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By Jennifer Traub

December 3, 2021

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Charting Excellence: Mastering Nurse Charting with Examples and Essentials

Many travelers are concerned with various charting systems that are utilized amongst different facilities.

Usually, facilities provide a 1-2 day course with their computer training systems when you begin a travel contract. You get an overview of how to use it and usually have to complete various modules. You then implement your knowledge in your 1-2 day training on the floor while shadowing a nurse. If you are unfamiliar with a new charting system, you have to be adaptable and learn it quickly in order to be successful at your job. 

Meditech

Let me say this loud and clear: if a facility uses Meditech charting, RUN! It is completely outdated, unintuitive, and inherently slows you down. That is one of the main questions I ask when searching for an assignment. I used it at one facility I worked at, and I swore never again. If the hospital uses Meditech, It is a dealbreaker for me. 

The best charting systems I have used

The best charting systems I have used are Cerner and Epic. Epic seems to be the most popular amongst nurses due to its practicality. Cerner was the first system I used, so it is very simple to me and many other nurses I’ve talked to. There are rumors about epic becoming the main charting system that will be adapted within facilities. This will be beneficial to all nurses. 

Being a travel nurse requires the finesse of being adaptable. It’s taking the information you receive in whichever orientation you get and quickly being malleable enough to perform well at your job. 

We hope you found these tips for travel nurse charting helpful. Do you have any tips for travel nurse charting to share? 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 housing? Click here to search our housing page.

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

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

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 AMN Healthcare

December 2, 2021

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Team Care and Nurses’ Cross-training Made Possible by COVID

This article was provided by AMN Healthcare.

The latest COVID-19 wave has strained healthcare resources, with hospitals implementing team-based care, cross-training hospital nurses, and boarding patients in the emergency department.

“With the most recent surge in patients with COVID-19, nurses are once again being asked to help in units that may be unfamiliar to them,” said Julie Miller, BSN, RN, CCRN-K, clinical practice specialist, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). “Some hospitals are using these nurses in team roles where they can use the skills and knowledge they have from their prior nursing practice to provide care to patients in a different type of unit.”

How does nursing team-based care work?

In the team role, Miller explained, “a medical-surgical nurse may be asked to monitor intake and output, administer IV and oral/gastric tube medications, assess and intervene for pain, assist with prone positioning, perform uncomplicated dressing changes, and if possible, implement early mobilization strategies.”

“With these nursing interventions managed by the medical–surgical nurse, it frees the ICU nurse to assess and intervene with vasoactive drip titration, paralytic and sedation management, management of ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and CRRT (continuous renal replacement therapy),” she continued.

Additionally, she said, “nurses who are floating to ICUs to help may also be asked to learn new skills, such as how to suction an endotracheal tube or to level and zero hemodynamic monitoring lines.”

Miller added that education within the unit helps reinforce specific skills or protocols learned from online resources while minimizing time away from the unit.

“Nurses are also using the AACN Clinical Practice Community to seek creative solutions to cross-training and different clinical situations.”

Brandee Pak, MSN, RN, NE-BC, CCRN, a clinical practice specialist at AACN, wrote a helpful blog with tips for nurses who are asked to float to the ICU.

Cross-training hospital nurses

“Nurses often work alongside a more experienced nurse while they are being cross-trained, allowing them to develop confidence in their new skills and knowledge,” Miller said.

Nurses required to cross-train can also avail themselves of online AACN resources, such as AACN’s Essentials of Critical Care Orientation. More than 130,000 individuals have accessed AACN’s free COVID-19 Pulmonary, ARDS, and Ventilator Resources course, since it was launched in March 2020. AACN established one of the first micro-credentials for healthcare professionals during the pandemic based on that course.

The micro-credential “is a great way for nurses to validate knowledge in caring for mechanically ventilated patients and demonstrate their expertise to potential employers,” Miller said.

Benefits to cross-training hospital nurses

“There are definite benefits to cross-training as it exposes the nurse who is cross-training to new experiences and familiarizes them with the challenges nurses face in that unit,” Miller said. “The opportunity to develop new collegial relationships is a definite benefit to floating and cross-training.”

Inter-unit cooperation builds relationships. The key to successful floating or cross-training is ensuring those nurses receive the support they need.

“It also provides them with the opportunity to empathize with the nurses who they may have only previously received or given report to, and not had the opportunity to truly experience the successes and challenges those nurses face,” Miller continued.

Miller reported that some nurses who have cross-trained to the ICU found they really enjoyed the experience and put in for a transfer to begin their critical-care careers.

Boarding in the emergency department

Another staffing concern is boarding critically ill patients in the emergency department, which occurs when the patient needs to be admitted, but no inpatient beds are available. This has long been a problem but has gotten worse during the pandemic, said Ron Kraus, MSN, RN, EMT, CEN, ACNS-BC, TCRN, president of the Emergency Nurses Association.

Emergency department nurses have the skills to provide critical care, even though they have migrated to practicing in a fast-paced environment and helping stabilize the patient and discharge to home or to an inpatient room.

“The patient is receiving care,” Kraus said. But “it puts a strain on the emergency department nurse.”

And that “inability to transfer patients to critical care has a detrimental impact on throughput,” Miller said. “Having to hold patients in the ER severely impacts the ability to accept new patients who also need emergency services.”

Creating new opportunities for nurses

Learning new critical care skills and providing team-based care could open up additional professional opportunities for nurses by making them more employable.

“Employers want to see what type of experiences and skills their prospective employees will bring to the role that will complement and add to their current pool of nurses,” Miller said.

“In the current environment, we are seeing many nurses take on travel nursing,” Miller added. “Travel nursing definitely requires a nurse to have excellent assessment, critical thinking, and effective decision-making skills, but it also requires a nurse to be flexible and adaptable since they will be dealing with new work environments frequently.”

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

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

December 1, 2021

4264 Views

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Full of Life: 7 Ways to Raise Healthy Kids

We all want the best for our kids. There are so many conflicting pieces of information on how you should raise your children, the best way to bring them up and discipline them, but in the end, so long as they are healthy, there isn’t much more you can ask for. It is important that we lay the foundations so that as they grow up, they will know how to look after themselves, both physically and mentally.

Respect Them

The first thing to remember is that you will want respect from your children; therefore, you should respect them. Respect is a thing that is earned, and if you don’t show that you respect them and their decisions, then it is unlikely that you will get it in return. Also, if they think that you don’t respect their decisions, it is more likely that they will feel like they can’t talk to you if one of them does go badly.

Show Affection

Everyone shows and receives love in a slightly different way. According to Dr. Gary Chapman, there are five different love languages; words of affirmation acts of service, quality time, gifts, and physical touch. It is important that you take the time to look into which of the five your child responds best to and use that to demonstrate your love for them on a regular basis.

Spend Time Together

With everything that we all have going on, it can be difficult to carve out some time specifically to spend with our loved ones. However, it is important that you make time so that you can spend time with your kids, as these are the moments that they are more likely to remember, and they will help you to build lasting relationships with them.

Give Them Their Vitamins

A healthy diet is essential for anyone, but especially a growing child. It is important to raise your kids with the information they need to make healthy eating choices, but sometimes they need an additional boost. This is where vitamins, such as magnesium gummies for kids, come in as they can be used to help your kids feel better and calmer, as well as having nutritional benefits to supplement their healthy diets.

Show Emotions

Children copy what their parents do. If you are someone who doesn’t like to show emotion, then it is likely that your children will be the same. Something that they will be watching you do from a young age is how you react to different things. If you don’t cry in front of them and then tell them to stop crying, it sends the message that crying is bad, so they are unlikely to do it again, especially in front of you. It is important that you make them see that all of their emotions are valid and that there is a way to handle them. Your anger, especially, is an emotion that they need to see you deal with. Otherwise, they may not understand it and will lash out at others.

Educate Them

With small children, especially, it is easy to give the reason “because I said so,” but this reasoning will only be effective for so long. By educating children on how to make the choices that you are making and the reasons behind why they should exercise or eat healthily, they are more likely to continue with this later on in life.

Encourage Activity

It is best to encourage your kids to take a break from their screens or be more active. A lot of this encouragement will come from doing the activity with them, so maybe go on a family bike ride or a trip to the park. This is because if you make the activities fun and get involved, they are more likely to enjoy themselves and copy your example.

Final Words

There are so many things to consider when raising kids, and it is vital that we teach them how to be healthy. A lot of what your kid learns stems from you leading by example, so it is important that you consider the traits that you are teaching your children.

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.

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 Krucial Staffing

November 30, 2021

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Beginner’s Guide to Travel Nursing: Emergency Response

This article was provided by Krucial Staffing.

Written by: Maria Blong

Oh, the woes of preparing to travel.

We all love the idea of going on a trip, traveling to a new place, engaging in new experiences, and expanding our breadth of knowledge about the world. In our heads, traveling is a rosy-colored dream. However, after taking off those rose-tinted glasses and examining the details with clearer vision, we quickly realized that preparing for a trip is a huge task.

Any veteran to travel, or medical deployments, in this case, knows the list of to-dos before embarking on the road is extensive. The items on your list stand at attention like little dotted soldiers, dutifully listing off all the cleaning, packing, checking, and double-checking that must be done before leaving.

The medical professionals with a few emergency deployments under their belt can march through that list in a heartbeat. But, when you’re a newbie to this type of employment, it can be a bit overwhelming. As you’re rushing around to pack, your scrambled brain is probably thinking, “Why did I commit to this?”

Well, don’t worry – we’ve compiled a guide for beginners to help leapfrog your emergency response skills from novice to expert in no time.

Before Committing to a Job

When it comes to emergency response nursing, the turnaround time of committing to the assignment and arriving for your first shift is rather short. To be candid, it’s not a lot of time to put all your ducks in a row. So, it’s even more important to have as much as you can sorted out before hopping on the earliest flight to your assigned location.

Preparation looks different for everyone in this situation. For instance, if you own a dog or inhabit an indoor jungle (we see you plant moms and dads), make sure you ask a partner or a family member to take care of what you leave behind. Arrange these plans with them in advance, provide proper care instructions, and communicate that you might need them to take over at a moment’s notice.

However, you might not have these concerns if you have other members in your household. Maybe your main concern is how to stay in contact with your loved ones while away. We go more in-depth on this topic in our blog titled, How to Stay Connected with Your Loved Ones on a Travel Assignment. In general, it’s a good idea to discuss what communication will look like when you’re away. Try to set expectations that are realistic for your work schedule and desired method of communication.


Packing a Go-Bag

When it comes to packing a bag for emergency responses, you’ll want to include a couple of street clothes for running errands on your days off and to relax in after a long shift. In addition to your PPE, scrubs, and comfortable shoes, it is also important to bring some more obvious things like your immunization records, two forms of I-9 documents, and snacks. Some less obvious items to pack include physical photos of your loved ones, a pen and paper for notes, and a flashlight.

While you might not have much free time while working, you should consider bringing something to help you decompress or entertain yourself after a long day. You could bring an e-book reader, some essential oils, a deck of cards, or any small, light item that is easy to pack in your bag.

The most important tidbit to remember is this: TRAVEL LIGHTLY. When the time comes to return home, you will wish you hadn’t jammed half your belongings in one luggage bag. So, strip down what you need to the essentials as much as you can.

Flexible Attitude

There’s a common saying that states, “You can’t control what happens to you, but you can control how you react to it,” and in the realm of emergency responses, it seems to apply here. This is not a walk in the park. These are emergencies, and you are the cavalry. Patient needs, the people you work with, and the hospitals you are supporting will demand a lot of energy. Understanding the facts and reality of the situation will help prepare you for the deployment.

Simply put, emergency/crisis medical deployments have many, many moving parts, and nothing stays in place for too long. This is what we signed up for. Showing up with a good attitude and a willingness to adapt to provide the best care for your patients creates a more positive atmosphere for you and everyone in your vicinity.

Create a Guide Best-Suited for You

The first hurdle is always the hardest. Once you complete your first assignment and prepare for a second round, you will better understand what to expect and bring with you. Whether that’s deciding to pack an extra set of black scrubs or choosing to board your dog instead of asking someone else to care for them – you will figure out what is best suited for you and your emergency response experience. We wish you nothing less than the best of success and will be here every step of the way to make sure your time with us is handled to the best possible extent.

Interested in looking more about emergency response travel options? Check out emergency response and healthcare staffing company, Krucial Staffing. Krucial Staffing specializes in high volume, rapid response staffing, driven by a mission to serve others at their greatest time of need. To learn more about what positions they currently have open, then check out their Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter page for more information.

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

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

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 Fastaff Travel Nursing

November 29, 2021

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Mental Health Help For Travel Nurses

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:

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 Furnished Finder

November 26, 2021

6721 Views

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

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:

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 Amber Pickler

November 25, 2021

7870 Views

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Holiday Favorites from TGN Staff

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:

  1. Put sweet potatoes, onions, and pecans in a large bowl with a lid.
  2. Lightly coat the sweet potato, onions, and pecans in olive oil.
  3. Add cinnamon and brown sugar to the bowl. 
  4. There are no set measurements; start light and add more as you’re cooking.
  5. Put the lid on the bowel and shake that turkey feather!!! Aka, the bowl of sweet potatoes.
  6. Dump the contents of the bowl into the heated skillet, spread out sweet potatoes evenly. 
  7. If the oil starts to soak up, add butter for more deliciousness.
  8. 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. 
  9. Once you have the desired flavor add the bacon and banana. 
  10. If you don’t have a banana or don’t like them. It still tastes wonderful without. 
  11. 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.

  1. Peel, seed, and cube the squash.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400 F.
  3. 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.
  4. Bake the mixture for 30 minutes on the middle rack, turning pieces with tongs one time during cooking. While it’s roasting…
  5. Are you using leftover turkey? Reheat leftover turkey in the microwave or oven—season with some garlic salt, pepper & parsley to taste.
  6. 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.
  7. Let’s put it all together! Place tortillas on a serving tray. Add turkey and butternut squash to each.
  8. 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:

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 Favorite Healthcare Staffing

November 24, 2021

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

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:

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 TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

November 23, 2021

4191 Views

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Happy Holidays On or Off the Job

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.

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