By Uniti Med

November 23, 2022

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Looking Ahead to Travel Healthcare in 2023

Uniti Med provided this article.

It’s hard to believe that 2022 is already ending, and a new year will soon begin. It feels like the past few years have all blended together for many of us. Covid-19 completely changed the healthcare industry, and since it swept the nation in 2020, the future of healthcare staffing has been uncertain.  

Earlier this month, we attended the annual SIA Healthcare Staffing Summit in Houston, Texas. The Healthcare Staffing Summit is an annual event to give updates and changes in the industry. This year, the focus was on healthcare staffing beyond the pandemic. Let’s look at some of their projections for travel healthcare in a post-pandemic world. 

Looking Ahead to Travel Healthcare in 2023

Job Openings to Hires Ratios Will Increase 

As we move into 2023, we will continue to see the ratio of openings to hires increase. For the last ten years, ratios remained steady at 1.67. In August 2022, that number jumped to 2.4. Staffing shortages were nothing new prior to Covid, and that gap will continue to grow. We are no longer in a staffing shortage but a staffing crisis. As a healthcare traveler, this means more job opportunities. There has never been a greater need for healthcare employees than there is now. 

Burnout Will Drive Professionals Out of the Field 

It’s no secret that healthcare providers have been put through the wringer these past few years. Long hours, high patient ratios, and devastating loss of life at the height of the pandemic led to many feeling helpless and wanting to leave the industry entirely. Statistics show that 27% of healthcare professionals will reduce their hours in the next 12 months, and 29% will leave their current practice altogether in the next two years. This, unfortunately, will only add to the shortage and give more burnout to those who stay. 

The Demand for Healthcare Professions Will Increase 

As the staffing crisis continues, the need for certain specialties and professions will also increase. The top 3 professions with increasing needs are nurse practitioners (52.2%), PT assistants (35.3%), and OT assistants (34.6%). Allied professions will have the highest need, a positive for those in the field who are looking for more travel job opportunities. 

Hospitals Are Under Financial Pressure 

In 2022, more than 50% of hospitals in the nation were operating in the red. Because of this, they are being pushed to lower bill rates, therefore, lower compensation. Not to mention, there is a 96% likelihood of a nationwide recession in 2023. Many healthcare professionals start a travel career for the higher compensation, but depending on the facility they are working, it may not be the case. 

While these statistics seem bleak, there is hope for the future of healthcare staffing. Hospitals are opening themselves up to more flexible staff and schedules. Modern technology is transforming the way travelers find jobs. The 2022 Travelers Conference in Las Vegas was the most attended ever, which proves that despite the odds, travelers aren’t going anywhere. The number of travelers in the workforce continues to increase. In 2022, we saw a massive increase in travelers. The need isn’t going away, and neither are the travelers. 

So, what does this mean for you? As a full-service healthcare staffing company, our travelers can expect us to continue to provide the absolute best service. We will work hard to find you the best fit for the best pay possible. Just because you are traveling alone, it doesn’t mean you are alone. As the needs of facilities continue to adapt to the market, so will we. As hospitals send out new requirements to their staff, our compliance team will be on top of it. As jobs change and needs arise across the country, our recruiters and client managers will be there. No matter what is to come in 2023, know that your healthcare staffing agency will always be there for you. 

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

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

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

By Ariel and Oscar - That Travel Nurse Couple

November 22, 2022

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Holiday Gift Guide for Travel Healthcare Professionals

The holidays are upon us, and it’s time to start thinking about what gifts you might want to get the nurse in your life! I have put together a holiday gift guide for travel healthcare professionals. I’m breaking down these gift ideas into three categories: Nurses/Student Nurses, Travel Nurses, and RV Travel Nurses. A lot of these are functional, but some are also just plain cute and would make for some great work accessories.

Nurses/Student Nurses

  1. Badge reels. These are always great, inexpensive gifts to get the nurse in your life. You can find them on Amazon or Etsy, and can be personalized to the nurse you are purchasing for! Here’s a super cute option, but there are tons of others.
  1. Badge pens/markers. These come in handy and are another great stocking stuffer/inexpensive gift you will be thanked for!
  1. Personalized water bottle/coffee cup. You really can’t go wrong with this option because 1) most nurses love cups/bottles with cute or funny sayings and 2) getting nurses motivated to drink more water during their shifts is never a bad thing!
  1. Fleece/jacket. Hospitals get CHILLY. Bonus points if you get the jacket personalized!
  1. Blue light glasses/safety glasses. Nurses spend long hours staring at computer screens/charting. We also spend a lot of time at the bedside performing interventions that could potentially expose us to a lot of germs. A great gift would either be to get regular blue light glasses for all the time spent at the computer or a combination of blue light blockers/safety glasses like these.

Travel Nurses

  1. Packing cubes/vacuum storage bags. It’s no secret that travel nurses do a lot of packing/moving. Why not get the travel nurse in your life something they can use often and they will be forever grateful for? Packing cubes and vacuum storage bags are great gifts and will help them stay organized every time they have to move!
  1. Digital Photo Frame. Photos help you feel close to friends and family when you are physically far away from them, but traveling with dozens of picture frames can be difficult. Get your travel nurse a digital photo frame that can hold hundreds of photos in one, so they don’t have to worry about taking tons of individual frames.
  1. Travel journal. A fun way to help keep track of all the adventures they will have on their assignments!
  1. Portable battery. Bound to be either on the road or on an adventure, your travel nurse may run into a dead or dying phone battery or may need to charge their cameras up to capture their latest adventure. Portable batteries are so handy to have and should be on everyone’s wish list!
  1. White Noise Machine. Sleeping in a new place can be noisy, especially if your travel nurse is asleep during the day. White noise machines are a great and thoughtful gift to help them get their Zs. Opt for one with an optional timer so they won’t have to worry about it going off in the middle of their sleep!

RV Travel Nurses

  1. Propane Fire Pit. Part of the fun of being a full-time RVer is getting to feel like you are camping all the time. What gets you more in the camping spirit than a campfire? Some RV parks, however, do not allow your traditional wood-burning fire pits, so propane fire pits are a great gift for the RV travel nurse in your life!
  1. Roadside Assistance Emergency Kit. When you have a full-time RV, you do a lot of driving. You never know when an emergency will happen, and it’s always good to be prepared.
  1. Small space heater. RVs can get cold in the wintertime, and space heaters come in handy always! This is a relatively inexpensive yet thoughtful gift for the RV travel nurse in your life.
  1. Harvest Hosts Membership. Harvest Host campgrounds are places RVers/van lifers can stay all over the country and are typically found at wineries, breweries, farms, and other unique places. In order to stay at these places, though, you need to be a member. This is a great gift to give the adventurous RV travel nurse, you know to give them a full year of cool overnight stays!
  1. National Parks Pass. Give the RV travel nurse the gift of one year of free access to all the national parks in the United States with this awesome gift!

We hope you found this holiday gift guide helpful. Do you have any other ideas that we should include in our next holiday gift guide? 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:

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

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

November 21, 2022

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Want to Start 2023 as a Travel Nurse? Now Is the Time to Prepare

TNAA Healthcare provided this article.

2023 is weeks away, and a new year brings new opportunities. Many nurses use the fresh start of a new year as the perfect time to leap into a travel nursing career. If you’re considering starting 2023 as a travel nurse, the time to prepare is, well, now.

Before taking your first assignment, you’ll need to:

1.   Find a Stand-out Travel Nurse Agency & Recruiter

There are hundreds of agencies and thousands of recruiters. What’s the best way to narrow down this pool of possibilities? Look for what makes an agency or recruiter stand out from the crowd.

Want to Start 2023 as a Travel Nurse? Now Is the Time to Prepare

Pick a Travel Nurse Agency

A quick way to make a top-five list is to consult reputable review sites, such as The Gypsy Nurse, to see which agencies travelers voted as the best of the best. Narrow that down to the agencies that have certification by The Joint Commission, which requires agencies to undergo an extensive evaluation process every few years and demonstrate the ability to offer high-quality and competent nursing services.

With that list, it’s time to explore each agency’s benefits, support, and perks. You’ll want an agency that steps forward to support you on the road with traveler-focused benefits, like day-one insurance and paid sick leave, mental wellness resources that meet you wherever you are, and a 401(k) plan to invest in your future.

Additionally, you’ll want to be able to rely on an agency’s well-structured, experienced support teams. Look for agencies with a QA team that ensures you’re meeting all compliance requirements, a housing team helping you find the best accommodations within your budget, and a clinical support team available to coach you when you need it.

Last but not least, you’ll want the agency you work with to have various travel nurse jobs available so it’s easier for you to get your first assignment to start your travel nursing career.

Pick a Travel Nurse Recruiter

Once your top few agencies are sorted out, you’ll want to connect with a great recruiter. Use social media networks, like The Gypsy Nurse’s Facebook group, to ask other experienced travelers which recruiters they recommend. Your recruiter should know what the agency offers and the current state of the travel nurse market, listen to your career goals and put you on a path to reaching them. You should feel like a priority to your recruiter, not just another traveler on their list.

2.   Prep Your Travel Nurse File & Submit Your Application

Your recruiter is responsible for submitting your travel nurse profile to a job; you’ll work with them to get it prepped. Your travel nurse profile will consist of your resume, licenses & certifications, immunizations & titer records, references, and more. If you need to update specific certifications or obtain another state’s license, now is the time to get it done!

Meanwhile, your recruiter is hunting for a few contracts that match your requirements – whether you want to work specific shifts, go for a particular pay, or try for a certain state.

When you and your recruiter have found a few that meet your needs, and your profile is ready, it’s time to apply! You’ll begin applying to open jobs about three to four weeks before the start of the assignment. (Tip: One essential thing to consider before applying for any job is the housing market in the area. You don’t want to accept a job only to discover that you can’t find reasonable housing nearby.)

3.   Interview and Land a Job

Once your application is submitted, this next step could move quickly. It takes approximately 72 hours to hear from hospitals about profile submissions. Suppose a hospital wants you for an assignment. You could have a phone interview with a nurse manager, a voice-automated interview, or an auto-offer without a formal interview. Once you agree to a contract, you can put in a two-week notice at your staff job.

4.   Compliance and Housing

Congrats, you’ve secured your first travel nurse job! Now, you’ll have to think about assignment compliance and housing. If your agency has a QA department, they’ll contact you to ensure you get all assignment compliance items out of the way. Your agency might even be able to set up any appointments you need and pay for it all. At the same time, you’ll want to find accommodations near your assignment. If your agency has a housing department, they can relieve stress by finding a safe, affordable place for you to stay.

5.   Now, The Fun Begins

You’re officially ready to take off for your first assignment! The good news is a lot of the hard part is over. You’ve picked a great agency, established a relationship with a recruiter who is getting to know you and your lifestyle needs, and you’ve got everything together for your travel nurse profile. With all this work behind you and one assignment on your resume, it will likely be much easier to apply for your next travel nurse position or to start your travel nursing career!

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

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

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

By Katlyn Eriksen

November 20, 2022

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Enjoying New York City’s Lesser Known Magic During A Winter Assignment

As one of the biggest cities anywhere on the planet, New York City has a chronic shortage of good-quality medical workers. Indeed, according to Spectrum News NY1, that’s been the case since the 80s, when nurse shortages were described as an ‘emerging public protection issue.’ As such, there are few better places for good work, both in terms of As such, there are few better places for good-paying work, both in terms of consistency and volume. New York City is, of course, a huge place with countless sights to see. However, underneath the bubbling surface of the metropolis are a number of exciting sights that can be experienced while still enjoying the necessary downtime that nursing requires.

Smells, sounds, and Socrates

Just over the East River from Manhattan in Queens, and within that, a lesser-known gem of a natural attraction. The Socrates Sculpture Park is listed by Time Out as one of the top fourteen lesser-known New York City attractions, and for good reason. An example of fantastic urban regeneration, the site actually sits atop a disused landfill. It offers amazing local artwork and sculptures, plus views over Manhattan that aren’t to be sniffed at.

There is also a huge range of plants and flowers to get acquainted with in what is something of a wild landscape. Don’t underestimate the power of nature and natural sensations in the relaxation process – individual floral scents and herbal compounds can delicately impact the mood. It’s why a bath at a luxury hotel is also one of the best ways to unwind after a tiring day working in the medical field. At Socrates Sculpture Park, those scents will be even easier to pick out of the crisp air in winter.

Out of the cold

New York City gets bitterly cold in winter. The snow is something to behold, but, at times, the freezing rain and wind can put a real damper on the trip. It’s important to get out of the cold, then, and to experience the city’s more cozy side.

According to City Signal, one of the best places to do that is The Back Room. An authentic speakeasy from the prohibition era, it has retained the charm and bohemian culture of the era. With a brick fireplace and old-fashioned vintage furniture and music, it’s a real way to experience the joy of New York City life with a serious sense of older era class.

Lapping up the history

New York City has an iconic theater scene that many flock to the city just to see. What about the other side of the curtain, though? It has been the dream of countless thespians to get a taste of what Broadway is all about – and, increasingly, that’s something becoming available to the average person.

According to a roundup of hidden gems in NYC, North Jersey online highlights the increasing number of fully behind-the-scenes tours popping up. They do, of course, cost money, but there are increasing studios and production companies that will give full access to their production areas and the real sense of what it takes to make a show. This gives you a chance to enjoy some of the histories of New York City that made it more than just a center of business, but an international cultural capital, too.

For a traveling nurse, New York City has a lot to offer. In the vastness of the city and its cultural landscape are embedded hidden gems that can give an incredible sense of time and place – marrying relaxation with intrigue.

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

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

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

By Medical Solutions

November 18, 2022

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The Best Reasons to Be a Healthcare Traveler Again

Medical Solutions provided this article.

When you think back to the heart of why you started healthcare traveling, what lights your fire the most? Is it the chance to broaden your clinical knowledge? Enjoy a taste of true work/life balance. Or to wander coast to coast? 

Your care journey to date has been as inspiring and unique as you are. Which is why you deserve a rewarding career that helps you reach big goals and achieve lifelong dreams – whatever they may be! Traveling can help get you exactly where you want to be, both in life and location. 

job board

It’s time to get back to the heart of it all and remember your “why.” Nursing or allied health traveling can help you: 

Move at Your Own Pace

Work 13 weeks and take 4 off. Work 8 weeks, take another 3 off! Traveling lets you conjure up a flexible work lifestyle without sacrificing career security. You can work at your own pace with confidence, knowing your career is still cared for with: 

  • Benefits up to 4 Weeks Between Assignments

Traveling literally gives you room to take a step back and breathe! Your day-to-day can be highly stressful and emotionally taxing, which is why it’s important to pencil in some guilt-free “me” time. With Medical Solutions and our sister company, Aureus Medical Group, your benefits are active for up to 4 weeks between assignments. 

  • Varying Contract Lengths

Travel contracts are available in all shapes, durations, and sizes, but you choose assignments that best support your needs and goals. Need to be in a specific region at a specific time of the year? Let’s make it happen – search through hundreds of jobs across the country today. Considering the occasional contract for some supplemental income? No problem – your recruiter is here for you anytime you need them. Want the flexibility of travel but need to stay close to home? Hold tight – something exciting is in the works!

Whether it’s per diem, PRN, strike, a 13-week contract, or an extension, you’ll find career freedom in the flexibility of healthcare traveling. 

“I hadn’t been home for a major holiday in two years because I was working as a perm staff. But after I started working as a traveler, I got to be home with family for the holidays.” – Mariah T., BSN, RN – Stepdown/PCU

Shake up a Tired Routine

Picture the year ahead: you could spend the summer in Seattle, check out Fort Worth in the fall, then beat the winter blues down in Palm Beach. Each new assignment (and everywhere in between!) is a chance to branch out from the same old routine. Most importantly, traveling gives you the flexibility to take breaks when you need to between contracts or arrange to be near loved ones for important events. 

So hike that mountain trailhead, follow your inner foodie, or take a day trip with a new friend – traveling helps you try things you might never experience at home. 

“I’ve been able to visit some unique locations and stay at places that I otherwise may not have traveled to, like an Airbnb horse ranch in Montana that’s run by adults who have disabilities. It was such a great experience.” – Abigail M., BSN, RN – ER

Invest in Yourself While Helping Communities in Need

Each new assignment is an opportunity to advance your clinical knowledge, learn from other inspiring clinicians, and go where help is needed most. From soft skills, clinical skills, knowledge of protocols, state laws, and so on, everything you learn on assignment adds to your ever-growing list of abilities.

  • Expand Your Skillsets

Challenge yourself to adapt and grow as you work in different facilities and acuity levels, from nonprofits to trauma centers to community hospitals, in both urban and rural settings. Learn new technologies and strengthen your communication skills as you experience firsthand how different healthcare systems function across the country. 

  • Help Those in Need

You were called to care for a reason, and traveling helps you find new, rewarding ways to help patients, hospitals, and communities in need. You could be a fresh face for an understaffed, small-town community hospital or much-needed support for first-time travelers in a large unit. You could even provide medical support to kids with serious illnesses at a life-changing summer camp!

  • Advance Your Education

Thinking about pursuing another degree or certification? The flexible nature of travel can help you take those extra steps in your education journey. You have more time to devote to these professional goals and passions without placing your career on hold.

“I was able to complete my practicum while traveling because my recruiter at Medical Solutions always had my back. He was able to find me assignments around Miami for 10 months so I could be near my clinical site.”  – Cindy W., RN – ICU/PACU

Where Will Care Take You Next?

If you’re dreaming of a change of pace but want the flexibility and security of an in-demand career, travel with Medical Solutions! Jobs are available in every corner of the U.S., with new openings added each day. You can quick apply now to connect with a member of our team, search for jobs here to get a feel of what’s out there, or call 1.866.663.3548 to get in contact 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.

By Medical Edge Recruitment

November 16, 2022

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Managing Your Medications While Hustling as a Travel Nurse

Medical Edge Recruitment provided this article.

Written by: Melissa Reeves, Recruitment Consultant, Medical Edge Recruitment

You are a travel nurse; you work long hours on your feet taking care of others; it is your passion. You know you are strong – you can do this; after all, this is what you signed up for, but you did not ask for a medical condition, consuming more time than you have.  The hassle of scheduling time for doctor appointments and pharmacy lines is already daunting; factor in working a demanding career requiring you to travel often, sometimes changing states, and it can quickly become overwhelming.  Some who take daily meds, especially those prescribed controlled substances, may wonder if travel nursing is even an option for them.  Many seasoned travel nurses who require daily medication have shared these tips for managing medications while on assignment as a travel nurse.

Managing medications while on assignment as a travel nurse

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Research the state you plan to travel to

The first thing you must do is research the state you are planning to travel to; each state has different laws in place regarding prescription medications.  Depending on the medication, you may find there are limitations to where you can travel.  Some states have laws that are more relaxed than others.  Some limit your prescription to 30 days at a time, with refills pending doctor visits; some states do not accept paper prescriptions at all and might require the prescription be written by a doctor from that same state. The bottom line, know the laws in the state you are planning to travel to and make sure you have a plan before accepting a contract in that state.

Utilize telemedicine

Many nurses who travel regularly say that telemedicine appointments are the most useful tool when traveling with health conditions. Try an app like Push Health or Circle Medical to help find a doctor who can see you through an online visit.  There are other apps like Health Warehouse, an online pharmacy that will deliver right to your door. Using an app to find a doctor, schedule online visits, and get prescriptions is a new era in healthcare and could be the best way for you to minimize the challenges that come with managing your health while traveling to different states.

Some travelers prefer to seek treatment from one doctor they trust and who is familiar with their treatment plan. They say to have an open discussion about the demands of your career and ask what your doctor offers their patients who travel for work. Find a doctor who can accommodate you with virtual visits and 90-day prescriptions.

Choose a pharmacy chain.

Another helpful tool is to choose a pharmacy chain available in all the states you will be going to, like CVS or Walmart, making it much easier to transfer your prescriptions from state to state using the same pharmacy. Whatever chain you are looking at, be sure that the pharmacy takes your insurance. For example, CVS doesn’t take Blue Cross Blue Shield, but Walgreens does. Also, be careful because some chain pharmacies will not accept your prescription from an online doctor or telehealth app, be sure to check with your pharmacy first.

Even with these tips, some travelers will tell you that the medications prescribed to them are so regulated that nothing seems to work, and their only option is to have someone they trust to pick up their prescriptions and mail them.  This is not always a good idea; there are laws restricting the types of medications that can be sent in the mail; always do thorough research into the policies and procedures of each state.

Do your research and figure out which combination of these tips works best for you. 

Your healthcare needs should not limit you.  Accept the fact that you might not be able to go to every state, and you may have to make a trip home a few extra times a year to get the care you need.  Your health comes first, and without that, you will not be able to take care of all those who depend on you.

We hope you found these tips for managing medications while travel nursing helpful. Do you have any ways of managing medications while you are on an assignment that we didn’t mention? Comment them below.

Looking For an Agency Who Understands Your Needs?

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!

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

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

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

By TheraEx

November 14, 2022

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Simple Holiday Recipes for Travel Nurses

TheraEx Staffing Solutions provided this article.

Being a travel nurse during the holidays can be a challenge. With the holidays fast approaching, many travel nurses won’t be able to join their families and loved ones on Thanksgiving or Christmas this year. The loneliness that one normally feels on a regular day somehow gets magnified on holidays if you’re not surrounded by those that make you feel like home.

job board

Wherever you may find yourself as a travel nurse during the holidays, you want to make it feel like home or as close to home as possible. This holiday season, you’re probably thinking that the last thing you want to do is to spend time after a long shift stressing over what to cook. The holidays get crazy, and you need quick and easy meals to prepare after your shifts, so we put together this list of some delicious and easy meal ideas to help you out.

Simple holiday recipes for travel nurses:

Healthy Fall Salad

Gone are the days of bland and boring salads! This easy-to-make Autumn Apple Salad is loaded with lots of fresh and healthy ingredients while not skimping on any of the flavors. It comes together in less than 15 minutes and is the perfect way to start any holiday celebration.

Autumn Apple Salad (With A Maple Vinaigrette) – House of Yumm

Turkey & Stuffing

Short on time? This recipe allows you to enjoy eating turkey without spending hours basting and supervising it. Not only are these roll-ups tasty, but they are also easy to prepare. Pair with the below stuffing recipe (if you prefer homemade), and you’ll be in for a treat!

Turkey and Stuffing Roll-Ups – Life In The Lofthouse

A holiday staple and favorite of many, this Easy Sausage Stuffing recipe comes together quickly and with minimal steps.

Easy Sausage Stuffing – Primavera Kitchen

Mashed Potatoes

There’s almost nothing that the ever-so-glorious slow cooker can’t accomplish, and once you master the power of dumping your ingredients into it and walking away, you’ll never look back. These slow cooker mashed potatoes are the perfect holiday side with minimal effort required. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7-8 hours the night before, and you’ll be off work with a warm holiday meal waiting for you.

Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes – Café Delites

Rolls

These easy, fluffy, and rich dinner rolls are perfect for serving with your holiday meals. Ready in around 30 minutes, they are the perfect everyday dinner roll that can be made in a cinch. Brush with melted butter for an extra special treat!

30-Minute Dinner Rolls – Kylee Cooks

Mac and Cheese

Another fabulous dish made in the slow cooker, this mac and cheese is sure to be reminiscent of one of your childhood favorite comfort foods. Not only is it easy to prep in 10 minutes due to not needing to boil the noodles before slow cooking it, but it is creamy, tender, and absolutely delicious.

Easy Crock Pot Macaroni and Cheese – Suburban Simplicity

Dessert

Everyone knows it’s a must to end every holiday celebration with a sweet and delicious treat. In less than 5 minutes, you can make a cake in a mug that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of having to wash what feels like a million dishes.

Snickerdoodle Mug Cake – Five Heart Home

Pumpkin Mug Cake – The Country Cook

As hard as it may seem, just remember that holidays are a time to celebrate, be thankful and cherish life’s little moments. Just because you’re on a travel assignment or working through the holiday doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun and eat delicious meals while making new cherished memories. We hope you found these simple holiday recipes helpful, do you have any simple holiday recipes as a travel nurse? 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:

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

By Medely

November 12, 2022

2192 Views

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24+ Interview Questions to Help You Find a Great Travel Nurse Assignment

Medely provided this article.

A new travel assignment means big changes for any travel nurse or allied professional—new responsibilities, a new work environment, a new community, new place to call home. Before you commit, get the information you need to feel confident you’ll enjoy the travel nursing assignment and finish it with satisfaction and enthusiasm to keep going.

job board

Lots of travel nurses and allied pros are attracted by the financial incentives since the rates they earn at a medical facility are typically higher than staff nurses. But high pay isn’t the only thing that matters. Many professionals choose travel nursing jobs to gain experience, upgrade skills, work in rural environments, or reclaim control of their personal and professional lives. Or they just want to choose a winter assignment in a new part of the country.

What goals and interests drive you to be a travel nurse—and does this assignment match? Here are 24 common travel nurse interview questions that Medely often recommends to healthcare professionals before they meet with a hiring manager.

Travel nurse interview questions to ask during your interviews:

Get to know the community.

It’s hard to focus on work when your living arrangements are in disarray, and your support network is non-existent. Before you pack the car and go cross-country, your interview with the hiring manager is a great opportunity to get a local’s perspective and insights.

  • What is the community like? For example, is it a good fit if you have a family, love the arts, or like to spend your downtime outdoors?
  • Is it hard to find housing nearby? What neighborhoods would they recommend?
  • What types of activities are popular this time of year?
  • What kind of weather should you prepare for?
  • What popular apps do locals use to find events, meet people, or buy used items?
  • Is there anything that tends to surprise people who are new to the area?

You’ll also want to ask about the cost of living. Rent may not be top-of-mind since travel nursing agencies often arrange accommodations or offer a housing stipend to pay for private housing or a hotel. However, the impact of high grocery or entertainment costs can skewer your budget if you aren’t prepared.

Learn about the work you’ll be doing

Your travel nursing assignment contract should clearly explain your responsibilities and expectations for you as well as the healthcare facility and the travel nursing agency you’re working with. However, since we’re talking about your day-to-day work, make sure you’re clear about the things that are most important to you.

For example:

  • How many hours can you expect to work per week?
  • What will your role be, and what types of cases will you be working with?
  • What is the medical facility’s standard nurse-to-patient ratio?
  • What’s the orientation process?
  • Will you need to attend a shift with Employee Health before starting?
  • Are there any modules or online training materials that need to be completed before starting?
  • Do you need to book any extra credential requirements?
  • What are the COVID-19 vaccine requirements?

Ask about the healthcare facility’s operations.

When you work somewhere for a month or more—the most common travel assignments last for 13 weeks—you want it to be a workplace where you can have an impact on patient care and feel supported along the way. Ask questions to gain a better understanding of how the department operates as well as the amenities available.

  • What is the parking situation? Is it available for free or at a cost? How far away is it?
  • What are the uniform requirements? Are scrubs provided?
  • Is there a cafeteria or kitchen available for meals?
  • What is the facility’s policy for breaks? And do nurses typically take their breaks?
  • How is the scheduling done?
  • Are travelers often floated? If so, to what units?

Make sure your requirements are covered.

Hopefully, you feel positive about everything you’ve learned about the travel nursing assignment so far! The last topic is to talk logistics—to confirm the details that fit your particular needs so you can avoid surprises.

  • What start date works best for both of you? (Let the hiring manager know if you have any flexibility.)
  • Are you able to take time off for pre-existing commitments?
  • Are there other commitments that might impact your availability, such as another job?

Ready for your travel nursing interview?

Once you’ve worked through your list of questions and are satisfied that a particular assignment checks all the right boxes, prepare for your move and start looking forward to your first day!

We hope you found these travel nurse interview questions to ask during your interviews helpful. Do you have any other questions that should be asked? Comment them below.

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

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

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

By Nurse First Travel Agency

November 11, 2022

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7 Things to Consider When Looking For Travel Nurse Housing Rentals

Nurse First Travel Agency provided this article.

Travel nursing is a great career choice because it allows nurses to travel across the country or even around the globe. This job also offers flexible hours and the chance to earn extra income from home.

However, finding the perfect travel nurse housing rental isn’t always easy. You want to choose a place with good amenities, such as a pool, gym, laundry facilities, etc. Also, you don’t want to pay too much for rent.

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Here are five things you should consider when searching for travel nurse housing rentals.

How Do Travel Nurses Find Housing? 

Travel nurses often find themselves looking for affordable housing while working in a different city. While many travel nurse agencies out there specialize in providing housing for travel nurses, most aren’t very good at it. They usually just hand over a list of apartments or houses that they’ve found. This isn’t ideal because it doesn’t allow you to pick what works best for you.

However, there are agencies out there that do a better job. These agencies actually work directly with landlords and property managers, allowing them to make sure that the properties are safe, clean, and well-maintained. In addition, they’ll take care of everything for you, including finding you a roommate if necessary.

The downside is that these agencies charge a fee upfront. Some charge up to $1,500 per month, while others charge around $500 per month. But, depending on how much money you want to spend on rent, this could end up being a small price to pay.

3 Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Next Housing

1. Location

The location of your accommodation is important. Is it near public transportation? Are there good restaurants nearby? What are the crime stats like? Does it have a pool? How much does rent cost? These questions can help you determine whether or not a certain area is worth considering.

2. Amenities

If you end up choosing a house or apartment, make sure that it offers amenities that you’ll actually use. For example, do you really need a dishwasher? Will you actually cook meals there? Can you store luggage safely? Make sure you know what you’re getting into.

3. Safety

Safety is another factor to take into consideration. Some places are safer than others. Ask around to see how safe a neighborhood seems. Also, check online forums to see if anyone else has been robbed or assaulted while staying in a particular area.

7 Tips for Finding Travel Nurse Housing

1. Ask about security deposits

Most landlords require a security deposit ranging anywhere from $500-$1000, depending on where you live. Make sure you ask about it upfront. You don’t want to find out later that you’ve been charged too much.

2. Check references

Your landlord may provide references for previous tenants, but it’s always best to check online. If you find anything suspicious, you’ll know immediately. Ask around and find out what people think about the property manager and ask friends and family members if they’ve heard anything about the landlord. If there are many negative ones, it might mean that the landlord isn’t very trustworthy.

3. Find out about pet policies

Some properties allow pets; some do not. This is something to consider before signing a lease. If you plan on bringing your dog along with you, be sure to let your landlord know ahead of time so he/she can prepare accordingly.

4. Research Local Amenities

When searching for furnished housing rentals, one of the most important things to research is the neighborhood itself. Look for areas that offer amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, parks, etc. These are often considered “must haves” when moving to a new city.

5. Know what you’re paying for

It’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement when searching for an apartment, but you should also keep track of what you’re spending. Don’t sign a lease without knowing exactly how much you’re spending. 

 6. Do an inspection

Before you sign any paperwork, make sure that you inspect the place thoroughly. Look for things such as mold, leaks, and other potential problems. Don’t forget to look under sinks and behind appliances.

7. Consider Extended Stay Hotels

Extended-stay hotels are typically located near airports or major highways. They offer guests many of the same amenities as regular hotels, such as free Wi-Fi, cable TV, laundry facilities, and roomy suites. These hotels often feature kitchenettes, making it easy for travelers to cook meals or keep snacks handy.

While some travelers prefer the convenience of staying in one place for several days, others enjoy the freedom of being able to move around town without having to worry about finding a hotel. Extended-stay hotels make traveling easier for both types of people.

With a little planning, you can find an extended-stay hotel that suits your needs. Check out our guide to finding the best extended-stay hotels.

Conclusion

Finding travel nurse housing can be difficult, especially if you have no experience doing so. However, once you start looking, you’ll quickly realize that this type of accommodation doesn’t come along every day. Take advantage of these tips and tricks to help you find the perfect place to call home.

Traveling is fun, but it’s also stressful. There are so many different aspects to consider, but if done right, you can find the perfect home away from home!

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

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

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