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By Barney Whistance

June 5, 2020

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What Can Help COVID-19 Frontliners Who Are Exhausted and Overwhelmed?

The COVID-19 virus has left every working body in shambles and disrupted the flow of life for everyone. People can’t sustain their livelihoods, get out of the house for work or get essentials, and nor do they have any outlets to handle this situation better. However, several medical teams and units are trying to ease the stress and improve the condition for people. But what we can’t forget is that at the end of the day, they are still working in these times of turmoil and are shorthanded.

Doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers are people who have to keep up with their busy lives under these difficult circumstances. Because they are the only ones qualified for the job and equipped with the knowledge, they are indispensable. They are working closely with governments and authorities to ensure the safety of every resident. And they are doing all this knowing that they are exposing themselves to the possibility of contracting this deadly health disease. Their contribution is heroic, but even they can’t deny the need to step back from this burden and take a sigh of relief.

Luckily for healthcare workers in Florida, they can seize the opportunity to get away from their stressful lives and go for a staycation. The Florida staycation ideas are nothing less than charming, and what’s even better is that you can avail discounts on the offer. Although Florida is a state that has plenty of life in it in the form of beaches and theme parks, unfortunately, most of it is inaccessible at this point. But you can still sign for this wonderful to escape the worries of a life struck by the pandemic.

That was just one of the many ways which you can adopt to get yourself a breather and release all that tension gathered up from working on the frontlines. There are several other options and activities that you can try to get back your presence of mind. These are a few of them that you can easily pick up and start practicing from today.

Focus on Mental Health

The most primary of your concerns should be mental health. Watching tragic incidents and deaths around you or being close to sick patients can wear you out. Instead of letting all this get your head and depress you, try to invest your energies in more positive things.

Taking up a hobby or a course can be too hectic or require some commitment, but some exercises can prove to be helpful with ease. They are great for your mind, they keep you healthy, and you can stay focused and active throughout the day if that’s how you start it.

Besides that, try to watch some positive things instead of listening to the news or dealing with work affairs. That will help relax and make you feel warm and content, even if it’s for a little while.

And above all, rest, and rest plenty. The effects of a good nap might be visible physically, but it heals your body and mind alike. Try to give this time to yourself without worrying about your surroundings and others.

Invest Yourself Elsewhere

If your work is the only thing that’s keeping you functional, it might be a great time to change that for all the healthcare workers dealing with COVID-19 on the front lines. Exercising and watching lively stuff aside, try to invest your energy in places that detach you from work.

Spending time with your family is one of the best ways of doing it. Try to bond with them while cooking, dancing, or taking on any side activities. If you have a hyperactive boy who loves video games, then you can team up with him and learn something new. Or a genius girl who likes to explore her potentials, try lending a hand with that.

You can also plan on some alone time with books or art. They are great distractions and very helpful in feeding your imagination new and exciting stuff. Plus, they can help you discover some new sides to your personality that you didn’t even know existed.

Stay Connected Through the Barriers

Even though we are limited to the boundaries of four residences, it doesn’t mean that we cut ourselves off from everyone. For those who are already active on social media, it isn’t a problem, but those who are not so good with digital connections need to adapt to these changes.

Try and keep in touch with your friends, colleagues, and extended family to have reality checks and keep a foot on the ground. Chats, online video sessions, or even a get-together on brunch over the internet can prove to be very helpful. It may not feel the same, but it’s the next best thing.

Remember that the biggest obstacle during quarantine is your isolation. It’s not only bringing our spirits but also tainting our souls. And the only way of overcoming it is to remember that we are not alone in this crisis. That will help us focus on the fact that it will pass eventually, and maintain a positive attitude.

Summary

These are some of the best ways to help any healthcare workers and medical units to recollect from the workload they face on the frontlines against COVID-19. Try to incorporate them into your daily life and do anything that will help make you feel positive and happy. Remember that you don’t have to save all of humanity, and there are people to cover for you. Value your well-being, so that you can stand up to take the place of another fellow worker tomorrow.

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 Megan Hutcherson

June 4, 2020

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Packing Tips from Travel Nurses

Deciding what you will need for 13 weeks can be difficult. Megan and Ty have put together some packing tips to help you get started. They currently live in a repurposed van, so space for them is limited. Before they lived in the van they would pack 2 cars to the brim, they almost couldn’t see out. Because space is limited now, they are very mindful of what to pack for each assignment.

Clothing

They recommend thinking about your lifestyle and what activities you enjoy doing. To pack your clothes around that. They also emphasis to pack your clothing based on the location of your assignment. If it is a warmer climate, you won’t be needing your winter coat and boots. Likewise, a colder climate might mean you don’t need shorts and tank tops.

Scrubs: They suggest packing enough scrubs to get you through a week. Generally 3-4 pair each.

Megan and Ty use packing cubes for their clothing. Amazon has a wide variety of packing cubes, these are the ones that Megan and Ty use Shacke Pak – 5 Set Packing Cubes – Travel Organizers with Laundry Bag.

Kitchen

Megan says pack what is essential to you. If you are going to be staying in furnished housing you may not need to pack many appliances, however, if a blender is something you use daily it may be a good idea to pack it. Also if you have a favorite mug or cup bring that as well.

Collapsible Items: Megan and Ty suggest getting as many collapsible items as possible. Storage containers, gadgets, and strainers. These tend to take up less room when packing and storing them.

They also use magnetic spice containers so they can store them right on their refrigerator and don’t take up space in the cabinets.

Decor/Books

Making your housing feel like your own and personalized can help with loneliness, however don’t go overboard. Megan suggests thinking about just how much time you plan to spend inside and pack your decor and books accordingly.

Megan and Ty really emphasis keeping in mind the location of your assignment when you are packing. They also say to keep in mind if your housing is furnished you may not need to pack as much. If it is an item that you don’t use more than 2-3 times a week, don’t pack it. Remember, you can pick another one up or have a family member ship it to you if you find yourself needing it.

We hope you found this video from Megan and Ty on packing tips helpful. Do you have any packing tips you would like to share? 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 Lirika Hart

June 2, 2020

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4 Tips for Building a Healthy Relationship

A healthy relationship is fulfilling and provides a safe refuge when faced with life’s discouragements. You feel at home in a relationship where you have a meaningful emotional connection, respectful and honest communication, and still, feel independent to maintain your interests and external relations. However, building and maintaining a healthy relationship requires time, effort, and commitment. If you are wondering how to build a healthy relationship, the following tips will be helpful.

1. Practice good communication

Good communication is a key ingredient for a healthy relationship. How you communicate determines the level of emotional connection you will have in the relationship. In addition, poor communication can easily bring a disconnect that can cause stress and eventually resentment. Good communication, however, comprises different aspects such as the following.

  • Be a good listener

There is a difference between listening and hearing, which most people don’t know. When you hear what the other person is saying, you fail to pick the emotions, voice intonations, and body language that he or she is expressing. That is where the real meaning of what they are saying lies. Be a good listener so you can pick the non-verbal cues that are being passed across.

  • Hit the nail on the head

When you speak, talk about what you want directly without assuming that your partner is a mind reader. You might think that he or she understood what you wanted, but you could be throwing them into more confusion.

2. Make your time together meaningful.

Most relationships become stale over time because people allow life obligations to come between them, limiting the time they have for each other. However, if you want to maintain healthy communication, it is paramount that you intentionally create time for each other. Do not assume that a quick text or email to your partner can have the same feeling as telling it to him or her face to face. No matter how busy you become, consider doing the following.

  • Be fun and playful

During your time together, create beautiful memories by including fun and playful things in the things that you do. Reserve a table at the restaurant where you first met and surprise her with a bouquet of her favorite flowers. Get a little more creative and order a personalized photo pendant necklace with a picture of both of you or a loving message.

A personalized photo pendant necklace will always remind your significant other about your love at any time of the day.

  • Do fun things together.

Do things you love doing together like walks, biking, or watching a movie. You can also challenge yourself to new things such as signing up for baking or dancing classes together.

3. Understand that life is about giving and taking

Relationships are about taking and giving; you can’t expect to get everything you want while you give nothing to your partner. For a relationship to thrive, it is important that you understand what each of you needs so you can create an atmosphere of compromise. This is especially important in solving conflicts and choosing the fights to engage in. For healthy conflict solutions;

  • Fight fairly

We all have something to say in an argument, and we often feel it is the right thing. However, it makes a big difference when you eliminate a must-win attitude and give your partner time to express his sentiments as well.

  • Do not attack or blame

Refrain from attacking the other person, blaming, and bringing up their past mistakes. Instead, use respectful and kind words in your fights.

  • Step out if it’s too hot

It is impossible to solve conflicts when you are angry. It is always wise to step out for your nerves to calm down to avoid doing something you would regret later.

  • Be open-minded

Always fight for your relationship; when you do this, you will be more willing to forgive and more open-minded to find a compromise.

4. Maintain healthy boundaries

Before your relationship started, each of you had a life of his or her own going on. If you want to have a healthy relationship, do not expect your partner to ditch his other relations, and just be with you. His family, friends, and colleagues make an important part of his life, and so does yours. For your relationship to be healthy, respect, and trust each other’s relations and give each additional time to build and maintain those relationships.

Conclusion

Building and maintaining a healthy relationship is important for your general well-being, making it necessary to have one. The nature of your relationship will influence your attitude towards life and will determine the energy that you give to the world. Use the above tips to build a healthy relationship that will be fulfilling and happy.

Are you a travel nurse who has some advice for other travel nurses on having a healthy relationship? Comment them below. Also, if you would like to read other travel nurses’ stories of love on the road here are a few great articles.

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 ONESTAFF MEDICAL

June 1, 2020

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Stay Focused. Keeping Your Calm in the Face of a Cancellation

This article was provided by OneStaff Medical.

Let’s talk about something a traveling healthcare professional hopes they never have to experience, assignment cancellation. You take each assignment assuming you’ll be there for the full length you agreed to, but right now there is an increase of canceled assignments (especially crisis assignments) due to lower census. We’ve teamed up with a few of our Rockstar recruiters to discuss how to prepare for cancellation and how to be proactive to try to avoid assignments with a good chance of cancellation.

In any situation, it is always best to be proactive and be ready for the worst. Here is some advice before you apply and accept a high risk (of cancellation) assignment.

Senior Recruiter, Kayla Cash:

For the higher risk contracts, crisis contract, etc. I do let the travelers I work with know before we even get their application in that once the crisis, or influx of census drops that there is a risk of the contract being cancelled. I highly encourage you to really start thinking about a back-up plan that we’ll want to pursue if/when that happens. Document that and jump on it right away if/when the time comes. 

Senior Recruiter, Louie Brezina:

By flat out telling the Nurse the facts. Might not be what anyone wants to hear but it is what it is right now. Let them know what we have been seeing on our end of the desk. Nurses getting cancelled the Friday before or 2 weeks in. It truly is unknown what will actually happen, but you have to be ready for the worst. 

Senior Recruiter, Cece Paragas:

Just know in accepting, if they have to cancel, travelers would be the first to go. Make sure to be aware of your budget and make sure you have a nice financial cushion in case your assignment is cancelled.

Summary:

  • Have a backup plan and be ready to move forward with it
  • Listen to what your recruiter has to say on the matter
  • Make sure you are financially prepared for if/when a cancellation happens

When applying and accepting a high-risk assignment, how do you mentally/financially prepare for anything?

Senior Recruiter, Kayla Cash:

Ideally, their recruiter would give them a heads-up FAR ahead of time, so they are mentally & financially prepared. But I would imagine that not every recruiter is as transparent and/or thorough. In the case that didn’t happen… for the financial side, it’s always a good idea to have a ‘cushion’ in savings when traveling, as there is a lot of unexpected that can happen when traveling across the country in general, let alone for a job. For the mental portion, most of these contracts are going to be shorter term – it’s always a good idea to start thinking of what your plan is following your current contract, so you know what your next plan of action is going to be. That way, IF the contract is cancelled, you do at least have a plan of action in place.

Senior Recruiter, Louie Brezina:

Go in the contract with the mindset that this isn’t forever and as hard as it may seem, don’t take it personally if you do get cancelled. To really avoid a cancellation, it truly is in your best interest to be open to locations or different types of facilities.

Everyone’s finances are completely different. Kind of goes without saying but save, save, save. Make sure that the housing you choose is the best option in that area. Try to track down contracts where you may know someone and can get a deal on short term rent. 

Senior Recruiter, Cece Paragas:

Realize that it’s nothing personal and just know that I will do my very best to find you something ASAP.  You have my Word!

Summary:

  • Have money saved up for the worst
  • Be thinking of the future and your next assignment
  • Be flexible with location/types of facilities
  • Try to snag the most affordable housing you can
  • Communicate with your recruiter and talk about all of the possibilities

We know that the money for crisis assignments is tempting, but these are the first jobs on the chopping block once census drops. So, let’s discuss what to do when your assignment gets cancelled or cut short by the facility, what’s the next step?

Senior Recruiter, Kayla Cash:

Typically, assignment cancellation is going to be due to a drop in census on the unit. When I get this notification, typically via email, I reach out to the traveler right away and let them know about the info I got and chat with them to see if there’s any other unit’s they’d be open to working at the facility to try to keep their contract going. At that point, if willing to switch units, I’d get back to the facility/vendor and let them know that we’re willing to do everything we can to continue aiding the facility in any way possible & that the traveler would really like to stay if possible. Granted this doesn’t always work, it is always worth a try! In the meantime, I would be chatting with the traveler about back up options elsewhere, so we don’t have all of our eggs in one basket. 

Senior Recruiter, Louie Brezina:

Nurses have a great deal of pride in their career (as they should). So, I’m sure it’s easier said than done…You have to believe that it’s not a personal jab and that unfortunately that is the market we are in right now. I would like to say be choosy on your next contract, but with jobs cut short right now; it’s not really an option. Seasoned recruiters will know which contracts are legitimately hiring candidates, not cancelling, calling off, etc. Now, more than ever you have to trust that your recruiter is setting you up for success. 

Summary:

  • Be flexible to potentially working in another unit to keep the contract going
  • Have a back-up plan
  • Understand the decision is in no way personal
  • Openly communicate with your recruiter
  • Trust that your recruiter is setting you up for success

If your assignment gets cancelled and you need help getting back on your feet before your next assignment; here is how to file for unemployment.

Where: You file for unemployment in the state where you last worked. Here is a list of each state and where to file.

What info will I need: Name, social security number, date of birth, phone number, and the facility name and address where you last worked and potentially your banking information.

When will I receive money: With an increase in unemployment due to the pandemic, payments are taking longer than normal, so be warned.  

Assignment Cancellation isn’t ideal for any traveler, but always remember it is a possibility being in this industry. Be prepared for the unexpected and have that solid relationship with your recruiter to help them help you when times get tough. Keep your head up and keep moving forward.

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

By The Gypsy Nurse

May 31, 2020

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Travel Nurse Housing: Where am I going to Live? Part II

3 Travel Nurse Housing Options

There are 3 travel nurse housing options to consider when asking the question Where am I going to live?

  1. Agency Provided Travel Nurse Housing
  2. Securing your own housing: Travel nurse housing stipend
  3. Travel in an RV

PART II: Securing Your own Travel Nurse Housing with a Stipend

Overview

Last week we discussed the company provided travel nurse housing. If you haven’t read this, I suggest that you take a look at it and read over the tax implications.

Today we are going to touch on obtaining your own travel nurse housing. There are multiple considerations when opting for travel nurse housing stipend. If you have a valid tax-home, you can sometimes pocket a little extra cash by obtaining your own housing.

Many travel nurses choose to find their own housing simply because of the additional financial benefit. If the travel nurse housing stipend is more than the rent, the traveler can pocket the remainder! This is a huge benefit for finding your own travel nurse housing.

It’s important that you treat each assignment individually and assess housing availability and cost prior to determining if you are going to accept a travel nurse housing stipend instead of company provided housing. There are some areas that finding housing that is furnished is difficult. In these situations it’s likely better to take company housing. Make sure that you have options.

Online Resources for finding Travel Nurse Housing

Things to consider when choosing the Travel Nurse housing stipend.

  • Does availability and price match what the stipend would be?
  • What is the minimum length of the lease? I recommend obtaining a month to month lease in case your contract is terminated early. However, these can be very difficult to find.
  • Do you want a private space or shared?
  • Do you need cable, internet, etc?
  • Will there be any deposits?
  • Is parking included?
  • What utilities are included? Furniture?
  • Calculate your anticipated cost with everything and make sure that your stipend will cover the costs.
  • Consider an unfurnished rental and furnish it yourself.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Obtaining your own Travel Nurse Housing

Advantages

  • You have full control over the location and type of travel nurse housing provided.
  • You may be able to find travel nurse housing that doesn’t cost the full ‘stipend’ and therefore, put a little additional money in your pocket.

Disadvantages

  • Travel Nurse Housing research can be very time consuming.
  • The lease is in your name so there may be credit checks required from the accommodation.
  • If housing is limited in the area, you might actually get better housing by using the agencies resources.

Travel Nurse Housing OptionsTravel Nurse Housing: Where am I going to Live? Part II

READ PART I: Agency Provided Travel Nurse Housing

READ PART III: Travel in an RV


Looking for Travel Nurse Housing?
CLICK HERE for the most up to date Travel Nurse housing resources.


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 TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

May 29, 2020

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Travel Nursing, Industry Changes & What You Need to Know

This article was provided by TNAA.

Don’t get comfortable yet. As the country shifts into this new phase of the crisis, we must adapt to industry-standard changes and slightly more personal freedoms outside of work. Staying up-to-date with varying state regulations has always been a burden carried by travel nurses. Like the disease itself, our way of life — on and off the unit — changes by the minute. More than ever, it’s crucial that your agency remains vigilant by ensuring they’re protecting their nurses, reacting to market trends, and ensuring they’re available to support their nurses.

Industry Changes & What You Need to Know

Between the influx of crisis assignments and the numerous canceled contracts, it’s safe to say the healthcare industry is trying to find its footing. Many travel nurses find themselves wondering whether the facility will provide adequate PPE, or how state emergency declarations impact licensure. Keeping up with these changes can be overwhelming — hello, news overload — and nurses have enough on their plates. You need your agency to have your back. Check with your recruiter to see how your agency is protecting you during this time.

  • Credentialing: Your agency should ensure the issuing of your emergency temp license before your start date. Plus, they should have a plan to follow up on permanent license status so you can continue working if/when the state of emergency lifts.
  • Clinical Support: Your agency should focus on supporting you through the acute portion of this crisis. Do you have a team available to assist with concerns surrounding PPE and mental health resources?

Adapting to the New Job Market

Between limited surgeries and low hospital census, it seems that work is scarce if you’re not an ICU nurse. Yes, we’re talking to you OR, PACU, and even some NICU nurses. It’s a terrible time to start travel nursing because there are no jobs, or that’s what chatter across social media would have you believe. But that’s not the case. Jobs will return. As America adjusts to a new normal, so will hospitals. It’s crucial to prep your file now so that when positions open, you’re ready to be one of the first nurses to submit. Think about it; you can count on seeing an influx in elective surgeries, from knee replacements to trigger finger surgeries. Plus, with summer rolling in and states reopening, there’s sure to be a rise in emergency surgeries from accidents and injuries. Operating rooms will reopen, and when they do, every OR and PACU travel nurse will submit for the same jobs. 

  • Prep Your File: Focus on updating your skills checklist and references to reflect any recent travel experience. Your recruiter is your best ally, armed with market knowledge of what hiring managers want to see from travel nurse profiles.
  • Remain Flexible: As jobs open, we expect a tidal wave of nurses applying to each job. Increase your chances of landing a job by remaining flexible on location, shift, and any day-off requests.
  • Stay Available: Travel nursing is always about speed. When your recruiter submits your profile for a job, try to keep your phone available. Look up the area code and should you miss a call, call back as soon as possible.

Hiking, Exploring & Changes to Expect When You’re Off The Clock

While Texas beaches are open, lodging at Arkansas state parks remains reserved for in-state residents only. Confused? You’re not alone, and unfortunately, no one really knows what to expect in the coming days. So, what can you do on your day off? Here are a few tips.

  • Outdoor Exploring: Before you pack up your gear, check to see what restrictions are in place. State tourism websites, nps.gov, and local government press releases keep updated restriction info listed. Be sure to pack any items you need to remain socially distant and ensure you can practice good hand hygiene.
  • City Exploring: With social distancing guidelines in place, it can be difficult to get a feel for your new city. Expect some level of overcrowding at those must-see venues, so you may need to get creative. Try to go when they’re not typically busy, or see if you can reserve a more private experience — for instance, booking a private tour for you and your fellow nurses.
  • Local Exploring: Travel nurses know, there’s a big difference between visiting those must-see attractions and really getting to know the local culture. A great way to do this, while self-isolating or remaining socially distant, is to create a local bucket-list. Ask around and visit local food blogs to find out what you need to experience, from notable take-out dining to a city’s staple local shops. Essentially, those local treasures that will help you remember the area.

Seeking Support

Above all, the COVID-19 pandemic impact highlights a glaring need for travel nurses — real support. Over the years, the industry has shifted as agencies, and travel nurses alike trended toward do-it-yourself technology and minimized communication. As the coronavirus spread, all aspects of travel nursing changed by the minute. From contract cancellations to shifts in housing options, it’s more important than ever to have a team behind you as you navigate these unchartered waters. So, what is support? It’s knowing that you have people in your corner to find you clean, safe housing after hours. Feeling confident that you can communicate with your agency’s payroll team to fix any mistakes. It’s believing that your agency’s focus remains on connecting you to high-paying, quality travel nurse jobs while continuing to protect your interests along the way.

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

By The Gypsy Nurse

May 25, 2020

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Memorial Day: Celebrate and Remember the Nurses that have Served

Let’s celebrate and remember the nurses that have served this Memorial Day

WikipediaMemorial Day is a United States federal holiday which occurs every year on the final Monday of May. Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War. By the 20th century Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in all wars. It typically marks the start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.

The ‘Sacred Twenty’: The first women to formally serve as members of U.S. Navy

They overcame insurmountable odds, endured gender-based prejudice, and helped a constant barrage of wounded soldiers under enemy fire. These courageous women, though patriots of different countries, were ultimately devoted to the true calling of nursing – saving human life.

Some stood firmly at their posts while bombs exploded around them, while other did it through administration and coordination. One of them was even executed by a German firing squad after being caught helping allied troops.

Read more: The Scared Twenty

lt lane

Lieutenant Lane

Lieutenant Lane died from shrapnel wounds when the 312th Evacuation Hospital at Chu Lai was hit by rockets on June 8, 1969. From Canton, OH, she was a month short of her 26th birthday. She was posthumously awarded the Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with Palm and the Bronze Star for Heroism. In 1970, the recovery room at Fitzsimmons Army Hospital in Denver, where Lt. Lane had been assigned before going to Vietnam, was dedicated in her honor. In 1973, Aultman Hospital in Canton, OH, where Lane had attended nursing school, erected a bronze statue of Lane. The names of 110 local servicemen killed in Vietnam are on the base of the statue.

To Lieutenant Lane’s memorial on The Virtual Wall

Band of Angels

In World War II, 66 army nurses were captured during the Battle of the Philippines and were prisoners of war. They were eventually released in 1945 after many years of hardship. As well as being prisoners of war, 201 nurses were killed by the enemy in World War II.

Read More: We Band of Angels: The Untold Story of American Nurses Trapped on Bataan by the Japanese

Army Capt. Joshua M. McClimans

Capt. McClimans Died April 22, 2011 Serving During Operation Enduring Freedom 30, of Akron, Ohio; assigned to 848th Forward Surgical Team, U.S. Army Reserve, Twinsburg, Ohio; died April 22 at Forward Operating Base Salerno, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with indirect fire.

Read More about McClimans

The above is only a small memorial to those nurses that have served and chosen to give back to our country.  If you know a Military Nurse, thank them for their service. Remind them that the price that they pay in sacrifice, care and devotion is not forgotten.

If you are a military nurse, we want to say THANK YOU for your service!

Today we celebrate Nurses that Have Served.

Help us celebrate nurses that have served. Do you know a military nurse that deserves recognition? Tag them in the comments and let’s celebrate them today.

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

By Leo Wilson

May 24, 2020

6616 Views

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5 Tips For Traveling With Your Pet As A Travel Nurse

The healthcare industry is facing a shortage of nurses in hospitals across the country. The concept of travel nurses was created to make quickly fill the demands for medical professionals. Assignments typically last 13-weeks in each location before moving on to the next.

Being a travel nurse is a great way to satisfy your sense of adventure while honing your professional skills. However, being away from home for weeks at a time can lead to homesickness, especially if you have pets at home. Why not just bring your pets with you on your travels? There are steps to consider before road tripping with your pet, but once you’ve prepared, it’s an open road for you and your pet.

Make Traveling With Your Pet Easier

For some people, the best part about traveling is throwing together a bag and hitting the road on a whim. If you travel for your job, more preparation is necessary. Adding your pet into the mix allows you a loyal companion for the travel, but also requires careful thought to make sure your pet’s essential needs are met.

Follow these five tips to make traveling with your pet as a travel nurse easier – on you and your pet.

1. Find Pet-Friendly Housing and Hotels

Before you can even begin to travel with your pet, you need to make sure you have accommodations that are pet-friendly. You don’t want to get to your new housing only to find out that your pet is not allowed. Recruiters can help you find pet-friendly housing in the area you’ll be working.

Depending on how far the travel is and your mode of transportation, you may also need to stop at hotels to rest. Not all hotels allow pets in the room. It’s important to find a plan a pet-friendly hotel stop along your route. Be aware that many hotels that allow pets do charge an extra deposit fee.

2. Transport Your Pet Safely

Would you feel safe driving long distances on busy roads without wearing your seatbelt? Many people make the mistake of not securing their pets in vehicles on trips. If an accident occurs, unsecured pets can be injured or escape the vehicle in the confusion.

Allowing pets to roam inside the vehicle while you’re driving can cause distractions that put both of your lives in danger. Keep traveler and pet safe by keeping pets in a crate

3. Pet Identification

Pets get lost all the time. It can be even more difficult to recover a lost pet if you’re in an unfamiliar area or en route to a new town. Tags on the collar with the pet’s name and owner contact information is one of the most popular forms of pet identification.

However, collars and tags can fall off or be removed. Microchips that go under the pet’s skin are permanent ways to identify a pet, even if they’ve been missing for years. How many feel-good stories have you seen on the internet about a lost pet being found thousands of miles away through the information on their microchip?

4. Find a Doggy Daycare

Nurses work long hours. Depending on the type of pet, they may not do well when left unattended for hours. Dogs in particular require regular exercise and bathroom breaks that can be difficult for busy professionals to find time to provide. Finding a local doggy daycare or dog walker can provide your dog with the playtime and supervision they need so you can spend your days taking care of humans in need.

5. Explore Area with Your Pet

Pets get bored cooped up inside just like people do. When you get your new assignments, research pet-friendly activities to do in the area. If your pet is a dog, more and more cities are building dog parks where dogs can run off-leash in a safe, enclosed area.

Exploring the local area with your pet also gives you the chance to make friends with locals and see what the city has to offer.
Pets Help Ease Stress; Help Ease Theirs

It’s been shown that pets can ease stress and improve the lives of their owners. However, that doesn’t make pets immune to stress themselves. Travel can be particularly stressful and scary for pets. The five tips mentioned can help reduce the amount of stress traveling can inflict on pets.

We hope you found these tips on traveling with your pet helpful! Here are a few more articles with great tips on traveling with your pet.

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 Gifted Healthcare

May 22, 2020

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Interview Tips for Travel Nurses

This article provided by Gifted Healthcare.

It’s completely normal to feel nervous about a job interview, regardless of your level of professional experience. Fortunately, no matter what job you’ve applied for, there are ways to prepare that will reduce stress and increase your chance of getting hired.

Read on for a list of tips to help you ace your next interview for a travel nursing assignment!

Always Be Positive

From beginning to end, no matter what, stay positive. Never use an interview as an opportunity to complain about past jobs, coworkers, or patients.

Prepare for Frequently Asked Questions

No matter what kind of nursing job you’re interviewing for, there are several questions you’re likely to encounter. Studying these questions and preparing answers for them will make you seem confident and knowledgeable.

Do more than memorizing your answers – study and practice them until they sound natural and conversational. If your responses seem mechanical, you may seem too calculated. When possible, cite specific examples and scenarios to support your answers.

Below are some common interview questions:

  • Why did you become a nurse? Why do you want this job?
  • What is your favorite thing about being a nurse? What is the most difficult part of being a nurse?
  • What tools have you developed to manage stress?
  • How do you handle patients who are unhappy with their quality of care?
  • If you witnessed a coworker violating facility policies/breaking the law, how would you handle it?
  • How do you handle a patient who regularly complains of pain?
  • Do you prefer to work alone, or as part of a team?
  • It is important to think about what each question is trying to accomplish.

General questions about your reasons for becoming a nurse, what you find difficult about the job, and your professional strengths are attempts to understand your style of nursing. Questions about specific scenarios are attempts to evaluate your sense of ethics and boundaries. Questions about your preferred clinical setting are attempts to understand your ability to adapt and collaborate.

Dress for Success

Like it or not, first impressions are important. Whether your interview is in-person or over the phone, dressing the part is essential.

Make sure you are well-groomed on the day of the interview. Get a good night’s sleep (if possible) and wear an outfit that makes you feel confident. Even if the person conducting the interview can’t see you, your preparedness and confidence will be reflected in the conversation.

Be Courteous

Show up on time, be polite, and bring any necessary paperwork. Turn off your cell phone and make sure there is no chance of being interrupted.

Do whatever you can to show the interviewer that the job is your top priority.

Be Engaged & Ask Questions

Interviews are a two-way street. Allow the interviewer to guide the conversation, but take time in the end to ask questions about the job.

In addition to learning whether or not the job is the right fit for you, asking questions will show the interviewer that you are detail-oriented. Nurses need to be team players, so it’s in your interest to showcase your communication skills.

School Yourself

Are there any areas of your nursing education that are getting rusty? Preparing for an interview is the perfect time to refresh your nursing knowledge.

When in doubt, over prepare!

We hope these interview tips are helpful on your way. Do you have any to share? Please comment your favorite interview tips below.

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