By Lirika Hart

February 3, 2022

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Baby Steps To Wellness: How To Get Motivated When You Struggle With Anxiety

It is okay to be anxious sometimes, and it is, in fact, a normal part of life. However, when you have this frequently with intense, excessive, and continuous worry, then it is no longer normal. Anxiety disorders at times could bring feelings of fear and terror that reach a peak within a few minutes, causing panic attacks. All these will definitely interfere with daily activities, and it is the reason why it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Symptoms of anxiety could start from childhood, and it is necessary to keep special watch over kids who have that problem. Here are some tips for wellness when you find yourself struggling with anxiety.

Engage in new activities

Sometimes, what an overly anxious person needs in his or her life is a start at something new and interesting to sway the mood and anxiety. You can try this today and see how things improve for you. There are so many activities to indulge in. These days a number of people in this bracket are taking Iboga retreats, and there are so many such retreats around the world. The Iboga retreat program is a psycho-spiritual healing thing and is best known in the West as an addiction-interrupting medicine. The origin lies in the Bwiti tradition in Gabon, where ibogaine is extracted from the Tabernanthe iboga shrub’s bark and used as part of an initiation ceremony. It is used to address physical and emotional problems and is known to be an effective treatment program for those struggling with anxiety.

Embrace a physical exercise routine

Regular physical exercise is known to solve a lot of health issues in the body, and anxiety isn’t left out on that list. The numerous benefits of exercising can help alleviate the symptoms associated with panic attacks that could result from terrible anxiety problems. Depending on how rigorous the exercise routine is, your sleep could be improved. Usually, anxiety distorts one’s sleeping habits, and being able to get enough sleep can help reduce the anxiety symptoms. If you keep up with a daily exercise routine, it will build your self-confidence, improve your mood, and help you relax. All these positives can help ward off feelings of anxiety or panic attacks.

Avoid negativity

You can’t allow yourself to be jumping from frying pans to fire when you have anxiety problems. As much as possible, you need to stay away from anything at all that could worsen your situation. If you know that reading some particular types of news over the internet gets you worse, then stop reading them. Don’t even read the captions. Sometimes, talking to some people who love to revisit sad events may leave you drained and deposit some negativity into your head. You need to avoid these people as much as possible, and even if you manage to bump into them, you can start up a conversation with them real quick that will make them forget their usual paths of discussion. Focus on being positive and feelings of gratitude. Edify yourself with uplifting content online and surround yourself with positive people.

Take regular walks with friends

I earlier mentioned that exercising helps reduce the symptoms of anxiety, and walking is a type of exercise. However, when you walk with friends, it wouldn’t be about just exercising anymore but with an extra advantage of chatting with your friends and having laughs while at it. This activity helps your body release endorphins which are feel-good hormones. These endorphins can deal with anxiety issues to a relieving level. The whole experience plays in your head from time to time instead of thoughts of anxiety and panic attacks. You should choose lively friends to do this experience with and make sure it is regular.

Have a backup support network

It is possible that on some days, all your efforts to feel better from anxiety don’t work. At that time, how do you deal with the situation? Well, first of all, you have to make sure that you are not alone. Being by yourself when you are greatly overwhelmed could harm your psyche. It is good to have a support network that will be on standby to help you out of your situation whenever you can’t help yourself. Choosing the right person or people is very important also. You have to make sure it is someone you are comfortable talking to, and that can provide satisfying encouragement.

Final word

Struggling with anxiety without getting help can be very dangerous. Some people who find themselves in this situation could cause themselves harm. As you have seen, there are some activities you can indulge in to help you get better. Even if you are still not motivated to start, you can talk to someone who can get you started on fun activities that will make you feel better. No matter how gradual, just keep punching and you will get better.

We hope you found these tips for getting motivated when you struggle with anxiety helpful. Do you struggle with anxiety? What are some ways you are able to get motivated? Comment them below.

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

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

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

By AMN Healthcare

February 2, 2022

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Top 5 Ski Destinations for Travel Nurses

AMN Healthcare provided this article.

Travel nurses will love these five hot spots for skiing, nightlife and more

One of the many benefits of travel nursing is choosing when and where you go on assignment. Traveling nurses have the flexibility to relocate to desirable areas, like in or near top ski destinations, and work there for a season or more. If you’re thinking about your next assignment or considering relocating for the holiday season, now is the time to search and explore. 

If you are a travel nurse who wants to ski on your days off, we’ve broken out top destinations for you to consider: 

1.    Park City, Utah

Aside from the town’s Deer Valley Ski Resort, Park City has recently added a new gondola that connects the equally impressive Park City Mountain Resort with the Canyons Ski Resort, resulting in one of the country’s most prominent ski destinations. At 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, the numerous slopes feature 330 trails for varying abilities, including efficient chairlifts; some can even take you to a super-pipe or a mini-pipe if you’re game! The free bus system will quickly whisk you to and from any ski/snowboard destination. The cosmopolitan nightlife scene features over 200 restaurants/bars/nightclubs on Main Street, providing endless opportunities for you to feel and live like a local while on a traveling nurse assignment. 

Search travel nursing jobs in Utah.

2.    Killington, Vermont

Located in southern Vermont’s Green Mountains range, this ski/snowboard spot is ideal if you are a single nurse looking to meet others who are upbeat, fun, and ready to ski! Killington’s Bear Mountain Resort, also known as “The Beast of the East,” covers six mountains, with a 4,241-feet peak elevation. It offers slopes for beginners, up to expert runs, those feature moguls galore. The after-hours scene bustles with bars, live music spots, and more. The Pickle Barrel venue has four bars and multiple live show stages. The Wobbly Barn is another fantastic live music hot spot where everyone is welcoming and friendly. 

Search travel nursing jobs in Vermont.

 3.    Aspen, Colorado

Not only is the skiing/snowboarding in Aspen astounding, but the nightlife is also too. With four different mountains to choose from (Aspen Mountain, Highlands, Snow Mass, and Buttermilk), there is no shortage of great options to explore on your days off. Aspen Mountain (aka Ajax Mountain) and Highlands offer more challenging runs, but Snowmass has very cool terrain parks. Buttermilk is considered the least challenging mountain but does provide awesome pipes. With more than 100 bars/nightclubs to choose from, Aspen is great for single travel nurses or those traveling with a significant other looking to enjoy themselves during their assignment. For live music, try Belly Up, Limelight Lounge, or Chair 9, and if you want to dance, check out Escobar. For a laid-back but lively meal and cocktail, look into Ajax Tavern or Nest Public House.

Search travel nursing jobs in Colorado.

 4.    Vail, Colorado

Considered one of the best winter resorts around, Vail also offers one of the largest ski areas in all of the United States. There is also free transportation, heated walkways, and nonstop nightlife action throughout the town. As the locals like to say, “Ski hard; play hard.” With the after-hours scene centered at the Bavarian-themed town centers of Vail Village and Lionshead Village, après ski options can include a laid-back brewery or a live music venue featuring cocktails and dancing. Just an hour and a half west of Denver, Vail is a perfect Colorado travel nursing destination! 

Search travel nursing jobs in Colorado.

 5.    Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

If you are based in California or Nevada and want beginners or intermediate-to-expert runs, don’t overlook Lake Tahoe’s Heavenly resort, which features 4,800 skiable acres. You also have views of the glorious lake itself as you’re skiing or snowboarding down the hills. When it’s after hours, you’ll appreciate the fact that part of Lake Tahoe is in Nevada, including Stateline, which has legalized gambling. This allows fun casinos to dot the town, including Harvey’s (located next to Heavenly), Harrah’s, and Hard Rock. Also, check out Stateline’s party-scene dance clubs, including Vex and Peek, or head into Himmel Haus for delicious German beers and grub. With the numerous bars/clubs, you might even want to book the official “Tahoe Club Crawl” and hit up the most popular ones.

Search travel nursing jobs in California or Nevada.

What will your winter fun look like? Find opportunities in your nursing specialty, where your talents are most in demand. Contact the experts at AMN Healthcare to get started!

Do you need housing for an upcoming travel nurse assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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

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

By Gifted Healthcare

February 1, 2022

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Travel Nursing Tips: Achieving Your Career Goals in 2022

Gifted Healthcare provided this article.

Travel nurses and healthcare professionals have been through so much in the past two years. Without a doubt, 2022 will bring a new series of resolutions, opportunities, and challenges to your travel nursing career. No matter what lies ahead, it’s important to start working toward your 2022 career goals sooner than later.

Read on for a list of tips to help you stay focused, fulfilled, and successful in 2022!

Reflect on What You Want

Before you set out to meet your new goals, it’s important to take some time to reflect on what’s important to you this year. This will help you pursue what’s right for you.

Do you feel happy in your current facility, specialty, or location? Is it time for a change? Is there something else you want to learn or achieve? What were your biggest struggles in 2021? Your biggest accomplishments?

You don’t have to come up with the answers right away. Be patient with yourself. Take the time that you need to consider the best path for you.

Set Clear Goals

Studies show that people who set goals are more successful. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, “goal setting is most likely to improve task performance when the goals are specific and sufficiently challenging.”

Use the conclusions you’ve drawn from reflection to set clear and concise goals for yourself in the year ahead. Don’t be afraid to be ambitious; just make sure you’re realistic.

Update Your Resume

We understand that updating your resume can be a bore, but it’s really important! Take some time to revisit, revise, and improve your resume so that you’re ready for the next amazing opportunity that comes along.

Highlight any clinical expertisespecial procedures for which you are trainedunit-specific patient typesunusual cases, and higher-acuity patients. Be thorough in the descriptions of your nursing experience to help your recruiter make a great match between your skill set and future clinical environments.

Learn more about how to create a great travel nursing resume.

Check-In With Your Recruiter

Spend some time nurturing your relationship with your travel nurse recruiter. As you build trust and rapport with them, they will develop a better understanding of what you want in a contract.

Staying in touch and being transparent with your agency provides many benefits. Be sure to check-in, share your new goals, and tell your recruiter what you want to achieve in 2022.

Get a New Nurse Certification

The world of travel nursing is vast, and there are many great opportunities across the country. Earning a nursing certification can provide a boost for your career, opening the door to better nursing assignments, higher pay, and personal growth.

Some important nursing certifications include Wound Care Certification (WCC), Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), and Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) Certification.

Learn more about why nurse certification is important for travel RNs.

Be Adaptable

As we have learned, it’s important to be ready for unforeseen obstacles or changes during the year. You won’t be able to predict exactly what challenges await you, but you can prepare for how you’ll receive them when they arrive.

Remember to keep an open mind. If you have to revise your goals mid-year, it’s okay! It’s all part of the process. Stay positive and view these challenges as a learning experience.

Trust Your Instincts

Don’t create goals based on what people expect of you or by comparing yourself to others. Set goals that you know will make you feel great when achieved.

2022 will present many new and exceptional opportunities for travel nurses. Make sure you’re honest with yourself about your priorities and make the most of the exciting months ahead!

We hope you found this article with tips for travel nurses and achieving your career goals in 2022 helpful. Do you have any career goals? How do you plan to achieve them? Comment them below.

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

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

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

By Go Healthcare Staffing

January 31, 2022

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5 Mistakes Travel Nurses Are Making During this Pandemic

Go Healthcare Staffing provided this article.

More than 2 years into the first “crisis” travel contracts that began in Washington State and then the COVID crisis contracts in the Northeast, RNs who have chosen to work as travel nurses are still in high demand throughout the country.   Hospitals are understaffed, and some are at their breaking points. Healthcare workers throughout all disciplines and specialties are burned out. As a Travel Nurse during this pandemic, you will not have a shortage of job opportunities presented to you. Be aware of these 5 mistakes travel nurses are making that are hurting their career prospects past the current shortage and crisis staffing. 

Canceling a Travel Assignment Contract without proper notice.   

As a Travel Healthcare Professional, this may be the most detrimental decision you can make.   We understand that some contracts are not the right match for you. As an RN Traveler, you have the flexibility to find the right travel job for you. Every contract you sign has a clause outlining what type of notice (usually a 14-day notice) is required to avoid financial or professional penalties. This notice allows the Agency and the Hospital a chance to find a replacement for you.   If you cancel a contract without notice or simply “no call/no show” on your assignment, your reputation and status as a traveler who cancels a contract will follow you from one travel opportunity to another. Most health systems are managed by larger Staffing Agencies called MSP (Managed Service Providers) that manage multiple health systems in the area. If you walk” from a travel contract and are deemed a “Do Not Return”/DNR with a particular agency, you may inadvertently find yourself “blacklisted” from multiple hospitals within a certain area and throughout the country. 

Not Keeping Up with Credentialing Requirements.  

Most experienced travelers know being ready and organized all of your “docs” can make or break your travel nursing experience. Currently, most travel contracts are looking for ASAP/immediate start dates. Taking the time to organize the necessary documents/certifications properly will not only make for a smooth experience but can get you the contract that you truly want or looking for. 

Not Accepting the “Extension Offer” immediately.   

Holding out on taking a travel extension “just in case” something better comes along has been a mistake a lot of travel nurses are currently doing. If you are currently on a decent travel contract offering “crisis pay,” take the extension if it’s offered to you. An extension will often guarantee that your current pay will remain. Waiting for higher pay somewhere else is a risk that has not worked out for the majority of travel nurses we have worked with. 

Disappearing.

Have the courtesy of when you get an offer not to ghost. You are hurting your future chances of working with agencies that are working hard for you to get you an offer. It is okay to decline. But to ghost? You are hurting the agency and the hospital that offered. They are focused on getting staff for care.

Working with expired licenses or certifications.   

So many opportunities are missed if we are unable to present you without the proper certifications or licenses. Be prepared, and ways take inventory of when renewals are coming up.   

These are the 5 Common Mistakes that we are seeing/experiencing with travel nurses. What else should be on this list? Please feel free t share.

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

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

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

By Paul Priceman

January 30, 2022

9981 Views

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Navigating Challenges: Disadvantages of Being a Male Nurse and Is It Worth It?

Like any other healthcare position, being a male travel nurse definitely has its pros and cons! Today, you’re going to get an honest, upfront perspective on the pros and cons of being a male nurse. You’ll hear about the good parts and the bad parts, too. So, if you’re thinking about becoming a male nurse, you can now make an informed decision about whether or not this is the job for you.

The Stigma

Being a male nurse somehow became seriously stigmatized since most nurses are women. Many questions the motives of male nurses for entering the profession. But thanks to AAMN, an organization that promotes and spreads awareness about men in nursing, and a handful of other male nurse activists who do the same, it is becoming increasingly more acceptable for men to become nurses. And, just by the way, men become nurses because they want a well-paying career that involves caring for and helping other people.

Lots of Lifting

male nurse

Male nurses are often asked for help with lifting heavy patients when manpower is needed. Some guys don’t mind this at all, but others find it pretty annoying to be called for lifting nearly every heavy patient in the ward.

Misperceptions

Male nurses are often thought to be a doctor or janitors. Many male nurses have experienced coming into a patient’s room, for the patient to immediately murmur into the phone, “I have to go. The doctor just came in.” This can get pretty awkward at times.

Searching for Scrubs

Most scrub stores cater to women. They have pictures of women on their front page banner, and they offer much more products for female healthcare professionals than for male ones. Happily, this problem has been alleviated partially by one online scrubs store, Murse World, which focuses exclusively on guys and carries only men’s scrub apparel.

Now, let’s get on to the benefits of being a man in nursing!

Better Salary Than Female Nurses

In many fields, male nurses are better paid than their female counterparts. They often earn between $5,000 and $10,000 more per year than female nurses! You’ve got to admit that’s a pretty significant amount.

Since women dominate the nursing field, hospitals and other healthcare facilities will be quicker to hire a man over a woman (with the same skills). The same often goes for nursing schools; guys can have an easier time getting in than girls since there are so much fewer of them.

Male Patients

People often focus on the fact that women sometimes don’t want a male nurse, but they forget that it goes both ways. Most men prefer having a male nurse over a female one. And, since there are so many more female nurses than male ones, it’s much harder for a man to get a male nurse. So when he does, he is generally very appreciative.

Positivity & Levelheadedness

male nurse

Having male nurses balances things out and tends to make the unit more low-key, which is good. As Nicholas Germinario puts it, “As a male nurse, I add a great balance to the unit’s morale. When the estrogen levels are high, I enter with a calm and fun attitude. Not only am I frequently helping to boost patients (because they “need someone strong”), but I also boost positivity!!” It’s a fulfilling feeling to know you’re making a difference in the unit just by being there.

Promotion

Men in nursing are promoted more quickly due to the “glass escalator” phenomenon. Since promotions often come along with raises, this may be one reason why male nurses are paid more!

Making Your Decision

So, now you’re probably wondering if there are so many benefits to being a man in nursing, why aren’t more men becoming nurses? I’d say it’s mostly due to the first con we mentioned about the stigma. But if you’re interested in becoming a nurse, and you’re not one to get overly hung up on what others may think, then go for it!

Honestly, there seem to be more pros than cons when it comes to this profession. Being a man in nursing has nearly all the benefits being a female nurse affords, plus a couple more. And men are finally beginning to recognize that. Today, over 13% of nurses are men, and the number of male nurses is growing. Men are finally beginning to realize that nursing is a respectable, worthwhile, and fulfilling profession for anyone! So, what do you think about becoming a male nurse?

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

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

By Kevin Devoto

January 29, 2022

2174 Views

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Staying Healthy As a Busy Nurse

As a nurse, it’s second nature for you to take care of everyone around you. No matter how busy you get with helping other people, you need to support your health. If your health isn’t at its best, it’ll be far harder for you to succeed at work. Before you go to work for the week, take some time to care for yourself. Supporting your health will help you succeed, both at work and home. 

Getting Proper Nutrition

One of the most important aspects of taking care of yourself is your nutrition. When you’re busy with work, it can be hard to focus on what you’re putting in your body. As a nurse, you know that everything you eat becomes your body’s fuel, so it’s important to have healthy, balanced nutrition. When your diet suffers, your body will slow, and your energy levels will drop, making nursing all the more difficult. Ensuring your nutrition is balanced and complete is the first step in keeping your body healthy. 

Of course, it can be hard to find time to sit down for full meals as a nurse. Depending on where you’re working, a meal break is a luxury that comes rarely. Even if you don’t get a full meal break every shift, it’s still important to take care of your nutrition; this is where things such as meal replacement shakes come in. While these shakes aren’t as nutrient-rich as a full meal, they provide the protein and fats your body needs to keep its energy up, allowing you to continue working without exhaustion. If you’re unsure of how to balance your nutrition and your busy schedule, look into these meal replacement solutions. No matter how you do it, keeping your nutrition right is vital to your overall health. 

Ensuring High-Quality Sleep

Another major component of your overall health is sleep. When you sleep, your body heals from the stress and damage it has encountered that day. If the quality of your sleep is poor, you’ll be exhausted and sluggish the next day. Making sure you get both enough sleep and good quality sleep is crucial to maintaining your health. When you get high-quality sleep, your immune system will get a boost, and your health will improve. The question is, how do you improve your sleep as a busy nurse? 

One of the best things you can do for your sleep is getting a good mattress. A supportive mattress will cradle your pressure points and reduce pain in your joints while you sleep. This reduction in pain and swelling will help you sleep deeper and wake up refreshed every morning. Another way you can improve your sleep is by having a routine. While this isn’t the easiest thing to do as a busy nurse, having a general set time that you go to bed and wake up every day will help you fall and stay asleep easier. This leads to less tossing and turning and deeper and more restorative sleep. The better sleep you get, the healthier your body will be. 

Staying Mentally Healthy

Finally, it’s important to keep your mental health up as well. It’s no secret that nursing is an incredibly taxing profession, and it can take a severe toll on your mental health at times. If you want to stay healthy as a nurse, it’s crucial to take care of your mind as well. Take time to decompress after work and rejuvenate your psyche. No matter how stressful your job gets, you should be able to come home and relax. Make the effort to keep your mind healthy, and you’ll be able to avoid work stress getting the better of you. 

When you’re feeling overwhelmed from work, take some time for self-care. How you do this depends on your tastes, but it’s the effort that will make the difference. Giving yourself a space to relax and unwind without any expectations will keep you mentally healthy as well as physically. 

Overall, you need to take care of yourself as a nurse. The healthier you are, the better you’ll be able to protect and nurture others. 

We hope you found these tips for staying healthy as a busy nu e helpful. Do you have any health tips for busy tr el 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 your assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

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

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

By Chandler Rosemont

January 28, 2022

5792 Views

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Specialized Excellence: Pediatric CVICU Nurse Expertise Unveiled

Traveling Pediatric CVICU Nurse

Hey guys! I am Chandler, and I have been a Pediatric CVICU Traveling nurse for 1 year. I started travel nursing in the CVICU after I completed 2 years in my specialty as a staff nurse. Most agencies require that you have 1-2 years of experience before they can contract you with a hospital. This is because, as a traveling nurse, you are expected to be an expert in your niche. Usually, the more specialized the unit, the more years of staff experience they prefer.

CVICU stands for Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit. Most of the patients we see and take care of have congenital heart diseases requiring surgical intervention. These patients are extremely sick. Some children come back from the operating room with their chests open for easy emergent access. These patients are on multiple drips that are titrated by the nurses to perfection. Their labs and arterial blood gasses are constantly assessed so we can meet their body’s needs. The patients have lines coming out of every crevice that are all managed by the nurse.

Here is what you can expect a typical CVICU patient to have:

  1. Endotracheal tube- a machine breathing for the patient. This is managed by the nurse and Respiratory Therapist.
  2. Arterial line- measuring constant blood pressures and serves as easy blood access for labs and arterial blood gasses.
  3. Central Venous Catheter (CVC)- a medication line that goes into the heart delivering medications to the patient.
  4. Intracardiac Pressure Line- a medication line that is used to measure pressures within a heart chamber. Some patients have multiple.
  5. Drip medications- these include medications like inotropes, sedation, paralytics, and diuretics that are titrated to meet the patient’s needs.
  6. Rectal Temperature tube- constantly measuring patient’s temperature
  7. Chest tubes- removing excess fluids or air from the lungs
  8. Neers- monitoring forehead and renal temperatures and oxygen flow
  9. Foley catheter- drains urine from the patient’s bladder
  10. Other IV access- this can be in the form of a PICC line or even a Peripheral IV. All the kids have emergency IV access elsewhere

I hope you are starting to see just how sick these patients are. This isn’t even a conclusive list of all the things a patient could have attached to them; however, it is the most frequently seen combination in a semi-stable post-operative case. Some patients have ECMO cannulas, a CVVH catheter for dialysis, or a Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) helping their heart beat. All these devices require training by the specific facility, so it is uncommon to get patients with these devices on a short 3-month travel contract.

Pediatric CVICU travel assignment

A typical Pediatric CVICU assignment depends upon what state you are working in. In California, the patient-nurse ratio for an intubated patient is 1:1. However, in New York, it is 2:1. As mentioned before, traveling nurses typically do not take the advanced medical devices because of the required hospital trainings. Because of this, we tend to get the de-escalating patients. A de-escalating patient is one that is being weened off or having devices removed (the items I had mentioned in the list above). These patients are ready to soon be transitioned out of the ICU, so they no longer require all their lines and measuring devices. These patients are very tasky and busy…and we are usually given 2 of them. They require a lot of forward-thinking not to become overwhelmed. For instance, a patient being extubated will have all of their sedation turned off abruptly. Ensuring we have rescue dose medications ordered before extubation can create an easier shift. This is why experience is pivotal to travel nursing success in an ICU setting.

As a pediatric CVICU nurse, I have been floated to the PICU, NICU, and Neuro ICU. I felt more than prepared in these settings with my training as a Pediatric CVICU nurse. If you are interested in traveling, EXPECT to get floated and EXPECT the taskier assignments. Doing so will make your transition into traveling so much easier.

Here is the moral of the story as a traveling nurse: go into your shift expecting a tough and busy assignment. After all, traveling nurses are there to fill the gaps. We sometimes make double what staff nurses make, so in my opinion, we should be the first floated! Expect the taskier, busier, and less-than-ideal assignments, and you will crush it as a Pediatric CVICU traveling nurse.

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

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

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

By Krucial Staffing

January 27, 2022

1876 Views

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5 Factors to Consider for Travel Assignments

Krucial Staffing provided this article.

Written by: Maria Blong

We all want the best for ourselves. The best home, best shoes, best kitchenware – the list goes on and on. There are articles published everywhere stating thoughts and opinions in dedication to helping us find it. These are editorials providing the top reasons why this certain running shoe will reduce the likely hood of shin splints or why this brand’s stainless-steel cookware is better quality than other cookware, even if the second option is more affordable.

All this to say – we are a very research-oriented society. If we are going to travel, buy an item, or eat at a new restaurant, we like putting in the research to make an informed decision. When it comes to job hunting, it is not any different. We find a job opening we want and then spend hours learning as much valuable information as we can before applying.

The decision to embark on a medical travel assignment asks the same for any interested party – perhaps it requires even more research and contemplation than a staff job. With medical travel assignments, there are multiple variables included in the equation, ultimately leading you to choose one position over another. These are the top five factors we recommend one to consider before locking in on a travel assignment: wage, location, duration, schedule, and benefits.

Wage

The hourly wage is often the top priority for many, and most of the time, it is the deciding factor for their final choice. And we understand why – you want to accept a wage that reflects all the time, effort, and money you have invested in your career. However, there are many reasons why income in the travel nursing field varies from position to position, and it is important to analyze the reasons why it fluctuates.

First, what kind of travel assignment is it? The type of work assignment will determine the wage you will receive per hour. Many staffing agencies pay their medical staff higher for emergency response than contract positions due to the intensity of the working environment and client needs. With an emergency response, you are likely to work more hours per week, while contracts depend entirely on the facility.

Another question to ask yourself is this: Are you there for the increased pay that comes with travel assignments or the experience of traveling to new locations and helping communities? For many, it comes down to a ratio, or balance, on pay versus experience. However, if you are committing to the opportunity to live in a certain city/state and enjoy your days off – you may be okay with accepting less per hour.

Location

When it comes to your work location for medical travel assignments, you need to be cognizant of what options are available for a travel assignment and an emergency response. For most emergency responses, there’s little control around when or where clients will need your specialty to come in and support an understaffed unit. If you do have the opportunity to choose your location, there are a couple of things you should think about.

How far away do you want to travel? If you are hired for a contract position, there is more wiggle room for you to venture out on your days off. Staying close to home might give your family and friends the opportunity to come visit. However, the contract location might inspire you to travel farther away to a city you have never been before, granting you the chance to explore a different part of the United States.

Emergency response, on the other hand, does not provide you with as much freedom due to the demanding nature of the deployment, plus the health and safety protocols restricting travel. So, working close to home may be a bad idea for a couple of reasons. Say you commit to an emergency response 30 minutes from where you live, but you are in lockdown at a lodging facility. Now, imagine staying that close to loved ones, yet unable to enjoy their company and your usual past times. This situation may stir up a lot of negative emotions for you. It may be in your best interest to travel a little further from home and avoid conjuring up any feelings of exile.

Duration

The length of an assignment can also be a question mark for some people. While some assignments last as short as a few weeks, others can last multiple months. The duration of time you are willing to stay for a medical travel assignment greatly depends on your personality and goals. Some individuals find it difficult to stay away from friends and family that long, while others do not mind being gone. You just need to ask yourself what you are willing or not willing to miss back home. What do you want to gain from a longer or shorter assignment? Do you want to form stronger connections with patients and staff, or do you want to come work, make money, and go back “home”?

Another key factor to bear in mind regarding the duration of an assignment is the mental toll it will take on you. Take inventory of the type of situations you tend to thrive in. Do you like the unknown or working in a busy environment? Do you enjoy a consistent schedule where you can predict your day? How would either affect you mentally? Supporting yourself financially is important but taking care of your mental health is also essential. If you are not taking care of yourself in this way, it will impact the way you care for patients. So, ask yourself these questions and answer honestly about what you can handle.

Schedule

Schedule preferences are straightforward in terms of forethought for assignments. It is a simple set of questions: How many hours do you want to work each week? Do you want to work a regular 36–48-hour schedule? Perhaps you want to work closer to 60 hours a week? In some cases, you might even work 72 hours a week. The final decision also coincides with what kind of pay and deployment type you want as well. All three factors influence each other.

The number of days off you would like also needs to be taken into consideration. Emergency deployments typically only provide one or two days off, while others may give you three to four days. This is also impacted by whether you work 12 hours, four days a week, or eight hours, five days a week.

Benefits

The option for added benefits or insurance is also something to consider while researching medical deployments. Staffing agencies offer different benefits based on the type of assignment you are working on. Emergency deployment benefits can vary depending on the staffing agency you choose to work with.

For most contract assignments, clients typically decide which benefits they want to include. Fortunately, many of them provide housing for the medical staff coming in to assist their hospital or facility. The client may also cover the cost of staying in the area or supply a stipend for groceries.


Overall, travel assignments should be selected with careful attention to detail. Many horror stories regarding bad contracts or assignments stemmed from a lack of understanding of what the requirements or compensation were for the position. By slowing down the rush to get an assignment and diligently addressing all five of the listed factors, you can assure yourself a better, more thoughtful selection for your next travel position.

Interested in looking more about emergency response and/or contract travel options? Check out emergency response and healthcare staffing company, Krucial Staffing. Krucial Staffing specializes in high volume, rapid response staffing, driven by a mission to serve others at their greatest time of need. To learn more about what positions they currently have open, then check out their Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter page for more information.

We hope you found this article on 5 factors to consider for travel assignments helpful. Are there any other factors you consider before taking travel assignments? Comment them below.

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

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

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

By Brandy Pinkerton

January 26, 2022

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Travel Nurse 101: An Introduction

Intro To Travel Nurse 101

Are you considering taking your nursing career to the next level but don’t know how to take that first step? Life is too short to be burnt out, underpaid, and unappreciated. Travel nursing allows you the flexibility and freedom to pursue your passion for nursing while traveling, gaining knowledge, and having epic adventures. You get to explore with a purpose!

Why did I decide to become a travel nurse? Well, I was burned out in my staff job and needed to renew my passion for nursing. I felt “stuck” and couldn’t help but have feelings of doubt and apprehension about my long-term career as a nurse. After a lot of research, finding a great company, and a trustworthy recruiter, I embarked on my first assignment solo with my two doggies in tow and never looked back! Becoming a travel nurse was one of the best decisions I could have made for myself, and my only regret is not starting sooner! 

What exactly is Travel Nurse 101, you may ask?

While I’m grateful I made the decision to become a travel nurse, I also know that it can be very overwhelming getting started, and there are some things I would have done differently. I am all about working smarter, not harder. Over my career, I have been a leader, teacher, and resource to many other nurses. I genuinely love helping others and want them to be successful. This is where the thought of being a nurse mentor came to life! I have a very outgoing, positive outlook on life and try to carry a very approachable attitude. Naturally, people confide and seek advice from me; it is a trait that I am forever thankful for. Travel Nurse 101 is more than a brand or business. Travel Nurse 101 is education, tips, and mentorship for new travel nurses that I hope is perceived as very genuine and heartfelt, not just your normal Q&A. It has a “personable” feel and is something I want to always try to maintain, so nurses feel like they have a safe place to get help and ask for advice from a real nurse who’s been where they have and personally knows what it feels like to go through these experiences. My goal with this mentorship program is to give you the tools you need to be successful and let you know that you are not alone in your pursuits. Instead of letting you learn the hard way, I’ll tell you all there is to know about travel nursing so that you can feel prepared to take the leap into this exciting, rewarding profession with full confidence! I am here to cheer you on; let’s do this!! 

About Brandy

I’m Brandy, your fellow travel nurse friend, leader, and mentor. My goal is to inspire and advocate for nurses, to help you succeed and thrive in your career. I have over 18 years of varied nursing experience, including neonatal and pediatric ICU, critical care float pool, flight nursing, and travel nursing. Since pursuing a career as a travel nurse, I’ve had adventures in Florida, Colorado, Nevada, South Carolina, Texas, and Montana. I’m an avid traveler, hiker, and outdoor enthusiast.

*To Contact Brandy, please reach out at brandy@travelnurse101.com

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

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

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