September 24, 2023

1983 Views

Where to Find Support as a Travel Nurse

Posted on September 24, 2023September 24, 2023 by TRS Healthcare

TRS Healthcare provided this article.

Travel nursing can be a rewarding career path for nurses across a wide range of specialties who want to travel the country and take on new challenges. But moving to new locations and working in unfamiliar environments can also be taxing. That’s why it’s essential for travel nurses to embrace support systems while on assignment. Here are some ways you can find support as a travel nurse.

Get to Know Your Coworkers

Coming into a new work environment can be intimidating, no matter how many assignments you’ve been on as a travel nurse. This is where connecting with your coworkers can help you feel more grounded. Even though your assignment at a particular healthcare facility may be temporary, making an effort to get to know the people around you can help alleviate the stress and loneliness you may sometimes feel on the road.

Turn to Friends and Family

Like other life challenges, stress at work can often be lessened by spending time with loved ones. Whether it’s talking on the phone or, connecting over video calls while you’re away on an assignment, or making plans to visit with friends and family during your time off, don’t hesitate to lean on the people in your life when you need them.

Join a Travel Nurse Network or Support Group

Need to talk with someone who understands what it’s like to be a travel nurse? There are a variety of travel nursing groups online, such as The Gypsy Nurse Facebook group, and travel nursing forums like Allnurses, where you can find camaraderie and form long-lasting friendships. Not only do these outlets give you a chance to meet people who can relate to the joys and challenges of travel nursing, but they also provide professional networking opportunities.

Utilize Mental Health Resources

Friends, family, and fellow travel nurses may be able to offer social connection and emotional support while you’re on a travel assignment, but they can’t replace the support of a mental health professional. If you’re struggling with more serious issues like anxiety or depression while working as a travel nurse, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), virtual counseling apps like BetterHelp, and other mental health resources can make a world of difference.

Listen to Podcasts About Travel Nursing

Finding media that relates to what you’re going through can help you feel less alone. “The Truth About Travel Nursing Podcast” with Kyle Schmidt provides a lighthearted but honest look into the world of travel nursing. There’s also “The Vintage Traveling Nurse Podcast,” where host Mynoucka shares ideas for taking your travel nursing career to the next level. Or you can get tips and tricks on navigating the industry from long-time travel nursing professional Mark Holloway on “Travel Insiders” and sequel podcast “Travel Evolved.”

Don’t Forget About Your Recruiter

Travel nursing recruiters can do more than help place you at your next assignment—they can also be a great asset to your support system! Work closely with them to establish goals and preferences for your travel nursing journey to ensure you have a positive experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you encounter issues while on assignment, as they can help you find a solution or direct you to a clinical support team. Building a good relationship with your recruiter is key, so be proactive about communication and receptive to any support they provide you!

Have more ideas or tips for finding support as a travel nurse? Comment below to share your thoughts, experiences, and stories.

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

By Furnished Finder

September 22, 2023

1748 Views

How to Stay Healthy on the Road as a Travel Nurse

Posted on September 22, 2023September 22, 2023 by Furnished Finder

Travel nursing is a wonderful career path and offers many benefits to those who embrace it, including adventure, challenge, and flexibility. But it can also be a challenging career, with long hours, demanding patients, and ever-changing work environments. One of the most challenging aspects of travel nursing is maintaining your health when you are away from home. With some careful planning and healthy habits, it is possible to stay healthy on the road as a travel nurse.

1. Plan Ahead and Bring Healthy Snacks For The Trip

One of the biggest challenges of travel nursing is managing your diet. When you are on the road headed to an assignment, it is easy to fall into the trap of grabbing fast food or snacking on convenience store junk food. Before you leave home, pack a cooler with healthy snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, and protein bars. This will help you resist the temptation to grab unhealthy snacks on the go. Additionally, plan your meals in advance, and pack healthy lunches and snacks that you can eat on the go.

2. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Sleep is a critical component of your overall health, and it is especially important when you are working as a travel nurse. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule will help you feel rested and alert throughout your shifts. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on your days off. Additionally, make sure that your sleep environment is comfortable and conducive to restful sleep. Invest in some earplugs and an eye mask to help block out noise and light if you’re a light sleeper.

3. Stay Active and Exercise Regularly

Another key to staying healthy on the road as a travel nurse is to stay active and exercise regularly. Even if you are working long hours, try to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. This can be as simple as taking a brisk walk during your lunch break or doing some stretching exercises before you go to bed. Additionally, look for opportunities to engage in more vigorous exercise, such as swimming, hiking, or cycling, when you have time off from work.

4. Stay Hydrated!

Staying hydrated is crucial for your overall health, especially when you are on the road as a travel nurse. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during your long shifts. If you are working in a hot environment, be sure to drink even more water to avoid dehydration.

5. Take Care of Your Mental Health

Finally, it is important to prioritize your mental health when you are working as a travel nurse. Travel nursing can be a stressful and demanding career, which can take a toll on your emotional well-being. Make time to pursue hobbies and interests that help you relax and unwind, such as reading, meditation, or yoga. Additionally, take advantage of support services available to you, such as employee assistance programs, counseling, or peer support groups.

Travel nursing can be a challenging but rewarding career path, and taking care of your health is a critical component of success in this field. By planning ahead, maintaining a healthy diet, and prioritizing your mental health, you can stay healthy as a travel nurse. Remember to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally, and you will be able to provide the best possible care for your patients while enjoying the adventure and excitement of travel nursing.

We hope you found these tips for staying healthy on the road as a travel nurse helpful. Do you have any tips to share with fellow travelers? Comment them below.

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 AB Staffing Solutions

September 21, 2023

1712 Views

6 Ways to Stand Out in the Competitive Travel Nurse Market

Posted on September 21, 2023September 21, 2023 by AB Staffing Solutions

AB Staffing Solutions provided this article.

Becoming a travel nurse can effectively build your resume and experience, but how do you stand out in a competitive market? We asked our recruiters to share what gets our clients noticed, how they continue to grow themselves and their careers, and why it is essential to stay connected.

The journey begins when you find a travel nurse agency and recruiter with whom you connect. If you’re unclear if they’re a good match, read the article Healthcare Red Flags and Green Flags. It is important to research an agency’s online reputation before jumping in to find a recruiter. We know there are a lot of places you can go, and finding the right agency is the start of standing out in a competitive market.

Ways to Stand Out as a Travel Nurse

1-2 years of shift nurse experience is required to become a travel nurse. If you’re ready for a different experience in life, it’s time to get organized and make a move!

Moving from shift nurse to traveler means moving multiple times a year, being away from loved ones, and constantly being the new person at work. While the lifestyle is challenging, it is also rewarding at the same time. How you organize and manage your life can have an influence in getting offered a contract you like versus one you love.

Polish the Resume –

As you complete a contract, update your resume with new skills, certifications, and accomplishments. That way, you’re ready for the next job opportunity. Include specialized training that sets you apart, such as previous travel nurse experience and experience in settings like those for which you are applying. Keep a digital copy handy so you can send it quickly. Remember to spellcheck and grammar check before sending and update contact information as needed.

Showcase your Flexibility –

In most cases, you have a higher chance of getting a travel contract if you’re flexible in your location, shift schedule, and pay. Be open to learning new systems and floating to other hospital areas to fill gaps. Remember that as a traveler, you will likely not be able to make changes, but offering feedback, if asked, to your on-site supervisor may be helpful.

Obtain Specialized Certifications –

Set yourself apart by pursuing specialized certifications related to your specialty. Popular or preferred certifications include Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). It shows you’ve taken the initiative and have the training to work in other (related) areas; it gives your recruiter more options to share your resume with our clients.

Highlight Cultural Competency –

Working as a travel nurse means you are likely working in diverse communities with varying patient demographics. If you have experience with this type of work, highlight it on your resume and in conversations. Managers want to know if you can provide patient care that respects and values cultural differences. Working for Indian Health Services (IHS) or Corrections Facilities are two areas that need experienced medical professionals.

Ace the Interview.

It (literally) pays to prepare for the interview. Your travel nurse recruiter can support you in this process. It helps to review your own experiences and research the facility and location beforehand. This will help you prepare thoughtful questions and emphasize your eagerness to contribute to the team.

Build Strong Relationships –

Connection is key to standing out in a competitive market as a travel nurse. Begin when you contact your recruiter. At AB Staffing, our recruiters are available to you before, during, and after your contracts; ask them anything related to your job. Connect with the travel nursing community to understand where there are job opportunities and needs in communities. Take advantage of agency bonuses when referring friends. Lastly, stay connected with friends you meet via social media and connect in person when working in their hometown.

You’ve made a smart decision to become a travel nurse. We know you will do well and are here to support you in your career and travel journey.

When you’re ready to start, check out the AB Staffing Travel Nurse Job Board and Contact Us.

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 Amare Medical Network

September 20, 2023

1685 Views

Pennsylvania Permits Nurses with Multistate Licenses to Practice

Posted on September 20, 2023September 20, 2023 by Amare Medical Network

Amare Medical Network provided this article.

As of September 5, 2023, Pennsylvania is now permitting Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) with multistate licenses (MSL) from compact states to practice in the state. These nurses will be able to provide direct patient care in person or via telehealth in Pennsylvania as a first step to implementing the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). In this article, we’ll discuss NLC and multistate licenses, as well as some of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania.

What is the Nurse Licensure Compact?

The NLC is an interstate agreement that allows nurses to obtain a single license that is valid in multiple states. This makes it easier for nurses to move between states and find work, which can help to address shortages in specific areas.

Currently, there are 41 states and territories that are members of the NLC. Pennsylvania is expected to join the NLC in the near future, but in the meantime, the state is taking this important step to address its nursing shortage.

What is the Difference Between a Multistate License and a Compact License?

There is no difference! Both terms refer to the NLC license that allows a nurse to hold one license and practice in all NLC compact states.

Will Pennsylvania Nurses be Able to Work in Other NLC States?

Not yet. Once the compact is fully implemented, Pennsylvania nurses will be able to apply for a multistate license.

Pennsylvania’s Must-See Places While on Assignment

Pennsylvania is the 33rd largest state in the United States but one of the most diverse in history and landscape! The Keystone State boasts many landscapes, including the winding rivers of the Delaware Water Gap, the rugged Pocono Mountains, and the bustling streets of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. No matter what activities you enjoy in your free time, you’ll be sure to find something in PA that you love doing on your days off.

Be sure to visit these popular cities and parks in PA while on assignment:

Hershey
Gettysburg
Pittsburgh
Philadelphia
Presque Isle State Park
The Poconos
Delaware Water Gap
Ohiopyle State Park
Hickory Run State Park
Ricketts Glen State Park

Discover your next adventure in Pennsylvania by browsing our job board.

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 AMN Healthcare

September 19, 2023

1799 Views

The Ultimate Guide to Job Search Tips for Travel Nursing

Posted on September 19, 2023September 19, 2023 by AMN Healthcare

AMN Healthcare provided this article.

Are you ready to embark on a travel nursing adventure? Here’s what you need to know to find the right job for you. In this practical guide, we’ll share valuable job search tips for travel nurses, including strategies for both new and experienced travelers to land their ideal assignments.

Researching Travel Nursing Opportunities

Travel nursing offers freedom and flexibility that are unparalleled in the healthcare industry. As you research your ideal travel nursing job, consider your priorities to help narrow down your search. Some nurses may prioritize certain destinations or a particular type of healthcare facility, while others are looking for opportunities to build their professional skills and gain more experience.

Once you have decided which factors are most important to you, it’s time to get started on your search. Take some time to peruse websites and platforms that specialize in travel nursing job postings to see what kinds of assignments are available. One to check out: Onward Healthcare’s job search page. You can search by location, nursing specialty, assignment duration, type of shift, or your desired start date.

Perfecting Your Travel Nursing Resume

As you prepare to apply for travel nursing jobs that match your requirements, be sure to polish your travel nursing resume. A top-notch resume should be concise yet detailed enough to highlight your relevant experience, your specific clinical skills, and certifications. In order to stand out to recruiters and hiring managers, you’ll also want to highlight your ability to work in diverse healthcare settings and adapt quickly to new environments. Your recruiter should be able to help you perfect your resume before it is forwarded to a potential hiring facility.

Some employers may also require a cover letter to signal your interest in working for them. This is a great opportunity to not only demonstrate your professional expertise and your passion for travel nursing but also to explain why you are the perfect fit for a particular assignment.

Building a Strong Online Presence

Before you get too far along in your travel nurse job search, take a close look at your online presence. Have you vetted your social media profiles and postings recently to make sure everything reflects positively on you? Connecting with travel nursing communities on Facebook and Twitter, among others, is a great way to learn about potential employers and job opportunities. Just remember that everything you post online, even in a private community, could become public at some point. Post accordingly.

Additionally, this is a perfect time to optimize your LinkedIn profile to highlight yourself and what you have to offer to a potential employer. A few tips:

Pick the right photograph for your profile. A recent professional photo will set the right tone.
Use your summary to sell yourself. Write a captivating narrative that demonstrates your professional excellence and will impress prospective employers.
List all your relevant skills, certifications, and honors. This is not the time to be modest.
Ask colleagues or managers to write endorsements for you.

Partnering with a Travel Nursing Agency

While you can embark upon a job search on your own, working with a travel nurse staffing agency will give you the best chance of securing the kind of job you really want. Established agencies like Onward Healthcare can really streamline the process for you and help you avoid a number of hiccups. They already have relationships with top-notch healthcare facilities and know how to connect you with the right opportunities.

You’ll be working with recruiters and their colleagues who can help you:

Find travel nursing assignments that meet your requirements and qualifications;
Prepare for interviews and compare contracts;
Handle all the onboarding details and logistics, including licensing;
Provide free housing or a housing stipend plus travel reimbursements;
Give you guidance and encouragement along the way.

As a bonus, all of these services are offered free of charge! And, if you work for Onward Healthcare, you can also use the AMN Passport app to easily find, book, and manage your travel nursing assignments.

Networking as a Travel Nurse

Your professional network is another great resource to tap when you’re looking for a new job, including a travel nursing job. Reach out to them and ask if they know about any job openings—or who to contact to find out.

Plus, when you become a travel nurse, you will meet even more people who can become part of your professional network. As you take on travel nursing jobs, you’ll establish relationships with people who will share their knowledge with you and encourage you to develop your own skills. Those people may be able to help you in the future, too, when you’re looking for a mentor, a professional reference, or information about career opportunities.

The Recipe for a Successful Job Search

Travel nursing offers a myriad of opportunities for professional development and personal adventure. Approach your job search strategically to give yourself a good shot at the best travel nursing jobs. As noted, it is important to focus on your priorities, take time for some research, optimize your online presence, polish your resume, nurture your professional connections, and work with a reputable travel nursing agency.

Finding the ideal travel nursing assignment will require some time and effort. And your job search needs to be personalized to you and your goals. So follow these job search tips, be persistent, and stay positive. Before you know it, you’ll be packing for your next big travel nursing adventure.

Do you have any job search tips for travel nurses? 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:

START HERE

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

By Cross Country Nurses

September 18, 2023

1413 Views

Top Reasons to Take a Cold Weather Travel Nurse Assignment

Posted on September 18, 2023September 18, 2023 by Cross Country Nurses

This article was provided by Cross Country Nurses.

When you picture yourself traveling, what is the first image that comes to mind? If you’re visualizing yourself on a toasty beach…for just a moment, imagine instead what it would be like to take a travel nurse assignment in a cooler region. Can you see yourself: Taking in expansive views of snow-capped mountains as you ride up a ski lift in Utah? Sipping a cup of hot chocolate as you warm your toes by the fire in Vermont? Taking a dip in the hot springs near Yellowstone in Montana? We can! Here’s why cold-weather assignments appeal to many travel nurses.

Benefits of Cold-Weather Assignments for Travel Nurses

If you choose to embark on an adventure in a colder climate, you can enjoy:

More opportunities with better pay:

Competition is high, and travel assignments fill quickly in warm areas like California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida. You’ll have more choices if you’re open to working in cooler regions! You may also find that assignments in harder-to-fill locations pay more than those in high-demand warmer areas.

Less traffic and fewer crowds:

Compared to warmer weather locations where populations are rapidly growing, cold-weather locales often have less traffic, and towns can feel much less busy. You can enjoy wide expanses and open roads.

Fewer allergens and biting insects:

In colder regions, you won’t have to contend with mosquitos, gnats, and other pesky insects that are more common in warmer climates. Plus, mold and pollen counts are often lower, so people who struggle with allergies tend to love cold regions since they usually have fewer allergens.

Pristine landscapes:

Since many cold-weather regions are less developed, there are more untouched natural areas to explore there. Think Mount Ranier National Park in Washington, Denali National Park in Alaska, or Acadia National Park in Maine.

Surprising health benefits:

Living in cold areas can be good for your health – who knew?! Colder temperatures can help you burn calories, boost brain power, reduce inflammation, fight infections, strengthen your heart, and even sleep better (Business Insider).

Sweater weather:

Cold climates are great for snuggling up in cozy sweaters, warm scarves, adorable hats, cute boots, fuzzy gloves, and stylish coats! It can be so much fun to sport a winter wardrobe, especially if you grew up wearing tank tops and shorts in a hot climate.

Awesome adventures:

Colder regions offer an array of activities: hiking, camping, glamping, snow skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and sledding. And don’t forget, on snowy days, you can always walk right out your front door and build a snowman, make snow angels, or have a snowball fight (to break the ice) with your new neighbors!

Summers are a dream:

Rather than roasting in a hot clime, you can enjoy the beautifully mild summers of a colder region. Summers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, for example, hover around the 70s – perfect for hiking, kayaking, and sunbathing. And North Dakota summers can average in the 80s – ideal for enjoying the beautiful lakeside swim beaches around the state.

Four seasons:

If you have always lived in warmer climates where it feels like summer year-round, you may not know just how invigorating and fulfilling it can be to enjoy the four seasons. In addition to the frosty winters and mild summers, you’ll see incredible leaf displays in the fall and enjoy the excitement and rebirth of spring.

The best part is…travel assignments are temporary! You can discover what it’s like to live in a cooler place without having to make a permanent commitment. This means you’ve got nothing to lose. So, when you choose your next travel nurse assignment, go snow! Find your next travel nurse adventure 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. 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 RTG Medical

September 17, 2023

1885 Views

Top 10 Snack Hacks for Travelers

Posted on September 17, 2023September 17, 2023 by RTG Medical

RTG Medical provided this article.

Healthcare travelers are constantly on the go, moving from one assignment to the next. Finding nutritious and convenient snacks can be challenging in the hustle and bustle of busy schedules. However, maintaining a healthy diet is essential to staying energized and focused. Here are our Top 10 Snack Hacks for traveling healthcare professionals to help them stay nourished and ready for whatever comes their way!

Top 10 Snack Hacks

#1 Trail Mix Magic

Trail mix is a versatile snack beloved by travelers of all kinds! Thanks to its perfect balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, this tasty treat can help keep you energized throughout the day. This energy-boosting treat requires no refrigeration, making it a great companion during busy shifts and long commutes between assignments!

Pro Tip: Customize your trail mix by adding your favorite nuts, dried fruits, seeds, and chocolate, of course!

#2 Pre-Packaged Nut Butter Packets

A quick and tasty way to satisfy your hunger? Single-serving nut butter packets! Nut butters are a go-to for quick and healthy snacking. They come in a variety of flavors that are readily available at most grocery stores!

Pro Tip: Pair nut butter with whole-grain crackers, rice cakes, or your favorite fruit for a filling and portable snack!

#3 Greek Yogurt Parfait

Greek yogurt is delicious and rich in protein and probiotics, which can help support your immune and digestive systems– a vital consideration for healthcare professionals. You can pack small containers layered with Greek yogurt, granola, and fruit for a delicious and nutritious snack on the go!

Pro Tip: Pre-pack your parfait ingredients in small containers to save time during busy mornings!

#4 Veggie Sticks and Hummus

Pre-cut veggies + hummus = DELICIOUS! Veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers are the perfect pick-me-up during busy shifts. Veggies paired with hummus provide an excellent source of vitamins, fiber, and plant-based protein.

Pro Tip: Chop and store your veggies in advance to make this snack even more convenient on the go!

#5 Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a classic protein-packed snack that requires minimal preparation. Cook them ahead of time and store them in your fridge or lunch box for that midday pick-me-up.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of white vinegar to your boiling water to help remove eggshells more quickly– don’t worry, your eggs won’t taste like vinegar!

#6 Adult Lunchables

What’s better than cheese and crackers? Not much unless you add salami or pepperoni to the mix! The adult version of your favorite childhood snack is an excellent source of calcium and protein.

Pro Tip: Mix and match your favorite cheeses, crackers, and proteins to create the best adult lunchable. Additionally, there are several pre-portioned options available at most grocery stores.

#7 Overnight Oats… In a Jar!

Overnight oats are arguably the most accessible grab-and-go breakfast or snack! Prepare jars (or containers) with rolled oats, your choice of milk (dairy or non-dairy), and your favorite toppings. Store in the fridge and grab for a leisurely breakfast or pick-me-up snack!

Pro Tip: Experiment with different flavor combinations by adding fruits, seeds, or honey to your jars!

#8 Fruit and Nut Bars

It’s simple. It’s classic. It’s at every grocery store! Fruit and nut bars are a staple for many traveling healthcare professionals. These easy on-the-go snacks can curve your hunger and give you a significant boost of energy!

Pro Tip: Opt for fruit and nut bars with minimal ingredients, no added sugars, and a good balance of protein and fiber to keep you feeling full.

#9 Rice Cakes With Avacado

Spread mashed avocado on rice cakes and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a tasty treat! This snack provides healthy fats and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Pro Tip: Try adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor!

#10 DIY Smoothie Packs

Prepare pre-cut fruits and veggies, along with protein powder or Greek yogurt, for an extra tasty treat! Freeze them, and when you’re ready, blend them with water or your preferred liquid for a delicious and refreshing snack!

Pro Tip: Experiment with different recipes and prepare your ingredients in advance for quick blending!

Maintaining a healthy diet as a traveling healthcare professional doesn’t have to be challenging. These snack hacks will help you stay nourished and energized throughout your busy schedule. Remember to plan ahead, stock up on your favorite snacks, and stay hydrated to ensure you feel your best while providing the best care to your patients. Happy snacking!

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 Medical Solutions

September 16, 2023

9759 Views

How Long Do Travel Nurses Stay at One Assignment?

Posted on September 16, 2023September 25, 2023 by Medical Solutions

Medical Solutions provided this article.

By Sarah Wengert

If you’re a new or aspiring traveler, you’ve probably wondered about the length of travel nursing assignments. Are travel nurses constantly on the go, or can they unpack and stay awhile? What is “awhile” anyway?

Travel nursing jobs vary in length, and that variance depends on each facility’s staffing needs. When choosing the right assignment length, travelers should consider things like original contract length, the possibility of extending an assignment, and other factors that will be unique to them and their needs.
There are also important IRS tax compliance considerations that impact your ability to receive lodging, meals, and incidental per diems on a non-taxable basis. Your staffing agency will have its own internal policies that align with several important IRS rules that ensure you are eligible to receive non-taxable travel benefits.

How long can You remain in the same general location while on a Travel assignment?

If you wish to continue to receive non-taxable per diems (and nearly all traveling clinicians do!), the short answer is that you cannot remain in the same general assignment location for more than one year. While many IRS rules are unclear, this is one that’s fairly straightforward: Among other requirements, working in any particular assignment location must be “temporary” in order to receive non-taxable per diems. The IRS rules state that if your assignment lasts, or is expected to last, more than one year, then the assignment is not “temporary”. And as a result, you are not entitled to non-taxable per diems. The months at the assignment location do not have to occur consecutively to hit the 12-month limit.

What is the Average Length of a Travel Assignment?

Most travel nursing assignments last 13 weeks, but they can come in many other lengths. Other common travel nurse assignment lengths include 8, 4, or even 1-2 weeks on the shorter side. On the longer side, sometimes travel jobs last 20 or even 26 weeks.

That brings us to the next important thing to know about how long travel nurses stay in one location: Travel nursing assignment extensions!

Can You Extend Your Travel Nurse Assignment?

Yes, you can extend your travel nurse assignment if both you and the facility agree to an extension.

Many facilities like to extend a travel nursing assignment when they still have the staffing need and are happy and familiar with a traveler. Many travelers like to extend their assignment when they’re happy with the facility and location.

When it works for both a facility and a traveler, travel nurse assignment extensions provide a smooth transition into a longer-term arrangement for both parties!

Remember that you can always ask your recruiter for a specific length of assignment if that’s what you need. You might not be able to choose your exact travel nurse assignment length, but it never hurts to ask your recruiter so they’re looking out for you and your unique needs. A good recruiter will always do their best to get as close as possible to your request from the current pool of available travel nursing assignments — so make sure you openly communicate your needs to them.

Again, the duration of your travel nursing job depends on the facility’s staffing needs and their particular interest in you. So, some assignments may last for an irregular time span if that’s what’s needed. Ultimately, a travel nurse can safely stay in one place for as long as the facility needs them and agrees to rehire them for up to 12 months. And, of course, when a traveler agrees to stay in that facility and location!

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 Advantage Medical Professionals

September 15, 2023

1739 Views

9 Must-See Travel Nursing Destinations in Autumn 2023

Posted on September 15, 2023 by Advantage Medical Professionals

Advantage Medical Professionals provided this article.

As the sweltering heat of summer begins to wane, it’s the perfect time for travel nurses to embark on a new (and slightly cooler) adventure. Autumn is considered a season of unparalleled beauty with its crisp air, falling leaves, and sense of natural transformation. If you’re a wanderlust-driven healthcare professional looking to combine your passion for nursing with the joys of exploring new places, you’re in for a treat! We’ll guide you through a curated list of autumn travel nursing destinations with promising work opportunities and unforgettable experiences amid the breathtaking backdrop of fall foliage. Whether you’re craving the vibrant colors of New England or the serene forests of the Pacific Northwest, these travel nursing destinations will leave you inspired, refreshed, and ready to embrace the autumnal (or spooky) spirit.

9 Must-See Travel Nursing Destinations in Autumn 2023

1. Washington

Speaking of the Pacific Northwest, Washington state’s freshly minted status as a compact state has more travel nurses looking into travel assignments in and around the Evergreen State. Seattle and the surrounding areas are already credited with having competitive pay rates, safe ratios, and an established travel nursing community.

Attractions: Pike Place Market, Bainbridge Island, Bavarian village of Leavenworth

2. North Carolina

Whether you drive up the famous Blue Ridge Parkway for Asheville’s vibrant art scene or a brisk mountain hike in the rich fall foliage of the Appalachian Mountains, The Tar Heel State has a little something for everyone. In fact, “The Variety Vacationland” is one of North Carolina’s other state nicknames of record.

Attractions: Grandfather Mountain, The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, The Great Smoky Mountains

3. Virginia

Virginia is another state along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway worth calling home during the fall months. The rich fall foliage is the perfect backdrop to the Dominion State’s many quaint, historic (and possibly haunted) locations.

Attractions: Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville, Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Richmond, Blue Ridge Parkway

4. Tennessee

With the Volunteer State being ranked 10^th in the nation for affordable cost of living*, travel nurses working and living in Tennessee can actually afford to visit famous locales like Music City (Nashville) or cozy up in one of the rustic cabins in Gatlinburg for a long weekend. Now that’s music to our ears!

Attractions: Ruby Falls Haunted Cavern in Chattanooga, Graceland Haunted Mansion in Memphis, The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville

5. West Virginia

If it’s impressive enough for John Denver to write a song about, we’re willing to bet it’s at least worth a visit to The Mountain State this fall. With one of the most affordable housing markets (ranked #2in the nation for housing affordability*), there are plenty of places along West Virginia’s celebrated country roads you can call home this fall.

Attractions: The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston, Cass Scenic Railroad, Harpers Ferry ghost tours

6. Kentucky

Aside from the state’s beautiful weather and natural beauty throughout the autumn season, Kentucky is also known for having one of the lowest costs of living (ranked 3^rd in the nation*). Even better news for travel nurses is that the Bluegrass State also has very affordable housing (ranked 4^th in the nation for housing affordability*).

Desirable fall weather/foliage

Attractions: Bourbon Trail, Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville

7. Arizona

For a slightly different twist on autumn, head west to Arizona. The Grand Canyon State isn’t just home to one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. It’s also home to several up-and-coming travel nursing hotspots like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Flagstaff.

Attractions: Ghost Town of Jerome, The Grand Canyon

8. North Dakota

If the thought of bustling city streets or another crowded commute to work makes your blood pressure spike, just take a deep breath….and head up to the tranquil prairies of North Dakota. Thanks to the rural landscape and simple way of life North Dakota natives have come to cherish, rush hour traffic and overpriced city living are two things you’ll see very little of in The Peace Garden State.

Attractions: Downtown Fargo, Bonanzaville in West Fargo, The Rendezvous Region

9. Louisiana

Last but definitely not least is our own home state. For those who prefer to flock down to a warmer climate during the colder months, you can leave your parka behind. However, don’t forget to bring your love of spooky season – Southern Louisiana is also home to not one but two of the nation’s most haunted locations. Even if spooky season isn’t your jam, the rich music and food culture throughout the Bayou State will be.

Attractions: The Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, The LaLaurie Mansion in New Orleans, The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Check out all of our Destination Spotlight blog posts to find out which US destinations you should add to your travel assignment bucket list!

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.

Sources:

Housing affordability & cost of living rankings: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/rankings/opportunity/affordability

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Benefits of Cold-Weather Assignments for Travel Nurses

More opportunities with better pay:

Less traffic and fewer crowds:

Fewer allergens and biting insects:

Pristine landscapes:

Surprising health benefits:

Sweater weather:

Awesome adventures:

Summers are a dream: