October 18, 2021

6057 Views

Tips for Surviving Travel Nurse Anxiety

Posted on October 18, 2021September 29, 2021 by Amber Pickler

Travel nursing means starting a new job every 13 weeks, give or take. This can cause your anxiety to go through the roof. We see many posts in our Facebook group about nerves before the first assignment. And many veteran travel nurses say that they still have those same first-day jitters after many assignments. So, how do you handle the jitters and travel nurse anxiety? Below you will find some of the tips fellow travel nurses had in our Facebook group.

Surviving Travel Nurse Anxiety:

Think Positive

Keeping a positive mindset will help you get through. Going into the assignment with a positive outlook will affect your assignment. Many people believe that your thoughts genuinely affect your action, and it is true. So keeping a positive mindset will help to ease some of your anxiety even if the positive mindset is that it is only 13 weeks, and then you are on to your next location.

Be Positive in Your Skillset

Most travel nurses have at least 2 years of experience. You have developed a great skill set and learned many things in that time. Your skillset won’t change just because you are going to different facilities. Things may not be done exactly like you are used to, but hey, you may just learn something new with each new facility you work at.

Become familiar with the facility, unit and parking prior to your first day

Members mentioned taking time prior to your first day to get accustomed to the area, the facility, your home unit in the facility, and the parking situation. Some assignments charge for parking. Knowing that before your first day will help with your anxiety. One member said she asks for an orientation of the unit before her first day. This would give you time to ask questions about where things are, codes for doors, and just any questions you may have. Getting to know the facility prior is a great idea too. It gives you a chance to get to know where things are in the facility.

Remember, you are the same nurse at any facility

The biggest takeaway from the comments on the post was that at the end of the day, you care for patients and nurse the same regardless of the location. So, just because your hospital is changing, you are still the same nurse and will give the same care.

We hope you found these tips for coping with travel nurse anxiety helpful. Do you suffer from travel nurse anxiety? How do you cope? Do you have any tips to share with fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for your assignment? 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 The Gypsy Nurse

October 16, 2021

23706 Views

Writing a GREAT Travel Nurse Resume

Posted on October 16, 2021March 18, 2024 by The Gypsy Nurse

An up to date resume is a vital part of any Travel Nurse Portfolio when submitting to a new travel nurse agency. Writing a great travel nurse resume can be daunting. The old adage of ‘keep your resume one page’ does not apply to the Travel Nurse resume.

Steps to Writing a GREAT Travel Nurse Resume

#1 Your Header

Your Header is at the top of your resume and contains your name and contact information. It’s also the first thing a hiring manager or recruiter will look at. Make certain to include both an email address and a phone number.

#2 Summary

Recruiters are busy these days and often, great resume’s get missed. Recruiters often scan resumes for keywords. Use these keywords in your summary and make it clear your years of experience and specialties.

#3 Certifications / Licenses

If you hold multiple state licenses and certification, this section can get lengthy. Don’t Stress. Provide clear details on State licenses (including expiration dates) and all pertinent certifications that you hold.

#4 Work History

Detailed work history is important. Include the Agency, Hospital, Unit, Dates, and brief description of your role.

#5 Education

Be sure to include the Institution Name and location, degree obtained and dates of attendance. You will likely also have to provide your agency with a copy of your educational transcripts.

#6 Computer / Charting Systems

List all of the computer charting systems that you have worked with. These skills can be key for some travel nurse positions. Are you a ‘super user’? If so, be sure to note this on your resume. Having skill with multiple computer charting systems will help your travel nurse resume stand out.

#7 Other Skills

Do you have other skills that might set you apart from other applicants? PICC line insertion, CPR Instructor, member of the Code or Rapid Response Team, participant in hospital ethics committee are just some examples. Be sure to highlight any additional skill that you have gained. Include any committee work that you’ve done as well.

You’ve perfected your Travel Nurse Resume…now what?

Now that you have perfected your travel nurse resume, you can check out these Top Agencies to help you find your next great travel nurse contract. Following these tips will help get your resume noticed and open doors to interviews. What change can you implement to improve your resume today?

Check out these HOT Travel Nurse Jobs

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By LRS Healthcare

October 15, 2021

4846 Views

Tips to Help Boost Your Immune System

Posted on October 15, 2021October 6, 2021 by LRS Healthcare

This article was provided by LRS Healthcare.

October is known for fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and Halloween, but did you know it’s also Healthy Lung Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Respiratory Care Week. It is essential to support your immune system despite the cooler weather and upsurge in colds and viruses when the seasons begin to change.

Apart from taking daily vitamins to boost your immune system, there are plenty of other healthy approaches as well. By incorporating lifestyle habits a little bit every day, you can strengthen your immune system, respiratory system and live a healthier life.

Tips to Help Boost Your Immune System:

Get Adequate Sleep

You could be working all kinds of hours as a medical professional, whether your shift is early in the morning or overnight. It’s essential to schedule 7-8 hours of sleep. Based on a recent study, quality sleep can bolster the T cells in your body that fight off infections. To combat infectious diseases, you need sleep. Long-term sleep deprivation also leads to obesity, diabetes, and heart and cardiovascular diseases. Check out these tips to Combat Sleeping Difficulties as a Healthcare Worker.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in nutrients provides energy for staying active throughout the day, supports the immune system, and improves lung health, and who doesn’t want that? Your diet should consist of whole foods that contain adequate levels of protein, vitamins, antioxidants, and other health-promoting compounds. Some superfoods to consider are blueberries, broccoli, spinach, salmon, turmeric, and more. In this article, you will find 15 Recipes That Can Help Strengthen Your Immune System.

Drink Plenty of Water

Hydration supports vital functions in your body and helps eliminate waste products. It is recommended that you drink 8-10 8-ounce glasses of water per day. In the fall and winter, drinking water is easy to forget but, it is just as essential as during the summer. Hydration aids in flushing toxins from the body and boosts immunity. It is essential to stay well hydrated each day to keep the mucosal linings in the lungs thin. The thinner lining makes the lungs more efficient, making it easier to breathe and get the sufficient oxygen your body requires to function correctly.

Address and Manage Stress

Stress not only negatively impacts your sleep, but it can also suppress your immune system, reducing the number of white blood cells that work to fight infection. You can prevent, manage and reduce stress by practicing positive thinking, staying connected with others, using meditation techniques, and scheduling leisure activities. COVID-19 has put a lot of stress on healthcare workers and has created burnout. Here are 10 Ways to Reduce Stress and Practice Whole-Self-Care During a Pandemic.

Daily Exercise

This isn’t anything new. Healthy living begins with regular exercise. It is easier said than done, and working non-traditional hours doesn’t always help. But it’s essential to make it a priority. Get started by blocking one 30-minutes each day that you can dedicate to moving your body, then set realistic exercise goals each month.

Once you start crushing your exercise goals, your motivation will continue to soar. Exercising regularly improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, controls body weight, and protects your body from diseases. Exercise helps improve circulation and strengthens the tissue around your lungs, helping them function more effortlessly.

Good Hygiene Practices

Working in the medical field, hand washing has always been a critical and regular practice. Even the slightest traces of germs, including bacteria and viruses, can infect even the healthiest of people. Skin is a vital organ acting as a barrier from germs, ultimately protecting your internal organs from disease. Wash up and keep it clean!

As a healthcare worker, you are used to taking care of others, but it is just as important to take care of yourself. These are just some everyday tips the help boost your immune system and lung health.

Though countless medical professionals work hard and are passionate about what they do, you need to take regular breaks and time for yourself. As we prepare for a seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses, including another wave of COVID-19, we would like to send a special thank-you to respiratory therapists. They usually prepare for cold and flu season but are also navigating the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Share this blog with your fellow healthcare co-workers and stay healthy throughout the upcoming winter.

We hope you found these tips helpful. Do you have any tips for boosting your immune system? Comment below if you would like to share those tips with your fellow travel nurses.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you have the assignment but need housing? Click here to view 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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—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Gifted Healthcare

October 14, 2021

10297 Views

5 Things to Consider Before Taking a Travel Nursing Assignment

Posted on October 14, 2021October 13, 2021 by Gifted Healthcare

This article was provided by Gifted Healthcare.

Travel nursing is full of possibilities. It offers great pay rates, schedule flexibility, and the opportunity for adventure. Some travel nurses prefer to work close to home, and others like to venture far and wide. The options are endless, so it helps to know what you want out of a travel nursing assignment before committing to a particular contract.

To help you with this process, we’ve created a list of things to consider before taking a travel nursing assignment.

Read on to learn more!

What Are Your Goals and Expectations?

The first thing to ask yourself is if travel nursing is the right fit for your schedule, professional expectations, and personality. While travel nursing contracts vary widely, there are a couple of things you can expect, no matter what your assignment may be.

Travel nurses often move from contract to contract, meaning that once your 8, 13, or 26-week contract is up, it’s time for you to move on. For most travel nurses, this is an exciting proposition. It provides a variety of experiences, clinical settings, and destinations in a fast-moving industry.

In addition, travel nurses are often hired due to staffing shortages, seasonal fluctuations, or spikes in inpatient census. In this scenario, you’ll be expected to provide fill-in quickly, provide support and remain adaptable on the floor. Again, this is often a source of excitement for travel nurses. They can gain valuable clinical experience and find a sense of purpose in caring for patients in these situations.

Are You Willing To Float?

“Floating” means moving from one unit to another. Sometimes, facilities require nurses who are permanently assigned to a specific unit to float to another unit.

Because travel nurses are filling in for staff, they are often the ones required to float when there is a need for it. A travel nurse that is willing to float is seen as an important resource. Floating will provide you with invaluable experience, make you adaptable, and give you a more comprehensive understanding of your clinical environment.

Versatility is an essential quality of a great travel nurse. While gaining clinical experience, remain open to floating. Cultivating this skill will open doors to more jobs in more locations.

Finding Your Ideal Assignment Takes Determination

As you search for your next travel nursing assignment, cultivate relationships and show initiative wherever you’re working. This will improve your chances of finding useful mentors and getting great references.

Get in touch with units that interest you and schedule facility tours. Make direct connections with staff and unit managers. Connect with clinicians and facilities on social media to learn about important information and events.

Finally, be prepared for interviews. Projecting confidence and knowledge with ease is a priceless asset when searching for your dream job.

Are You Ready To Be a Team Player?

Travel nursing requires commitment and a team mindset. Before you arrive at your assignment, the staff may have been pushed to their capacity. Remain aware of this and do what you can to show that you’re there to help.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If a coworker is helpful, show gratitude. Do your best to get to know your teammates. Or, bring everyone snacks or coffee before your shift.

While some staff members will be happy for the extra help on the floor, others might take longer to warm up to you. Whether you love all your coworkers or just get along with a few of them, try to treat everyone with the same level of respect.

Travel Nursing Is a Fast-Moving Industry

In order to secure the assignment you want, be prepared to communicate and move fast. The industry moves quickly, so you may have to remain open to accepting a job quickly.

Another thing to know is that verbal acceptance is the standard of the travel nursing industry. You will always receive a contract to confirm details and provide a signature, but once you verbally accept, the facility will start to count on you. Most RNs consider this to be a worthwhile tradeoff to the many benefits of a travel nursing career!

We hope you found these tips to consider before taking a travel nursing assignment helpful. Are there any tips we missed? Comment below if you have any tips to share with fellow travel nurses.

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:

START HERE

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

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—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Cristina Thorson

October 13, 2021

5971 Views

Staying Healthy While Working the Night Shift

Posted on October 13, 2021October 6, 2021 by Cristina Thorson

Working the night shift can be quite draining, in large part because it goes against the human body’s natural circadian rhythm. The circadian system regulates our body to be awake during daylight hours, so working the night shift means you’re fighting one of your body’s ingrained systems. In order to provide the best care as a nurse, you first need to prioritize taking care of yourself. Read on for some tips that will allow you to work the night shift and stay healthy.

Set a sleep schedule—

If you haven’t started your night shifts, get a head start by sleeping during the day. You can also train yourself to incorporate quick naps at convenient times.

Consume caffeine in moderation—

Caffeine can be a lifesaver, especially during the night shift. Many depend on it to get their minds and bodies moving during work hours. However, try not to drink too much, because you don’t want to crash during work. You also want to be able to fall asleep when you get home.

Eat healthy foods—

Getting through the night shift will be harder if you have to deal with the ups and downs of blood sugar. Lack of sleep can throw off your body’s cravings. It can be difficult to reach for something that will give your body fuel, especially when you’re tired. Meal prepping is a great way to eat nutritious, inexpensive food without having to cook every night.

Stay hydrated—

Keeping your body properly hydrated regulates your digestive system and helps you stay energized. Try to drink a bottle of water before you begin your shift, so you can get a head start on hydration.

Exercise regularly—

It might feel draining to motivate yourself, but exercise will give you more energy in the long term. Try something small and simple—it doesn’t have to be hardcore weightlifting. Just make sure you’re properly fueling your workouts and getting enough sleep to feel good!

Schedule night shifts close together—

It can be hard to get used to the odd hours, so try to schedule them back-to-back. It’ll give you an opportunity to take advantage of your time off.

Create a routine—

Routines will help you plan your days off, so you can maximize your free time. A routine can also help you regulate your sleep schedule. As a travel nurse, it can be hard to set a routine. However, trying to do something as simple as brushing your teeth at the same time every day can help your body feel soothed and ready to relax.

Avoid alcohol—

Alcohol might help you fall asleep, but it actually decreases the quality of your sleep and makes you feel less energized when you wake up. To avoid brain fog, try to avoid alcohol 24 hours before your next shift.

Use free time wisely—

If you have free time to do something fun, you should do it! Just try to stay consistent with the sleep schedule and routines you’ve created for yourself.

Keep your household in the loop—

Allowing your household access to your schedule will enable them to respect your resting hours and make plans with you when you’re free. It can be difficult to coordinate, so try sharing a calendar (whether it’s virtual or hanging on the wall) to make it a little easier for them to see what you’re up to.

Take nap breaks—

If you have breaks and are tired enough, use them for naps. Naps are a great way to rejuvenate your energy levels. The best time to nap is around 20-30 minutes.

Prioritize self-care—

Self-care is so important, and many of the items on this list can actually work as self-care. When it comes down to it, self-care is about checking in with yourself and making sure your mental health is at its best.

Design a sleep-friendly bedroom—

It helps to adjust your sleeping environment so that it simulates nighttime, so if that means getting blackout curtains, go for it. Try to avoid loud noises or distractions.

Limit blue light—

Limiting blue light before bed is one of the ways to make your bedroom more sleep-friendly. Try to get off your phone right before you go to sleep. If you have time to unwind and watch TV, try to do it a couple of hours before you go to bed.

Nurses are essential workers, and we’ve recognized that more than ever in the past year. Because nurses are so important, it’s often a necessity for nurses to work the night shift. Do your best to prioritize your physical and mental health—if you need to take some time off, do it! Above all, you want to stay healthy so you can take on your shifts safely and successfully.

We hope you found these tips for staying healthy while working the night shift helpful. If you have any tips for working the night shift and staying healthy, comment them below.

Below you will find an infographic with some more information.

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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—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Kristen and Sam Smith

October 12, 2021

10133 Views

Cost Of Living In Hawaii

Posted on October 12, 2021October 12, 2023 by Kristen and Sam Smith

Are you looking at travel assignments in Hawaii and want to know the cost of living in Hawaii? Well, we have the answer for you! We moved to Hawaii for a travel nurse contract and are showing you our housing, groceries, and transportation budget.

Cost of Living in Hawaii:

Housing

The cost of our travel nurse housing in Waikiki is $3000 a month. The condo has a bedroom with a queen-size bed, a decent-sized TV, and a little sitting area. Off the bedroom is a balcony. The condo has a decent-sized kitchen with a full refrigerator, stove, and oven. On the other side of the kitchen is a second bed that is a trundle bed. The bathroom is a decent size that includes a nice-sized shower and vanity and offers extra storage. The condo is a 5-minute walk to the beach and is conveniently located near the bus stations and stores. The condo is a good size living space for the price.

The cost of our travel nurse housing in Kaneohe is $1900 a month. The housing in Kaneohe is part of someone else’s home, and it’s like a sub-home that they built. It’s like a little storage area they have converted to a living area, but it’s very convenient. What you have to learn about Hawaii is you get more things in a small amount of space. While this housing doesn’t have an actual oven, it has a hot plate, microwave oven, big-size refrigerator, and a sink—everything to make your meal and save yourself a lot of money. The kitchen is also the dining sitting area and workstation. We have a table in this area. The bedroom is a decent size, and the bed is also a good size. The bedroom offers a lot of storage for your clothes, including drawers. The bathroom is massive for the size of the space, and the shower is a great size as well. Being on this side of the island, you get a great mountain view. This housing also offers a little picnic area/patio as well.

Cost of Groceries

For price information, we visited Food Land, a grocery store here in Hawaii.

Fruits and Veggies: the price is around what we are used to paying. Some are even cheaper.
Bread and Grains: prices seem significantly higher. We were caught off guard by the rice, specifically.
Meat: at Food Land, prices are similar to what we are used to. We have seen other stores where the prices are significantly higher.
Coffee: the price of coffee is significantly higher
Canned goods: the price of canned goods is a bit higher in price
Toiletries: Shampoo, body wash, and toothpaste, the prices are very high. The cost of a pack of diapers is $5 more than in Texas.
Oatmeal and Cereal are around $1.00 more
Frozen Foods are more expensive as well.
The cost of less than a pound of Salmon at the time of filming was $21
Chips and Snacks are still priced great, which we love
Eggs: even with chickens everywhere, the price of eggs is extremely high
The cost of milk is even higher.

Eating Out

The cost of eating out isn’t too expensive.

Transportation

We use 2 methods of transportation: walking or the bus. The bus is about $2.50 one-way, or you can purchase the Holo card, which is $70 a month per person. Car rental is very expensive and averages about $300 a day.

So, keep in mind there are some adjustments you have to make if you’re coming from the mainland. You have to adjust to island life, and there are certain things you give up: we’ve given up milk, and we walk a lot more, but it’s worth living in Hawaii.

We hope you found this article on the cost of living in Hawaii helpful. Have you taken an assignment in Hawaii? Do you have any tips to share regarding the cost of living in Hawaii? 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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—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

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By Kevin Devoto

October 11, 2021

4895 Views

4 Tips to Land a Travel Nurse Job

Posted on October 11, 2021September 27, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

Nursing is a rewarding field where you care for those who need medical attention. It can be a challenging, sad job at times, but there are few feelings quite like the one you have when an unstable patient makes a full recovery. There is pride knowing you are a significant part of the healing process for patients.

Travel nursing is growing in popularity. There are numerous benefits with travel nursing, most notably the increased pay and ability to relocate to new cities every few months. A significant factor in satisfaction through travel nursing assignments is that the contracts are limited time, meaning you won’t get bored or feel stuck in one unit for too long. You can also get experience in different specialties and settings while learning new skills, making you even more marketable for future jobs. If you consider becoming a travel nurse, try these tips for landing a great travel nurse job.

Tips to Land a Travel Nurse Job:

1. Highlight Yourself

Brainstorm any additional experiences, skills, and defining moments of your career. Remember stories where you went above and beyond or where you saw something extremely rare and find ways to implement these facts about your nursing style and experience into conversations and applications. Much like the sales process for a successful salesperson, you must know how to sell yourself to employers by marketing your knowledge, strengths, skills, and past work duties. These are great to present in a cover letter, recruiter interview, and other steps throughout the process.

2. Polish Your Resume

It may seem awkward to brag about your knowledge, experience, and skill set, but there is no better time to do so than when you are applying for jobs. Your resume is a quick overview for potential employers to get a glimpse into your professional life. Your resume should be formatted well and free of spelling and grammar errors. Use the space you have to market yourself, documenting experiences and skills that make you stand out from other applicants, as well as the license and certifications pertinent to your nursing career. Are you an expert with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT)? Do you have your CRRN certification? These are valuable facts that potential employers want to see. Do not hesitate to use your resume to document what you excel at to show that you are qualified for the positions they need to be filled.

3. Take Initiative

If you truly want to pursue travel nursing, then it is in your best interest to take the initiative. Ensure you meet all qualifications for these jobs. Connect with over travel nurses, as they can lead you to good recruiters and probably know accounts that are looking for help. Reach out to recruiters but expect a lot of contact with open positions once you give them your information.

4. Be Open

Initially, you may have to accept an assignment that is not in your ideal location. This may be necessary to get you into the travel nursing pool and can be beneficial as you get used to traveling work. Your flexibility and willingness show excitement, commitment, and reliability, making you more attractive to recruiters and hospitals. One drawback to travel assignments is never knowing exactly where you may end up and the inability to cherry-pick a precise location. If you are passionate about pursuing this path, then you should have no problem finding work as long as you meet the requirements and are willing to take almost any opening. You can afford to be pickier about assignment choices once you have established yourself and gain respect with a travel company.

The Main Takeaway

Travel nursing is not for everyone, but if it has caught your interest, then it may be for you! Prepare to have a good method to learn new protocols, as you must be a quick learner and flexible to how each hospital prefers things to be done. The best thing you can do as you begin to apply for travel nurse jobs is to be ready. Research the requirements, the companies you will apply to, and network with other travel nurses to learn more.

We hope you found these tips for finding a travel nurse job helpful! Are you a travel nurse who would like to share tips for new or fellow travel nurses to help them land a travel nurse job? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your first or next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have the job but need to secure housing? Click here to view 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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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 Amber Kendra

October 9, 2021

6101 Views

Things to Never Leave Home Without When Traveling With a Dog.

Posted on October 9, 2021January 16, 2023 by Amber Kendra

Hi friends! Amber from @shesoutwandering here with Zoe, Myla, and Enalina from @lovedogs_traveloften. Traveling around the country with pups isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it! Bringing along necessary items to keep them safe and make the transition easier is a must. I personally keep an overnight bag packed at all times with the items listed below (and a few others). This is “their” bag, and whenever I put it in the car, they know that we are moving and that they are coming too. I want them to be just as excited as I am about the change, and creating a positive experience is a priority.

Important Items:

Vaccination paperwork, medication/food prescriptions, copies of certifications, microchip identification, and ownership registration. Any paperwork that you feel would be important in an emergency. It’s also a good idea to bring a printed up-to-date photo that shows a clear image of your pet along with any markings that may identify him/her in case of emergency. Keep copies of these items in a folder in the dog’s overnight bag.

Insurance Forms-

This could be included under important items; however, it is so important I felt that it needed its own description. Pet insurance is the absolute best thing I have ever done for my girls. While on assignment in Asheville, NC, my oldest Bernese Mountain Dog became very ill, and I had to rush her to a nearby emergency clinic. The fabulous team saw her promptly. She was admitted to the intensive care unit and kept overnight. She was treated for hemorrhagic gastroenteritis of an unknown cause. The emergency care cost was greater than $5,000, and because of my pet insurance coverage, I was only responsible for 10% of the total amount (less the deductible). I would have personally done whatever I needed to afford the care she deserved; however, pet insurance greatly helped reduce some of the stress during an already stressful situation. She will be 9 years old on April 1st.

A Security Camera:

a WiFi-enabled security camera that can be accessed from an app on your phone. A recording feature is also important. The camera can be easily set up on arrival and used to check in on your four-legged family member. It’s a great resource when answering the famous question, “What does your pet do while you are working.” I personally have recorded footage of exactly what is happening in their new space, and the answer is usually sleeping. Some systems even allow you to receive notifications when movement is sensed so that you can quickly check in on the situation. The camera provides a sense of safety and security for both of you while on the road.

Calming music-

Did you know they make therapeutic music specifically for helping pets to relax? It’s fantastic and a must in my opinion when on the road. I play songs anytime I leave home to help my family members remain calm. If it’s a long car ride, I will use the playlist until they fall asleep. If I leave for work the first few nights, I find the calming music helpful in my absence.

A six-foot lead and an extra collar-

Another learning curve. I was in a major city when Zoe’s collar broke, and she began trotting down the sidewalk along the busy street. Fortunately, she has a fantastic recall, but this unexpected event could have turned tragic. I had another collar in the overnight bag, and we were able to continue our day unscathed. I specify a 6-foot leash because it is the recommended length for owners to maintain safe control while allowing their pups to explore. Longer leads (especially retractable) can cause injury to both the pet and owner and place pets in harmful situations.

A Toy-

Bring along your dog’s “favorite” toy. This may seem like common sense, but designating one toy that your dog enjoys the most to always be present during travel and relocation will help them to associate their new space with home. When we arrive at a new place, I do two things: I unpack their favorite toy, and I give them a new toy as a surprise. Every time we get to a new location, they know that their “favorite” toy will be there, and they will be rewarded for coming to a new space.

And finally… your DOG-

It’s important to work hard to train your dog to a level of obedience that is respectful for others when in public so that all humans and animals can enjoy the day together. I have made a conscious effort to spend my time outside of work with them as much as possible by seeking out pet-friendly restaurants, shopping, parks, and hiking trails. The more I travel with my pups, the more I realize that at the end of the day, they don’t really care what we are doing, just that we are together. The above tips will help keep your pet safe and comfortable, but, ultimately the time you spend with them is what matters most.

We hope you found this list of items to always bring when traveling with a dog helpful. Did we leave any items off that you think are important or helpful? Comment those items below. Have pictures of yourself and your dog or pet on assignment? Tag us on our Instagram with the hashtag #gypsynurseadventures. We love to see all your adventures and adorable animals!

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By Amber Pickler

October 8, 2021

3524 Views

Gypsy’s Guide to Adventures in Bradenton, Florida

Posted on October 8, 2021November 10, 2023 by Amber Pickler

When the weather changes and gets cooler, that is the perfect time to take an assignment in Florida. Bradenton, Florida, appears to be a popular assignment location for travel nurses. We searched our Facebook group and found some recommendations for travel nurses to do on their day off; you will find some of the top recommendations below.

Fun things to do on your day off in Bradenton, Florida

Anna Maria City Pier

While the pier is roughly a half-hour drive from Bradenton, it truly is worth the trip. According to their website, the pier was initially used to drop off-island “day-trippers” coming by steamboat from St. Petersburg and the Mainland. Visitors would stroll down Pine Avenue to what is now the Sandbar Restaurant. They state on their website that “Now the city pier stands as a reminder of the past as today’s visitors still take in the view while enjoying sunny weather.” There is no admission fee to enjoy the pier. At the end of the pier, there is a restaurant and gift shop. You can also fish from the pier as well.

The pier isn’t the only thing to see when you visit Anna Maria. They also offer beaches, parks, fishing, golfing, spas, restaurants & bars (Waterfront or Beach Bistro, to name a couple), and shopping.

Beer Can Island

Beer Can Island is an undeveloped white sand beach located about 26 miles from Bradenton. Many people visit the island via boat. However, you can walk to the island during low tide as well. Many people who have visited the island say it is “like a remote and magical island oasis.”

While Beer Can Island doesn’t have restaurants or bars to visit, the island itself is a great place to relax and spend time in the sun. You won’t have the hustle and bustle, and you can truly unwind from the work-life you left behind.

Siesta Keys

This trip will take you about 40 minutes, give or take each way. But there is a lot to do in Siesta Keys. According to VisitSiesta.com, Siesta Beach was “Ranked the #1 Beach in the U.S. in 2020 by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards™,” They state that “you will quickly understand why when you feel the quartz-crystal powdery sand between your toes, and experience the soft waves and the abundance of sun & fun at gorgeous Siesta Beach.” If you download the Visit Sarasota App and unlock the Beach Pass, you can earn exclusive prizes. The beach isn’t the only thing to do in Siesta, though. You can also visit museums, galleries, parks, go golfing, shopping, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, and end the day with some entertainment and the nightlife that Siesta Keys has to offer. There truly is something for everyone to do in Siesta Keys.

Siesta Keys Oyster Bar

Speaking of something for everyone, one of the top-mentioned places was the Siesta Keys Oyster Bar. While their name would lead you to believe that they only offer oysters, this is not true. They have a full menu with something for everyone. The menu does include oysters, and according to their website, they do Happy Hour every day from 3 pm-6 pm, during which they offer 50% off of oysters. The menu also offers a large variety of other seafood options such as shrimp, grouper, and Mahi, to name a few. They offer appetizers, soups, salads, flatbreads, SKOBWhiches, All Natural Grass Fed Beef Burgers, and SKOB classics. The SKOB classics include such dishes as Chipotle Lobster Tacos, Big Boy Mac N’ Cheese, and Shrimp & Penne Pasta a la Vodka, to give you an idea. They also offer kid’s meals for those who are traveling with their family or children.

Another Broken Egg

Another Broken Egg is also located in Siesta Keys. According to their website, “Another Broken Egg Cafe isn’t your typical breakfast, brunch, and lunch place. Our menu is second-to-none, loaded with fresh ingredients and creative recipes across a wide variety of breakfast classics, memorable brunch dishes, and lunchtime favorites. Each location is designed to feel like a casual getaway, served up with a generous side of family, friends, and friendly service.”

They offer a wide variety of foods and drinks. They have a traditional menu, signature cocktails, gluten-friendly, seasonal selections, a kid’s menu, and a vegetarian menu. There truly is something for everyone. Their traditional menu includes pancakes, French toast, omelets as well as burgers. If you want to dine at Another Broken Egg, make sure to make it an early-day visit as they close at 2 pm daily.

Robinson Nature Preserve

The Robinson Nature Preserve is in Bradenton, and they offer many different options of things to do on your day off as a travel nurse. According to their website, “the preserve now consists of 682 acres that is a mix of preserved mangrove, tidal marsh, and former agricultural lands which have undergone an incredible transformation to coastal wetland habitat.” If you are an outdoorsy type of person, the preserve is a great place to visit. They have something for everyone. The site lists the following activities as things you can do while at the preserve:

Hiking and nature trails
Kayak/canoeing trails and launch
Outdoor education
Non-motorized bicycle trails
Rollerblading
Managed fishing
Picnic areas and pavilions
Wildlife viewing areas
Group camping
Observation tower
Dog walking

So, as you can see, the preserve truly has an activity for anyone.

We hope you found this list of 6 things to do in Bradenton, Florida, helpful. We will continue to bring you articles with things to do in different cities. Is there a city you would like to see an article on things to do? Comment the city below. If you would like to contribute an article about things to do in a city, please click here to email our Content Strategist.

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Surviving Travel Nurse Anxiety:

Think Positive

Be Positive in Your Skillset

Become familiar with the facility, unit and parking prior to your first day

Remember, you are the same nurse at any facility

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#1 Your Header

#2 Summary

#3 Certifications / Licenses

#4 Work History

#5 Education

#6 Computer / Charting Systems

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Tips to Help Boost Your Immune System:

Get Adequate Sleep

Eat a Healthy Diet

Drink Plenty of Water

Address and Manage Stress

Daily Exercise

Good Hygiene Practices

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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Set a sleep schedule—

Consume caffeine in moderation—

Eat healthy foods—

Stay hydrated—

Exercise regularly—

Schedule night shifts close together—

Create a routine—

Avoid alcohol—

Use free time wisely—

Keep your household in the loop—

Take nap breaks—

Prioritize self-care—

Design a sleep-friendly bedroom—

Limit blue light—

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!)