November 29, 2021

5558 Views

Mental Health Help For Travel Nurses

Posted on November 29, 2021May 27, 2022 by Fastaff Travel Nursing

This article was provided by Fastaff.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on mental health worldwide, but no one has been hit harder than front-line healthcare workers. As a result of the heightened stress healthcare professionals have endured for almost two years, they are at a higher risk for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. While traveling as a healthcare professional may feel isolating and lonely at times, it’s important to understand that you are not alone, and help is available and accessible through multiple channels.

Here are several benefits you can take advantage of as a travel nurse to support your mental health:

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) offer professional assistance with personal, family, finance, and work struggles, often at no cost to the employee. Many programs offer free telehealth therapy sessions and in-person access to behavioral health professionals and substance abuse counselors, among a variety of other benefits.

The Fastaff Employee Assistance Program offers confidential telephone consultations and counseling sessions for issues including stress, depression, family and relationship concerns, and more.

Movement is Medicine

According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA.org), even just five minutes of aerobic exercise can help lower cortisol, one of the primary hormones responsible for elevated levels of stress in the body. Utilizing fitness programs offered by your agency will encourage you to get moving and may improve your mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Fastaff currently works with United Healthcare to offer travelers enrolled in a Fastaff Health Plan a discounted digital fitness membership for 24/7 access to Peloton fitness classes on the go. Fastaff nurses can also join a free virtual yoga class every Wednesday at 12pm MT.

Prefer to get out of your house or hotel room to exercise? Fastaff also offers its travelers discounted memberships to 24-Hour Fitness – the world’s largest privately-owned fitness center chain that has thousands of convenient locations, the latest equipment, and diverse fitness classes to keep your workout interesting.

Finally, If you are currently enrolled in a Fastaff Health Plan, you may be eligible to enroll in a 1-year subscription to Apple Fitness+ at no additional cost.

In addition to taking advantage of programs that your agency may offer, one of the most underestimated forms of exercise that boosts both your physical and mental health exists for free – a short walk outside can help center and calm your mind and body, leaving you refreshed and renewed, allowing you to show up as the best healthcare professional you can be. Check out mental wellness apps like Calm and Headspace for guided meditations, encouragement, and coaching while you’re out and about.

Talk it Through and Work it Out

Talk therapy is a proven safe and effective method to help individuals sort through what’s taking up space in their minds and body. Talkspace is an online application that provides ongoing support and resources from a wide network of licensed therapists. With a dedicated COVID-19 Instagram channel and therapist-led Facebook groups, Talkspace offers discounted subscriptions for all users and financial assistance for healthcare workers and first responders.

In addition to therapy, The National Alliance on Mental Illness (nami.org) offers resources dedicated to healthcare workers who have been impacted by the events of the last year and a half. NAMI offers multiple resources to connect health care professionals with licensed mental health professionals at no cost, in addition to resources for individual and group support.

Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals experienced an unprecedented amount of burnout, depression, workplace stress, and anxiety. As the pandemic continues to exacerbate the rate of mental health issues in nurses, there must be a paradigm shift from mental health crisis reaction to prevention and awareness. Our goal is to empower our nurses to be proactive about their mental health by destigmatizing mental illness and providing ongoing support and resources as they navigate the COVID-19 landscape.

Our healthcare heroes are our lifeline, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Take care of yourself and be well.

Crisis Resources

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

We hope you found this article on mental health help for travel nurses helpful. Have you found ways to help with your mental health while on assignment? Comment them below.

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

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

START HERE

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

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By Furnished Finder

November 26, 2021

6433 Views

Navigating Lease Signing: Backing Out, Eviction, and Post-Signing Occupancy

Posted on November 26, 2021December 19, 2023 by Furnished Finder

Leases just protect the landlord, right?

This is an important topic to tackle head-on as there may be a stigma associated with signing a lease. Of course, a landlord is going to write up a lease that protects themselves and their property, but some tenants may not realize that there are many reasons they should want to sign a lease themselves because of the built-in state tenant protection laws.

We’ve heard of travelers sending a deposit to secure a property without a signed lease in place. In this situation, you are really rolling the dice because without a written document outlining all the details; you are subject to a he-said/she-said situation which leaves you venerable. And really, why leave these things up to chance?

The most obvious reason to have a lease in place is to simply define the lease’s terms. It sets the tone for what is expected and lays out the parameters for both parties. While tenant/landlord laws are different in every state, a lease will define the standards and requirements which are designed to protect each party.

Get more information in the Free Essential Travel Nurse E-Book.

Now, we’ve all signed stuff we couldn’t possibly read entirely… like when you purchase a car or get a mortgage, but a residential lease is NOT one of those documents. First of all, we encourage every traveler to request a lease before any money is exchanged. This should be a hard & fast rule. Secondly, taking the time to read it carefully is the best possible thing you can do at this point. Leases can be explained and even changed, so if you see something you are uncomfortable with, or maybe you just need some extra clarity around a specific term, speak up right away. Once you sign your lease, all negotiations end.

Here are some of the most important terms in a lease:

Lease Term

As a traveling professional, you may want to search for a month-to-month lease rather than a 3-month minimum lease. It all depends on what is available in the area at that time, but if you have the luxury of choosing between the two, the M2M lease will give you much greater flexibility.

Notice to Vacate

This is important to pay attention to because what good is an M2M lease if they require 60 days’ notice to vacate? That is an example, of course, but you get the idea. Travelers need flexibility as much as possible, so a 30-day notice to vacate is standard. That said, however, travel nurses don’t always get the luxury of knowing 30 days out if they’ll renew or go to work somewhere else, so you should have a conversation with the landlord before you sign the lease, so they understand your situation. The landlord has to protect themselves, of course, but they also need to appease their tenant, so this is a conversation worth having before a lease is signed and may result in favorable terms.

Early-Out

Every travel nurse needs to know what will happen if your contract is suddenly canceled and you need to leave unexpectedly. The lease will often explain the worst-case scenario of what you would be responsible for should you leave before the end of your lease, but this should absolutely be a conversation you have with your landlord prior to signing the lease. Some landlords offer more flexible lease terms for travel nurses, so always talk to the landlord beforehand about this specific scenario.

Costs

Next, a lease will define the price you’ll pay and what is expected from you at move-in/move-out. Security deposits are also a very important piece of the puzzle that should be clearly defined, so there is no confusion at move-out. The keyword to look for is “refundable” to make sure you can recoup your security deposit, assuming there was no damage to the property. A cleaning fee is usually a separate charge and is not refundable.

The lease will also tell you how much the monthly rent is when the rent is due and what happens if it is received late. Try to set up an auto-payment at the same time each month so you can essentially eliminate the chance of incurring any late fees.

Pro Tip: There are many ways to pay your rent, but try to pay rent with a credit card when possible. When you pay rent with a credit card, you have built-in consumer rights that you won’t have with a check or other type of payment. It can also be a great way to earn reward points and to even build your credit over time. The trick is, of course, to always pay off the credit card immediately, so you’re not carrying any of that balance.

Utilities should be included in a furnished rental which should always be specified in a lease. More importantly, it should also identify any utilities that are not covered or capped (meaning sometimes landlords say they will pay up to $x per month for heating or electricity and anything over you are expected to pay). Sometimes apartment complexes will offer you a short-term lease. However, the furniture and utilities are not included, so make sure you know what is included in the rent.

Pets

Make sure you know their pet policy, including non-refundable pet fees, which may limit the number and type of animals you can bring (i.e., two dogs maximum. 45lb max, no restricted breeds). Expect to pay a little bit more if you’re going to travel with your best friend. Also, you absolutely must disclose that you are bringing a pet if that is your intention. Even if it is a registered service animal, just showing up with your dog is unfair to the landlord and will most likely be a breach of contract.

Extras

Nobody wants to be inconvenienced, and most of us don’t like surprises when it comes to our living situation, so make sure you know what is included in the property. What is the parking situation? Many places have ample street or driveway parking, but parking comes at a premium in busier cities, so be sure you know the parking situation/limitations. Likewise, what is the laundry situation? You’ll want to know if there is a washer/dryer in the unit, in the complex, or a couple of blocks away. Also, some landlords may impose limits on who can live at that property, so if you’re traveling with a friend or spouse in tow, be sure that the landlord is aware.

Leases Protect Tenant Too!

Again, a tenant should never send any money without a signed lease in place. Because every lease is different, tenants need to be very intentional and specific about understanding what is in the agreement they are about to sign. Once you sign, you accept everything just the way it is written, so if one of the terms is confusing or too prohibitive, make sure you speak up immediately. If you can negotiate better terms for yourself (ex. asking for a discount on rent, lower security deposit, or a shorter notice to vacate), now is the time to do that.

Are you looking for housing for your next assignment? Click here to search our housing page in partnership with Furnished Finder.

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

START HERE

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

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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

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By Amber Pickler

November 25, 2021

7670 Views

Holiday Favorites from TGN Staff

Posted on November 25, 2021May 27, 2022 by Amber Pickler

The holiday season is upon us! We at The Gypsy Nurse would like to thank you for all you do and your continued support of TGN. This year has been incredibly challenging and trying for all healthcare workers, but especially travel nurses. We hope that you can take some time this holiday season for yourself and/or with your families.

The Gypsy Nurse staff has put together some of our favorite holiday recipes to help you prepare for your holiday gatherings. We hope you enjoy them!

Steve Curtin’s holiday recipe:

Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses

This recipe is very forgiving. You can alter the amounts of milk, cheeses, and fat contents of milk (I first starting with whole and have worked my way down to 1%) without substantially affecting the outcome. You can make it 1-2 days ahead of time, or the same day you plan on serving it.

Ingredients:

1 cup (packed) grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup crumbled Danish blue cheese
1/3 cup (packed) freshly grated Parmesan
5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled, sliced into ¼” rounds
1 ½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon pepper
¼ cup finely chopped onion
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons butter
5 cups milk

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400. Lightly butter 10×15 glass baking dish.
Mix Cheddar, Blue, and Parmesan cheeses in a small bowl and set aside.

Arrange one layer of potatoes in a prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper.

Sprinkle onion over, then flour.

Dot with 2 tbsp butter. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over.
Top with another layer of potatoes, ¾ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and 2 tbsp butter.
Reserve remaining cheese.
Bring milk to simmer in a large saucepan. Pour milk over potatoes (milk may not cover potatoes completely).
Cover baking dish tightly with foil. Bake 45 minutes.

Uncover dish (liquids in the dish may look curdled), sprinkle potatoes with reserved cheese mixture.

Bake uncovered until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown, about 45 minutes longer.
Let stand at room temperature 15 minutes before serving.

Reheat in a 375-degree oven. Let stand 15 minutes. Makes 12 servings. Enjoy!

Rachel Altum’s holiday recipe:

Nana Foster’s Sweet Potatoes

This meal can be single-serve or served for many. There are no set measurements. Add more or less of what you like the best!

Ingredients:

Sweet Potato
Bacon
Pecans (Optional)
Brown Sugar
Cinnamon
Butter
Olive Oil
One Banana (optional)

Prep:

Peel and dice the sweet potato
Cut onions to the desired size. Long and skinny seem to be best
Cook bacon to desired crisp level
For more advanced cookers, chop up the bacon into quarter-sized pieces add bacon while cooking instead of at the end. It tastes even better, but I get nervous some of the bacon doesn’t get cooked all the way. If you do this, cook it towards the beginning.
Heat a large skillet with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil or leftover bacon grease.

Instructions:

Put sweet potatoes, onions, and pecans in a large bowl with a lid.
Lightly coat the sweet potato, onions, and pecans in olive oil.
Add cinnamon and brown sugar to the bowl.
There are no set measurements; start light and add more as you’re cooking.
Put the lid on the bowel and shake that turkey feather!!! Aka, the bowl of sweet potatoes.
Dump the contents of the bowl into the heated skillet, spread out sweet potatoes evenly.
If the oil starts to soak up, add butter for more deliciousness.
As the sweet potato begins to soften, taste one and check that it’s the flavor you like. Add more cinnamon or brown sugar if you need it.
Once you have the desired flavor add the bacon and banana.
If you don’t have a banana or don’t like them. It still tastes wonderful without.
After the banana has melted down a bit, it is now finished and ready to serve.

Toni Miller’s holiday recipe:

Amish Noodles & Mashed Potatoes

Serves 4-6 people—I double it for Thanksgiving.

Noodles:

Ingredients-

2-tablespoons butter
1-chicken bouillon cube
2-(14 ounces) cans chicken broth
12-ounces egg noodles
(optional shred chicken breast)

Directions:

In a large pan, brown the butter.
Add broth and bouillon cube, bring to a boil.
Add noodles, bring to a second boil, cover and turn off the heat. (leave the pot on the same burner).
Let stand 30 minutes, stirring 2 or 3 times; add additional butter/salt/pepper to your preferred taste.

Mashed Potatoes:

Serves 6-8 people—Again, I double for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients-

1-10 lb bag of potatoes (I use Idaho Potatoes, but any kind can be used)
1-stick of butter ½ cup saved for the end.
1-quart of heavy whipping cream
Salt and Pepper

Directions-

Fill a pot with cubed potatoes (peeled as well–unless you prefer them unpeeled)
Add enough water to cover the potatoes and then cover with a lid.
Bring to a boil.
Simmer until potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain off water.
Mash potatoes until smooth.
Add remaining ingredients and then mash everything together.
A heavy-duty mixer also works well instead of mashing by hand)
Melt an additional cup of butter.
Drizzle over mashed potatoes

Kathia Camacho Aponte’s holiday recipe:

Roasted Butternut Squash & Turkey Tacos

Ingredients:

First, prepare the squash

1 butternut squash (around 1 lb.)
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup pure maple syrup
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ fine sea salt
½ ground black pepper

Seasoned turkey

1 lb. boneless turkey breast or cooked leftover turkey, trimmed into two-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp fine sea salt
½ tsp ground black pepper

Everything else you need

8 six-inch corn tortillas
3 tbsp goat cheese, crumbled
3 tbsp dried cranberries, chopped
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Let’s get this started.

Peel, seed, and cube the squash.
Preheat the oven to 400 F.
Place squash cubes on a baking tray and add all the squash ingredients. Toss the mixture well until all the pieces are well-coated in oil and seasoning.
Bake the mixture for 30 minutes on the middle rack, turning pieces with tongs one time during cooking. While it’s roasting…
Are you using leftover turkey? Reheat leftover turkey in the microwave or oven—season with some garlic salt, pepper & parsley to taste.
Are you using uncooked turkey breast? Heat oil & garlic over medium-high heat for 30 seconds. Add the turkey pieces. Season & cook for about 8 minutes, until it is browned, cooked through, and the juices run clear.
Let’s put it all together! Place tortillas on a serving tray. Add turkey and butternut squash to each.
Top with goat cheese, cranberries, and chopped parsley.

Amber Pickler’s holiday recipe:

Maple cider bourbon brined turkey with bourbon gravy

The general rule is that you should plan for 1-1.5 lbs of turkey per person. If you are thawing your turkey, make sure it is not already salted and seasoned. Also, allow for 1 day per 5 pounds for thawing.

Ingredients

15 lb turkey fresh or thawed, innards removed

for the brine:

32 oz apple cider
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup kosher salt
1 1/2 tsp peppercorns
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 cinnamon stick
zest from 1 orange
3/4 cup bourbon
1-gallon water

for the turkey:

An apple quartered
1 onion quartered
1 sprig rosemary
3 cloves garlic
1 stick cinnamon
1/2 cup butter at room temperature
3 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp fresh rosemary chopped

for the gravy:

1/3 cup flour
16 oz chicken broth
2 tsp fresh rosemary chopped
2 tbsp bourbon
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, maple syrup, kosher salt, peppercorns, rosemary, cinnamon stick, and orange zest.
2. Bring to a boil, then let simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Let cool completely.
4. In a large pot or brining bag (I used an oven bag), combine the cooled cider mixture with bourbon and water.
5. Add turkey and let brine for 8 to 24 hours, turning every few hours.
6. Once brined, remove the turkey from the brine and place the bird on the roasting rack.
7. Pat very well to dry.
8. Place apple, onion, a sprig of rosemary, garlic cloves, and a stick of cinnamon into the cavity of the turkey.
9. Combine butter, brown sugar, salt, and rosemary and mix well.
10. Rub all over the turkey, making sure to peel the skin back from the breast and spread some of the butter under the skin.
11. Tuck the wings under the body, and tie the legs together with twine.
12. Pour 1/2 cup of water (or additional chicken broth, if desired) to the bottom of the roasting pan.
13. Bake in a 500-degree oven for 30 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350 and bake 2 hours more, or until internal temperature (measured at the thighs) reaches 165 degrees F. Keep an eye on the turkey for the last hour, and if the skin is getting too brown, you can cover it with foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
14. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your bird. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it is completely done.
15. Remove turkey from roasting pan and cover with foil, allowing to rest for 15-20 minutes while making the gravy.

To make the gravy:

1. In a medium saucepan, add strained drippings from the roasting pan and bring to a simmer.
2. Shake flour and chicken broth in a sealed container (like a mason jar) for at least 45 seconds.
3. Add to simmering drippings, along with rosemary and bourbon.
4. Stir constantly until thickened, about 15 minutes.
5. Add salt and pepper, taste.
6. Serve with carved turkey.
7. Enjoy!

Shannon Nelson’s holiday recipe:

Granny’s Chunky Peanut Cookies

Ingredients:

1 ¾ cup of flour
½ cup of sugar
½ cup of firmly packed brown sugar
½ cup of softened butter
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon of baking soda
½ teaspoon vanilla
2 cups salted peanuts

Instructions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees
Get a large bow and combine all the ingredients EXCEPT the peanuts
Mix at low speed and scape the bowl often until well mixed for 2-3 minutes (this must be done by hand)
Stir in peanuts
Drop teaspoons of dough about 2 inches apart on a greased cooking sheet
Bake for 8-12 minutes or until they are light brown
Take them out them to cool and eat with those you love

Regan Cary’s holiday recipe:

Corn Casserole

This side dish is perfect for 5-6 people. It can all be made in the baking dish and the leftovers are delicious!

Ingredients:

1 can whole-kernal corn (drained)
1 can cream-style corn
1 box Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix (8oz)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter
Optional:
1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Stir together everything except cheese
Pour into oven-safe baking dish
Bake for 45 minutes or until top is lightly browned
Remove from oven and sprinkle cheese on top
Put casserole back in oven until cheese is melted
Enjoy!

And we could never leave out the classic: Green Bean Casserole.

INGREDIENTS

1 can (10 1/2 ounces) Cream of Mushroom Soup
3/4 cup milk
1/8 teaspoon Ground Pepper Black
2 cans (14 1/2 ounces each) any style Green Beans, drained
1 1/3 cups French’s® Original Crispy Fried Onions, divided

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, and pepper in a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
Stir in green beans and 2/3 cup Crispy Fried Onions.

Bake 30 minutes or until hot. Stir.
Top with remaining 2/3 cup onions. Bake 5 minutes until onions are golden brown.

• To feed a crowd, double the recipe and prepare in a 13×9-inch baking dish. Use an entire 6-ounce container of Crispy Fried Onions, reserving 1 1/3 cup for the topping. Increase cooking time to 40 minutes or until heated through.

We hope you enjoy these recipes, and they give you something new to try. As always, Pinterest is a great place to find recipes. Especially quick and easy ones if you are on assignment this holiday season.

Again, we want to wish all of our travel nurses and their families a happy Thanksgiving and happy holidays!

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

START HERE

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

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

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By Favorite Healthcare Staffing

November 24, 2021

5796 Views

Travel Nursing Must-Haves: 10 Items to Bring on Your Next Assignment

Posted on November 24, 2021November 18, 2021 by Favorite Healthcare Staffing

This article was provided by Favorite Healthcare.

You just landed your dream travel nurse assignment and are eager to hit the road. You have a full list of excursions to experience at your destination and are excited to check each adventure off your bucket list. Before the sightseeing can begin, you have one important task to complete: packing your bags.

Though it may seem like a simple undertaking, knowing what to bring, what to leave behind, and what to source upon arrival in your temporary hometown can raise a lot of questions. This handy list of travel nursing must-haves will ensure you never leave for an assignment without the essentials.

What to Pack on Your Travel Nursing Assignment

Appropriate Documents

Important documents are not easily replaced, so take the time and effort to gather these documents before you embark on your next assignment. Some essential documents include your driver’s license, car insurance, and a backup form of ID such as a passport or copy of your birth certificate. Your staffing agency will have your nursing license and certifications on file, but it’s beneficial to keep digital copies on your phone or laptop in case you need them for any reason. Don’t forget about your most helpful resource – your recruiter! They can answer any questions and give you a full list of documents you might have, which can vary by facility.

Journal

Having a journal to document your adventures is the perfect way to keep the memories you make alive. You will be able to look back on these special moments for years to come and share them with your family and friends back home. Journaling is also an excellent way to pause, reflect, and stay in tune with your mental health.

French Press or Tea Strainer

Are you a caffeine fanatic? No need to break the bank on-to-go lattes! A French press or tea strainer is convenient to travel with and easy to pack away. Don’t forget to bring your favorite travel mug to keep your drinks warm while you’re on the go! Staying caffeinated will help push you through those long shifts.

Bluetooth Speaker

Bring a Bluetooth speaker to make sure you always have your favorite jams or podcasts playing! There’s nothing like your favorite song to get you through your travels. Whether you’re cooking at home, hitting the beach, or enjoying time in the park, having a speaker on hand helps things feel a little more like home.

Camera

Wherever your travels take you, make sure to always have a camera ready to capture the important moments. There’s no need to be an avid photographer with professional equipment. Most smartphones today double as a high-quality camera, making it quick and convenient to capture all the sights of your explorations.

First Aid Kit

While on the go, it can be helpful to keep a first aid kit with you on assignments. You never know when you might need medicine to cure a common cold or a band-aid for a cut when you’re not at work. Some items that are good to have on hand include bandages, vitamins, aspirin, ibuprofen, sunscreen, and of course, any prescription medications you take.

Proper Clothing and Accessories

Do your research on the location you are traveling to. You will need to make sure to have clothes that fit the climate and seasons of your destination. No need to travel with your entire wardrobe! Pack the essentials with plenty of layering options to ensure you have apparel for every occasion. A few other must-haves include comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a travel steamer, and a lint roller.

Electronics and Extra Chargers

Laptops, tablets, e-readers, smartphones, Bluetooth headphones… these days, there are endless forms of electronics at our fingertips. Whether you use these devices for entertainment or work, they have become necessary on any travel nursing assignment. Just don’t forget to pack up each item’s respective charging device and make sure they are fully charged before you journey to your next destination.

Hobbies and Pastimes

Besides visiting all the amazing attractions during your travels, don’t forget to bring something to do during your downtime. Whether that’s reading your favorite book, playing an instrument, or drawing, your hobbies can always travel with you.

Comforts from Home

Being away from home can be a tough adjustment for some people. To avoid feeling homesick, make sure to bring items that connect you to your life back home, such as pictures of your family and friends or a favorite item someone special gave you. Surrounding yourself with meaningful keepsakes can help carry you through difficult times and make you feel comfortable in your “home away from home.”

With all these must-haves for travel nurses, here are a few bonus tips to also keep in mind:

Bonus Tip #1:

Go thrifting to find cheap household items (think pots, pans, utensils, hangers), and at the end of your assignment, donate the items back to a local charity.

Bonus Tip #2:

Find a travel nurse buddy to team up with and decide on which items each of you can bring to get you through your assignment.

This must-haves packing list is just a starting point to make sure the time spent in your new destination runs smoothly and efficiently. What are your travel nursing must-haves? Share with us in the comments below!

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have an assignment but need housing? Click here to search our housing group.

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

START HERE

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

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

Join Now

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

November 23, 2021

4049 Views

Happy Holidays On or Off the Job

Posted on November 23, 2021November 17, 2021 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

This article was provided by TNAA Healthcare.

Nurses are always on the go! It’s the nature of life as a healthcare worker, and it’s especially true for travel nurses who move every few months. Though you’re used to the hustle and bustle, the holidays approaching remind us to take breaks and slow down to be present in the moment, both on and off the job.

Taking off for the Holiday

Travel nurses can take off weeks at a time between contracts, but if you just want off for a few days, here’s how to get it in your assignment contract.

Transparency in Your Resume

Talk with your recruiter and make sure the days you want off are listed upfront in your resume. It might determine if a hospital chooses to interview you, but being transparent is of utmost importance and will get you interviews with nurse managers who don’t have an issue with your PTO.

Spirit of Compromise

During your hospital interviews, embrace the spirit of compromise! Let the nurse manager know if you are willing to work other holidays, like New Year’s Day. Make sure you send a follow-up email to the nurse manager to thank them for their time and give a brief overview of what you discussed, including your time off, so that you have it for your records.

Working the Holiday

Maybe you’re planning to work the holiday. After all, as a travel nurse, you can celebrate the holiday a little off schedule to take advantage of cheaper flights and fewer crowds and traffic jams. AAA expects a significant rebound in holiday travel this year with an estimated 53.4 million people in the air or on the roads for Thanksgiving, and no one wants to be stuck in that. Still, how do you make the most of the holidays when you are away from loved ones?

Getting in the Holiday Spirit at Work

Nurses are the source of joy for patients stuck in the hospital during the holidays. So, while it is a bummer that you aren’t with your loved ones, you can get into the spirit and boost your morale by celebrating with your patients and fellow healthcare professionals. Spread cheer by donning holiday apparel, playing music, or asking patients about their traditions.

Enjoying the Perks

Ask your recruiter or agency what the rate is for holiday and overtime pay, and cash in on the benefits! Remember, even if you work a holiday and have overtime hours, you’ll get paid at one rate for the day (whichever is higher), not for both rates. Maybe the extra cash can go toward a nice vacation, extra presents for your friends and family, or a splurge for yourself!

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

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By HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

November 22, 2021

7565 Views

2021 Gift Guide for Travel Nurses

Posted on November 22, 2021November 2, 2021 by HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

This article is sponsored by Healthtrust Workforce Solutions.

The holiday season is fast approaching, and now is the time to show the travel nurse in your life just how much you appreciate them, especially after all of the heroic contributions they have made during the pandemic. So what exactly do you get for someone who travels and moves to a new destination every 13 weeks or so? Many travel nurses travel with as little as possible, so the best gift ideas are those that don’t take up space. Below you will find our top 5 hand-picked gift ideas for travel nurses for the 2021 holiday season.

Gift Cards

Gift cards are an excellent option for travel nurses. They don’t take up space, and many can be used anywhere. Many stores and restaurants sell their gift cards at Walmart, CVS, Sam’s Club, and Costco, to name a few places. According to wallethub.com, the top gift card for 2021 was Starbucks, which is a great option for travel nurses as many are coffee drinkers and rely on caffeine to help fuel their day. Another great option would be an Amazon gift card if they forgot something or need something while on assignment, especially when they first arrive in their new location and aren’t familiar with the area. Let’s face it, who doesn’t love Amazon?

Compression Socks

While this may seem like a strange item, many travel nurses and healthcare workers swear by them. There are many benefits of compression socks, including fewer leg pains, better circulation, less swelling in the legs and feet, and they can help with joint pain.

They are also a great option because they don’t take up a lot of room, and they are something nurses can and do use for work. There are many options and styles. Travel nurses were polled, and some of their top choices are listed here.

Money

Money is another great option. While it may not feel very personal, it doesn’t take up a lot of space and can help them purchase items while on assignment. It can also help them build up their emergency fund or build up savings. An emergency fund is a very important thing to travel nurses and healthcare workers. They keep one just in case their contract is canceled and they have a gap in assignments. It also allows them to buy whatever they want or need.

Tote/Bag

Travel nurses tend to take a bag to work with them to hold the items they need for their shift. Another great gift item would be a tote bag or bag. Personalization would be a great option for the tote or bag as well. Respiratory Therapy Zone put together a great article on the Top 10 Bags for Nurses and Healthcare Workers. There is truly something for any nurse, travel nurse, or healthcare worker on the list.

The top 10 are:

1. Nurse Mates Ultimate Bag

2. KOI Medical Unisex Nurse Bag

3. ADC Nurse/Physician Medical Bag

4. NGIL 18″ Large Utility Tote Bag

5. ESVAN Floral Water-Resistant Bag

6. Vera Bradley Crossbody Purse

7. Lekesky Laptop Backpack Work Travel Bag

8. Everest Luggage Deluxe Shopping Tote

9. Himawari Travel School Work Backpack

10. MOSISO Sling Crossbody Backpack

A gift with thought behind it

When asked, many travel nurses will tell you that any gift would be great; it is the thought that counts. You know your friend or loved one, you are sure to know something that fits their need and personality. Keep in mind that they are often moving, so smaller items are better or easy to move. You could purchase an item that is collapsible or can be folded. They will appreciate that you thought of them.

Happy Holidays to all of the hard-working, patient-focused travel nurses across the nation!

HealthTrust Workforce Solutions is a wholly-owned subsidiary of HCA Healthcare, the nation’s largest health system. We help travelers find high-pay, rewarding assignments across the country. We offer both traditional travel contracts and full-benefited, full-time travel positions, as well as local contracts. Click here to learn more.

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

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

START HERE

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

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By Kevin Devoto

November 20, 2021

5578 Views

How to Stay Healthy Out on the Road During Winter

Posted on November 20, 2021November 20, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

Any time of extended travel can affect your health, but this is especially true during winter’s harsh weather. Travel can be stressful. As a travel nurse, you know this firsthand. It is a disruption in your routine and can limit access to normal self-care and wellness practices. And extreme temperatures or dry air can wreak havoc on your system. You can, however, overcome any challenges of being on the road with a little forethought.

The trick to a successful trip is to plan for any circumstance and adapt your schedule and health practices to the availability of services on the road. You may not be able to get in a full gym workout routine, but it is entirely possible to stay healthy and fit.

Stay Healthy Out on the Road During Winter

Watch Your Nutrition

A healthy diet will go a long way to keeping your energy up and your body strong. Good food choices are key to staying in prime condition. It is especially important to watch what you eat when you are under additional stress by traveling. It may be tempting to give in to easy, fast-food options, but make sure this is an occasional treat and not a staple.

Taking a supplement can help you get the balanced nutrition you need. A Prebiothrive coupon makes it easy and affordable to take this beneficial blend.

Exercise

Sitting for long periods of time to travel from assignment to assignment can make you feel sluggish and your muscles stiff and sore. The lack of exercise isn’t good for your health either. Make some time to stop and take a walk or do a few stretches to give yourself a break and get the blood flowing.

Care for Your Skin

Traveling can be tough on your skin, even more so when it’s cold outside. Harsh temperatures and dry, windy air can dry out your skin and make it more susceptible to damage. Take extra care of your skin by cleansing and applying a good quality moisturizer at least twice a day.

Hydrate

Dehydration can contribute to headaches and other uncomfortable symptoms, so make sure to drink enough water. This could be more difficult to remember when you’re on the road, so make it easier by getting a large water bottle to track how much you’ve had.

Dress Appropriately

Pack the right clothes for your trip. Cold weather can be dangerous if you aren’t dressed appropriately. Warm layers are best. Don’t forget your hat, scarf, gloves or boots either. These essentials will protect you from the cold and keep you comfortable.

Stay Safe

Your vehicle also needs to be properly outfitted to handle the winter weather. Basic maintenance like tire pressure, oil changes, and fluid checks should be tracked and kept up with, but snow and ice require additional considerations. To stay safe, make sure your car has winter tread snow tires to navigate bad roads. You should also keep an emergency kit of essential medical, survival, and food supplies on hand in case you get stuck. Travel is unpredictable in the best of times, but a snowstorm can happen quickly, and it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality.

Manage Stress

Stress has a big impact on your health, so make an effort to manage it. Being on the road can often lead to increased amounts of stress, so self-care practices like meditation and exercise are more important than ever. Take at least a few minutes each day to check in with yourself and gauge your stress levels.

If you are planning on a long trip, you might find it helpful to give a copy of your itinerary to a relative or friend. This gives them a better idea of what you are doing and how to reach you if they need to.

If you take proper care of yourself and your vehicle, your road trip can be stress-free and productive during any season. A few thoughtful moments of planning and preparing can make a world of difference and keep you safe, comfortable, and healthy.

We hope you found these tips to help you stay healthy while out on the road during winter. Have you found any tricks to stay healthy while you travel during the winter months? Comment them below.

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

START HERE

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

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By Focus Point

November 19, 2021

4343 Views

How to Cope with Compassion Fatigue

Posted on November 19, 2021November 17, 2021 by Focus Point

This article was sponsored by Focus Point.

Health care workers are easily some of the most respectable and necessary individuals that the world needs and appreciates. In light of COVID-19, those who are in the medical field have been working tirelessly to put an end to this pandemic. With such responsibility on their backs, it sometimes becomes difficult to push emotion to the side and solely focus on their job. In the medical field, one’s entire life is dedicated to helping and healing others; with such impactful work comes a great deal of emotion. Health care workers are known to experience something called compassion fatigue. CF is when those who deal with patients or people who have gone through recent trauma experience secondary traumatization.

There are many different ways to cope with compassion fatigue. It is essential to identify if you or those around you are experiencing symptoms. Some symptoms include frequent headaches, lack of sleep, or simply feeling intense attachment to a particular case or cases.

Self-Care

Working in health care could make someone feel like their personal life could be set to the side. Those who take part in the medical field must spend time on themselves and practice self-care. A simple bubble bath or day to yourself may seem unimportant, but self-care allows those who suffer from compassion fatigue to prioritize themself gradually. It becomes easy to embody the word selfless in healthcare, but making time for yourself works wonders in preventing compassion fatigue. This is not only prominent in healthcare but also in religious communities. Mother Teresa made it very clear that nuns must take a year off after caring for those around them for four to five years. Practicing self-care and healing is a great way to cope with compassion fatigue.

See a therapist

A different way of coping with compassion fatigue could be to see a therapist. Therapy is a great way to allow healthcare workers to speak about their experiences and not bottle them up. A therapist will also provide not only closure but the realization of the fact that it is vital to be transparent with your emotions and speak freely upon them. Seeking therapy or treatment while in healthcare is exceptionally valid, considering those in healthcare constantly surround themselves with individuals who have experienced trauma.

Set Boundaries

With any position in healthcare, it’s a great idea to set boundaries between work and your personal life. It may become difficult to learn how to separate personal emotions from those you are healing with compassion fatigue. Throughout healing and caring for those who need it, one must express compassion yet limit themselves to how much they bring their workload home. Healthcare workers deal with the continuous challenge of separating work from their personal life. When caring for others is someone’s occupation, the fine line between how much empathy to give becomes blurry. Setting boundaries between yourself and the patient will allow you to cope with the possibility of developing compassion fatigue.

Develop a hobby

Dealing with compassion fatigue comes in many different forms; another exceptional strategy is developing a hobby. One can explore and set their mind aside for something else with a hobby. Hobbies allow people to focus their attention on something besides their daily struggles. Picking up something as simple as gardening can let you take a break from your work reality. Even watching sports religiously could be a great way to cope with CF. The main goal is to distract yourself from the trauma that you hear daily.

Start Journaling

Lastly, an alternative method of coping with compassion fatigue is journaling. Getting your thoughts and ideas out on paper can allow some closure to the end of a workday. Putting words into a journal or even expressing yourself and drawing gives you that separation from work to your personal life. Writing out your feelings towards the trauma that healthcare workers are regularly exposed to provides a great way to write unfiltered without any judgment or exposure.

Compassion fatigue is harsh to cope with, but there are infinite ways to relieve yourself from some of that stress. A few of these tips and tricks might seem insignificant, but in the long run, they help tremendously. Whether you may feel as though you are isolated, there are so many different groups and coping mechanisms that are crucial for healthcare workers to put to use.

To learn more about Focus Point click here.

https://focuspoint.net

We hope you found this article helpful. Have you worked through compassion fatigue? Do you have any tips to share with fellow travel nurses to help them through it as well? Comment them below.

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

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

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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!”

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By LRS Healthcare

November 18, 2021

5582 Views

What to Expect When You Extend Your Travel Nurse Assignment

Posted on November 18, 2021November 18, 2021 by LRS Healthcare

This article was provided by LRS Healthcare.

So, you’re considering extending your current travel assignment, but you aren’t sure how to go about it. It’s simple—ask your recruiter! It could be during the first or last week of your current assignment. It’s never too early to start thinking ahead.

The standard healthcare travel assignment is typically 13 weeks. Massive transformations can occur during 13 weeks—physically, mentally, emotionally…professionally. And yet, in the grand scheme of things, it’s a short period. As a healthcare traveler, you’re familiar with the application process, the move, and the extensive paperwork, licensing, and background checks involved when starting a new travel assignment. Repeating this process every 90-120 days can be exhausting.

That said, if you’re nearing the end of your current assignment and the thought of packing up and moving on to the next unknown home seems daunting, extending your travel assignment could be a great option!

There are many reasons travelers extend their contracts, even several benefits of extending travel assignments. Maybe you found yourself loving your current job and surroundings and aren’t quite ready to leave the connections you’ve made. Maybe you impressed the facility’s leadership, and they’re not ready to see you go. Whatever the reason, explore your options and use your recruiter as a sounding board.

Here’s what you might expect when extending your healthcare travel assignment:

First, send your recruiter a text, call or email and let them know you’re thinking about extending your current contract. Be sure to include how long you’d like to extend. This could vary from 2 weeks to 39 weeks. You’ll also want to let your on-site staff manager know you’re interested in extending as they can work with your recruiter to get your request approved.

Then, your recruiter will then draft a new contract agreement that will include your new extension dates. This is a good time to identify and formally request any planned time off (PTO). Requests for time off are more likely to get approved for travelers who work extended assignments. Especially if they are approved before your contract extension starts. Additionally, for extended travelers, there will be no lapse in insurance coverage if your new contract is received within the same month as your previous contract end date. The gap between the previous contract and the new contract is less than 30 days! This means your contracts do not have to be back-to-back, and you can use time in between to truly explore and experience the corners of the city!

Finally, when your contract has been approved through the facility, you can take a sigh of relief that you no longer have to pack up your world and move to your next unknown home. Settle into a temporary comfort zone and prepare for the next several weeks of your adventure.

LRS Healthcare

At LRS Healthcare, our team of recruiters is here to assist you in landing your dream job and advocating for our travelers. If you have questions regarding a new travel assignment or extending your current contract, call us at 800. 811.0064, or reach out to your recruiter directly.

We hope you found these tips for knowing if you want to extend your travel nurse assignment helpful. Have you extended your assignment? Do you have any tips to share with your fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

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

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

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Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Movement is Medicine

Talk it Through and Work it Out

Crisis Resources

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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Leases just protect the landlord, right?

Here are some of the most important terms in a lease:

Lease Term

Notice to Vacate

Early-Out

Costs

Pets

Extras

Leases Protect Tenant Too!

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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Steve Curtin’s holiday recipe:

Rachel Altum’s holiday recipe:

Toni Miller’s holiday recipe:

Amish Noodles & Mashed Potatoes

Noodles:

Mashed Potatoes:

Kathia Camacho Aponte’s holiday recipe:

Amber Pickler’s holiday recipe:

Shannon Nelson’s holiday recipe:

Regan Cary’s holiday recipe:

Ingredients:

Directions:

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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What to Pack on Your Travel Nursing Assignment

Appropriate Documents

Journal

French Press or Tea Strainer

Camera

First Aid Kit

Proper Clothing and Accessories

Electronics and Extra Chargers

Hobbies and Pastimes

Comforts from Home

Bonus Tip #1:

Bonus Tip #2:

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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Taking off for the Holiday

Transparency in Your Resume

Spirit of Compromise