see what works for you before choosing.

If you love to travel and see new places, travel nursing can be the choice of work for you, but if being outdoors and on the move is not your cup of tea, you should stick to a permanent residence as you tend to your nursing duties.

Pros

Travel nursing has its share of benefits, especially on your finances and enabling enjoying different cultures while on the job.

Flexibility

While a travel nurse does not get to apply for paid-off days, you can arrange your calendar so that you can be on vacation during the summer. The flexibility ensures that you control the time you are available to work. If you want to work six months or ten months, that’s entirely up to you.

Great Pay

Traveling nurses enjoy impressive compensation packages wherever they go to work. Chances are, when an institution is looking for more staff, you will receive a higher salary package. With travel nursing, you can earn a six-figure salary.

Avoid Work Politics

Given that you will be working on a contract basis, you will not be staying at one place for a long time. By the time you get used to people, your time will be up in that institution and on your way to vacation or a different institution.

Travel with Your Belongings

One of the major advantages of travel nursing is the provision of traveling with your belongings. Think of it as having your home, whichever state you work in. The principles of packing or unpacking your belongings, similar to when you say in a motel or apartment, do not apply to travel nursing.

Job Security

Travel nurses are always in demand. Whether a certain place faces shortages of nurses, chances are, with the right experience, you will get the job. The security reduces the uncertainty of you being out of a job.

You Get to Travel

Traveling and enjoying your new location is a plus for travel nursing. You can choose an activity that will take your mind off of work and help you relax on your off days. If you love to ride bikes, remember to bring one along. In case you don’t have one, think of buying it.

While scouring the internet, we realized that many people don’t know how to select a bike that fits their needs and financial standing. From tire sizes to disc brakes, you can choose the perfect bike for yourself. Fortunately, we found a great list of rugged gravel bikes under $1000. Other useful links include:

Cons

Even though travel nursing has some awesome pros, it also has cons that you should bear in mind when you contemplate joining other traveling nurses.

Varying Pay Rates

Since you will be working in different states, your pay will vary greatly and lead to differences when filing your taxes. Such a situation can be daunting, and you might need to hire a professional to file your confusing taxes.

Unfamiliar Environments

With the movement from one state to another, no place will be familiar like home. The constant change of locations will always expose you to new areas where you have never been. If you love adventure, this might not be so bad, but you will need some time to familiarize yourself. 

License Issues

Licensing can be tricky to deal with when working in multiple states. The application and approval can be quite a process when submitting verification documents. The process can be quite daunting in instances where you cannot use a compact license but have to apply for a new one.

Final Thoughts

If you are an outdoorsy person, travel nursing can be a suitable job. Considering the job’s flexibility, you can choose which activities to engage in. Whether you want to go camping or to the beach, you choose your location when applying for the job.

If you get rough terrain, get yourself a gravel bike that will help you navigate as you go sightseeing and enjoy yourself.

We hope you enjoyed this article on the pros and cons of RV travel nursing. Do you currently use your RV for your travel nursing assignments? Comment some pros and cons of RV travel nursing you have found, below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Kevin Devoto

May 15, 2022

2115 Views

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How to Become a Traveling Nurse

Many people are interested in becoming a traveling nurse, and there are plenty of good reasons driving this career choice. For example, as a traveling nurse, you’ll have the ability to travel the country, see new parts of the world, make money, and help others while doing so. If you are interested in becoming a traveling nurse, then read on to learn how to get your foot in the door.

Begin With Training and Experience

Many people who want to become traveling nurses have found that they lack the training and experience necessary for the job. If you are one of those people, there is no need to worry about this. You can get all of the training you need for this job by enrolling in a nursing program and taking some classes in the proper fields.

Becoming a traveling nurse is not easy. It takes a lot of time, patience, and perseverance. There are many things you need to know before you start your journey. First and foremost, you need to understand that the process of becoming a traveling nurse involves many years of learning and doing.

This includes the training and education required to become a traveling nurse and the process of getting licensed in your state. Whether you look at a renewable energy lesson plan or classes that teach infield skills, your nursing education serves as the foundation of your new career.

Next, you need to explore various programs that offer training for becoming a traveling nurse. You should also look at various schools that offer nursing programs with an online option or an accelerated program that can get you in and out of school quickly so that you can start working sooner rather than later!

Work With an Accredited Institution

There are many steps that one needs to take in order to become a traveling nurse. The first step is to complete an approved course through an accredited institution. After that, you need to find a job as a traveling nurse and work for at least six months with the same hospital system before applying for certification with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Once you have your ANCC certification, you can start looking for jobs as a traveling nurse.

Study and Pass Your Exams

The process of becoming a traveling nurse requires training and education and some time spent in the field before full licensure is achieved. There are several exams that you will need to prepare for to ensure that you have the required skills to pursue this profession,

Your journey to becoming a traveling nurse includes obtaining a nursing degree from an accredited university, followed by passing the NCLEX-RN exam, which certifies nurses for practice in any state. Studying for your exams is a key step in proceeding with your education. Without the proper exam plan in place, you may have to re-take your tests, a process that can set you back in a significant way. In these cases, you may have to work on obtaining licensure in each state that you want to work in, which can be done through reciprocity agreements or by taking additional exams.

Contribute to The Field and Gain Experience

The nursing profession is in high demand, but the supply of nurses is not keeping up with the demand. The United States alone has over 1 million jobs for nurses that are currently unfilled. Nursing schools have been experiencing a decline in enrollment since the late 2000s, and it is predicted that by 2020 there will be a shortage of over one million nurses.

So far, there have been many solutions to this problem proposed, such as increasing the number of nursing programs and boosting enrollment rates. However, these solutions do not address the root cause of this problem: there are not enough nurses to fill all these positions because they are not being trained fast enough.

Many agencies and facilities require or would like those applying to positions as travel nurses to have at least two years of floor experience. With that being said, you may still apply for a position for a travel nurse assignment. If you feel that your experience is adequate, just be ready to explain that to those interviewing you, should you get an interview.

As you can see, becoming a traveling nurse is not easy, but it is rewarding. When you study and plan, you will find that this career path is one of the most flexible and fulfilling ones you can find.

Are you looking for your first travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Leslie Catalano

May 14, 2022

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What are the Benefits of Travel Nursing to a Small Town?

An exciting part of travel nursing is traveling around the country and experiencing life in all the major cities, but with COVID-19 numbers declining and travel nurse needs in hospitals decreasing, finding your next travel assignment might be more difficult. One solution might be to look for an assignment in a small or midsize town. It is easy to overlook a city you have never heard of, but there are benefits to accepting a travel assignment in a small or midsize town. Here are six listed below.

1. Open Positions

The need for travel nurses in big cities has declined with the declining COVID-19 numbers, which results in fewer jobs and lower wages. But Small or midsize towns still have a need for nurses. Even before COVID, many small towns struggled to keep patient ratios down due to the lack of well-educated nurses in their local areas. Next time you have a conversation with your recruiter, investigate smaller, less familiar towns.

2. Lower Cost of Living

The cost of living in a small town is less than in a big city. You may think, “Well, my company will pay for my housing.” That may be true, but it is not just housing that costs less. Groceries can be cheaper. Shorter commutes to work mean saving money on gas. If you choose to find your own housing, you may find a better deal in a small town than in a big city.

3. No Traffic

Living in a smaller town can be beneficial for your work commute. From my own personal experience of moving from Denver, CO, to Springfield, IL, I noticed my 30–40-minute commute went down to 15-20 minutes with no traffic issues. This was not just helpful for my work commute, but it was quicker and easier to grocery shop, find my way around, go to the gym, get coffee, and more.

4. Small Town Charms

The most amazing part about traveling to a small town is all the small-town charm you will find. Chain restaurants and stores are great for predictability, but nothing beats the unique finds of a mom-and-pop restaurant or family-owned store. Homemade cookies, jams, jellies, honey, and even wine from a local country store can be a life-changing experience. The idea of “shop local, buy local” has more meaning when you can purchase homemade goods from the people who make them. You might even find yourself making friends and connections you will keep for life at the corner diner or local coffee shop.

5. More Big Cities to Visit

When looking at small-town locations, you might find that many are located within just a few hours’ drive of a big city or two. . If you have a goal to see as many cities as possible, this is a terrific way to knock a few off your list with one assignment. For example, from my current location of Springfield, IL, there are three major cities, all within a 3–4-hour drive or train ride. Chicago is about 3 and a half hours away. Indianapolis is about 3 hours away. St. Louis is less than 2 hours away. All are great for a weekend getaway without the hassles of living in a big city.

6. More Nature to Get Lost In

If outdoor recreation is a passion of yours, small towns are a wonderful place to find nature. The whole reason small towns exist is because they are surrounded by unoccupied land. Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon are not the only national parks worth seeing. Every state has their own national parks to visit. Anywhere you find mountains, rivers, lakes, or even beaches, you can find a small-town hospital in need of nurses nearby. Melbourne, FL is a midsize city in central Florida. It is about 3 hours north of Miami, 2 hours east of Orlando, and sits right next to intercoastal waterways. It is about a 15-minute drive away from the Atlantic coast beaches. Whether you are in the Midwest, South, East Coast, or West Coast, there are small towns surrounded by nature.

The draw of a big city can be exciting, but traveling to a smaller mid-size city or small town also has its benefits. Next time your nurse recruiter mentions a city you have never heard of, do not discount it right away. Instead, do some research, see where it is located, and ask yourself these questions. Is it close to a big city you have wanted to visit? What is the cost of living? What small town charms might it hold? Nursing is stressful. Moving is stressful. Maybe for your next assignment, a smaller, easier place to live is just the thing you need.

Have you taken an assignment in a small town and loved it? Comment your experiences below!

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Triage Healthcare Staffing

May 13, 2022

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What Your Travel Nurse Recruiter Wishes You Knew

Triage Staffing provided this article.

Travelers and recruiters go hand in hand, like peanut butter and jelly or Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg. They’re each better when they’re together. However, even the best traveler/recruiter relationship can have a few bumps along the way. If you’re a traveler working with a recruiter, here are a few things that your recruiter wishes that you knew about them.

#1: We know you’re working with other agencies

Some travelers feel like they need to hide that they’re working with other agencies. Nothing is further from the truth. We understand that we might not have access to every job you’re interested in and that sometimes you might end up at another agency. We’ll do our best to still stay in touch—especially if we had a good relationship before. We know your assignment won’t last forever, and we’ll welcome you back with open arms. 

#2: We’re real people

Just like nurses have outside responsibilities outside of work, so do we. If you contact us outside of normal business hours, it’s possible we can’t return the call immediately. We might be at a kid’s dance recital, coaching a little league game, or even on a date with our partner. We realize we are often your lifeline, and if it’s an emergency, we’ll return the call as soon as possible.

#3: Recruiters are always on the phone

Our phones are our lifelines in this industry. Our phones are constantly in our hands, in our pockets, or only an arm’s length away. Sometimes after spending all day on the phones, we go home, and it feels like we can’t speak another word!

#4: We’re not out to get you

The best recruiter/traveler relationships are true partnerships. We don’t want to send you to a crappy location, with a bad supervisor or in a department that seems unsafe. Good recruiters would rather be honest with you about what you can expect during an assignment instead of feeding you a line of candy-coated BS just to get you to sign on the dotted line.

#5: While texting is easy, a phone call is most efficient

It’s no surprise that we love texting. It’s fast, easy, and you can answer when it’s convenient for you as a traveler. But, there are a few things that need a phone call, especially as we’re getting to know each other. A phone call means we can get to the bottom of what you’re looking for quickly without a lot of time spent waiting for the other person to respond via text or email.

#6: We want you to be happy

We want you to be happy with the places you go and the facilities you work with. After all, a happy traveler is a return traveler. The last thing we want to do is send you to a hot mess that you’ll hate three days in.

#7: Having a profile ready to go means you’re first submitted

Good jobs go fast, especially in this market. If you have a profile ready to go, you’ll be the first one on the manager’s desk. One way to have this ready is with a universal Kamana profile. All your information is held in a secure portal, and you can share it with any recruiter at any agency. (Remember that part about us understanding you might be working with more than one agency?) For an even more complete profile, don’t forget to grab a referral from your most recent manager before you leave that position.

#8: Applying to the same job with multiple agencies can get you blackballed

It might seem like applying for a travel nurse job is a numbers game right now, and if you want to ensure you get a position, you should apply multiple times. No! If you apply for the same job with different agencies, many facilities will automatically reject both applications. It’s not worth a facility’s time to try to figure out which agency applied first or should be awarded the contract, so they cut them both, leaving those travelers without a job.   

#9: Sending your timesheet late is a big hassle

Most agencies pay weekly for time worked the previous week, and it’s not uncommon for timesheets to be due sometime on Monday. That gives agencies only a few working days to process the timesheet, make sure all the time matches up and ensure stipends are calculated correctly. When you send in a late timesheet or send it in scribbled on a piece of notebook paper, it takes the payroll folks at your agency more time to process everything. They know that delaying a traveler’s paycheck is not an option and often work late to make sure you get paid on time. Help them help you get paid on time.

#10: We don’t control whether you’re canceled

There are plenty of reasons why someone might be canceled—lowered census at the hospital, an internal hiring campaign for staff positions, or even over-hiring travelers. Although we hate when you’re canceled, our hands are usually tied. What we can do is search tirelessly for a new position. If you’ve signed a lease, let us know, and we’ll do whatever we can to find you a position in the same general area, so you don’t lose out on your rent money. We can’t promise all the terms will be the same, but we’ll do what we can.

Bonus #11: Lavish gifts come out of your pay package

We all hear about lavish gifts during the holidays or during Nurses Week. North Face jackets, Figs scrubs, or fancy handbags are all things we’ve seen. However, companies that give gifts THAT lavish often can for one reason—they’re paying you less. These companies aren’t sending you expensive gifts because they’re being kind, it’s because they’ve taken money out of your contract to compensate themselves for your present. What would you rather have?

Bonus #12: We’re not always a fit

We know finding a good recruiter match doesn’t always happen overnight. Sometimes, the first recruiter you match with doesn’t vibe with your personality, or it’s just not a good fit. In these cases, there’s no shame in breaking up with your recruiter and finding another one. Have a chat with their manager, or use the tips in our previous article, “Breaking Up with Your Travel Nurse Recruiter.”

Looking for an agency that’s committed to treating you with honesty and candor? Triage Staffing listens to what you want and then shoots you straight so you can make the decision that’s right for you. To connect with a Triage recruiter, apply for a travel nurse job on the Triage website.

We hope you enjoyed this article on what recruiters wish you knew. Do any of these things that recruiters wish you knew surprise you? Comment below. Recruiters, do you have any to add to this list?

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Susan Keller

May 12, 2022

1986 Views

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5 Delicious Dishes to Cook to Celebrate the Travel Nurse Assignment

To celebrate your assignment as a traveling nurse deserves a proper meal full of nutrients. Since you will be leaving your home, you will have to prepare a meal worth your celebration. Some meals are packed with nutrients and flavor and have varying cooking times.

Each meal you eat should incorporate all the essential food groups to make sure you receive vital vitamins and minerals.

Significant food groups to include in your meals:

  • Protein
  • Carbohydrates
  • Fiber
  • Healthy fats
  • Fruits and vegetables

The following are dishes you can prepare to celebrate your assignment.

Roast Lamb Dish

Roasted lamb can be a tasty dish that is worth enjoying as you celebrate your travel nurse assignment. Packed with protein, this meal will leave you full after enjoying its richness in both taste and flavor.

You will need the following ingredients for this dish

  • 2kg lamb
  • 4-5 garlic gloves
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large onions
  • Small bunch of rosemary

Make small incisions on the meat 5cm deep and insert the rosemary sprig and sliced garlic cloves. Rub with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Line a pan with the sliced onions and place the meat on top. Heat your oven to 220C.

Roast the lamb for 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to 190C and roast until it is ready. Always keep checking the internal temperature. Cover with aluminum foil when it’s ready, and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with preferred side dishes.  

Smoked Ham

Fresh smoked ham comes with many flavors, and you can enhance that flavor when you choose to cook other than reheating the ready to cook one. The choice is yours.

Ingredients

  • Fresh smoked ham
  • Whole garlic cloves
  • Brown sugar
  • Garlic powder
  • Pineapple juice
  • Dijon mustard

The first step is to preheat your oven to 325F and prepare the glaze. Make incisions on the fat cap and stuff the holes with whole garlic cloves. Place in a roasting pan and roast until ready. Use the glaze to baste the ham and cook until golden brown. Serve after cooling.

Lemon Chicken with Asparagus

Chicken cannot miss if you want to pack some protein into your diet. The lemons will flavor the chicken, while asparagus will give the meal that great pop of color.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts (boneless)
  • Asparagus
  • Lemon pepper seasoning
  • Lemons
  • Flour
  • Salt and pepper
  • Butter

Cut the chicken breasts into thin slices. Mix flour, salt, and pepper into a dish and toss the chicken pieces into the mixture to coat. Over medium heat, melt the butter in a skillet and sauté the chicken for up to 5 minutes. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning on each side when they turn golden brown. Turn until cooked and remove.

Baked Chicken Breast

Chicken can be on the dinner table in less than an hour and still be full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • Boneless and skinless chicken breast
  • Melted butter
  • Salt
  • Herbs and spices (optional)

Mix the melted butter with salt and herbs or spices of your choice. Using a brush, rub the mixture onto the bottom of a baking pan. Line the chicken breast in the pan and rub the mixture on them as well. Bake until ready and serve as desired.

Smoked Turkey Breast

If you are looking for a quick recipe, this is it. Even though preparation takes place 24 hours earlier, the cooking time is short. The breast requires seasoning through the injection method. The temperature dictates the cooking duration.

Ingredients

  • Turkey breast
  • Garlic and onion salt
  • Melted butter
  • Oil and water
  • Lemon juice
  • Seasoning salt

Mix garlic salt, onion salt, melted butter, lemon juice, oil, and water and inject the turkey breast. Combine spices with room temperature butter and rub all over the turkey. Let it marinate for at least one hour to twenty-four hours.

Thaw and roast in an electric smoker and check the temp with a thermometer until the turkey is ready.

Advantages of Using Electric Smokers for Your Meals

  • They are easy to clean
  • They are portable and safe to use
  • They produce healthier meals
  • They are efficient
  • They are environment-friendly

If, after all these valuable tips above, you have no idea how to go about shopping for an electric smoker, here is a nice list of reliable electric smokers. Check these links out.

Final Thoughts

As a traveling nurse, you need body nourishment that will facilitate you to work long hours. Planning and eating healthy meals will ensure your body can perform without you getting dizzy spells. You can prepare hearty meals full of nourishment in a short time.

We hope you enjoyed this article on delicious dishes to cook to celebrate the travel nurse assignment. Do you do anything to celebrate when you accept an assignment? Comment those below.

Are you looking for a travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 TheraEx

May 11, 2022

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What Can You Do To Celebrate National Nurses’ Week?

TheraEx Staffing Services provided this article.

From compassionately assisting with life-threatening medical crises to advocating for the health of their patients during their most vulnerable moments, nurses perform some of the most difficult tasks in the medical world. National Nurses Week honors the contributions and sacrifices nurses make day in and day out and reminds us to thank the medical professionals that work so tirelessly to keep us healthy. With so many healthcare workers risking their health to care for the many communities impacted by COVID-19, the celebration takes on added meaning. Whether you come from a family of nurses, have friends in the nursing field, or you simply want to thank local nurses for their efforts, your support means more now than ever. Here are five ways you can thank the healthcare heroes in your local community for serving their patients with devotion, the utmost care, and exceptional professionalism as they continue to protect our health and safety during a global pandemic.

Be Understanding

Many healthcare workers have risen to the occasion of providing quality care to their communities throughout the pandemic. Nurses and other healthcare workers have taken on extra shifts or put in extra hours to ensure they are able to take care of their patients. If a friend or loved one is in this situation, be mindful of what they are going through and make sure you are not asking or expecting too much of them.

Send Flowers

Sometimes simply saying “Thanks” doesn’t feel like enough. Show some love to a nurse in your life with fresh flowers to show your appreciation for going above and beyond to help you or support you. Flowers like hydrangeas and roses are just the flowers for National Nurses Week because they symbolize gratitude, grace, beauty, and courage.

Donate a Meal

Nurses work long hours with few breaks. What better way to show appreciation and say thank you than with food? Due to COVID-19 protocols, if you’d like to donate a meal to healthcare workers, make sure it’s from a restaurant. Understandably, most hospitals are not accepting homemade goods currently, but many local restaurants are offering free deliveries. A hot meal from a restaurant can provide a sense of normalcy and some much-needed nourishment during a busy shift.

Handwrite a Note or a Card

Cards are a personal way to show someone that you appreciate them. In today’s world, instant communication through emails, social media posts, and text message is commonplace, while receiving a handwritten card or letter is rare. Handwriting a letter to express your gratitude could provide extra motivation for a nurse to continue moving forward during these trying times in the era of COVID-19.

Leave Positive Feedback

Nurses might not realize that the work they do each day is appreciated unless you tell them. Many nursing units provide incentives to nurses who receive positive patient feedback. Call the unit, ask for the charge nurse, ask for the patient feedback email or phone number, and put your experience in writing. Your positive feedback can brighten their day and remind them that their profession to care for others has made a positive impact.

Nominate a Nurse for a DAISY Award

Nurses go above and beyond the call of duty to provide exceptional care. The international DAISY award program celebrates nurses’ extraordinary clinical skills and the compassionate care they provide to their patients. If your life has been touched by an extraordinary nurse, nominate them for a DAISY Award to recognize the admirable attributes they possess.

Being a nurse is often physically demanding and almost always emotionally taxing. Nurses are caregivers, mentors, and leaders, steering the profession towards excellence in patient care and compassion. Today and every day, we thank each and every nurse for their tireless commitment in delivering outstanding patient care. You are our heroes.

We hope you enjoyed this article from TheraEX Staffing Services. What are some ways you like to celebrate Nurses Week? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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 Susan Keller

May 10, 2022

2654 Views

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Useful Tips for Researching the Assignment Location

As a traveling nurse, you are moving around a lot, so research of the assignment location becomes a must. Research helps with preparing for a new location and knowing what to expect. It may also help with the adjustment to a new environment.
Here are several useful tips for your research of the location.

Inform yourself on the climate

Climate may really affect your mood, health, and daily activities so make sure that you know where are you coming to. This will help you prepare for climate change and take the needed steps to prevent difficulties. Also, you will know how to pack your bag, so you don’t have to buy additional clothes when on the spot. If needed, here are some great solar power stations.

Talk to your recruiter

Your recruiter may be a good source of information for any questions you might have. Recruiter will help you with any issues as well with adjusting, transportation, housing, and everything else that might be of use to you.

Get to know the culture

Make sure that you have done research on culture in the place of the assignment. What are common habits, what is different, what is unacceptable behavior, and what are some of the requested terms of behavior? You would be surprised that you don’t have to travel around the world to meet new cultures.

Get familiar with important institutions

After you get your housing info, check the important institutions near you. You want to know where is the nearest hospital, police station, embassy, gym, grocery store, etc. It’s better to know those so you can act fast in moments of a possible crisis.

Do you need to drive?

Check if there’s organized transportation that works for you or do you need to drive to work. Do good research to see if it’s maybe easier to use public transportation like buses and trolleys, or Uber, taxi, and a shared ride seem like cheaper options? If you want to rent a car, check if that’s an option in the location that you’re headed to.

Prices

Get familiar with the basic prices range and where is the best to shop. You want to know smaller shops, family businesses, and other places that might not be on Google but sell quality goods at lower prices.

How will you spend your free time?

Plan your free time so you can make the most of the location of the assignment: research heritage places, museums, galleries, fun activities, nature parks, etc. Adjust your research to your needs and preferences when it comes to activities. Make a plan for what will you visit when and if some activity is conditioned by the weather.

Where to research?

Internet is the most common place where people do the research, but magazines and newspapers can tell you so much about a location. Also, smaller places are sometimes not on Google, so it’s best to ask your recruiter, local population, and someone who’s already been there. Try to get as big a palette of information as possible so you can get a clearer picture.

Safety of the neighborhood

There are many online tools to check crime rates and help you get a picture of the neighborhood you’re gonna live in. It’s rare to find a place where crime doesn’t exist, but it’s important to acknowledge the risks. In places with more people, crime rates are normally higher, but that doesn’t mean that you will be endangered. This will simply help you to determine how to protect yourself, like should you walk alone at night hours, etc.

Plan

Using the research you did on all mentioned topics, make a plan. You should plan your budget, places to visit, transportation, safety measures, and your daily schedule.

Planing will make your adjustment easy and painless so you can enjoy your time in a new location.

Conclusion

Research is half of a job to make your stay comfortable and with no bad surprises. It’s up to you to come prepared and make the transition as easy as possible. The good news is that it’s not that hard; you just need enough motivation to do everything upfront and thoroughly. Good luck in your new endeavors!

We hope you found this article on useful tips for researching the assignment location helpful. Are there any ways you research locations before taking a travel nurse assignment? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our 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!)