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By Wendy Ladd

November 3, 2020

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My Burnout Story: COVID Edition

Many people have been talking about making a shift or pivot since COVID hit; I am no different! Many of you know I am a nurse, not currently practicing nursing. With the onset of COVID, it became clear to me that I needed to do something to make a difference. Truth be told, I had some survivor guilt because I was not working in the field. When I suggested I may return to nursing, my family and friends said, “are you CRAZY?!”

My Burnout Story:

I also discovered that I suffered from burnout.

Because I felt stressed, I left nursing and did not care for myself while working. I was always the person who said yes to working extra shifts or staying late with a patient at the expense of my health or time with my family. I left myself behind, Giving to everyone else and not practicing self-care, leaving me feeling tired, stressed, and defeated because I could no longer do the job I loved so much.

Why I became a nurse

When I became a nurse in 1985, I wanted to help people heal. My journey with nursing took so many twists and turns, and now I realize nursing is not the same as it was so many years ago, and the opportunities to heal are not there any longer, for the most part, at least the way I wanted it to be for me. I turned to alternative therapies such as Reiki and Aroma Freedom Technique to get back to healing people in a way that feels fulfilling and rewarding again, but it isn’t enough. Now it is time to heal the nurses who, like me, are hurting and help them to love themselves and their jobs again.

2020 and COVID

Flash forward to 2020, and COVID is devastating nurses everywhere. Nurses are exhausted, stressed, and ready to be done! I had this overwhelming urge to help; I wanted to help people lessen stress, form a community for support, and go back to loving what they do again! I have spoken to many nurses under so much stress and uncertainty that they do not feel like they can continue in a job they love.

My self-care

I also learned that I had adrenal fatigue, which I had ignored because, like you, I had other things to do! My functional medicine doctor told me I had to reduce the stress in my life. Less stress, I said?! I was in the middle of a significant home remodel, which had been going on for a year, and I had some family struggles and childhood traumas come to the surface. It was time for me to start paying serious attention to my health and well-being, which meant lessening stress in my life.

Thankfully, this leads to more time in nature with my husband and dog. Resting when my body needed rest (believe it or not, that was the hardest part). Learning to meditate, do reiki at least once a day on myself, and use essential oils to quiet that anxious feeling I feel most of the time.

Helping others

I have partnered with another nurse who has also suffered from burnout and left a job she loved because it was no longer a safe place to work, and the stress of working overtime and being understaffed became too much.

We want to form a community for nurses, a safe place to heal. A place to share nurse humor because, let’s face it, no one understands nurse humor like a nurse! A place to remind you that you are not alone feeling burnout and that there is always hope.

We hope you found this article about Wendy’s burnout story helpful. Do you have a burnout story you would like to tell? Comment below.

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!)

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Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Lirika Hart

November 2, 2020

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Maintaining Good Mental Health During the Winter

There is something that sunshine does to the body and mind. This has something to do with boosting the formation of vitamin D3 that is responsible for lifting the moods in a person. It’s no wonder people tend to be energetic and cheerful in the summer months.

When the winter sets in, temperatures start falling, and days become shorter; the opposite happens. Moods and energy levels fall, leaving one feeling low, sad, fatigued, and lethargic. People also tend to eat and sleep more than be out and about bubbling and happiness. In addition, people with preexisting conditions such as depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses find it difficult to cope with them at this time of the year.

We call it winter blues, but it is a form of depression known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This is when a change in seasons negatively affects one’s feelings and thoughts.

Thankfully, there is a lot that you can do to ensure that you maintain good mental health during winter. Here are some of them.

1. Get enough natural light exposure

Sunlight is rare during winter, but you can still get some hints of it during the brightest part of the day. Make the most of that time of the day by spending some time outdoors. You can go for a walk or just bask in the backyard. If you can’t go outside, sit near a window any chance that you get.

In addition, let in as much natural light as possible. Make sure you open the curtains/blinds during the day. You can also paint your walls in a bright color to reflect the light.

2. Consume vitamin D rich foods

As said earlier, vitamin D helps in boosting the mood and morale. Most of it comes about after the skin gets exposure to the sun. However, the little sun during winter isn’t strong enough to make enough vitamin D for the body. Thankfully, there are foods that can give the body some vitamin D. Make sure you are consuming vitamin D-rich foods such as fish, liver, red meat, and cereals. In addition, take a daily dose of vitamin D supplements.

3. Grow indoor plants

Being around greenery helps calm the mind and lift the spirits. With winter weather, however, going outdoors can sometimes prove impossible. Create your own greenery indoors by choosing a few of your favorite indoor plants or starting a vegetable and herbs garden indoors. Utilize grow tents to ensure that the plants are getting a good environment to grow.

Besides lifting the spirits, caring for plants keeps you up and moving. You have no time to sulk or harbor negative feelings as your mind is refocused.

4. Exercise the body

With the chilly winter weather, exercise and outdoor activities are the last things to think of for most people. However, physical activity is known to help in the production of feel-good hormones such as endorphins and serotonin.

Even if you feel like hiding yourself under the covers the whole day, push yourself to do a few exercises. You can register for an online workout class to get some guidelines or follow along with some workout videos. Instead of watching the TV curled up on the sofa, get on the treadmill, and enjoy your shows while getting your body moving.

5. Socialize

Winter blues tend to make people hibernate and isolate themselves. However, bottling up the negative feelings is a sure way to get you more stressed out. Socializing, on the other hand, is one way to raise endorphin levels and lighten your mood. That is why you should try to be around friends and family whenever possible during winter. Try doing something fun together, such as cooking or playing indoor games. If you live alone, use video calling to connect with the people that you love.

6. Get enough sleep

The weather is bad enough to get you dull and sad. You can imagine how worse it can get if you have to deal with sleep-related fatigue and irritability. To avoid this, ensure that you are getting enough sleep every night. Keep a regular sleep schedule by sleeping and waking up at the same every day of the week. In addition, try as much as possible to avoid napping during the day.

Conclusion

Winter blues are real, and if you do nothing about them, the negative feelings can get severe and spill over to your work and daily routine. Try the above tips to keep them away. If they persist, it is always wise to seek professional help.

Do you have any tips for fellow travel nurses on maintaining good mental health during the winter? Have you found ways to keep your mental health in check during the winter months? Comment them below.

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!)

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By The Gypsy Nurse

October 31, 2020

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Fall Into the Beautiful Scenery

For Travel Nurses, a special treat for a fall assignment is enjoying the foliage in certain parts of the US. Leaf peeping can be a relaxing and enjoyable past time when you are not caring for others.  As the seasons change the hillsides come alive with majestic beauty. Taking a drive, bike ride, or just a walk is a great way to enjoy the gorgeous colors Mother Nature gifts us each year.  Watch your local weather or check online sources to see when the foliage will peak in your area.

Here are some favorite fall foliage spots

North Conway, New Hampshire


This small town nestled in the White Mountains where restaurants, shopping, and a steam engine train ride await will charm you.

Asheville, North Carolina


This popular mountain destination is speckled is vibrant colors and offers vast colorful views.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee


The Great Smoky Mountains offer an extended viewing period, for almost seven weeks the colors start in the higher elevations and trickle down to the foothills.

Stowe, Vermont


It’s almost impossible to think about fall foliage without picturing New England. Vermont is one of the most scenic fall foliage destinations. Sugar maples, red maples, red oaks, sweet gums, black gums and sourwoods all produce a red hue. Birches, elms, redbuds and hickories turn yellow and gold, while sumacs produce a maroon color.

Catskills Region, New York


This is an easy weekend trip out of the city. Take in hiking, kayaking and other outdoor recreation while admiring the stunning colors that line the mountainsides.

Breckenridge, Colorado


Unleash your sense of adventure with numerous outdoor activities and the breathtaking views of fall as the reds and gold line the mountainside.

Aspen, Colorado


Aspen is named after the aspen tree, whose leaves turn a beautiful and bright golden color. Before this town is blanketed in snow, visitors and residents alike love to take a scenic drive along Castle Creek Road.

Coopers Rock State Forest, West Virginia


The 12,713 acres will not disappoint. Take in the stunning panoramic view of the Cheat River Gorge. The peeing season isn’t long so be sure to check when it’s expected to peak.

The Gypsy Nurse Job Board offers hundreds of assignment in areas that offer spectacular fall foliage!

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Amber Pickler

October 30, 2020

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Great Haunted Houses for Travel Nurses to Visit

Halloween is coming quickly! Many people, travel nurses included, enjoy visiting haunted houses! There are so many haunted houses in the United States that it is difficult to know which are the best to visit while on assignment. So, we have done the hard work for you! Below you will find some great haunted houses in the US.

Pennhurst Asylum (Spring City, Pennsylvania)- 

Pennhurst Asylum offers 4 haunted attractions including;

  • Pennhurst Asylum- Pennhurst Asylum is home to some of the world’s most dangerous criminally insane. Opening Fall 2018, guests will be welcome to visit the infamous Max Security Wing. Guests will visit the cells of our most hostile patients and must navigate Maximum Security.
  • Containment- Containment is a new attraction for 2017 that takes you through a 1,200-foot long gauntlet underneath the Pennhurst complex. Stationed as a government facility hidden underground for decades, you will bear witness to patients being experimented on in the most inhumane ways possible. Lucky for you, this research facility is still accepting patients! The brand new sets and scares of this attraction are guaranteed to produce horrifying screams and nightmares to come.
  • The Morgue- From draining blood to incinerating bodies, The Morgue at Pennhurst is your full-service mortuary.
  • Mayflower After Dark- The final attraction, Mayflower After Dark, is a self-guided tour of the Mayflower Building, reportedly the most ghostly active of all the locations on the campus. It’s featured on Ghost Adventures and Ghost Hunters. No actors or props, visitors are sent at their own risk to wander through the dormitory, left caught in the sands of time just as it was 26 years ago. Search for spirits on your own, or let them find you first. Included is a museum of Pennhurst State School artifacts with real former employees taking you back in time to what life was really like for the patients…

Each attraction has something different to offer the thrill seekers!

The 13th Gate (Brusly, Louisiana) –

The 13th Gate is known for its ultra-realism and prides itself on being one of the most detailed haunted houses.  They offer more than just haunted houses.  They also offer escape games and many other haunted attractions.  They also offer nightly attractions and concerts throughout the season. 

Haunted Overload (Lee, New Hampshire)-

Haunted Overload offers 3 Levels of Fear. 

The Day Fear

Which offers a great opportunity to walk their haunted trails in the light of day.  You will see the sets and amazing props without the scares. 

Fright Night Lite

Which allows visitors to experience the lights and sound effects minus the monsters.  This is the only scare-free evening.  They say to come and meet their friendly characters and see the amazing artistry without being chased.  This is also a great evening for children as well as adults. 

Haunted Overload

Haunted Overload is the main attraction!  It is an award-winning horror show.  They pull out all the stops.  There are twisted creatures around every corner.  The haunted trails are one-of-a-kind that includes stunning sets and handmade props and costumes!  It is not recommended for small children.

Scream Town (Chaska, Minnesota)-

 Scream Town offers 7 massive haunted houses.  So, hopefully one will fill your thrill seeker needs! These include:

  • Zombie Apocalypse CDC –
  • The CDC is in lockdown, and you’re in it.  The dead have risen and are coming for your flesh.  Prepare for attacks from all directions!
  •  Santa’s Slay- Just when you thought Christmas was a happy time of year, think again.  You’ll be hiding under the tree this December.  That is unless you stay forever with Krampus and all his evil elves.
  • Crop Spawn- The landing has occurred, and little can be done. Navigate through this totally redesigned adventure of fear with life forms, not of this world.
  • LUDICROUS LABYRINTH- Enter ludicrous labyrinth and be sure to drop some crumbs as you’ll be entering into an ACTUAL Maze with DEAD ends around every corner. Challenge yourself to see through the fog, flashing lights, and horrifying surprises. You’ll love it!
  • Scream Town: Oak Blood Forest – Get ready to take a journey deep into our wild ONE OF A KIND thick haunted forest.
  • Circus Asylum- After 5 long years, the circus folk residents of Scream Town became too crazy, their actions too wild, their appearance too terrifying, and most importantly, too many lives claimed.
  • The Covent (VIP pass only)- The Convent is VIP only, and details are under wraps!

Each offers something different for visitors.  With so many options therefore there is truly something for all types of thrill seekers!

Field of Screams (Victor, Montana)-

Field of Screams has many attractions for the whole family.  For the older visitor, you will start out walking through acres of cornstalks over your head, with the fear that at any time, something may jump out at you.  Go through fog-filled swamps, graveyards, clown-infested playgrounds, and possibly get chased by an insane chainsaw man who has been haunting the fields every Halloween season.  Then to finish off this already terrifying nightmare, we’re bringing back our famous haunted Ghost Town.    

Ghost town is included in the admission cost and is connected with the Field of Screams Haunt.  So, don’t miss it!

Eastern State Penitentiary-(Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Eastern State Penitentiary offers Terror Behind the Walls!  A haunted house within a real prison.  They offer 6 different attractions!

  • Infirmary- Infirmary takes the fear of hospitals to a whole new level. In this newly revamped and highly interactive attraction, you’ll encounter maniacal surgeons, dentists & nurses who are sharpening their scalpels for some unusual, unnatural operations.
  • Blood Yard-  The carnage sends a clear message: You could be next.
  • Quarantine 4D- Flat walls appear to have depth, creatures emerge from (seemingly) nowhere, and some brave visitors will be challenged to face their worst fears.
  • Breakout- Inmates surround you using every way imaginable to escape. Keep an eye out at every corner, as inmates may even be using YOU to aid in their attempt to gain freedom.
  • Lock Down- Rioting zombie inmates have taken over, and zombie guards have lost control. The tables have turned.
  • Machine Shop- Hidden deep inside the cellblocks is a long-forgotten machine shop. Evil pervades this space – an evil with one mind but with many bodies.

With so many attractions you are sure to find one that will scare you, especially since they are located in an old prison.  The prison also offers daytime tours as well.

Mystery Mansion (Gatlinburg, TN)-

The Mystery Mansion invites you to join them in a terrifying excursion to explore this classic “turn of the century” haunted mansion. Let your fears awaken and discover the startling secrets of this dreadfully daunting domain. If you dare to step inside this once grand abode, you shall take an unguided tour finding your way through secret passageways, eerie dark corridors, winding staircases, and spine-chilling chambers that will curdle the blood of even the bravest of souls!

But BEWARE!

You never know what restless, rotting residents might be lurking around the corner in each foreboding room ahead! …or BEHIND YOU! Join us and Release Your Screams in Gatlinburg’s original haunted house! IF YOU DARE!

The Mystery Mansion is open year-round therefore you can visit anytime of the year!

Just have fun!

We hope that this article gives you a few options for haunted houses this year! While there are many many many more haunted houses in the United States, we wanted to give you a list of some of the top-rated ones from Google! Also, we wanted to make sure they were spread around the US.

What do you think?

Have you visited a haunted house recently? Do you have a great haunted house to recommend? Comment it below!

Finished the travel nursing guide and are ready to look for an assignment?

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By The Gypsy Nurse

October 26, 2020

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How to Feel Prepared for the NCLEX

Have you recently graduated from a nursing degree program and are now studying for the NCLEX-RN? Congratulations! You’re one step closer to becoming a registered nurse! 

Nurses report high job satisfaction and enjoy the variety of the many available specializations. Some of these include pediatric nursing, geriatric nursing, and mental health nursing; some nurses may also look into public health, clinical research, or hospital administration.  

The COVID-19 pandemic reminds us of the crucial role of nurses in healthcare. When isolated patients cannot receive visits from their families, nurses are there to comfort them. Perhaps this is exactly why you are going into nursing right now – to make a difference!  

Passing the NCLEX-RN is a significant milestone in the nursing profession. The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is the standardized test all prospective nurses must pass to demonstrate readiness as an entry-level nurse.  Studying for the exam may feel daunting at first, but there are plenty of ways to take charge of your studying and prepare yourself!

What Is the NCLEX, Anyway?

It is crucial to know what to expect from the NCLEX.  Most of the exam comprises multiple-choice and drag-and-drop questions, along with some fill-in-the-blank responses. The NCLEX is a standardized exam that is offered throughout the year. 

The exam utilizes Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), so all prospective registered nurses take the test on a computer. Each subsequent question is based on your prior answers. While the test bank is comprehensive, the order of the questions you receive will differ from your nursing peers. You will answer somewhere between 75 and 265 questions, depending on how you perform as the test progresses. 

You will pass the test when the computer is “95 percent certain” you are above the standard. This is also called the “confidence interval rule.” If you do not meet the confidence interval rule, or if you run out of time, you will fail the NCLEX and have to wait 45 days before attempting it again. 

There is no way to know how you are doing until you see the end results. Keep in mind that receiving a string of easy questions doesn’t necessarily mean you’re underperforming; conversely, receiving difficult questions doesn’t indicate that you’re breezing through. 

Be prepared to sit for up to 265 questions. The test might conclude at a minimum of 75 questions, or it might not. The one thing you can control is all the preparation leading up to the exam.   

Establish Effective Study Habits 

If you want to be fully prepared for the NCLEX, test preparation must become your daily priority. 

You’ve probably successfully completed nursing school, so you already know about the importance of good study habits. Continue to incorporate studying into your daily routine by reviewing NCLEX questions throughout the day. 

NCLEX preparation requires a lot of focus, so it is critical to minimize distractions in your workspace. The smartphone is a common distraction; you may want to turn it screen-down on the desk or table, silencing it or putting the device on the “Do Not Disturb” mode. Better yet, consider leaving your phone in another room or your backpack until it’s time to take a break.  

Protect Your Physical and Mental Health 

If you don’t prepare your mind and body to study, you’ll likely tire yourself out and forget information. Think of yourself as an athlete building mental endurance, resting when you need to, and building strength over time. Move around each hour and take regular, short rest breaks to sharpen your mental alertness and improve your memory. Yoga and mini walks do wonders for studying! These strategies will come in handy on the day of the NCLEX when you’ll need speed and mental endurance. 

Take care of your mental health by connecting with others. On top of the stress of preparing for the NCLEX, you’re likely putting high expectations on yourself. Decompress and unplug by connecting with friends and family. Laugh and do something light-hearted at some point in the day! Lean on your social network during this stressful time so you keep things in perspective while enjoying the support of those who want to see you succeed. 

Use an App

Smartphone applications are a fantastic tool for NCLEX test preparation, allowing you to study more efficiently and even on the go.

Some popular apps include NCLEX RN Mastery, Davis Mobile NCLEX-RN, and UWorld NCLEX. Choose one, open it up for a few minutes each day and review flashcards, answer questions, or take quizzes. Some apps even evaluate your practice test answers and quizzes so you know which areas of the exam you need to dedicate more study time to.

Find a Study Group 

Consider forming an NCLEX study group with other nursing school graduates. The study group can even use an online format with a video conferencing program. Not everyone finds study groups helpful, but having a group to work with can help keep you accountable, as well as provide camaraderie and support.

A potential downside of study groups is that some members might distract and waste time more than others. Choose your study partners carefully and make sure everyone understands the importance of staying on track. Think of yourself as a team reaching for the same finish line!  

Take a Complimentary Nursing Review Course 

The pandemic has affected nursing students and recent graduates waiting to take the NCLEX exam. If you are experiencing testing delays because of COVID-19, consider using the time to take a complimentary review course online. A good review course should cover all topics in the NCLEX. It will let you focus on the areas you don’t feel especially confident in, allow you to work at your own pace, and have scheduled live sessions with instructors so you have a chance to ask questions.  

Look for a nursing review course today and take advantage of every resource possible. You will find yourself retaining more information, reinforcing those crucial nursing skills, and gaining the confidence you’re 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!)

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Haleigh Gorrell

October 25, 2020

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The Differences Between Travel Nursing in Canada vs. The United States

Over the past few months, I’ve been in contact with a lot of other travel nurses via social media, and most of them are from the US! It’s been really cool comparing the differences between travel nursing in Canada vs. the United States, so I figured maybe other people would be interested in it too!

Travel Nursing in Canada

The Healthcare System

I guess one of the biggest differences is the healthcare system itself.  Here in Canada, we have universal health care. We have a provincial health card and can go to any clinic or hospital, and by presenting this card, we are provided with all health care services. FOR FREE. We do not get billed for any hospital stay, necessary surgery, or products that are used while admitted. To have a baby, we don’t have to pay. If you have an elective surgery, such as most plastic surgeries, you do have to pay. We pay for prescriptions from pharmacies, dental and eye care, and things like that, but if you have insurance or a benefits package, most of these things are covered. So basically, I can go to any hospital in the country and get care for whatever I need, and the government funds it. Sure, we may pay more taxes than Americans, but I’m not going to get into all of that.

Nursing Aspect

Now let’s move on to the nursing aspect of it. Similar to US state-to-state licensing, Canadian nurses have to apply for licensing in each separate province. If you want to work in British Columbia, you have to pay for and apply for licensing with them, and you cannot work in any other province. I know this is similar to the US except for compact state licensing. Some states will let you work in them if you have a compact license from one of the other states.

Travel Nursing in Canada

Here we have to go through the entire process for each separate province which can be expensive if you have more than one. I currently have an Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia license, and the fees differ throughout the country. In Ontario, it’s only around $300 a year to renew. In Alberta and BC, it cost me about $800 to complete the licensing. That’s also not including the fees for criminal record checks etc.

NCLEX

Nurses in Canada write the NCLEX as well. This started in 2015, the year before I graduated, and now we can go to any province or state, and we don’t have to write any extra exams! We write the American-based exam, and they provide us with the Canadian lab values. There are a couple of things that are on the exam that are a bit foreign to us, but we just make sure we review this while studying!

Hierarchy of Nursing in Canada

For example, the hierarchy of nursing is a little different up here. We have Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered/Licensed Practical Nurses (RPNs/LPNs), and Personal Support Workers (PSWs)/ Health Care Aids (HCAs). The scope of practice for RNs is wide-we can do everything, and if we can’t, a doctor would be the next step up. We go to university for 4 years and get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. In some provinces, laws were recently passed so RNs can actually prescribe medications. RPNs or LPNs have a smaller scope of practice which differs from province to province. They go to a college or technical college for usually only two years.

In Ontario, where I’m from, they can do everything except have patients with central lines, epidurals, telemetry, or if they are a very unstable patient, but this does differ from facility to facility. In Alberta, where I recently worked, it was similar, but LPNs couldn’t spike bags of blood for transfusions or bladder scan patients, for example. It depends on each provinces’ governing body of nurses and their regulations. As a travel nurse, make sure you know the scope of practice for the province you’re working in! We have PSWs who mostly work in long-term care.  In Alberta, there were HCAs who would help with washes, transfers, stocking carts, etc.

The hospital where I work back home in Ontario does not have health care aids to do this. We do everything- vitals, feeding, brief changes, answering call bells, mobilizing patients and transfers, blood sugars, processing orders, all medications, everything! I wish we had CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) to help us with the workload, but we are not given that opportunity. Some hospitals across Canada do have PSWs, so maybe it’s just where I live that we have to work harder! As I continue to work in other provinces, I am seeing how other provinces do things, and that is one of my favorite parts of travel nursing.

Contract Length

Travel Nursing in Canada

One big difference that I have noticed about travel nursing in Canada is that we do much shorter contracts. In the US, the standard is 13-week contracts. Here in Canada, we can do much shorter contracts. I’ve done 5, 6, and 8-week contracts so far. I know people who have even done 2-week contracts! I guess this is much easier for us to do because we do not have to find our own housing.

Housing is provided for us on each assignment, even if it means living in a hotel during our contract. All of our travel costs to and from the assignment location are covered as well! I’m sure you could request a housing stipend if you wanted to find your own housing, but I don’t really feel like that is necessary. I’ve stayed in a house with 6 other travel nurses and in a house with a couple that rents out rooms. My next contract, the hospital uses college dorm rooms to house their travel nurses! It’s whatever the hospital decides.

Recruiters

One other big difference that I have noticed is the abundance of agencies and recruiters in the States. We have two in Canada- Solutions Staffing and Select Medical Connections. If there are others, I have never heard of them (sorry)! I am employed by both agencies, and there are plenty of contracts with both, mostly critical care nursing. In the states, the amount of agencies is overwhelming.  I have no idea where I would even start to choose one!

Wages

The wages for travel nurses average around $45-55 an hour. The more isolated the community, the more you make. It can also increase if you have a specialty and more experience. In Ontario, staff nurses start at around $31 an hour. And increase with years of experience, so the increase in pay is well worth it to become a travel nurse!

Have you ever thought of travel nursing in Canada!? If you have questions or comments, I would love to hear from you! Message me on Instagram @thetalesof.hales.


Want more information on Travel Nursing?

Check out our Travel Nurse Guide!


Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Amber Pickler

October 24, 2020

41387 Views

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Top 9 Hospitals for Travel Nurses

As a travel nurse finding a great hospital or nursing facility for your next assignment can seem overwhelming.   There are so many hospitals and nursing facilities within the United States.  Fellow travel nurses on our Facebook group said the hospitals below are the best for travel nurses.   You will find a little bit of information from each hospital’s website as well.  *They are listed in no particular order. 

hospitals for travel nurses

Children’s of Omaha – Omaha, Nebraska

Children’s Hospital of Omaha prides itself as the only full-service pediatric healthcare center in Nebraska.  They provide expertise in more than 50 pediatric specialty services to children across the five-state region and beyond.

Nebraska’s only…

They are home to Nebraska’s only Level 4 regionals NICU and the state’s only Level 2 Pediatric Trauma Center.  Their regional heart center offers expertise in pediatric heart transplantation.

They are recognized as a 2018-19 Best Children’s Hospital by U.S. News & World Report in five pediatric specialties: Cardiology and Heart Surgery, Pulmonology, Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Orthopedics, and Diabetes & Endocrine Disorders.

They state, “Teamwork, friendly coworkers, a supportive leadership team, and a family-like atmosphere make our workplace feel like home. You will enjoy autonomy, the respect of our world-class physicians, and the opportunity to advance your career.”

Maui Memorial Medical- Wailuku, HI

hospitals for travel nurses

Maui Memorial Medical Center is affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.  They pride themselves on providing high-quality, patient-centered, affordable care for all residents and visitors on Maui and Lanai.   Because they are affiliated with Kaiser Permanent, they can provide industry-leading technology systems, evidence-based medicine, and nationally recognized care quality.

Together in health:

One of their missions states, “From developing programs and initiatives to support the total health of our communities to creating the best place to work, deliver, and receive care, Maui Health System is committed to improving the health of the people of Maui and Lanai.”

Boston Medical Center- Boston, Mass

Their website states, “At Boston Medical Center, all are welcome and treated equally. The best and brightest physicians, representing virtually every medical specialty, choose to work here for the opportunity to make a difference in their community and beyond.

Unwavering in its commitment to the community, BMC is a private, not-for-profit, 514-bed academic medical center in Boston’s historic South End. The primary teaching affiliate for Boston University School of Medicine, BMC is the largest safety-net hospital and busiest trauma and emergency services center in New England.”

Teaching:

At Boston Medical Center, teaching and education are essential.  They are the principal teaching affiliate of Boston University School of Medicine.  They are devoted to training future generations of healthcare professionals. “Every member of the hospital’s medical and dental staff holds an academic appointment at the Boston University School of Medicine or the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. BMC operates 66 residency training programs with 817 resident and fellowship positions.”

UVA- Charlottesville, VA

UVA prides itself on being a health system that includes a hospital, level I trauma center, nationally recognized cancer and heart centers, and primary and specialty clinics throughout Central Virginia.

Through research and clinical trials, they stay at the leading edge of the treatments they offer.

They rank among the nation’s top hospitals because their doctors, nurses, and caregivers make every effort to push the healthcare envelope.

UVA’s goals include:

  • Become the safest place to receive care
  • Be the healthiest work environment
  • Provide exceptional clinical care
  • Generate biomedical discovery that betters the human condition
  • Train healthcare providers of the future to work in multi-disciplinary teams
  • Ensure value-driven and efficient stewardship of resources

Ozark Medical Center – West Plains, Missouri

Ozarks Medical Center is changing how medical care is delivered to their area by providing the rare combination of advanced medicine and compassionate care you can only get at home.

The Joint Commission accredits Ozarks Medical Center on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations, an independent, not-for-profit organization that develops quality standards in collaboration with health professionals.

Their website goes on to state that:

“At Ozarks Medical Center, our physicians, nurses, staff, administration, and board of directors are dedicated to providing quality patient care. Our goal is to demonstrate superior clinical quality, safety, and effectiveness. We strive to create a culture of safety and quality for all services: every patient, every time.

The people of this region can be very proud of the high caliber of physicians currently on staff at OMC. With more than 100 doctors, OMC has a strong core of primary care physicians and numerous specialists.”

Altru Hospital- Grand Forks, ND

Altru Health System is a community of over 4,000 health professionals and support staff committed to caring for the region for more than 100 years. They serve over 200,000 residents in northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, and they also provide an array of services to meet the needs of patients of all ages and levels of health. 

Mayo Clinic Care Network:

As you will find on their website, they are the first member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network; because of this, Altru’s providers have access to clinically integrated tools to extend Mayo Clinic’s knowledge and expertise to patients. “Together, we share a common philosophy, commitment, and mission to improve healthcare delivery through high quality, data-driven, evidence-based medical care and treatment.”

hospitals for travel nurses

Swedish Cherry Hill- Seattle, WA

Cherry Hill is part of the Swedish Hospitals.  The campus is currently undergoing improvements, and they have a master plan in place that they say,” The new master plan represents a 30-year vision for the future of the Swedish Cherry Hill campus that will allow Swedish to continue providing family medicine and emergency services to patients of all ages, while also treating the most complex cardiovascular and neurological diseases.”

Their commitment to improving the health of our region extends beyond patient care. Whether through physician clinics, health education, research, innovation, or other means of outreach, they are committed to caring for the people in their region and beyond.

Virginia Commonwealth University Health (VCU) – Richmond, VA

As you will find on their website, VCU prides itself in offering above-standard care. “From new, life-saving procedures or a clinical researcher who finds promise in new cancer treatment, we’re making possibilities a reality. The exciting new medicine is happening at VCU Health – every day.”

They have it all:

  • Five schools
  • An academic medical center
  • A Level I trauma center
  • One of only two NCI-designated cancer centers in Virginia
  • The region’s only full-service children’s hospital
  • More than 800 physicians in 200 specialties
  • With a community health center, dedicated research teams, facilities, and valued partners in every field

Good Samaritan – Puyallup, WA

Good Samaritan Hospital is part of the MultiCare Health System.  It is a comprehensive, private, not-for-profit medical system serving the growing populations of Pierce and King Counties in the greater Puget Sound region of Washington.

Their medical staff includes 1,600 of the region’s most respected primary care physicians and specialists.

Their website states that their expanding health care delivery system is based in Tacoma and includes acute care hospitals in Tacoma and Puyallup as well as:

There are 6,210 hospitals in the United States.  These are just the top 9 hospitals for travel nurses mentioned by fellow travel nurses in The Gypsy Nurse Facebook group.  There may be others that you find great as well.  Be sure to mention your top hospitals for travel nurses in the comments below. 

We hope this list will help you as a travel nurse.

Finished the travel nursing guide and are ready to look for an assignment?

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Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Lirika Hart

October 22, 2020

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5 Easy Ways to Make Your Temporary Housing Feel Cozier

Regardless of the season, you want a cozy home, even if it is just your temporary housing, that you can go back to at the end of a busy day. And, if you are a stay at home mum or dad, work from home, or simply spend most of your time at home during the day, you want a house that appeals to your eyes as well as one you enjoy spending time in.

Thankfully, making your home feel cozier doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. With just a bit of creativity, you can find easy ways to do this. It can be overwhelming, I agree. However, here are 5 easy ways to get you started.

1. Add plants

Besides improving a room’s aesthetics, plants add life to any room and create an aura of freshness indoors. In addition, incorporating greenery in your house cleans the air, letting you breathe toxins-free air. It also calms the mind, releasing life’s stresses, and leaving you relaxed.

Brighten up that dark and boring corner in the living room, or the stairway entry with a large potted plant. If you are limited on space, consider smaller plants placed on top of cabinets, window seals, or hanging planters. You can also place fresh flowers in a vase on the dining table to create a cozy meals area.

2. Spruce up the bathroom

Your bathroom represents a relaxation area. It is the first place you want to go to when you wake up in the morning. You also can’t wait to soak in the bathtub or stand under a shower at the end of the day. In that case, it should be luxurious, inviting, and soothing such that you want to stay longer there.

Spruce up the space with a beautiful and cozy bath mat and cute towels. You can also add in some candles and sweet fragrances to complete the feel. If you are looking for a total transformation, consider a shower remodeling to include a walk-in shower with a sliding door, or changing the flooring.

3. Declutter

This point may seem a bit odd for temporary housing, however many travel nurses bring more than necessary or pick up things while on assignment. and for all you know, your home could be lacking that cozy feel due to clutter. You see, cluttered spaces always feel crumpled and congested. On the other hand, a room without clutter tends to appear organized, clean, and spacious, giving it that cozy look and feel.

Go room to room organizing things; you are likely to bump into items that you no longer use. Free up the space by getting rid of such things. You can sell or donate to other people. You will be surprised how spacious rooms feel cozy and comfortable.

4. Add soft furnishings

Soft furnishings add another layer of comfort to the furniture, instantly making a room feel luxurious. The good thing is that you can play around with colors and textures to create a balance in the room. A good place to start is in throw pillows for the sofa. Consider mixing up the colors, but make sure they remain within the theme of the house so that they don’t look out of place. If you already have some, changing the covers or refilling them can instantly give them life. You can also consider investing in extra fluffy pillows for the beds, as well as a throw blanket for the sofa for that cold movie night.

5. Create a nook

With the hustles and bustles of life, it is good to have a dedicated space that you can hibernate to and just have some alone time. Of course, you want the space to be comfortable and quiet. Ideally, it should be a space where you can do things like reading a book, listening to music or any other favorite pastime activity.

Find a comfortable chair such as an armchair, throw in some pillows and a blanket to get that cozy look. You can also incorporate a rug to keep your feet warm and improve the aesthetics. If you have a beautiful view on your balcony, that makes a perfect position for your nook.

Conclusion

As said earlier, there are countless ways that you can make any space feel cozier, even temporary housing, but the above points give you an idea of what you can do. However, let your creativity and ideas run wide when settling on what to incorporate in your house. The most important thing is to have a home that matches your lifestyle.

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!)

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Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

October 21, 2020

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Prepping for Flu Season with COVID-19

This article was provided by Travel Nurse Across America

2020 has been a bit of a hectic time for travel nurses, to say the least. COVID-19 has led to an increased demand for nurses, and now with flu season on the way, it seems like it’ll make things even more complicated. That’s why it’s always good to work with an agency that features benefits like a comprehensive support team and day-one health insurance, so you have the support you need going into these colder, busier months. However, there are some things you can do now, which will help you get prepped for a flu season with COVID-19 thrown into the mix.

Flu and COVID-19 Symptoms

As a nurse, you’re probably well-aware of those standard flu symptoms like coughs, fevers, runny noses, etc. The tricky thing is that COVID-19 shares a lot of those symptoms. Not to mention the fact that someone could be sick with both at the same time! As a result, it can be tough to determine right away what a patient may be sick with before they receive a test.

However, there is one thing that’s helpful to keep in mind. With COVID-19, many people report that they lose their sense of smell or taste along with their other symptoms. This can help you get a better idea as to what a patient may be sick with, and help them get the treatment they may need sooner.

Taking Care of Yourself

While it’s always important to take care of yourself when on an assignment, it’s especially important this year. You want to make sure you do all that you can to keep healthy when you’re working. For the flu season, that means remembering to get your flu shot as soon as you can. The sooner you do, the less of a chance there is of you catching the flu yourself!

One nice thing is that many of the steps taken to avoid the spread of COVID-19 double are effective for limiting the spread of the flu. Wearing a mask, social distancing, washing your hands, and other measures can help you stay safe when you’re working and when you’re not. There are also some special steps you can take, which can be helpful. For example, maybe you’re worried about bringing flu or COVID-19 particles home with you on your uniform. By bringing a change of clothes in something like a plastic bag, you can take your uniform, put it in the bag, and then throw it in the wash as soon as you get back to where you’re staying.

Take care of yourself off the clock too

Taking care of yourself also applies when you’re off the clock too. Things like eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and exercising are all helpful forms of self-care that’ll not only help you feel more energized and focused but they’ll also help boost your immune system.

Of course, don’t forget to get tested yourself! The CDC has been sending out tests that can detect both the flu and COVID-19 across the country, which will help both you and your patients. Ultimately, this flu season is going to be unlike any before it. That’s why nurses need to know what they can do to help keep safe and work with an agency that’ll support them every step of the way to continue to provide great care to those who need it!

Finished the travel nursing guide and are ready to look for an assignment?

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.

Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab