December 5, 2023

1924 Views

How To Start Your Travel Nurse Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Posted on December 5, 2023November 29, 2023 by Fusion Medical Staffing

Fusion Medical Staffing provided this article.

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), also known in California and Texas as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), are instrumental members of a healthcare team. Working under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) on the frontlines of patient care, LPNs, and LVNs take vital signs, administer medication, offer comfort, and educate patients and families on health conditions, ensuring that every patient receives the attention and care they deserve.

Want to make a positive impact in the lives of others? Here’s how to get your travel nursing career started as a licensed practical nurse.

How To Start Your Travel Nurse Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

1. Complete an accredited nursing program

Unlike most nursing professions, you don’t need a college degree to become a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse. Instead, you’ll need certification from a state-approved and accredited practical nursing program. Oftentimes, these training programs include a blend of classroom learning and hands-on clinical practice and take between one and two years to complete.

Graduating from an accredited nursing program is a critical step on the path to becoming a licensed practical nurse. Not only does it ensure you meet the rigorous standards set by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, but it also prepares you for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, otherwise known as the NCLEX-PN, and the next step in the process of becoming an LPN.

2. Pass the NCLEX-PN and get licensed

Once you’ve completed your nursing program, it’s time to take the NCLEX-PN. This standardized exam assesses your readiness to handle different patient scenarios in a real-world setting with up to 205 questions about patient care, health promotion and maintenance, safety and infection control, pharmacological therapies, and physiological adaptation.

Passing the NCLEX-PN is a regulatory requirement across all states and sets a standard of competency for those pursuing LPN licensure. And when the National Council Licensure Examination is in your rearview mirror (and licensure is in hand), you can officially start practicing as a licensed practical nurse.

3. Gain clinical experience

You’ve completed your nursing program and passed the NCLEX-PN. Now’s your time to shine and gain one to two years of real-life experience as a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse!

Collecting clinical experience as a licensed practical nurse will only set you up for success in your travel nursing career. Gaining experience gives you the practice you need to adapt to new settings, teams, and patient needs while allowing you to build a strong foundational skill set and a deep understanding of nursing practices to help you be successful as a travel nurse.

Plus, gaining experience as a licensed practical nurse provides a unique opportunity for you to discover your specialty areas and strengths, which can guide you in choosing the right travel nursing assignments in the future. Licensed practical nurses and licensed vocational nurses can expect the following responsibilities in the field:

Provide basic patient care, including bathing, dressing, and feeding patients
Monitor patients’ health by checking vital signs and noting any significant changes for the registered nurse or physician.
Administer prescribed medication on time and in the correct dosage
Assist in diagnostic tests and procedures to help collect samples for testing, assist in exams, and monitor patients during and after procedures
Document patient health status and update patient records
Provide emotional support and comfort to patients and families

Before you hit the road as a travel nurse, gather first-hand exposure to various patient conditions, learn about diverse medical procedures, and understand how to interact effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals. With this experience under your belt, your problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and confidence will be enhanced.

4. Start travel nursing

Now that you have one to two years of nursing experience, you’re ready to start traveling as a licensed practical nurse. As a travel nurse, you’re able to explore new places, meet diverse individuals, and gain a breadth of experience in the nursing field.

With a high demand for nurses in the U.S., travel nurses can leverage their skills to travel to locations where they’re needed the most. This allows you to work in a variety of healthcare settings, from bustling city hospitals to remote rural clinics. Not only does this broaden your professional abilities, but travel nursing also enriches your personal life through new experiences and perspectives. Committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others, traveling licensed practical nurses are essential to the world of healthcare.

Whether you’ve always known you belong in healthcare or it’s a newfound love of yours, there are many advantages to travel nursing. With the chance to check out places unexplored by you, meet new people, and gain invaluable professional experience, there’s nothing quite like a career as a traveling licensed practical nurse. And there are many LPN jobs available to you that span the country. Start searching for LPN jobs now, and get your travel adventure started!

The Gypsy Nurse’s job board has many travel LPN jobs. Click here to get started on your first travel LPN job! We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By Mia Logan

December 3, 2023

1403 Views

How to Take Care of Patients with Serious Health Problems

Posted on December 3, 2023November 27, 2023 by Mia Logan

Providing care for individuals with severe medical conditions is an honorable and difficult undertaking that needs a profound comprehension of medical and social abilities. It’s a duty that caregivers and medical professionals alike carry out with extreme caution and empathy. So, here are some of the nuances of giving patients with severe medical conditions the best care possible, with an emphasis on the important factors that guarantee their comfort and well-being.

Understanding the Medical Condition

Understanding the nature of a patient’s disease is critical to providing them with appropriate care. This calls for in-depth investigation as well as a comprehensive comprehension of the diagnosis, available treatments, and any possible side effects, especially when dealing with global issues like the pandemic that can ruin everyone’s health status. Since medical knowledge is always expanding, healthcare practitioners need to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the area. Precise diagnosis and well-designed treatment regimens serve as the cornerstones of high-quality healthcare. Furthermore, by having this knowledge, patients and their families are better equipped to make decisions and take an active role in their own care.

Providing Emotional Support

A significant emotional toll is frequently associated with serious health issues. As they deal with the difficulties of the illness, patients and their families may feel dread, anxiety, and grief. Healthcare professionals must provide emotional as well as physical support. This entails providing a safe environment for patients to express their emotions and active listening and empathy. Psychosocial support can be very helpful in enhancing patients’ general health and assisting them in managing the emotional components of their illness. This emotional support includes techniques for assisting patients in developing resilience, managing stress, keeping a positive outlook, and consoling words.

Sustaining Improvement in Medical Services

The pursuit of perfection in the treatment of people with severe medical conditions never fully stops. In order to find areas where treatment may be improved, healthcare facilities should also give priority to quality improvement projects, evaluate patient outcomes, and ask patients and their families for input. This is why lots of people don’t mind thinking outside the box and looking for new solutions and ideas. Therefore, some of them might check out reputable dialysis clinics in Bali, for instance, and find out how people deal with these problems all over the world. In addition to helping patients, a culture of continuous improvement gives healthcare professionals the tools they need to provide the best treatment possible and keeps them at the forefront of medical developments.

Promoting Holistic Care

A comprehensive strategy that considers the patient’s social, emotional, and physical needs is known as holistic care. It involves a multidisciplinary team collaborating to address the patient’s various demands. In addition to providing medical care, holistic care takes the patient’s comfort, dignity, and quality of life into account. This method can include, among other things, counseling, physical therapy, pain management, and spiritual support, all of which add to a more comprehensive and successful treatment strategy. The combination of these components promotes comfort and a sense of well-being, which is vital for individuals managing significant medical conditions.

Fostering Hope and Resilience

For people dealing with severe medical issues, holding onto hope and perseverance is essential. When it comes to giving patients hope and motivating them to get past obstacles in their path, healthcare providers are critical. This can be accomplished by having honest conversations, establishing reasonable objectives, and giving patients the chance to contribute to their treatment decisions. Support networks and relationships with people who have had comparable difficulties can also be incredibly beneficial sources of motivation and inspiration. Developing hope and resilience is an ongoing process that involves the patient and the entire healthcare team. It builds a network of support that enables patients to face their health challenges head-on and with optimism.

Family and Caregiver Education

Providing patients with significant medical care often goes beyond the confines of a hospital or clinic. Caregivers and family members are crucial to the patient’s overall health. It is essential to inform them about the illness, possible side effects, and treatment options. This gives them the ability to make wise decisions, deliver efficient treatment, offer emotional support, and even deal with losses in the best way possible. Giving caregivers the tools and direction they need can result in more compassionate and smooth care, which is advantageous for the patient as well as their support system.

Providing comprehensive care to individuals with severe health issues is a complex undertaking that calls for a blend of medical knowledge, compassion, and an all-encompassing outlook on health. We can establish a supportive environment where patients with significant health concerns can receive the finest care possible and improve their quality of life by addressing these factors holistically. Providing care for these patients is an ongoing process that requires compassion, devotion, and a desire to improve their quality of life.

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By trustaff

December 1, 2023

1589 Views

Tips for Networking As a Travel Nurse

Posted on December 1, 2023November 27, 2023 by trustaff

Trustaff provided this article.

Trustaff’s Networking Tips for Travel Nurses

Navigating the dynamic world of travel nursing can sometimes feel like a solitary journey. However, with the right connections and relationships, every travel nurse can amplify their career opportunities and enrich their professional experiences. Networking, an often-underutilized tool, is pivotal for personal and professional growth, especially for travel nurses. Whether you’re looking to expand your horizons, discover new job opportunities, or find camaraderie in shared experiences, networking can be the key.

Why Networking Matters for Travel Nurses

1. Unveiling New Opportunities:

Networking can open doors to travel nursing assignments you might have yet to encounter in your regular job search. It can offer exclusive insights into potential job openings, allowing you a competitive edge in application processes.

2. Knowledge Exchange:

With travel nursing spanning diverse healthcare settings, networking provides a platform to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss challenges. The collective wisdom of fellow nurses can help you prepare for diverse scenarios and enrich your professional skills.

3. Mentorship and Guidance:

For those newer to the travel nursing realm, networking can connect you with seasoned travel nurses. Their guidance can provide valuable insights into navigating assignments, understanding contractual nuances, and achieving work-life balance.

4. Emotional Support:

Travel nursing, with its unique set of challenges, can sometimes be isolating. Building a network of fellow travel nurses offers a support system, a sounding board, and a comforting presence of those who truly understand your journey.

Strategies for Effective Networking

1. Engage in Professional Associations:

Associations like the American Nurses Association offer platforms to connect with fellow nurses, attend events, and participate in mentorship programs. Being an active member can provide numerous networking opportunities.

2. Attend Conferences and Workshops:

These are hubs for meeting professionals from your field. Not only do they provide learning opportunities, but they also serve as platforms to connect, share experiences, and explore collaborations.

3. Dive into the Digital World:

Platforms like LinkedIn, specialty nursing forums, and even Facebook groups can be goldmines for networking. Engaging in discussions, sharing insights, and connecting with peers online can broaden your network effortlessly.

4. Embrace Local Communities:

While on assignment, engage with local nursing communities. It can be through volunteering, attending local workshops, or simply connecting with local nurses. Building local connections can enhance your assignment experience and offer a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.

5. Proactively Connect:

Take the lead in initiating conversations, whether introducing yourself to a fellow nurse in the breakroom or contacting someone online. Remember, every interaction holds the potential of a lasting professional relationship.

6. Continuous Engagement:

Networking isn’t a one-time activity. Continuous engagement is crucial to truly benefit from it. Keep in touch with your connections, share updates, and be there to offer support when needed.

In the realm of travel nursing, where every assignment is a new journey, having a robust network can be your compass, guiding you through challenges, offering support, and leading you to opportunities. As you continue to provide exceptional patient care and explore new horizons, remember that building and nurturing professional relationships can be a catalyst for unparalleled growth and fulfillment.

At Trustaff, we pride ourselves on understanding travel nurses’ unique needs and aspirations. With our extensive network of assignments, continuous support, and a commitment to your professional growth, Trustaff is your partner in every step of your travel nursing journey.

Explore the limitless opportunities and experience the Trustaff difference today. Discover, thrive, and let us be the bridge to your next great adventure.

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

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By Staffmax Healthcare Staffing & Recruiting

November 29, 2023

2041 Views

Navigating Credentialing for Travel Nursing

Posted on November 29, 2023November 7, 2023 by Staffmax Healthcare Staffing & Recruiting

Staffmax Healthcare Staffing and Recruiting provided this article.

Travel nursing is an exciting career choice that offers nurses the opportunity to explore new places, gain diverse clinical experiences, and earn competitive compensation. However, before you can embark on this rewarding journey, you’ll need to navigate the complexities of credentialing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations for obtaining credentials for travel nursing assignments.

Credentialing for Travel Nursing

Credentialing is the process by which healthcare facilities verify your qualifications and ensure that you meet their standards. While your travel nursing agency will typically handle this process, understanding the basics is essential:

Provider Credentialing: Your agency will work closely with healthcare facilities to verify your credentials, including your nursing license, certifications, and work history.
Background Checks: Background checks, including criminal and professional history, are standard components of the credentialing process.
Health Screenings: You may be required to undergo health screenings, immunizations, and drug tests to ensure that you are fit to work with patients.
References: Facilities may request references from previous employers or colleagues to assess your qualifications.
Orientation and Training: Some facilities may provide additional orientation or training to familiarize you with their specific policies and procedures.
Compliance: Ensuring compliance with facility-specific requirements and documentation is crucial for successful credentialing.

Tips for Success

Start Early: Initiate the credentialing processes well in advance of your planned start date for an assignment.
Stay Organized: Maintain all your documentation, licenses, and certifications in one place to streamline the credentialing process.
Effective Communication: Keep open lines of communication with your travel nursing agency to ensure that all requirements are met and you receive the necessary support.
Be Flexible: Be prepared for variations in licensing and credentialing requirements between states and facilities.
Record Keeping: Keep meticulous records of your licenses and credentials, including expiration dates, to ensure they remain current.

Conclusion

While credentialing may seem like a daunting task for travel nursing, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate these challenges successfully. Research state requirements, initiate the process in a timely manner, and collaborate closely with your travel nursing agency to ensure a smooth transition between assignments. By staying organized and proactive, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your travel nursing adventures with confidence, making a meaningful impact on healthcare across the United States.

Safe travels and happy nursing!

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

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By StaffDNA

November 27, 2023

1715 Views

Travel Nursing & Allied Guide to Booking January Assignments

Posted on November 27, 2023November 22, 2023 by StaffDNA

StaffDNA provided this article.

‘Tis the season, travelers! January assignments are on the horizon, and it’s time to prebook to lock down the best contracts or find promos or bonuses. This year, many travelers aren’t happy with January assignment rates, especially considering the high cost of lodging and living arrangements. With a little strategy, paired with choosing the right agency and technology platform, travelers can find what they’re looking for.

The following is a guide for locking down your ideal January assignment.

Look out for bonus incentives.

Some agencies are stepping up and giving travelers a raise through promos. Are you determined to book an assignment someplace with a high cost of living? Find the highest rate for the job, and then see who tops that off with a bonus! Just make sure to pay attention to the promo rules to make sure you get the full amount.

Allied? Find an agency dedicated to Allied travelers.

Some agencies are more equipped than others to work with allied professionals and allied travelers especially. Find an agency that has an entire department dedicated to broadening their allied job board, as well as recruiting teams specifically dedicated to placing and advising allied professionals in all modalities.

Shop around for the highest pay.

Now is the time to compare what different agencies are paying for the same travel assignments. When it comes to pay, not all agencies offer the same rates, and not all agencies are as transparent about pay and benefits. There can be drastic differences in what one agency offers over another. Get on multiple job boards! Compare rates and find your best bet. Just make sure you know how much you’ll take home!

Find an agency that does it all.

The holidays are not cheap. Some agencies offer perm and per diem options in addition to travel and local assignments. If the agency you’re traveling with offers per diem opportunities, your compliance and credentialing are already on file, making you ready to pick up per diem opportunities available near your assignment. This is a great way to make some extra cash! You can also ask about an assignment’s overtime pay and opportunities.

Get out of complacency & search for a wild card assignment.

Travelers like to explore by nature. You’re bold enough to enter an entirely new work environment. Feed your inner wanderer by looking into assignments in locations or facilities you wouldn’t ordinarily consider. If you usually take a January assignment in a big city, where it’s warm, shake up your routine. Find a high-paying assignment in a location and facility that offers you a new experience. Sometimes embracing a true winter, with snow and overcast skies, hot chocolate, and skiing, is perfect for slowing down and reflecting.

Strengthen your resume/build your skill set.

In a travel job market, some seasons are better than others for finding assignments that have the pay you want in the locations and settings you want. Sometimes, an assignment that refines and sharpens your skill set or builds up your resume is a smart way to narrow in on what to look for in your next assignment.

Inquire within.

At the risk of sounding Zen, don’t forget to ground yourself in… well, yourself. Your time between assignments and when searching for your next assignment is exactly the right time to touch base with how you feel, not just about your career but in the broader scope of your life and all you hold dear. Sometimes, career takes the front seat, and sometimes, it’s good to reconnect with yourself before you make another big career decision. Where do you want to be? What is important to you right now? What kind of workflow or setting do you want or need in the coming months?

The assignment you truly want is out there, but time is of the essence! Start searching and applying today!

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. There, you can search for what you are looking for in housing.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By Miles Oliver

November 25, 2023

2220 Views

Taking Care of Your Health While on the Move as a Travel Nurse

Posted on November 25, 2023November 15, 2023 by Miles Oliver

As a travel nurse, you’re doing fantastic work caring for patients worldwide. However, the issue can sometimes be that you’re so concerned with helping others that you forget to care for your own health. To provide the best care, you need to be physically and mentally healthy, and these tips can help you along your journey.

Be Ready For Anything

Like any other traveler, you never know when you’ll come down with an illness or get sick, so you must be proactive. Knowing that anything can happen, you should be prepared and have a plan of action.

Start by obtaining travel medical insurance, which will help to reimburse the costs you’d pay if you’re injured in an area that is out-of-network for your typical medical insurance. Having it means you can get care without delay. Remember that travel insurance supplements your health insurance, so ensure you have both. Travel insurance can cover broken bones, heart attacks, emergency transport, and more, so don’t leave home without it.

There’s also the possibility that you may not need emergency care, but you still need to speak to a doctor who’s more knowledgeable about your particular condition. In that case, virtual healthcare via an online consultation can be the answer while you’re on the road. Many different health conditions can be treated by an online doctor. For instance, patients can explain their cold and flu symptoms, and the doctor can offer advice or prescribe medication. Online doctors can also assist with hearing aids and vision care as they conduct tests through the computer. Mental health counselors can also listen and dish out advice online.

While online doctors can do a lot, it’s still worth it to keep up with your regular checkups before your trip so you’re in as good of shape as possible.

Avoid Unnecessary Strain

The best way to avoid a physical injury during your travels is to be cautious about everything you do to avoid unnecessary sprains and pain. You can prevent injuries by staying sharp and being aware of your environment. Use ramps and carriers to get into buildings whenever possible, especially when carrying supplies. Also, try to use rolling suitcases and luggage to avoid bending over and hurting your back.

Remember that you can tweak your muscles or trip and fall even if you aren’t carrying supplies. That’s why you need to be proactive and take care of yourself. When you start each day, take the time to stretch your arms, legs, and torso. Hold each position for about 10-30 seconds. Also, don’t forget to drink water throughout the day. In addition to staying hydrated, water helps keep the joints lubricated and supports your muscle function.

When you’re moving your materials and equipment from place to place, it’s essential to avoid common injuries that are easy to forget. Bend with your knees instead of your back, and if necessary, invest in a back brace or a set of knee braces if you know you’ll do a lot of lifting. You can also avoid dropping things on your toes by wearing closed-toed shoes.

Don’t Forget Your Mental Health

If you’re like many nurses, you may get stressed or anxious when caring for patients during a busy schedule. That’s why caring for your mental health along the way is essential. Start by setting up a daily self-care ritual like writing in a journal or spending the morning walking through nature. This is a time to sort through your thoughts and begin a mental refresh.

Your diet can also impact your mental health, so remember you are what you eat. It can be tough to try to fit in a meal during a busy shift, but try to avoid seemingly quick solutions. Eating fast food and trans fats will make you feel sluggish both physically and mentally. Instead, bring along fruit, nuts, and proteins that will provide energy and help you stay focused.

The final key to staying healthy while traveling is to get enough sleep. This is especially important when you’re flying on planes and crossing time zones because it can wreak havoc on your circadian rhythm. When you don’t get enough sleep, you wake up feeling exhausted, and your mind could be foggy, which won’t help you work to the best of your abilities. Get enough sleep so you can refresh your mind and take on each new day.

Life as a traveling nurse can be enriching, but your career should be cut short if you don’t care for yourself. Maintain your mental and physical health, and you’ll feel better and be the best nurse you can be.

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By Furnished Finder

November 23, 2023

1945 Views

10 Tips for Surviving the Cold Weather as a Travel Nurse

Posted on November 23, 2023November 17, 2023 by Furnished Finder

As a travel nurse, you have the incredible opportunity to experience different cities and climates. However, when you find yourself in an area with cold weather, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are some valuable tips to help you stay warm and safe while embracing your travel nurse adventure in cold temperatures:

1. Layer up!

Layering is key to staying warm in cold weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep your body dry and insulated. Add layers of clothing, like sweaters or fleece, for extra warmth. Finally, top it off with a windproof and waterproof outer layer, such as a quality jacket or coat.

2. Invest in proper winter gear

When it comes to cold weather, having the right gear can make all the difference. Make sure to have a sturdy pair of insulated and waterproof boots to protect your feet from the cold and wet conditions. Additionally, get a pair of warm gloves, a hat, and a scarf to cover your extremities and keep them protected from the biting cold.

3. Stay hydrated

Cold weather can fool you into thinking you don’t need as much water as you would in hot temperatures. However, proper hydration is just as essential during winter. Dry indoor heating and cold air can dehydrate you quickly. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay healthy and keep your body functioning optimally.

4. Use a humidifier

Indoor heating systems can dry out the air, causing dry skin, chapped lips, and breathing difficulties. Placing a humidifier in your living space can help combat this issue. It adds moisture to the air, making the environment more comfortable and reducing the risk of respiratory problems.

5. Be mindful of icy conditions

Cold weather often brings ice and slippery surfaces. Take extra caution while walking to avoid slipping and falling. Invest in a pair of traction-friendly shoe covers or boots that have a good grip to help you navigate icy sidewalks and roads safely.

6. Sanitize your hands regularly

Cold weather often coincides with the flu and cold season. Protect yourself by washing your hands frequently and carrying hand sanitizer. Maintaining good hygiene practices can greatly reduce the risk of falling ill.

7. Get vaccinated

Don’t forget to get your flu shot before the cold season begins. As a travel nurse, you may be exposed to different people and environments, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Getting vaccinated adds an extra layer of protection for both yourself and the patients you care for.

8. Don’t overlook mental health

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that affects many people during the winter months. The combination of cold weather, limited sunlight, and being away from home can impact your mental well-being. Make an effort to stay connected with loved ones, engage in activities you enjoy, and seek support if needed. Self-care is crucial for your overall well-being as a travel nurse.

9. Stay active

Inactivity can make you feel colder. Try to incorporate some physical activity into your routine to keep your body warm and boost circulation. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a workout at the gym, or yoga in your living room, staying active will help keep you energized and warm.

10. Embrace the winter activities

While cold weather might not be your cup of tea, take advantage of the activities that come with it. Try skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or even building a snowman. Engaging in winter activities can help you embrace the season and make your travel nursing experience more enjoyable.

By following these essential tips, you’ll be equipped to handle the challenges that cold weather brings as a travel nurse. Stay warm, stay safe, and make the most out of your adventures in different climates!

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

November 22, 2023

1884 Views

Giving Back While on Your Travel Nurse Assignment

Posted on November 22, 2023November 17, 2023 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

TNAA-Travel Nurse Across America provided this article.

November 28 is GivingTuesday, the day that highlights the power of generosity by encouraging everyone to give back. Since its launch in 2012, GivingTuesday has become a global movement, with millions of people finding ways, both large and small, to make an impact.

As a travel nurse, you are naturally compassionate and caring, and giving back while off the clock may interest you. For travel nurses, it can be a rewarding reprieve from their day-to-day work and a great way to engage the community in their new home away from home.

Fortunately for travel nurses, there are many ways to give back while on assignment, and traveling to new destinations means ample volunteer opportunities for GivingTuesday and beyond.

How You Can Give Back as a Travel Nurse

1. Volunteering with Healthcare Skills

One way you can volunteer as a travel nurse is by utilizing your healthcare skills. Contact local facilities and community health clinics to see their available opportunities. Travel nurses can also help at blood drives, events, fundraisers, and more.

2. Non-Medical Volunteer Opportunities

If you’re more interested in stepping away from your professional life as a nurse, you can find non-medical-related volunteer opportunities in your travel communities. Check out VolunteerMatch.org or other national organizations for volunteer positions.

You can also find local organizations based on your interests and what you like to do as a volunteer. Local food banks and soup kitchens also rely on volunteers year-round. The local parks department may need people to help clean up trails or plant trees and vegetation in parks. Do some research to find local non-profits, churches, and charities, and call them directly. Many need volunteers but may not be advertising them.

3. Make a Donation

If it’s challenging to find time in your busy schedule to volunteer, consider donating instead.

Donate Goods

Like you would for a volunteer opportunity, search for local, reputable organizations that need donated goods. Find a donation center to take those household or personal items you won’t need on assignment – this is a great way to downsize for your next travel assignment or eliminate extra stuff you brought that you won’t use. Many schools and community centers take donations of school supplies. You can also buy extra food supplies and donate them to a local food bank. See what is needed most in your community by talking with the organizations about what they need most.

Donate Money

There are many places to make monetary donations, either one-time or recurring. Nonprofit charities like the American Red Cross and Make a Wish have local chapters throughout the U.S. that will take donations. Many of the same organizations you can volunteer at or donate goods to will also have a way for you to donate money. You can also find great foundations that are in need of financial contributions.

4. Other Ways to Give Back

Don’t forget that giving back can be done in many non-official ways. Take a walk in your neighborhood and pick up trash, choose public transportation for your daily commute, help a neighbor with some work around their home, run or walk in a local 5k or other event…the possibilities are truly endless when you rethink what it means to give back to your community. Travel nurses can do things every day that help their community or bring someone happiness.

Travel nurses have great opportunities to give back to the places they call home while on assignment. Whether sharing their healthcare skills in local clinics, participating in non-medical volunteer endeavors, or supporting local charities, these nurses become catalysts for positive change. As you celebrate GivingTuesday and look for opportunities to give back to your travel communities, remember that your acts of kindness, big or small, make an impact. Here’s to the joyful journey of giving back, making a difference, and leaving every corner a bit brighter, one assignment at a time.

The Gypsy Nurse job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

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

By Triage Healthcare Staffing

November 21, 2023

1491 Views

How to Land a Travel Assignment in a Desirable Area

Posted on November 21, 2023November 20, 2023 by Triage Healthcare Staffing

Triage Healthcare Staffing provided this article.

If you’re looking for an assignment in a great location, you know the competition is fierce. Desirable locations have a lot of nurses, all competing for the same jobs. Luckily, we’ve got tips that can help you land a travel assignment where you want to go—even if lots of other nurses are all vying for the same position.

Be Flexible with Pay or Housing

In desirable areas, you may need to be less picky than with a normal assignment. This means that the average pay rate may be lower than you’re used to because so many other nurses are interested in the area. It’s simple supply and demand—if the supply of nurses who want to experience a specific area is higher than normal, the facilities will lower the bill rate, which directly affects travel nurse pay.

Housing may be hard to come by in popular areas, too. This can affect you in one of two ways: you may need to pay more for housing that’s close to the facility or live further away. Either option works. It just depends on what you want out of your living situation.

Book an Assignment in the Off Season and Extend

This tip comes directly from a pair of Triage travelers. Our travelers often think ahead to where they want to spend the summer and then book an assignment in that location in the spring. That way, when the summer is close, they are already in the area and their first choice when the position opens up. Of course, this tip might not work as well in locations like Hawaii that are super popular year-round, but our travelers have found it to work in nearly every instance.

Work with a Recruiter You Can Trust

A recruiter you can trust is an invaluable resource. When you have someone in your corner that you trust, you’ll be able to have a conversation with your recruiter about what you’re looking for in an assignment. By maintaining this relationship, your recruiter will be able to look out for the locations you want to work in. Then, if you have your profile ready, your recruiter can submit you within seconds once you give them the go-ahead. When there’s a lot of competition for desirable locations, being first in line can make it more likely that you get the assignment. The early bird gets the worm, right?

Be Open to a Night Shift or Float Pool

Lastly, being open to a night shift or float pool can help your chances of being hired in a competitive location. When you’re flexible with your shift or willing to jump in and help out in a different specialty, you’re a more attractive candidate for the facility. However, make sure that you talk to your recruiter to ensure you’re not floated to a specialty you’re not comfortable with. And if you are asked to float somewhere outside your skill set, your agency’s clinical department can help you navigate that situation so your license stays safe. That’s what they’re there for! Looking for travel nurse jobs in a location everyone else wants to go to? Scoring one of these sweet assignments can be a challenge, but there are ways to make it happen. Use these tips (and a Triage recruiter) and get yourself on the road.

We hope you enjoyed this article on landing a travel assignment in a desirable location. Do you have any tips to share with your fellow travelers? Comment them below.

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

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

How To Start Your Travel Nurse Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

1. Complete an accredited nursing program

2. Pass the NCLEX-PN and get licensed

3. Gain clinical experience

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The following is a guide for locking down your ideal January assignment.

Look out for bonus incentives.

Allied? Find an agency dedicated to Allied travelers.

Shop around for the highest pay.

Find an agency that does it all.

Get out of complacency & search for a wild card assignment.

Strengthen your resume/build your skill set.

Inquire within.

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