December 16, 2021

2835 Views

The Best Time of Day to Work Out

Posted on December 16, 2021November 30, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

Whether you work out in the morning or the evening probably depends on your schedule and what you feel works best for you. Ultimately, there’s no real answer to what time of day is best for working out because everyone lives with different biological and environmental circumstances.

That said, there are pros and cons that come from working out during different times of the day. For example, in the morning you might wake up feeling energized, while in the evening you feel burnt out from work. In contrast, in the morning, your muscles may be stiff, whereas in the evening, they are warmed up and ready to get fit.

To help you decide what time of the day is optimal for your workout sessions, below we’ve outlined the benefits and drawbacks of working out in the morning and the evening.

Morning Workouts

While morning workouts aren’t for everyone, they yield an assortment of benefits. For example, some of the advantages of working out in the morning include:

Energy: Morning workouts leave you feeling energized and ready to face the day.
Testosterone: Your testosterone levels are higher in the morning, meaning that it could be easier to handle intense workouts.
Routine: Exercising in the morning can be the perfect morning routine to build momentum for the rest of the day. Morning runs can do wonders for your energy levels throughout the day. Just make sure that you have the appropriate women’s running shoes on hand!

Working out in the morning, however, isn’t always the best move. While getting your blood flowing in the morning can be the perfect way to start off the day for some, for others, the drawbacks outweigh the advantages. Some of the drawbacks of morning workouts include:

Stiffness: When you first wake up, your muscles may feel tight and stiff, making it difficult to get into the flow of exercise.
Waking Up Early: If you need to wake up early to get your exercise done before work, it could be difficult to get out of bed at all.
Sleep: Waking up early for your workout could mean you don’t get enough sleep. This could require you to go to bed earlier.

Evening Workouts

Some people swear by working out in the evening. An after-work exercise can be just the thing you need to blow off some steam and relieve stress after a long day. Here are some of the best benefits that come with evening workouts:

Enhanced Performance: Since your muscle temperature is at its peak and your blood is flowing from moving throughout the day, evening workouts could result in enhanced performance.
Stress Relief: As we mentioned before, after a stressful day at work, exercise can be a great way to relieve stress and decompress.
Positive Momentum: If you normally have bad habits such as watching TV after work, exercising can be a great replacement habit that builds positive momentum for the rest of the day.

Of course, just like working out in the morning, exercise in the evening also has its drawbacks. This makes sense, given that sometimes the workday can tire people out to the point where they just want to rest and relax upon returning home. Here are some of the biggest disadvantages of working out in the evening:

Lack of Motivation: After work, particularly if you work a physically demanding job, working out may be the last thing you want to do.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Working out gives you a boost of energy that could keep you awake at night, leaving you groggy and tired the next day.
Workout Equipment Lines: Since people often work out in the evening, if you’re going to a gym, you may have to wait in line before you can use the equipment you need. This can be frustrating and make your workout take longer than it needs to.

Conclusion

The best time to work out in a day varies from person to person. To decide when you should exercise for optimal results, weigh the pros and cons of morning and evening workouts. You may even want to do a trial run where you test how it feels to exercise at different times of the day.

Remember, the most important thing about exercising is to remain consistent. For this reason, it’s important to choose the time of day that works best for you and your schedule. For more information about when the best time is to exercise, check out the infographic below.

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By Ashleigh Kaminski

December 15, 2021

4603 Views

3 Night Shift Starter Tips

Posted on December 15, 2021December 2, 2021 by Ashleigh Kaminski

They told you about night shift in nursing school, but they didn’t TEACH you about night shift. Set yourself up for the night shift the RIGHT way!

At least once a week during my senior year of nursing school, the professors would tell everyone about the very high odds of working the night shift as new grads. It’s true that a majority of new grads DO begin their nursing careers on night shift or rotate between days and nights after orientation. However, the professors did not teach us ANYTHING about night shift. What the professors did was create this truly intimidating mentality about night shift, leaving us feeling scared, overwhelmed, and underprepared for what we were about to face.

As that night shift nurse mentor, one of the biggest questions I’m regularly asked is about what you need to know when you begin on night shift. Whether you are a new grad just starting out or you are a seasoned nurse making a career transition, the following 3 starter tips are so important! The sooner you set yourself up for a thriving night shift lifestyle, the better you will feel in the long run.

1- Set up your environment

First and foremost, you have to turn your daytime bedroom into a nighttime one. How you set up your bedroom for sleep is crucial to the quality rest and recovery you need before and after your night shifts. Sleep disturbances occur because our senses detect sound, light, and temperature differences. All the changes made to your bedroom involve decreasing your sensitivity.

Sound– Daytime life can be noisy. Using earplugs, a sound machine, or a fan can significantly reduce your sleep disturbances to outside noise. One of my new favorite items (if you’re looking to invest in something) is the Bose Sleepbuds 2. They function as earplugs, a sound machine, and an alarm… all within your ear!

Light– Of course, blackout curtains are a MUST! The more layers to cover the light, the better. Room darkening curtains are not the same as blackout, as the material isn’t as thick and still allows light to come through. If you have room darkening curtains, you can purchase a pair of blackout liners that can attach behind them to deepen the darkness in your room. A sleep mask is always another good recommendation. Blackout curtains and liners can help to limit outside sound from getting in while also helping with temperature regulation.

Temperature– Speaking of temperature regulation… we don’t get the best quality sleep when we are too hot or too cold. In fact, the best sleep temperature is when you can set your thermostat between 65 and 70 degrees, per the National Sleep Foundation. Our core temperature decreases when we sleep and rises to wake us up. Make sure you have your thermostat set to your comfort level, but pair that temperature with appropriate blankets and pajamas. Don’t forget to account for bedroom temperature changes throughout the day depending on the season as well.

**Something important to note: leave screens out of the bedroom. Watching or listening to the TV is not recommended. The same thing applies to phones. Set your alarm if that’s what you use, and put the screen away. Blue light from the devices inhibits the release of melatonin- our sleep hormone.

2- Set up a routine

Our bodies crave knowing what to do and when to do it! This is called routine. Our body does this naturally through what is known as circadian rhythms and chronotypes. They are what help us meet our basic human needs first before we give away our time and energy to others. Night shift, however, feels super unnatural because we must work against what our body wants to do, which is wake with the sun and sleep when it’s dark. We have to create a totally different lifestyle because of the “backward” hours we work.

The thing about routines: no one routine is the same for everyone! And there are four different night shift “days” that you must plan for in your schedule to provide consistency for your body. Each “day” requires a different yet similar setup so you can prepare and recover from your shift in the best way possible for YOU.

Night on: Your first night on can be identified as the first shift you work when you were off the night before. You slept like a normal human the night before. You use this day to prepare for your shift.

Day off: A full day of normal human life. You wake in the morning and sleep at night.

Back-to-back: You worked the night before, and you’re back again that night. That feeling of “sleep all day, work all night” and do it over again.

Flip day: The day when you get home from work in the morning, but technically it’s your day off, so you want to flip back to a normal schedule.

The essential elements a successful night shift routine must include for preparation and recovery are sleep, nutrition, movement, relaxation, and quality time/socialization. Incorporating these components into the four-night shift “days” will ensure you can maintain your physical, mental, and emotional health so you can be your authentic self personally and professionally.

3- Set up your boundaries

Once you have your routine nailed down, you build your boundaries based off of that. Boundaries are how you maintain your work/life balance with a night shift lifestyle. They help you protect the essential elements previously mentioned. You can get the sleep you need to recover. You can get the quality time you miss without having to feel night-shift-hungover all the time. You say yes and no to extra shifts because you know whether or not you can properly prepare and recover from them to avoid staying up for more than 24 hours.

The thing about boundaries is that we often feel mean when we say no to something, or we get hard on ourselves for feeling like we’re missing out. Being consistent with your boundaries and communicating about them to others will help you feel good in the long run. Others will notice a change in your mood, happiness, and health because you have been able to get the rest your body needs to feel present for what/who is important to you.

In summary, if you can set up your environment, routines, and boundaries soon into your night shift career, you can absolutely THRIVE in the long run.

(I’m adding this below part as a plug for my mentorship services, so feel free to not include it, but I think it would be great to share)

I want you to know you do not have to navigate the night shift alone. If you feel like your current approach to the night shift could use an upgrade, I am here to show you the way through my free community and mentorship opportunities which provide you the education, tools, resources, and accountability you need to design your own balanced, flexible schedule and routine. Night shift nurses deserve a healthy, thriving lifestyle too!

Free Night Shift Nurse Network

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We hope you found this article on night shift tips helpful. Do you have any other night shift tips to share with fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have the assignment but need to secure housing? 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 Lirika Hart

December 14, 2021

10115 Views

Retirement after Being a Nurse: What I Miss the Most

Posted on December 14, 2021January 16, 2023 by Lirika Hart

Growing up, I already knew that I would pursue nursing as a career. My grandmother was a nurse, which is partly why I chose to follow that path. I also loved caring for people, and I knew that nursing was my life calling. I started working as a nurse in the early 80s when nursing was simple, and the nurse-patients ratio was not as crazy as it is today. After 40 successful years in my career, I finally downed my tools and called it a day. I can’t really say that I longed for the day I would retire because I totally loved what I did. But, after 40 long years, the long hours, night shifts, and the heartbreaks of losing patients, my retirement was a welcome move. Now I’m enjoying my golden years taking care of my grandchildren, traveling, and volunteering once in a while in my community. Nevertheless, looking back at my years as a nurse, I’m nostalgic about so many things.

Making a difference

Nursing is a career that is so rewarding. I remember the pride I felt every time I gave a reassuring word to my patients that they would get better. The smile on their faces and those of the family members reminded me of the importance of impacting peoples’ lives positively. Of course, it was not always that patients were lucky to go home back to their families. When tragedy hit, I count it as a blessing that I was there to hold the hands of the patient’s loved ones and offer them emotional support. To this day, the thought that I made a difference in many peoples’ lives gives me inner peace.

Learning new things

The medical field evolves at quite a rapid pace. I witnessed so many changes from uniforms to innovations and new technologies. The most notable change I remember is the emergence of remote patient monitoring technology. Back in the day, patients needed to be hospitalized for a long time. The agony of coming in for appointments was too much, especially for elderly patients with mobility issues. Then came the technology where patients received care from wherever they were. The ability to age in place for these patients was just amazing. I miss how these changes used to keep me on my toes. I loved the challenges and the fact that I never stopped learning until a few years to my retirement.

Mentoring young nurses

This is something I still do for young nurses in my community. But, I will never forget the scared faces of young nurses the day they stepped into a hospital. The first time they lost a patient who they had made a connection with and how the crazy shifts took a toll on them. I’m glad that I was there to give them guidance and the mentorship they needed. The fact that I helped mold nurses who became excellent at their work is something that I look back on with pride.

Life lessons from the elderly

I worked with the elderly a few years into my nursing career. Those were the times when taking care of older people was real work. We had to lift them physically from their beds to their chairs and vice versa. The work was backbreaking, but the experience was out of this world. I learned so many life lessons at a young age from my patients. Lessons that I can say shaped my general outlook in life. The experience also grounded my love for older people. Even right before my retirement, I still loved to sit at their bed and just listen to their wisdom.

The meaningful connections

I still say that I met the most amazing people in my life in the line of my nursing career. I made meaningful connections with my colleagues. I loved the teamwork. Even during crazy shifts, I could feel the support of the team for each one of us. We excelled as a team in every department and hospital I worked with. How efficiently we managed to work even in challenging times is something I treasure and look back on nostalgically.

Conclusion

Giving my best years to a noble career that I totally enjoyed is something that I will never regret. I experienced the good and the bad, but they all worked together to make me the person that I am today. So, I miss it all: caring for patients, the teamwork, special moments with patients, the life lessons, mentoring young nurses, and so much more.

We hope you enjoyed this article on retirement after travel nursing. If you were a travel nurse but are now enjoying retirement, comment below and tell us how retirement is for you.

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

By Medely

December 13, 2021

5625 Views

5 Great Cities For Your Winter Travel Assignment

Posted on December 13, 2021December 7, 2021 by Medely

This article was provided by Medely.

When temperatures drop, do your thoughts turn to the beach, the slopes, or somewhere in between? Now that the colder months are here, many Travel Nurses and Allied Healthcare Professionals are thinking about their next destination—and the possibilities are wide open.

Demand for Travel Nurses continues to reach all-time highs, with some estimates that as many as 100,000 positions were available this fall. How can you narrow the list to find a location that will work well for you?

If you’re looking for your first travel nursing assignment, the options can be overwhelming. While there are often very personal reasons behind our choices—such as working with friends, being close to family, chasing childhood dreams—here are a few things to consider:

What are your short and long-term priorities and how can your location help you reach those goals?
What kind of environment do you prefer to work in?
Are you comfortable spending money on your assignment or is saving on expenses a priority?
How do you plan to spend your time when you’re not working?

Once you know the type of experience you want to have, it’s easier to narrow your options—and find the one that’s right for the coming season. Here’s a look at five great cities to consider for a winter travel assignment.

San Diego, CA

Highlights: Warm weather, surfing, relaxed vibe

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 58 degrees

Home to 17 miles of California coastline, San Diego is the place to go if you want city life with a more relaxed vibe. During the winter season, it’s the warm San Diego weather that draws people in—but it’s the friendly people, incredible food, and beautiful outdoors that will really make your time here memorable.

San Diego is a place where life is best lived outside, whether you want to hike, bike, take in a concert, or simply dine al fresco with friends—and it gives you easy access to some of the most popular surfing spots in the state! This means you’ll have a lot of great options for your downtime. And while the cost of living may be higher than other areas to live in, it’s one of the top cities in the U.S. when it comes to quality of life.

Phoenix, AZ

Highlights: Sunny days, budget-friendly, outdoor activities

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 58.5 degrees

Located on the edge of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix enjoys a mild winter with plenty of bright days—it’s the second sunniest city in the U.S., and even in December still averages 244 hours of sunshine. One notable benefit of being here during the winter: None of the dust storms (aka haboobs) that mark Arizona summers!

During your downtime, you can take advantage of the fine winter months to explore the Phoenix mountain range, located right in the city, or take a tour of the city’s many golf courses. You can also venture into nearby national parks, visit cities like Sedona and Tuscon, or head a few hours north to the iconic Grand Canyon.

Phoenix has also found a good balance between quality of life and affordability. The city is divided into 15 urban villages, each with its own character and style; if Phoenix is the right location for you, be sure to ask around to find the right village for you.

Salt Lake City, UT

Highlights: Skiing and outdoor activities, affordable cost of living

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 22.25 degrees

If you love being outside in the snow and brisk winter weather, Salt Lake City can be an ideal home base. Not only is it close to some of the best ski resorts in the world—including Deer Valley, the number one ski resort in the U.S.—Utah is also home to beautiful mountains and stunning national parks, including Zion, Arches, Bryce, and Canyonlands.

If watching your budget is a top priority, this city is also a solid choice: You’ll have more purchasing power in Salt Lake City than many other cities, including the others on this list. But that affordability doesn’t require a big trade-off: Salt Lake City is a beautiful city that has great restaurants, fun nightlife, plenty of action for sports fans—especially basketball—and Travel + Leisure named it one of the friendliest cities in the country.

Atlanta, GA

Highlights: History, mild winter weather, diversity

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 47 degrees

Many people know Atlanta for its history—from Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement to the Civil War that left just 400 buildings standing, and even as home to Coca-Cola, one of the biggest brands in the world. But it’s also a vibrant and modern city that’s growing quickly:

It’s young: Millennials make up 25 percent of the city’s population
It’s diverse: Atlanta is particularly known for its strong Black and LGBTQ+ communities
It has a solid economic base: Atlanta has the third-largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies, just behind New York and Houston

What does this mean for Travel Nurses and allied professionals like you? Great restaurants, unique small businesses, a rich culture that’s constantly evolving, and a friendly welcome with genuine southern hospitality.

Atlanta is more for the history buff than the outdoor enthusiast, but the BeltLine—a network of multiuse trails that circumnavigates the city—has quickly become integrated into the community with green spaces, art installations, and lots of different events.

Miami, FL

Highlights: Warm weather, beaches, nightlife

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 70.25 degrees

On the opposite side of the country is Miami, a city where you’ll have too much to do to spend much time catching up on sleep! And winter is the perfect time to visit: Warm weather and gorgeous beaches without the stress of hurricane season. The cost of living in Miami isn’t cheap, but if you’re drawn to the beach, it’s significantly less expensive here than in southern California.

Miami is a melting pot of cultures, with more than 40 percent of the population born internationally—many in Latin America. That vibrancy permeates everything in the city, from its music to its food, to its art scene. A good place to start is in Wynwood, a neighborhood that’s considered Miami’s art and cultural hub—home to 70 art galleries and an evolving collection of street art.

Conclusion

Travel nursing gives you the chance to experience many different shades of winter—avoid it altogether, embrace it fully, or land somewhere that gives you access to a bit of both. Ready to look for the right opportunity to carry you through the cold winter months? Check out the travel nursing jobs available to you on Medely.

Are you looking for 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:

START HERE

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

By Karl Murphy

December 11, 2021

8409 Views

5 Self-Care Ideas for Managing Mental Health and Increasing Wellbeing

Posted on December 11, 2021December 11, 2021 by Karl Murphy

Self-care and mental health are essential for anyone that wants to live a happy life. An extensive definition of self-care means taking an active role in safeguarding one’s well being and happiness. Below you will find 5 great self-care tips for travel nurses to manage their mental health.

It’s about putting yourself and your mental health first in times of stressful occurrences. As simple as it sounds, several people struggle with sufficiently taking care of themselves.

5 Self-Care Tips to Improve Your Mental Health and Wellbeing

General self-care includes getting adequate sleep, eating well, and exercising. But when it involves the stability of your mental health, it goes beyond that. To this end, we’ve put together five useful ways to manage your mind and improve your wellbeing.

Stop Putting Yourself Down

Often, people who suffer verbal and mental abuse for so long find themselves believing the negatives about them. It creates an inner voice that criticizes their every move and decision.

You find that rather than talking yourself up, you put yourself down. This profoundly affects one’s self-esteem and sense of self and will continue that way if left unchecked. It’s time to take back the power!

Just because someone else puts you down with their words and action doesn’t mean you should do the same to yourself. For every no and negativity thrown your way, you should replace them with positive words of affirmation.

Worry Less About What People Think

It’s easy to get carried away with what’s on social media and unconsciously pressure yourself to measure up in today’s world. Do away with fears of missing out, and quit acting like others are the judge and jury of your life.

Focus on you, what you like, and what makes you happy. For people to see you the way you want, you must first see yourself the same way. Develop a strong sense of self-love that doesn’t need validation from anyone.

Do away with people who put you in a place where you have to seek their approval. Surround yourself with those who appreciate and lift you.

Learn New Skills

According to the National Health Service UK, research has shown learning a new skill improves mental health and wellbeing. It boosts self-confidence, helps build a sense of purpose, and connect with others.

There are several ways to achieve this without having to sign up for a skills acquisition workshop. You can:

Learn to cook something new, most preferably healthy meals.
Take on a new responsibility at work like mentoring a junior or intern.
Work on a DIY project around your home. Fixing something yourself is an excellent way to boost self-esteem and confidence.
Use a language learning app to study a new dialect.
Take on a new hobby like blogging, or join the podcast trend, talking about things that matter to you.

Note that the above are just suggestions, and you should do them only if they interest you. The key is knowing you can learn anything you set your mind to and finding what works for you.

Set Realistic Goals

Goal setting is where several people shoot themselves in the foot. They fail to make it realistic, and when they don’t achieve it, they beat themselves up about it. According to the Awareness Center, the gap between expectation and reality is often a factor in mental health issues.

Not achieving your goals may trigger bouts of depression. You feel like a failure, like someone who can’t achieve anything and become anxious. You can fix this by setting realistic goals and not looking for perfection like top foreign brides searching for a wedding dress. High expectations equal too much pressure, which is terrible for your mental health.

Cherish Every Moment

Most people fret so much about the future that they fail to appreciate the moment. Paying attention to the present improves your mental wellbeing and general wellness. Be thankful for each day, and cherish the moments you create.

Be in tune with what your body and the world around you need presently, and leave tomorrow’s problems till they happen. This form of mindfulness will help you enjoy your life and understand yourself better. It will also help you address challenges more positively.

It’s All About You!

Your mental health and wellbeing are all about you and no one else. It’s called self-care because no one else can do it for you. So, start with these tips, and live each day putting yourself first, keeping in mind that there’s no one like you in the world.

We hope you found these self-care tips helpful. Do you have any self-care tips to share with your fellow travel nurses? 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 Gifted Healthcare

December 10, 2021

5250 Views

Holiday Gifts for Travel Nurses in 2021

Posted on December 10, 2021December 8, 2021 by Gifted Healthcare

This article was provided by Gifted Healthcare.

For the past two years (and beyond), travel nurses everywhere have been working extremely hard to help communities and patients in need. The holiday season is a great time to show them the love and care they deserve.

Are you holiday shopping for an RN friend or loved one? We’ve created a list of gifts that travel nurses will love, whether they are brand new or seasoned veterans.

Read on for a list of great holiday gifts for travel nurses in 2021!

Premium Scrubs

Nurse scrubs are important. They should be comfortable and functional but can also be used to display a little personality. Companies like FIGS, Blue Sky, Jaanuu, and more make premium scrubs for nurses that are extra cozy and highly customizable.

Portable Charger

Travel nurses are always on the go, and sometimes they work long shifts. A high-quality portable charger will help your RN friend make it through a 12-hour shift without worrying that their phone or device will die.

Check out this list of top portable chargers and power banks in 2021 for a selection of convenient, sleek options that are sure to impress.

Air Purifier

Air purifiers help clean the air of allergens, dust, odors, and more. Help your RN friend come back to a clean, fresh home after a long day with this great holiday gift.

Check out a list of top air purifiers here.

Tumbler

No matter what they drink, nurses need a simple way to bring their drinks with them. The YETI Rambler is a top choice for an insulated tumbler, but Amazon offers a large variety of great options. Hot or cold, caffeinated or decaf – a great tumbler will preserve your RN friend’s favorite drink and let them take it anywhere.

PhoneSoap Phone Sanitizer

Unfortunately, most of our mobile phones are crawling with bacteria. We may wash our hands many times a day, but most people rarely wash their phones.

With sanitation guidelines around the COVID-19 pandemic, make sure your favorite RN covers all their bases with PhoneSoap, a phone-sanitizing device that uses UV light to kill bacteria while keeping electronic components unharmed.

According to PhoneSoap, its device can kill up to 99.9% of bacteria in 10 minutes! Not to mention it features a simple design that can function as a cool, understated accessory.

Clove Shoes

Clove shoes are specifically designed for healthcare professionals. They’re easy to clean, fluid-resistant, and super comfortable. They also offer a great selection of colors and designs.

Click here to check out which pair suits the RN you’re shopping for!

Smartwatch

A smartwatch is an excellent gift for a travel nurse – they can bring them everywhere, monitor their health and stress levels, and many of them look great.

A nurse’s smartwatch should be durable, waterproof, and have a long battery life. Check out this list of the top 10 best smartwatches for nurses.

Mask Headbands

Facemasks have become a staple of our lives, and nurses often have to wear their masks all day. Mask headbands have become very popular because they allow you to pull your hair back while making your mask more comfortable, preventing unwanted pain from wearing mask straps behind your ears.

Check out this mask headband on Amazon.

Scented Candles

Self-care is essential in 2021, especially for RNs. That’s why scented candles are an excellent gift this holiday season. Helping your RN friend return home to a relaxing atmosphere is a simple but beautiful way to show them you care.

Check out this list of 32 great scented candles in 2021.

Gift Box

Every nurse is unique. Thankfully there are many companies that offer customized gift packages with a wide variety of themes and options so that you can personalize every facet of your nurse gift.

Check out companies like Something Splendid, Knack, Fox Blossom, and Happy Box for a nearly infinite number of ways to create your own special holiday gift box.

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

By AB Staffing Solutions

December 9, 2021

4476 Views

Etiquette When Working at an IHS Facility

Posted on December 9, 2021December 7, 2021 by AB Staffing Solutions

This article was provided by AB Staffing.

If you’re thinking of working at an Indian Health Services (IHS) facility, it is likely you will experience a bit of a culture change. Unless you are from the area, you may notice that communication styles, language, and patient care to some extent, are different than in other places you have worked. In this article, we write about etiquette when working at an IHS facility to give you a better idea of what it is like and what behavior is acceptable.

Working at an IHS Facility

It is very important to learn about the culture and be open-minded. Avoid stereotyping based on appearance, language, or other outward characteristics. Instead, listen more than you speak and become more comfortable with long pauses or silence in conversation. Observing how others handle verbal and nonverbal cues will help you adjust and understand how to best communicate with patients and their families.

Learn how the community refers to itself as a group. This will help you adjust your language so that you’re better able to serve your patients and be part of the culture, even when away from work.
Explain what you’re writing when you’re making clinical documentation or charting while in the presence of the patient and/or their family. They want to understand what is being written about them.
Like in any culture, don’t assume that head nodding means they understand what you’re saying. Instead, choose language that is not medical jargon so the patient and their family are clear about what is happening and can support their family member.
Be open to allowing a situation to proceed according to the idea that events happen when they are supposed to happen. It is part of the culture to think in this way.

The goal is to connect with your patients and their family

The goal is to connect with your patients and their families in a meaningful way, just as it is anywhere, you accept a travel contract. Just as there are recommended ways to act, there are social and communication cues for what not to do when working at an IHS facility. Being respectful is the basic theme.

Be conscious of your nonverbal communication. This includes looking at your watch, pointing with your fingers, and standing too close as these may be taken as rude.
Ask before taking pictures as to respect tribal culture privacy.
Do not touch sacred items including medicine bags, other ceremonial items, hair, jewelry, and other personal cultural possessions.
Avoid stereotyping based on looks, dress and outward appearances.
Avoid intrusive questions early in the conversation.
Do not interrupt another person during conversation or interject during long pauses.

You may experience people expressing their mistrust, frustration, or disappointment from other situations that are outside of your control. Learn not to take it personally. Continue to learn and embrace the culture and be respectful of others.

As always, reach out to your recruiter regarding questions or concerns. Each tribe has different cultural norms. Ask your recruiter for advice and literature to better educate yourself before working at an IHS facility.

If you’re interested in taking a contract at an Indian Health Services facility, please reach out to AB Staffing Solutions, and we’ll connect you with a recruiter that can find the right position for you.

We hope you found etiquette tips for working in an IHS Facility helpful. Have you worked in an IHS Facility? Do you have any tips to share? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Need housing for you next 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 Dan Matthews

December 8, 2021

6332 Views

How to Step into Leadership Roles with a Travel Nursing Background

Posted on December 8, 2021November 29, 2021 by Dan Matthews

Nursing today is different than it has probably ever been. Today, professionals are being called to respond to a pandemic that has ravaged our everyday lives. For many, this has led to burnout and a desire to jump into a new career path altogether. For some, it has created opportunities they hadn’t previously considered.

Travel nurses, in particular, are some of the most impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Demand for nurses to fill in is at an all-time high, which has allowed many to travel wherever they want at a much higher price than previously expected. The demand has actually encouraged more and more nurses to leave their steady day job and opt for traveling.

Nurses that have been in the business of traveling for some time now have long struggled with some of the challenges faced by a nurse that is “new.” Many feel as though there is never a great opportunity to provide leadership even though they may have decades of experience under their belt. Fortunately, there are ways to help travel nurses step into a greater leadership role no matter their current position.

Putting Knowledge to Practice

As many travel nurses know, the experience of working in a variety of different hospitals across the nation provides a lot of insight. Chances are they’ve seen floors that are run efficiently and effectively while providing some of the highest quality and most attentive care to patients. Likewise, they have probably also seen some real disasters where one nurse or leader is effectively dragging down the whole team leader to all sorts of problems.

This experience puts travel nurses in a unique position to learn what works and what doesn’t. Furthermore, it gives them a powerful opportunity to see what great leadership looks like and build a network of mentors that can provide advice on becoming a nursing leader. It can also give you a chance to adapt your nursing style to be more like those that you’ve seen become highly successful.

As the experience adds up over time, travel nurses suddenly find themselves in the position to offer advice on where positive changes can be made in any given nursing unit. They can become problem solvers who lead from whatever position they are in. Great leaders aren’t necessarily those who strive to be in the spotlight. Rather, some of the most inspirational leaders many of us know are those who work quietly in the background to bring about positive change without drawing attention to themselves.

Moving to Make Change

For some travel nurses, stepping into a greater leadership role will ultimately mean making a move into a more permanent position. Hanging up the travel bag and settling down onto a regular unit may be quite a bit of an adjustment, but it can provide the opportunity to put in for leadership roles that will give a more active role in the day-to-day management of other nurses. It could be the perfect opportunity to put all of the leadership skills learned over the years into action.

Other travel nurses may find that their role in making an impact can be bigger if they leave nursing for a different hospital role altogether. For instance, some may choose to go into medical administration. This is a realm that many travel nurses likely know a bit about and could offer positive solutions to — after all, many must deal with new hospital administration staff every time they move to a new location.

Still, other travel nurses may find that they have more of a business background they could put to use. Surprisingly, many hospitals need people with some experience in business management. Hospitals are large businesses, after all. The experience of working as a contract employee over the years could benefit travel nurses as they step into a greater leadership role within the hospital system.

***

Travel nurses have some of the greatest leadership potential. Many have experience in a variety of hospitals and have had a chance to see the good and the bad as well as learn from some of the very best leaders they’ve come across. Even if they don’t choose to stay in nursing, many travel nurses have the ability and experience to lead in other hospital roles that could make a significant difference in the quality of care and overall workplace happiness of the local hospital.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have your assignment but still need housing? 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 Krucial Staffing

December 7, 2021

5320 Views

Mental Health Resources: Combatting Stress Brought on by the Pandemic

Posted on December 7, 2021November 18, 2021 by Krucial Staffing

This article was provided by Krucial Staffing.

This article was written by: Courtney Holmes.

The strain and stress this pandemic has put on healthcare workers is indescribable. COVID-19 created challenges healthcare workers had never faced before. At the same time, simultaneously overwhelming hospitals with patients who needed isolation at a speed many were not ready for. According to a poll done by the Washington Post in April 2021, six in 10 healthcare workers say the stress from the pandemic has harmed their mental health. If you feel like your mental health has been affected over the past two years, you are not alone.

“Healthcare is, at its core, about improving the odds of life in its struggle against death. Of extending that game which we will all lose, each one of us unto eternity, extending it another year, month or second,” said Keith Olbermann, author, and commentator, during a special broadcast on MSNBC. 

Dealing with death has always been part of being a healthcare worker. All healthcare workers train on how to handle the post-modem process, but COVID-19 has redefined the death process. Healthcare workers have had to navigate the challenges that came with the pandemic, but the amount of death seen in such a short amount of time has greatly affected those who have been in the medical field for years, especially those who recently joined the field.

As this pandemic has continued, images of patients in distress, dreams of perpetual alarms, goodbyes through an iPad, and repeated trauma have come home with many in the healthcare community.

While the pandemic is not over, we wanted to build a list of resources to help with the stress many are facing and remind everyone; you are not alone.

If you need to talk to someone immediately:

Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
Available 24/7 
Online Lifeline Crisis Chat
Chat 24/7

If you are struggling with Seasonal Affective Depression: 

The Cleveland Clinic, known for its world-renowned research, has resources for working through the winter months: “Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is depression that gets triggered by a change in seasons, usually when fall starts. This seasonal depression gets worse in the winter before ending in the spring.

Some people may get a mild version of SAD known as the ‘winter blues.’ It’s normal to feel a little down during colder months. You may be stuck inside, and it gets dark early.”

An organization called Better Help also offers counseling at a low cost, no matter your location. Better Help was started in 2013 to offer counseling over the phone anywhere at any time in any part of the country. According to Better Help, it has more than 24,000 licensed therapists with over 20,000 reviews. We recommend checking them out, no matter what type of mental health issue you are facing.

If you are struggling with depression/burnout:

The American Medical Association offers many resources to help healthcare workers, specifically with burnout and recovery from injuries while practicing physical and psychological medicine. AMA is directed towards healthcare professionals and examples they may experience working on the floor with patients.  

The American Psychiatry Association also breaks down how to handle stress and anxiety. They have produced information on how to combat depression on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, there is a page with commonly asked questions about depression if you are unsure where to begin your healing journey.

If you are struggling with PTSD: 

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has excellent resources for working through PTSD. 

According to the NIMH, “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary or dangerous event.

It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. Fear triggers many split-second changes in the body to help defend against danger or to avoid it. This fight-or-flight response is a typical reaction meant to protect a person from harm. Nearly everyone will experience a range of reactions after trauma, yet most people recover from initial symptoms naturally. Those who continue to experience problems may be diagnosed with PTSD. People who have PTSD may feel stressed or frightened, even when they are not in danger.” 

Additionally, Healthline has fantastic resources for working through PTSD, including resources such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. EMDR is an interactive psychotherapy technique used to relieve psychological stress. 

There is not just one way to begin processing the effects of this pandemic. It is recommended to find what works for you and your situation. We at Krucial feel it is essential to encourage everyone who has worked tirelessly in this pandemic to take a moment to evaluate their mental health and reach out if needed. 

We recognize all the sacrifices that everyone in healthcare has made to help patients during this pandemic. It has taken an unimaginable toll on mental health for many healthcare workers. People left their families and lives to serve others and came home with battle scars. Your pain is noticed, your heroism is honored, and we encourage you to reach out for support.

Interested in looking more about an emergency response 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, check out their Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter page.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. 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:

START HERE

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Tumbler

PhoneSoap Phone Sanitizer

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Working at an IHS Facility

The goal is to connect with your patients and their family

If you are struggling with Seasonal Affective Depression: 

If you are struggling with PTSD: 