By trustaff

May 4, 2024

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Nurses Week 2024: A Thank You to Our Healthcare Heroes 

Trustaff provided this article.

As we celebrate Nurses Week 2024 from May 6-12, it’s time to express our profound gratitude and appreciation for nurses, the unsung heroes of the healthcare system. Nurses are the backbone of medical care, often the first point of contact for patients, embodying a spirit of care, compassion, and commitment.  

This week, we shine a spotlight on their invaluable contributions and reflect on why their role is more crucial than ever in modern healthcare. 

Nurses Week 2024: A Thank You to Our Healthcare Heroes:

nurses week 2024

The Importance of Nurses 

Nurses are at the heart of patient care and serve as its foundation. Whether in the bustling corridors of hospitals or the quieter rooms of residential care, nurses are the primary caregivers. As educators and advocates, nurses manage a wide range of responsibilities, from administering medications to supporting patients through recovery. 

Nurses are also pivotal in promoting preventive healthcare, demonstrating their dedication to patient wellness that extends beyond immediate medical responses. They educate patients on managing chronic conditions and the importance of regular checkups to prevent hospitalizations and enhance life quality. 

The Critical Need for Nurses Today 

nurses week 2024

The healthcare industry is experiencing a significant transformation. An aging population and the lingering effects of global health crises have skyrocketed the demand for qualified nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are projections of approximately 193,100 annual job openings for nurses U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite this high demand, the industry faces a concerning shortage of nursing professionals. 

This shortage represents a potential crisis in patient care and healthcare delivery. Nurses are indispensable for the sustainability of health services. They are at the forefront of patient care and innovation in medical practices and provide the personal touch that supports both patients and their families through some of life’s toughest challenges. 

Supporting Our Nursing Professionals 

As we enter Nurses Week 2024, we extend our deepest thanks to nurses everywhere. Your dedication, compassion, and resilience profoundly impact the health of our communities. Recognizing the challenges you face, Trustaff is committed to supporting you through our ACT program, designed to elevate nurses’ careers and well-being. This program ensures that nurses receive the opportunities and support they deserve, enhancing both their professional lives and the quality of care they provide. 

Thank You!

During this week of celebration, let’s reaffirm our appreciation for nurses and the critical roles they play. Their service is not just appreciated during this special week but celebrated and valued every day. Thank you, nurses, for everything you do. In celebrating Nurses Week 2024, we not only acknowledge the tireless efforts of nurses but also recognize the urgent need for sustained support and investment in this invaluable workforce.

As we reflect on their unwavering commitment to patient care, let us also commit to addressing the challenges they face, from staffing shortages to burnout. Together, by championing the welfare of nurses and ensuring they have the resources they need, we can uphold the standard of excellence in healthcare and honor the profound impact nurses have on our lives, both now and in the future.

Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel healthcare assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By trustaff

November 10, 2022

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There’s No Better Time to Become an Allied Traveler Than Now

Trustaff provided this article.

Allied Health Professions week is happening now – Nov 8th-12th and there’s no better time to become an Allied traveler than now!

“Travelers” have been a common staffing option used by healthcare organizations for many years. Just as the pandemic fueled the demand for nurses, our ability to effectively manage the virus is now accelerating the pent-up demand for allied health travelers across all disciplines.

The growing need for allied travel professionals is being felt across the country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates job growth for allied professionals of over 18% through 2026.

In short, it’s a great time to be an allied traveler.

Leaders see significant growth in all areas for the remainder of 2022 and 2023. Trends point to increased rates and more open allied positions than ever before.

Covid-19 drove a significant demand for respiratory therapists. Even after the Covid surge, there is a constant growing need for cardiopulmonary travelers with more open jobs and higher pay rates than ever before.

There has also been a spike in requests for laboratory-related staff; our Allied Lab, Cardio, and Radiology recruiters only deal with their specific areas when it comes to open positions. Their expertise and industry knowledge are a huge benefit to travelers who want to excel in the travel allied world.

Companies are stepping up to meet the demand for allied travelers

Companies like Trustaff are stepping up to the plate to meet the increasing demand for allied travelers. Trustaff is a recognized leader in placing not only nurses but allied professionals of all modalities. We support the allied contingent workforce with three distinct divisions–Radiology, Cardiopulmonary, and Laboratory–and are expanding Rehab Therapy in the first quarter of 2023.

From the start, Trustaff formed specialized divisions of allied healthcare professionals and dedicated recruiters to work solely within that assigned area. This assures candidates they are getting all-star service from a recruiter who knows the precise qualifications and skills needed for the position. In turn, employers know their job opening will go directly to an expert that already has a pipeline of qualified professionals.

As the need for skilled allied professionals continues to grow, it’s up to us in the talent industry to ensure they have the support they need to get the most out of their careers. Whether through the knowledge of our dedicated allied recruiting team, continued career counseling, or our mental health and wellness resources, we are taking the lead to ensure both clinicians and facilities have what they need to provide top-quality care.

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

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

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

By trustaff

September 30, 2022

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Your Mental Health is Important

Trustaff provided this article.

October 10th is World Mental Health Day, which highlights mental health education, awareness, and advocacy. The mental health of healthcare workers is of the utmost importance.  As a result of the heightened stress healthcare professionals have endured in the last few years, there’s an increased risk for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. While traveling as a healthcare professional may feel isolating and lonely at times, it’s important to understand that you are not alone and help is available and accessible through multiple channels.

Here are several benefits you can take advantage of as a travel nurse to make sure you’re taking care of and supporting your mental health while on (and off) assignment.

Your Mental Health is Important

Employee Assistance Programs:

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) offer professional assistance with personal, family, financial, and work struggles, often at no cost to the employee. Among various other benefits, these programs provide free telehealth therapy sessions, in-person access to behavioral health professionals, and substance abuse counselors.

Some travel companies are taking the extra step to ensure their travelers are well taken care of through EAP benefits. As Trustaff employees, our travelers have access to many EAPs, including telephone consults and counseling for issues of any kind through various providers. Many of these resources are available to all travelers regardless of if you are on agency health insurance.

There’s a lot your company can do to help support and protect your mental health, as well as various other benefits for career advancement, health and wellness programs, career coaching, financial planning, etc. Trustaff is proud to offer all of the above through our ACT Program. Check with your agency to see if they offer similar benefits. 

Walk, work, or run it out:

According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA.org), even just five minutes of aerobic exercise can help lower cortisol, one of the primary hormones responsible for elevated levels of stress in the body. Utilizing fitness programs, either on your own, through a gym, or through a virtual community, will encourage you to get moving and may improve your mental health and emotional well-being.

Many companies offer assistance when it comes to staying fit or getting a workout in. Discounts to many 24-hour fitness facilities are usually a must when it comes to perks and benefits companies can offer to their travelers. Trustaff currently offers a discount to Planet Fitness which is a chain available in most areas all over the US.

If the gym isn’t your thing, something as small as a 15-minute stroll or run through a local park or around your current housing can boost your mental state, clear your mind and get some much-needed fresh air after a long shift in your facility.

Exercising physically is important, but exercising your mind through meditation is also a good way to boost your mental health. Check out some apps you can download to your phone, like, Calm and Headspace, to get your mental workout in for the day.

Surround yourself with support

Long before the pandemic, healthcare professionals experienced an unprecedented amount of burnout, depression, workplace stress, and anxiety. Our goal is to empower our travelers to be proactive about their mental health by destigmatizing mental illness and providing ongoing support and resources through their current careers and beyond.

Our healthcare heroes are our lifeline, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Take care of yourself and be well. We hope these mental support tips and suggestions are helpful while navigating your health through your assignments and career.

Crisis Resources

  • Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 to reach a Crisis Counselor
  • National Suicide Prevention Hotline – 800-273-8255
  • NAMI HelpLine – 1-800-950-6264 or info@nami.org

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

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

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

By trustaff

August 18, 2022

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What To Do If You Get Sick On Assignment

Trustaff provided this article.

Getting sick is never on someone’s “to-do” list, but it is especially inconvenient while on assignment as a traveler. Being sick and bedridden means missing shifts and trying to take care of yourself in a new and unfamiliar location. If you find yourself in a situation where you’re sick or feeling under the weather while on assignment, here are a couple of tips on what your plan of action should be.

job board

1. Have a plan in place

Most travelers go out on assignment alone, so first, knowing how to care for yourself is the most important step. Aside from that, familiarizing yourself with the area you’re in should you need professional help or medicine, you’re in tune with where the local pharmacies and urgent cares are. Creating a list of emergency contacts once you arrive for your assignment can be very beneficial. Keep the phone numbers and emails of your floor manager, recruiter, or recruiter admin handy in case you need to reach out. Make sure to check with those contacts to see what the preferred method of contact should be. (Call, email, or text)

2. Ask your recruiter for assistance

Missing a shift could impact your paycheck if, for example, you’re paid for the hours you work or receive a per-diem for the days you’re scheduled. Additionally, if you call out too many times throughout your assignment, you could even get your contract terminated. Regardless, getting sick happens, so be sure you know and follow your call-off process. If you’re unsure about your options or what steps to take to ensure you’re responsibly taking time off, ask your recruiter for help. Pay close attention to your contract, as it likely contains all the info you may need for call-offs, sick time, and missed shifts. Keep your contract on the agency traveler handbook on you with your emergency contacts.

The most important thing when you’re sick is making sure you’re okay. You’re health and wellbeing should always come first.

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

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

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

By trustaff

June 27, 2022

2612 Views

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Top Must Packs For Your Travel Nurse Assignment

trustaff provided this article.

Packing for your assignments can be a stressful time. Making sure you have everything you may need for a 13-week stay in a new area while also trying to fit everything in your suitcase or trunk can be a real task. Whether you’re a light packer or over pack just in case, we came up with this list of 5 must-have things to make sure you have room for in your suitcase to bring on every assignment.

A camera.

You’ll be out adventuring new places, and what better way to create memories than to take lots of photos to share with friends and family or for yourself as keepsakes. While it’s just as important to take a mental image and take in all the experiences, sometimes having a photo to look back on helps you reminisce about your unique experience. Packing a good camera is a must for travelers of all kinds. Evolving technology makes this even easier now, as many high-quality cameras are compact and packable in a purse or backpack.

Top Must Packs For Your Travel Nurse Assignment

A few good books.

Taking some time away from screens can really refresh your mental state. Having a few good books on hand can make your time between shifts enjoyable and a breath of fresh air. We highly suggest checking out Book-Tok (on TikTok!) for some amazing suggestions for your next read. Whether you’re into history, fiction, or biographies – enjoying a good read can be very important for your mental health and overall downtime.

An air fryer, Instapot, crockpot, etc.

Meals are important, and having time between long shifts to prepare them is sometimes a hassle. Bringing your favorite kitchen appliance can do wonders for time-saving on your meal preps while on assignment. And to be fair – what CAN’T you cook in an air fryer or Instapot?! The options are endless! These are taking over kitchens and are easy to use in any housing situation. Thinking ahead and bringing one of these can make for a life-saving item when you’re hungry.

A yoga mat or at-home fitness gear.

Finding somewhere to work out or clear your mind with yoga in an unfamiliar location could be challenging. Having a few staples ready in your hotel, apartment, or house while on assignment can make a difference! And making sure you’re moving your body and clearing your mental state is SO important as a healthcare professional.

Your pillow.

Sleeping on a new pillow you’re not used to can jam your beauty sleep – and we know how important your sleep is after a long shift! Making sure you have your comfy pillow wherever you sleep is a game-changer. Never leave home without it – especially for 8-12 weeks of sleep.  

We hope you found this list of top must packs for your travel nurse assignment helpful. Are there any other items you think should make the list of must packs? Comment below.

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

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

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

By trustaff

April 29, 2022

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Travel Nursing Tips and Requirements in 2022

TruStaff provided this article.

So, you’re ready to jump into travel for the first time? Or maybe you’ve taken a break, went back to staff, and now want to get back into traveling? We’ve compiled a list of requirements and tips from our recruitment team to make sure you’re ready to take on your next adventure in 2022– travel nursing!

When looking for your travel assignment, there’s a shortlist of requirements that must be met. These requirements are pretty standard across all agencies and facilities.

One and a half to two years of experience in your specialty.

Facilities will require you to have at least 1.5 years of recent experience in the specialty you want to travel in. Many agencies and facilities will require a solid two years if you are a new grad nurse. When it comes to travel nursing – you are going to facilities across the US that have gaps in employment or openings where they need extra help. When arriving at the facility, you’ll need to be ready to hit the ground running and jump right in to help the facility.

Up-to-date certifications

When applying to travel jobs, you’ll want to make sure you have the most up-to-date certifications required for your specialty. Many times, you’ll want to make sure these certifications do not expire prior to your assignment ending. There are many options right now to take these courses online and be prepared for your next assignment.

Covid vaccination or medical/religious exemption

While this requirement is completely up to each facility – it is ideal to make sure this information is ready for any assignment that may require it.

Our team also had many great tips they offer travelers who are new or recently returning to travel, and we think they came up with a pretty good list:

1. Find an agency that has great perks and benefits.

Having a one-stop-shop for all of your needs makes for a flawless experience. This could range from full medical benefits, 401k, or smaller perks like hotel and car rental discounts, cheaper tickets to theme parks, great deals on scrubs, and more. Many agencies have great partnerships with companies to offer great perks!

2. Worried about being too far away from home on your first assignment?

There’s probably a facility closer to home that you could start with. The general rule for travel nursing only requires 50+ miles from your residence! Buddying up with a friend or family member makes for great experiences as well.

3. A multi-state or compact license will open up many more open job opportunities for you to explore.

Obtaining licensure from a compact state makes you eligible to travel and work in states included in the Nurse Licensure Compact. If you don’t – no worries! Getting a state license is usually fairly easy, and your recruiter and company can often offer assistance, reimbursement, and maybe even reward you for getting a new license. 

4. Be ready to ADVENTURE!

Travel nursing is an experience many nurses dream of! Take a deep breath and embrace it. Enjoy the overall experience of exploring while doing what you do best – providing healthcare for people all over the US.

As a bonus trustaff has put together a TikTok to go along, click here to view!

We hope you found this article on tips and requirements for travel nursing in 2022 helpful. 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. 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 trustaff

December 17, 2021

4922 Views

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California Adventures! Why California Should Be Your Next Assignment

This article was provided by trustaff.

Have you locked in where you’ll be spending your first assignment of 2022? Here’s a shortlist of the top 3 reasons you should be thinking west coast and especially California for your New Years’ assignment.

First and foremost, many set their sights on California at this time of year for the weather. Want balmy and breezy? Head to southern CA. Or maybe you prefer more diverse weather where you experience a few chilly days? Northern CA is where you need to be. The climate is one of the biggest all-around perks for working in the state and opens a ton of options for recreation. Southern California is notorious for year-round average highs in the 70s–sounds pretty glorious to us! Even Northern California is still fairly mild, with the added benefit of easy access to wintery activities like skiing, snowboarding, or a snowy hike through one of their many state or national parks!

While the weather might not swing everyone, a big selling point for nurses and healthcare providers are their state-mandated patient ratios. In 2003, California enacted legislation where RNs have specific nurse-to-patient ratios mandated per shift that are protected by law. The ratio varies by specialty where the numbers were established based on needs, severity, and care needed, but the ratio for many specialties will never go above 1:6. This not only protects your license but also provides a more comfortable workload. Knowing your ratios and breaks will be mandated can be a particularly appealing offer, especially for travel nurses.

California is unfortunately not a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact yet, (awaiting legislation!) though they are allowing many nurses to practice in the state under a temporary license while your official CA RN license is pending. The California licensing process can be a tedious and sometimes long process, but many travel nursing agencies offer their travelers licensing assistance, such as help with the application process, reimbursements for your filing costs, or even an extra perk just for getting licensed in such a high-needs state.

Finally, California is one of the largest states in the US, and their need for travel nurses is equally as large. This means you’ll have lots of options when it comes to finding a job that appeals to you. Whether you want to be jet-setting in Los Angeles or nestled in the quiet vineyards, there are many assignments available for specialties of all kinds at a huge variety of facilities. Think of all the possibilities you could explore in the great state of California on your days off!

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.

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 trustaff

March 8, 2018

6777 Views

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How to Resolve Issues With Your Recruiter

This article was provided by trustaff.

The relationship between a nurse and their recruiter is essential for a great experience during your travel nursing career. But every relationship isn’t perfect—you might experience some growing pains now and then it can be hard enough to address issues with the people closest to you, so how can you go about addressing your concerns with your recruiter? We’ve put together some tips that can help!

1. MAKE A LIST

When you’re approaching such a tender subject, it might be difficult to communicate your honest thoughts and feelings. It’s pretty easy to get caught up in thinking about what the other person might be feeling. Take a few minutes to write it all down.

Make a list of the issues you are having or the concerns that are frustrating you. Add in what you are looking for in a great recruiter. Do you need someone that has a similar personality? Or someone that is easily reachable? The list will help you approach the subject with your agency and communicate what you need clearly.

If you’re not exactly sure why you’re not gelling, ask yourself these questions to help get you started:

  • Are your personalities just not clicking?
  • Do they communicate enough with you?
  • Do you feel like they have your back?
  • Are they providing you with all the details you need?
  • Do you feel like they are listening to you?
  • Are they considering your priorities?
  • Have they taken the time to break down the contract with you?
  • Are they checking in on you regularly?

2. SCHEDULE A TIME TO TALK

Next, send an email to your recruiter and get a specific time and date on their calendar. Scheduling out the call ahead of time gives you much needed, uninterrupted time to really talk through all your concerns and work out a system that works for both of you. The last thing you want is to get all ready for this not-so-easy conversation and not have enough time to really talk it out.

3. TALK IT OUT WITH RECRUITER

Speaking to your current recruiter about your concerns is beneficial for both of you. The conversation gives your recruiter the opportunity to learn how they can help serve you better. Every nurse is different and so is every recruiter. If you’re not getting what you need from the recruiter you have, the best way to get there is by letting them know and allowing them the opportunity to try and do better.

Some recruiters are more experienced than others and may not have nailed down how to really develop a relationship with their nurses yet. This conversation could be a great experience for them to learn how they can improve and make sure their nurses are getting the travel experience they deserve. By communicating openly about what you want and need, you are creating a stronger relationship that will be mutually beneficial for you both.

4. FOLLOW UP WITH AN EMAIL

Immediately after your phone conversation, follow up with an email to your recruiter that summarizes what you two just talked about. Outline the conversation and any agreements that you two came to during the call. The email will create documentation that you tried to address your concerns with the recruiter and can help hold them accountable down the road.

IF ALL ELSE FAILS, REQUEST A NEW RECRUITER

After you’ve addressed your concerns and you are still aren’t getting what you need from your recruiter, it may be time to request someone new. Any agency you’re working with will be happy to help you find a recruiter within their company that is a better fit for your needs. Give the agency a call and request to speak with a recruiting supervisor. They can help match you with someone that best fits your needs.

When you hop on that first phone call with a new recruiter, go through that list you made in step one. They should know:

1. Your expectations: What does your recruiter need to do to gain your trust? How often do you want updates? What information do you need from them to be successful?

2. Your priorities. What means the most to you in a travel nursing career? What is important to you? Are you looking for some interesting locations? Do you need experience or training in a specific field?

3. Your preferences. Where do you want to go? What type of facility are you looking for? What size of city?

4. Your non-negotiables. Do you need a job in a specific town because your spouse is being transferred? Do you need pet-friendly accommodations? Think through what you can’t live without and let your recruiter know.

When you break it down for them in detail, you can develop a relationship with your recruiter that will be infinitely more beneficial to you both.

Every agency wants their nurses to have great travel experience and if you’re not, they will do everything they can to help you get there. Express your concerns as best as you can and you won’t regret it.