June 14, 2018

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Travel Nurses – Have Your Ever Considered Any of These 3 States for Your Next Assignment?

Posted on June 14, 2018May 20, 2021 by Go Healthcare Staffing

This article is sponsored by Go Healthcare Staffing.

Travel Nurses – Have Your Ever Considered Any of These 3 States for Your Next Assignment?

When you talk to Gypsy nurses about interesting travel RN assignments, many will often mention some of the more common destinations: California, Florida, New York, Colorado and other well-known hot-spots. These areas are all great places to experience a travel nursing assignment and offer wonderful things to do and see during their time off. However, sometimes it’s nice to try something different in life; eat at that exotic restaurant, see that “Indie” movie or taste that crazy-looking cocktail that comes in a Mason jar! Well, the same can be said for travel nursing. Sometimes it’s worthwhile to try a city or town that’s off the beaten path, or a state that you wouldn’t immediately thing of as a “go-to” assignment. Oftentimes, just like going to that little “hole in the wall” restaurant, you can be surprised beyond your wildest dreams as to the quality of the experience and how much enjoyment you can receive from doing the unexpected.

In this spirit, the team at Go Healthcare Staffing has put together for your Gypsy consideration the following 3 states that we suggest that you try a travel nursing assignment in. We feel each one has its own special charm and quality to offer, with sights and experiences you may never forget.

Missouri: Nicknamed the “Show Me State”, Missouri is in the heartland of the country. When many people think of Missouri they automatically think of rolling plains, wheat and cornfields. While that is certainly a part of the story of Missouri, that is not the whole story…in fact, far from it. Believe it or not, Missouri is actually the 18^th most populous state in the Union and contains two major urban centers – St. Louis and Kansas City. Missouri has a tremendous cultural heritage for visitors to enjoy including the musical styles of ragtime, Kansas City jazz, and St. Louis Blues, two different types of barbecue (St. Louis-style and Kansas City-style)!, beer brewing (Anheuser-Busch), and sports teams (professional and college). For the history buffs and sightseers, Missouri is known as “the Gateway to the West” and played a critical role in the expansion of the USA westward during the 1800s as symbolized by St. Louis’s Gateway Arch landmark and many other historic sites across the state. Overlooked by many, Missouri actually has a very diverse natural landscape. With the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers running through it, the state has fertile farmlands, wide plans, expansive forests, rolling hills and the Ozark Mountains in the south – more than enough to keep the outdoorsy types happy. For a list of travel RN assignments on the Gypsy Nurse Job Board in Missouri, visit here.

Wisconsin: Located in the North-Central US, Wisconsin is the 23^rd largest state and the 20^th most populous, so lots to see and do! Bordered by 2 of the Great Lakes (Lake Michigan, Lake Superior), Wisconsin has a very diverse geography that makes it a wonderful destination for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, sailing and water sports. More of a city person? Milwaukee is a great destination. Known for its historic beer brewing history, Milwaukee is known as the “Beer Capital of the World.” If you enjoy imbibing on traditional “American” beers (Miller®, Pabst®) or like to experiment with craft beers, Milwaukee is the place to be. And if you’ve worked up an appetite after you’ve quenched your thirst, Milwaukee offers a wonderful selection of restaurants across the city to suit almost every palette. Don’t forget to try the wide variety of Wisconsin’s cheeses while you’re there – Wisconsin is also known as the “Cheese Capital” of the USA and for good reason. With the advantage of huge dairy lands, Wisconsin uses all that “Cow Power” to produce dozens of different types of cheeses for cheese lovers across the country. So, consider Wisconsin for your next assignment – click here for a listing of current Gypsy Nurse Wisconsin travel nurse assignments.

Indiana: Not too far south of Wisconsin is the “Hoosier State” – Indiana. Are they crazy about basketball here? Yes, but that’s far from the only thing this great state has to offer visitors. Indiana is an amazing array of small towns, rural areas and cosmopolitan cities. For those that enjoy spending time in nature, Indiana has a tremendous amount of state parks, trails, lakes and historic sites to enjoy the scenery and unsung beauty of the state. In particular, adventurous folks might enjoy the Indiana Cavern’s – Indiana’s longest cave and its newest “Showcave” where visitors can view spectacular sites including ice-age bones, underground rivers and incredible rock formations. For above-ground fun, Indiana has a surprising number of wineries and local vineyards, along with top-notch golf courses, theatres and gambling casinos. For city fun, Indianapolis is Indiana’s largest city and offers everything the urbanite would enjoy – fun nightlife, excellent restaurants, great shopping and a thriving arts scene. For a listing of The Gypsy Nurse’s current travel nurse assignments in Indiana .

We hope this overview of Wisconsin, Missouri, and Indiana have piqued your interest in trying some “non-traditional” states for travel nursing. If you’re interested in finding your next travel nursing assignment, visit The Gypsy Nurse job board here where there are hundreds of great jobs across the country just waiting for you!

By Gifted Healthcare

June 12, 2018

10036 Views

Hidden Gems Across America

Posted on June 12, 2018November 10, 2023 by Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare provided this article.

Why not try a travel nurse contract in one of these travel nurse hidden gem locations across America? Summer is the best time to be a travel nurse. With a sense of adventure in the air, visiting new places is a top priority. You’ve heard all about opportunities in major big cities, but if you want a unique experience, check out these hidden gems across America.

Travel Nurse ‘Hidden Gem’ Locations

Gulf Shores, Alabama

If you’re looking for white sands and sea turtles, Gulf Shores has what you need. This beach community boasts the most beautiful, picturesque sights for your Alabama travel assignment. Opportunities to see bottlenose dolphins are closer than ever with wildlife kayak tours setting out daily or hop on board a boat tour to get the full sun and surf experience.

On land, there are hundreds of restaurant options that let you keep your toes in the sand. From specialty seafood to gluten-free options, beachside cafes will keep you satisfied. For the adventurous palate, try some oysters fresh from the Gulf of Mexico.

For the most unconventional beach fun, take a class at Sand Castle University, where you can learn to make extraordinary sand sculptures. If you’re starting a new assignment and want to bond with your co-workers, this can be your first group trip you’re sure to remember.

Taos, New Mexico

For travel nurses who don’t leave home without their animal companion, Taos, New Mexico, is regarded as one of the most pet-friendly cities in America. This city has a comprehensive guide of trails, restaurants, and hotels where dogs are welcomed as guests.

Whether you walk on two feet or four, Taos has a stunning variety of outdoor experiences for you to discover. You can float down the Rio Chama ending the day at the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa. This would be a great spot to visit if you’re traveling with your spouse. If you’re looking for more excitement, on your next day off, check out a white-water rafting trip down the Taos Box in the Rio Grande Gorge.

If the spirit of travel nursing inspires you, check out the native American nomadic culture of the southwest. Nomads bring a sense of community wherever they roam, much like travel nurses provide their patients in any new setting. For a more modern take on culture, head down to the Taos Plaza. Here you’ll find coffee shops, boutiques, and a farmer’s market complete with flowers, pastries, organic produce, herbs, and music. This is a perfect spot to recharge and find a souvenir from your assignment.

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City is full of hidden gems. If you want to bring out your wild west travel nurse side, check out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Nurses traveling with younger kids will love the rodeo artifacts and Children’s Cowboy Corral. For more family fun, visit the OKC Zoo and go “behind the scenes” to get up close and personal with the wildlife (as if nursing wasn’t wild enough!).

If you’re traveling with your spouse, Oklahoma City has a whole host of couple’s night-out activities. If you are on the day shift, spend your evening in The Paseo, OKC’s arts district, full of dozens of galleries for you to explore. On the first Saturday of the month, you can check out the free gallery walk events featuring art receptions, discounts at restaurants and shops, and a fun street scene.

Manteca, CA

Manteca is the crossroads of California, located just over an hour east of San Francisco and Sacramento. Discover endless attractions, events, and entertainment – from golf courses to street fairs. Travel nurses with a creative side can enjoy a walking tour of beautiful city murals. If you’re missing your hometown team while on assignment, play like the pros at Big League Dreams.

Climb aboard historic railroads. Take a day trip that winds through the scenic valley and coast, through vineyards, mountains, lakes, and rivers. If you want to explore more out of town, drive to San Francisco. See the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in person. Snap a quick photo to post in the Gypsy Nurse Facebook group, and you’ll be the envy of all our travel friends with the click of a button.

No matter where your summer travels take you, there is always something unique to see/do. Additionally, if you’re looking for someone to explore with, join our Gypsy Nurse Network and schedule a group event!

Where are you heading this summer? Do you have tips for a specific location? We’re always seeking content contributors. Just get in touch!

Find your Next Great Travel Nurse

Adventure

By The Gypsy Nurse

June 4, 2018

10060 Views

Travel Nursing: 6 Reasons It’s The Most Underrated Job in Healthcare

Posted on June 4, 2018May 20, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

Guest post by Sandy Getzky:

Television is filled with shows about the medical profession. But more often than not, it focuses on the doctors. If you think about it, you’d be hard-pressed to identify any medical show centered on nurses. It’s not that there is none. It’s just that it’s extremely rare. Because nursing as a whole is a very underrated job.

It may just be fiction, but it plays a part in the recognition that nurses get for what they do. Although it’s hard to admit, nurses are generally underappreciated and nursing is an underrated job. They’re often looked down on because they’re not doctors. Just as overworked, although not as glorified.

Read on if you’re looking to learn more about nursing as a profession. You’ll realize that it goes beyond taking orders from doctors, checking blood pressure, or getting blood samples from your arm.

The job can be as flexible as you prefer.

As a nurse, you can work full-time or part-time, depending on your availability. You can work for as little as four hours to over twelve hours in a day. Your weekly schedule might consist of working only during weekdays, or you can choose to work also on weekends.

Not just that, but you can also work during the shift you prefer. You can work in the morning, or in the evening. Nurses are needed all day every day, so there isn’t just one set of work hours for nurses.

The job is highly flexible, giving you plenty of options if your working hours are unstable.

The pay is good.

The median pay for nurses is around $70,000. And that’s just for registered nurses in general practice. It varies depending on which state you’re in. The highest paying states are California, Massachusetts, and Hawaii.

You can choose to specialize in a certain field. It’s even preferred. This gives you an edge over the others. And in turn, you can demand higher pay for your specialization. A certified registered nurse anesthetist can earn as much as $135,000 per year.

As a bonus, there’s always room for improvement. You can work your way up and get even better pay as a result.

You can work anywhere.

Nursing can be practiced anywhere. It’s a global profession. You can practice it in any state, in any country around the world. You can study in America, and practice in Asia. All you need to do is take and subsequently pass the necessary licensure exam in the region, and you’ll be allowed to practice.

There are even nurses who choose not to be tied up to a specific hospital. Others choose to become a freelance consultant. They don’t report to a single clinic or hospital. Instead, they go directly to their clients for appointments.

You can choose your own career path. There are options available depending on what fits you.

Demand is high.

Nursing, as part of healthcare, will always be needed hence the constant need for nurses. And with the ever-growing population, the number of nurses required is also increasing. Every day, more and more people are getting sick and requiring treatment. And the first line of interaction they get is through nurses.

There are a lot of countries in Europe that have a high demand for nurses. Even in North America, especially in Canada and several states in the USA, the need for more nurses just keeps growing.

Rest assured, you’ll find an opening somewhere if you choose to look.

It is never boring.

It’s a highly engaged profession–centered on delivering service to patients. Every single day, you encounter different people with different needs and different personalities. You won’t end up doing the same routine day in and day out.

Aside from the patients, you also get to interact with other professionals in healthcare, such as doctors, physical therapists, and radiologic technologists, among others. They are just as diverse as the patients nurses deal with.

In addition, patient ailments and symptoms greatly vary. You can treat two people with the same diagnosis and still have two different prescribed treatments.

It is highly rewarding.

Finally, nursing is one of those professions where the reward is almost instant. As is generally the case in healthcare. Nurses get to see their patients get better or get the results they need. Some take years to improve, but nurses get to see their journey through.

Nurses don’t just deal with abstract concepts or figures, but with something more concrete: lives of people are at stake.

This is also why, as rewarding as it usually is, the downside is equally traumatic. When you deal with people’s health and lives, the stakes are high. A single mistake can cause permanent damage to a patient. Or worse: permanent loss.

Nursing is not for the faint of heart. It demands great sacrifice and a lot of emotional strength. Tragedy can strike at any time, and nurses have to be strong enough to face them when it strikes.

There’s a lot to love about nursing.

Equally, there is also a lot that needs to be changed. It is a constantly demanding profession. You won’t always be at your best. But every day will require it from you. Anything less would cost someone their health, or worse, their life.

As Ariel Jacoby once said: “Becoming a nurse is one of the most selfless acts a person can undertake. In a society of so many different races, cultures, customs, and beliefs, nurses are a universal gift to all, and the dedicated work that they do and kindness they deliver on a daily basis should serve as a reminder of the fundamental humanity inside us all.”

That quote beautifully sums up what nursing is. Nursing transcends classifications. It doesn’t care about stereotypes. As long as you are someone that needs treatment and care, nurses are there to help you.

So if you’re thinking about getting into the profession or making a career out of it, just make sure it is something that you really want. Otherwise, you might just end up resenting it. Think about your decision thoroughly. It is a high risk, high reward industry after all.

Do you agree that travel nursing is an underrated job? Do you have more reasons why it is an underrated job? Comment your thoughts on why travel nursing is an underrated job below.

Sandy Getzky

Travel Nursing: 6 Reasons It’s The Most Underrated Job in Healthcare

is the executive coordinating editor at The Global Nail Fungus Organization, a group committed to helping the 100+ million people suffering from finger and toenail fungus. Sandy is also a registered Herbalist and member of the American Herbalist’s Guild.

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By Medical Staffing Solutions, LLC

June 1, 2018

11216 Views

What makes a GREAT Traveling Healthcare Recruiter?

Posted on June 1, 2018May 20, 2021 by Medical Staffing Solutions, LLC

This article is sponsored by: Medical Staffing Solutions, LLC.

As the Traveling Healthcare Industry grows and more and more staffing agencies are popping up often an emphasis will be placed on the number of travelers a recruiter can carry at a time. But is quantity always the best practice?

Of course, carrying many travelers will sometimes yield higher commissions and profit, but let’s talk about what makes a good recruiter and a great agency.

With so many agencies and so many recruiters, I think the ultimate goal is what I like to call a little R&R. No…no, not relaxation, although if all pieces of the puzzle work seamlessly, that is a perk! My version of R&R in the Recruiting world is Retainage and Referrals. How we do that starts at the very beginning of employment. Education and foundation, in other words…the BIG question…WHY? Why did YOU as a recruiter choose this agency, and why should the caregiver you are recruiting choose you and this agency.

Let’s break it down:
In all careers, we want to enjoy what we do, and part of enjoying what we do comes from BELIEVING in what we do and what we stand for.

To do this, we must first:

1.) LEARN about our company. Know the history of it. When engaging in traveling healthcare forums on social media, give some history of the company and your personal ‘WHY.’ BELIEVE in what you do. Excitement is contagious.

2.) While we are on the subject of social media forums, rather than just responding to a caregiver’s post about a job with ‘PM me’ or “I just PM’d you,”….introduce yourself, give a little background, engage in a bit of conversation, and show your personality. If you give them a call, let them know how you got their number and why you are calling. I am not a recruiter, but I have heard oftentimes from caregivers that they haven’t returned calls or messages because they get inundated with voicemails and messages. They aren’t sure how these people get their information, and they get overwhelmed.

3.) FOLLOW UP (gently). We aren’t used car salespeople. Recruiters are sometimes the go-to people that travelers need to know they can trust; sometimes, they take on the role of a friend, therapist, trusted advisor. Check-in on them, even if they aren’t ready to travel with you right away. Maybe the first time you spoke, they were busy with the birth of a grandchild or a big event. Make a note of that and the next time you speak, ask how it went. But also….

4.) KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE… Be in tune. Sometimes caregivers don’t want a best friend or a trusted therapist or advisor. Sometimes they want a strictly business relationship, and they want their travel transaction to be fast and easy and cut and dry. Get to know their tone of voice, understand their needs, and adapt to them. You win some, you lose some, but don’t push. If it’s meant to be, it will happen.

5.) KNOW YOUR BUSINESS AND OWN IT. Know the details, be able to spout off the answers to their questions regarding benefits, retirement, etc. What company is your insurance through? Who is your 401K through? What is your company match? How long has your company been in business?

6.) Don’t make promises you can’t keep. Understand checks and balances. Speak facts. Do not promise the world without being able to give the world.

7.) Take notes.

8.) Don’t give up on someone just because they don’t travel with you right away. If you are a good and trustworthy person, they will remember you and come back. Remember, you are in this together, and what goes around comes around. Being a good and patient, and kind person always wins in the end.

Travel Nurses: When searching for an agency, keep in mind these 8 tips we give our own recruiters and apply them to your search. Be sure to ask questions to make sure the agency is the right fit for you.

Recruiters: If these eight tips are taken into account, rest assured – your career as a recruiter will yield R&R – Retainage and Referrals as well as relaxation and, of course, everyone’s favorite…commission and profit; for ALL parties involved!

Good luck with your search for a great traveling healthcare recruiter. Have you found ways to find the best traveling healthcare recruiter? Comment your tips below.

By Andrew Ferguson

May 26, 2018

6711 Views

Neither Chicago nor New York – Food for the Travel Nurse

Posted on May 26, 2018May 20, 2021 by Andrew Ferguson

Since there is no need for a nurse to eat food, drink water, or use the restroom while at work, food is an important component of off-time activities. For my nurse, a good pizza finds its way onto our menu regularly.

One of the great parts of travel is all the different experiences waiting around every corner. We’ve been lucky enough to meet many interesting people, try some great food, and explore some awesome places. Most of these experiences have been better on the road. Besides the fact we probably wouldn’t have had them, I don’t think we would have paid the right kind of attention to these moments back home.

Exception; our hometown’s pizza.

With all due respect to the tomato soup in a bread bowl that is Chicago-style pizza, and its soggy cousin in old New Amsterdam, Southern Indiana Una style pizza is hands down the world’s best pizza.

As soon as you regain your composure and pick up any objects you may have thrown; I hope you will allow me the opportunity to make my case. It tastes good. Not enough? Since I know how seriously nurses take their nourishment, I’ll try and do better. Low expectations and measured patience will ensure you won’t be disappointed.

Una pizza has a thin but sturdy crust. It’s sometimes referred to as a cracker crust, but this is a little misleading. It’s got a crunch, but not a crumb’s everywhere, can’t eat it in the library type crunch. It’s enough to support its toppings, but not so much as to remind one of the elves baking in trees. It’s like a crisp, unleavened bread.

The sauce is a simple one. With a few variations, it’s basically tomato paste, water, salt, and oregano. It’s the perfect catalyst to carry the pizza’s inherent deliciousness. It doesn’t have so much going on that it takes away from the rest of the flavors, but it is certainly good enough to stand on its own.

The toppings are fresh. I don’t mean freshly pre-cooked at the factory or prepped at the facility. I mean fresh as in veggies cut at the parlor the morning of, and meat cooked on the pizza. A lot of restaurants even shred their own cheese. This is where the structural greatness of this pizza comes to bear. The crust and the toppings cook in unison for about twelve minutes in a scorching brick oven.

There’s no need for pre-cooked ingredients or buy in bulk pizza crusts. Most pizza joints (just about all chain restaurants) use meats that are cooked and then frozen because of the difficulty of evenly cooking the toppings and the crust. I worked at one of these places in high school, and it was possible to eat all the meats straight out of the plastic bag it arrived in. What’s on your pizza?

People travel for the experiences, for the adventure, and the opportunities for growth awaiting them at their next destination. Nurses are a little more special because they care for those in need along the way. They make a difference in the lives they touch. A special demographic deserves a special pizza. So, the next time you find yourself somewhere around Evansville, IN, stop in and get one of these magnificent pizzas. Tell them I sent you. Actually, don’t. They have no idea who I am. The pizza’s going to be good regardless, but you’ll probably look silly mentioning my name.

By Focus Staff

May 22, 2018

10154 Views

Fear of Becoming a Travel Nurse? Here’s What You Should Know

Posted on May 22, 2018May 20, 2021 by Focus Staff

This article is provided by: Focus Staff.

By 2022, more than 1.1 million new nursing positions are expected to be created [1]. For travel nurses, this presents even more opportunities in a field that is already in high demand.

Have you considered working as a travel nurse, but have fears that are holding you back? It’s definitely the time to put them to rest. To help you, here is a quick look at the most common fears associated with travel nursing and what you should really know about them.

Adapting to a new work environment:

When you are working as a travel nurse, you are essentially starting a new job with each move. Fortunately, the basics of nursing care are the same all over the country. This means your biggest challenge will be learning where everything is and the protocols of each hospital. Go into each job with a plan to fit in by being friendly, working hard, and making it clear that you are there to help. When you do this, others are more likely to embrace your presence and help you adapt to your new environment.

Adapting to a new unit:

It’s not unusual for travel nurses to be floated to a variety of different floors while on assignment. Thus it is worth mentioning again that the basics of nursing care are universal. If you are considering becoming a travel nurse, it’s a good idea to join the float pool at your current facility. This will increase your comfort level in areas that you may be somewhat unfamiliar with, such as pediatrics, oncology, or postoperative care. When you are working, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, you are there to help, and most other nurses will appreciate that and be glad to assist.

Feeling lonely:

Travel nursing does have the potential to be lonely, especially when you first arrive at a new assignment. Fortunately, once you start working, you’ll start to develop new friendships. Until then, keep busy by exploring the area, working out, reading, and doing other things that you may not have the time to do at home. Another way to beat potential loneliness is by traveling with a buddy nurse. You’d be surprised, there are many traveling groups and forums online specifically for traveling nurses to the network which helps tremendously in this area.

Missing family and friends:

There is no doubt that you’ll miss your friends and family while traveling. Thanks to technology, it is easy to stay in touch, whether via phone, text, email, Skype, or social media. You can also invite them to visit your new city. After all, you won’t be working every day, and you’ll have time to explore the city with them.

Finding a place to live:

In some cases, the agency you work with may already have a plan in place. In other cases, you may be given a housing allowance and the opportunity to choose your own home base. Plan ahead, making certain your home is close to your assignment, as well as in a safe neighborhood. Again, many traveling forums give insight into housing options at any given facility or area so you aren’t alone in finding a good place to rest!

The “what-ifs”:

Considering the possible what-ifs can make you crazy. What if you don’t like an assignment? What if you get sick? What if a family member gets sick and you need to go home? In many situations, your agency will have policies in place concerning most of your possible what-if situations. Reviewing those policies may put your mind at ease. In most cases, these potential fears never materialize. Don’t let something that will probably never happen to prevent you from a great opportunity.

[1] According to American Nurses Association.

By Kate McPhail

May 19, 2018

51621 Views

Canadian Travel Nurses in the U.S.

Posted on May 19, 2018August 8, 2023 by Kate McPhail

So you want to work as a travel nurse in the US but are currently working in Canada? The process is quite complex and can seem overwhelming, so I’ll try to break down the steps.

Timing – A Year in the Making

The process of getting licensed and ready to look and submit for current jobs actively could take almost a year, depending on processing times. Some travel companies advertise expedited service, but unfortunately, there is no quick way to move the process along.

I would caution about having a company reimburse you upfront for the costs due to the length of time from initial application to working long; if you decide not to travel, you will ultimately have to reimburse them for the costs. The specific company may not have work in the location you want to go to when you are authorized to work in the US and fulfill a certain number of assignments with them.

Also, as other travel nurses will advise you, any company reimbursement for car rentals, licenses, etc., all come out of the ‘total pay,’ and you would get less pay as the company would deduct those costs from the package. Either way, technically, you pay for it as, sadly, it isn’t free. The expenses of getting licensed would be a deduction, though, on your tax return if a company didn’t reimburse you.

It is a big change from nursing in Canada but can provide a great experience. If you’ve been a nurse for at least 2 years and have steady experience in your specialty, then you may want to head south for a new adventure.

NCLEX and Licensing

The first step is to take the NCLEX exam. The majority of RNs in Canada took the CRNE, which was not recognized unless you took it in the 1970s. In 2015, the NCLEX replaced the CRNE in Canada as the national license exam. If you are like me, it may have been many years since you took the CRNE. There are many helpful resources (books, courses, tutorials, etc.) to help you study for the exam. The exam is very different from how nursing is practiced in Canada, and I recommend that you study and take the test lightly!

To take the NCLEX, you need to register with a US State Board of Nursing (BON) and apply for ‘Licensure by Exam for Foreign Educated Applicants.’ Here is where Canadian nurses can be frustrated. Every state board has different requirements for what they require on the application. Many require a Social Security Number (the equivalent of the Social Insurance Card in Canada), but some do not. Although you may not have any desire to work in your initial state, you can apply to endorse the license after your desired state (discussed below).

I was personally licensed in Minnesota, as they do not require an SSN for foreign applicants. I always recommend nurses check with the individual boards as their requirements can change often. Fill out the application as specified and mail in the documents requested.

Canadian License Verification

You will need to have your Canadian licenses verified by the provincial registration authority along with your school transcripts. Most charge a varying fee for that service and can take up to a month in my experience, to be processed and mailed out. These need to be mailed directly from the state board from the nursing authority or school or rejected.

Authorization to Test

Once all the required documents and fees have been approved, the BON will issue you the authorization to test (ATT), which allows you to register with Pearson Vue and take the NCLEX. It is only valid for 90 days, so you need to be ready to test quite soon.

You then register online for a testing date and pay the exam fees. After testing, you will be notified if you are successful or unsuccessful at the test. If you passed, you would be officially licensed in that state, but you will need to repay the fees to the BON and the exam fees to retake it if you are unsuccessful.

State Applications

If you did take the NCLEX and not the CRNE in Canada, you would still need to apply with a state in the US to be licensed in the US. You will need to contact the specific boards on their requirements and required forms to complete, as having nurses in Canada writing the NCLEX is still new.

The Visa Screen

Once you’ve passed the NCLEX and are officially licensed, you are now able to apply for your Visa Screen. The Visa Screen is a Homeland Security document screening process mandatory for foreign-educated nurses who want to work in the US. It is NOT optional, and you will be unable to get a TN visa without it. CGFNS (is the company that you apply for the visa screen with. It is $540, and you apply online and then print and mail off the required documents to the nursing authorities and schools.

Be warned this takes a long time (6 months or longer on average). I have found that once a document is received in their office, it takes around a month to be entered into your file. Once all the documents they require are entered into your file, you have the option to pay another $500 for expedited processing. Without expedited processing, it commonly takes 1-3 months to be approved.

Ready to work!

Once you have passed the NCLEX, have a state license, and Visa Screen, you can now look for travel nursing jobs and connect with companies and recruiters. I have completed many travel assignments. I always ask prospective recruiters and companies whether they work with Canadian nurses and are familiar with the TN process. Not all companies are. Asking in advance can save you time with those who don’t.

License by Endorsement

If you don’t intend to work in the state, you are licensed. You will need to ‘Apply for endorsement’ to the state you want to work in. You will hear many states are ‘Quick licenses or Walk through’ by US-trained nurses. Unfortunately, it has been my experience that it is not the case for nurses not educated in the US.

Board of Nursing Requirements

All BON have varying requirements, from fingerprinting, transcripts, wanting Canadian license verifications, etc. Also, if working in New York is your plan, be aware you will need to reapply for a New York state screening with CGFNS again ($465), and takes 6 months. Also, some states require a Certified Education Screening (CES) Professional Report from CGFNS for Canadian nurses, which is ($350). I always advise nurses not to agree to a job without having a license in hand. Some boards will grant a license but only within a few days of starting a job (AZ, for example).

TN Visa

So you have the NCLEX, Visa Screen, License(s), and contract…now it is time to get the TN visa. The TN visa is granted at the border only when you officially leave Canada and enter the US. You are not able to get it ahead of time, or they will reject your application. You will need to have the original paper copies of the following to present to the officer:

TN letter from your company
Visa Screen
Nursing Degree
License

Once you have the visa and are in your new city, you then take all the paperwork to the Social Security Administration office and apply in person for an SSN.

What I Wish I’d Known

While I have learned a ton while traveling and working in the US. There are, however, a few things that I wish I had known previously.

Shift Cancellations

One major difference between Canada to US nursing is that hospitals can cancel shifts if the census is low. You will have no sick time or paid vacation time which is different from Canada.

Previous Experience

You may find that many hospitals want to see the US nursing experience. Many times they will overlook your Canadian experience or previously completed travel contracts. Don’t give up. It may mean you need to take a contract somewhere other than your dream location to start with.

Credit Score

Keep in mind that your Canadian credit score doesn’t count here. You will start with zero credit. This means you will need to be prepared for high deposits for housing rentals, cell phones, cars, etc. Over time you will build your US credit score. You will also need to get a US bank account. Travel nurse companies will require a US account to deposit your pay.

As you can see, the process of becoming approved to work in the US is complex. I don’t regret investing. I have learned a lot, made lasting friendships, and had some wonderful experiences.

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!)

By Kosta Miachin

May 14, 2018

6606 Views

5 Yoga Poses That Help with Indigestion While Travel Nursing

Posted on May 14, 2018May 20, 2021 by Kosta Miachin

Long trips can really mess up our body’s natural rhythm. This is especially true when we travel into a different time zone. The bigger the change, the more under the weather feel.

Not only will our day-night rhythm be out of sync, keeping us awake at night, a jet lag can cause headaches, nausea, and indigestion. Sometimes we can’t relieve ourselves for days.

But not only occurs this phenomenon when traveling into a different time zone but also when simply traveling to a new place. Sleeping in a different bed, eating unfamiliar food – A change in the environment is often enough to put our digestive system completely on hold.

You will be happy to hear though, that there are some tricks that can help you get your bowel movements back on track within a short period of time.

Next to eating a nutrient-dense diet, rich in fiber, there are many yoga poses that are known to activate your digestive function and get you some release.

Another good news is: You don’t have to be an experienced yogi performing crazy bends to get the benefits. The 5 yoga poses listed below are very straightforward, so no matter if this is your first attempt at yoga, or you’re a regular practitioner, enjoy them and keep breathing regularly throughout the practice, as I cannot stress enough the effect deep belly breaths have on our digestion.

Yoga Poses

1. Marjaryasana – Bitilasana (Cat – Cow Pose)

Cat and Cow are usually practiced together in a flow. Come onto all fours into tabletop position. Make sure your knees are right above your ankles and your shoulders are above your wrists.Spread your fingers wide and press your hands firmly into the mat. On your next inhale, drop your belly and arch your spine, roll your shoulders back and look up to the sky (Cow). On the exhale press into your hands, drop your tailbone, pull your belly button towards the spine, gaze to the navel (Cat). Repeat this movement for 10 more rounds. When in Cat, really suck in your belly, which helps massaging your organs and your digestive tract.

2. Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes)

Twists are a great way to get our digestion moving. For Half Lord of the Fishes pose, sit on the mat with legs extended to the front, keep a straight spine. Then bend your right leg and cross it over the left leg, sole of the feet on the floor. The right knee is pointing up towards the sky. Bend your left leg and bring your left foot next to your buttock. If this stretch is not available to you, keep your left leg extended to the front. The effect will be the same, so don’t worry about it.

On your next inhale straighten your spine, lift your left arm and place it to the outside of your right thigh. Plant your right hand right behind your buttocks, twisting to the right side. Make sure you keep your chest open. Use your in-breath to lengthen the spine, and the out-breath to twist a bit further by sucking in the belly, then twisting the upper back, then the shoulders. Move gently and with your breath, and after about 10 breaths, turn back to center and twist gently to the left as a counterpose for one breath.

Repeat on the other side.

3. Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)

Let’s warm up our spine by coming into Locust Pose first: Lie down flat on your belly, extend your arms to the front alongside your ears, your legs are extended to the back. On the inhale lift your arms and legs off the mat. Gaze is towards the mat. Take 4 – 6 deep breaths into the belly, feel it pressing into the mat, massaging your organs. Release arms and legs back onto the mat. Bring your arms alongside your body and turn one cheek onto the mat, relax here. Repeat Locust Pose one more time.

Moving on to Bow Pose: Still on your belly, bend your knees, reach back with both arms and grab the outer edges of your feet. On the next inhale, press your feet into your hands. You will feel your torso lifting slightly off the mat. Maybe your thighs are coming off the mat, but if they don’t – no problem. Breath deeply into the belly and let your breath rock your body gently to the forwards and backwards. This is where the magic happens, activating your bowels.

Hold for 4 – 6 breaths, then release the grip on your feet and slowly lower your torso down onto the mat. Place the other cheek on the mat and relax. Repeat Bow Pose one more time.

Counterpose: When you feel your spine has reset – push gently back into Child’s Pose.

4. Ardha Pavanamuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose )

Come to lie flat on your back with both legs extended. Bend your right knee and bring it into your chest. Hug the knee with your arms. Now with every exhale, bring your knee closer to your chest. Take about 10 deep, conscious breaths here, then repeat on the left side. We start this pose with the right leg, as our movement follows the direction our food travels in our digestive tract.

When you’ve done both sides, bring both knees into the chest, and feel the belly pressing against your thighs. Then release your legs back onto the mat.

5.Supta Matsyendrasana (Supine Spinal Twist)

Stay on your back. Bring your right knee back into the chest as described in the Wind-Relieving Pose, then lead your knee over the left leg, with the right hip lifting off the mat. If the right knee doesn’t come all the way down to the floor, place a folded blanket or rolled-up towel underneath it for support.

Arms are spread to the sides, both shoulder blades are glued to the mat. Gaze goes either towards the sky or over your right shoulder. Take 10 deep breaths into your abdomen here, and with every exhale relax a little bit more into the twist. When done, bring your knee back up into the chest, give it a little squeeze and extend it alongside the left leg.

Repeat with the left leg.

The great thing is, you can do all the above yoga poses on the floor of your hotel room, or even on the beach. If you really can’t find any space, you can always do them on your bed.

Keep your body well hydrated and trust the effect that these yoga poses have on your digestive system. They have helped people already for thousands of years.

By Jackson Nurse Professionals

May 10, 2018

17801 Views

3 Incredible Nurses Who Started Nonprofits and Charities in Their Own Communities

Posted on May 10, 2018November 10, 2023 by Jackson Nurse Professionals

This article is sponsored by: Jackson Nurse Professionals.

While you’ve likely chosen the nursing profession for a variety of reasons, your passion for helping others probably sits somewhere near the top of your list. With that in mind, we’d like to introduce you to a few nurses who took this passion one step further and started their own nonprofits and charities to reach those in need.

While this is not an exhaustive list, we personally love the following nonprofits, charities, and informal community service programs that were started by nurses. Maybe, just maybe, you’ll get inspired, too.

Clothes closet at Jackson Memorial Hospital

In his job as a nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Oliver Castellanos sees many homeless patients come and go, often being discharged without adequate clothing items for comfort and safety – with many of them often leaving with their paper gown. So, he brought in some clothes and shoes he had at home that he was going to donate and instead set them up in a closet at the hospital for homeless patients to take.

“It began with a small pile,” Mr. Castellanos said to CNN. “But it continued to grow bigger and bigger.”

Other people began bringing items in, and now the closet is overflowing with clothing options for homeless patients who have been discharged.

Earth’s Angels

Hanan Waite, a neonatal nurse at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, grew up in Ghana, where she saw firsthand the devastating impacts of an absence of quality health care, losing both her parents at a young age. She moved to the U.S. in 1997 and, after a difficult pregnancy in 2011, began thinking about how her experience could have been much riskier had she still been in Ghana, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution explained.

From these reflections came Earth’s Angels, a nonprofit she founded in 2012 to improve access to and the quality of neonatal care in least-developed countries.

“It’s not an option to stop,” Waite said in an interview with the AJC. “After I lost my parents when I was 8-years-old, I always knew that my purpose was to help other children. …It just took me growing up and having the experiences that I’ve had to know where to channel this painful desire to help others. That is my fire. I just want to do it so badly.”

The nonprofit sends equipment and medical personnel, conducts training and education sessions and raises funds for health care facilities in countries in need, with the goal of “eradicating maternal and infant mortality, one mother and baby at a time.”

One Nurse At A Time

One Nurse At A Time was co-founded by Sue Averill, a registered nurse with a love of adventure and travel.

“Growing up as an army brat gave me a love for travel and other cultures,” she wrote on the organization’s website.

In 1985, Averill led the delivery of medical care after an earthquake in Mexico City in 1985, which brought to light her passion for humanitarian work. The experience kicked off a career of traveling around the world, delivering health care and education to communities in need, and paved the way for the creation of One Nurse At A Time. The nonprofit connects nurses with humanitarian work and volunteer opportunities around the world. Many nurses, Averill included, choose to spend their time in between travel nurse assignments in the U.S. working for humanitarian projects overseas through the organization.

You already have the desire to help others with the knowledge and spirit to change the world. So, we hope these stories of nurse-founded nonprofits and community initiatives encourage and inspire you to follow your own passions.

Do you know a nurse who has started a non-profit or charity? List the nonprofits and nurses below!

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

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