By Mia Logan

December 3, 2023

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How to Take Care of Patients with Serious Health Problems

Providing care for individuals with severe medical conditions is an honorable and difficult undertaking that needs a profound comprehension of medical and social abilities. It’s a duty that caregivers and medical professionals alike carry out with extreme caution and empathy. So, here are some of the nuances of giving patients with severe medical conditions the best care possible, with an emphasis on the important factors that guarantee their comfort and well-being.

patients

Understanding the Medical Condition

Understanding the nature of a patient’s disease is critical to providing them with appropriate care. This calls for in-depth investigation as well as a comprehensive comprehension of the diagnosis, available treatments, and any possible side effects, especially when dealing with global issues like the pandemic that can ruin everyone’s health status. Since medical knowledge is always expanding, healthcare practitioners need to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the area. Precise diagnosis and well-designed treatment regimens serve as the cornerstones of high-quality healthcare. Furthermore, by having this knowledge, patients and their families are better equipped to make decisions and take an active role in their own care.

Providing Emotional Support

A significant emotional toll is frequently associated with serious health issues. As they deal with the difficulties of the illness, patients and their families may feel dread, anxiety, and grief. Healthcare professionals must provide emotional as well as physical support. This entails providing a safe environment for patients to express their emotions and active listening and empathy. Psychosocial support can be very helpful in enhancing patients’ general health and assisting them in managing the emotional components of their illness. This emotional support includes techniques for assisting patients in developing resilience, managing stress, keeping a positive outlook, and consoling words.

Sustaining Improvement in Medical Services

The pursuit of perfection in the treatment of people with severe medical conditions never fully stops. In order to find areas where treatment may be improved, healthcare facilities should also give priority to quality improvement projects, evaluate patient outcomes, and ask patients and their families for input. This is why lots of people don’t mind thinking outside the box and looking for new solutions and ideas. Therefore, some of them might check out reputable dialysis clinics in Bali, for instance, and find out how people deal with these problems all over the world. In addition to helping patients, a culture of continuous improvement gives healthcare professionals the tools they need to provide the best treatment possible and keeps them at the forefront of medical developments.

Promoting Holistic Care

A comprehensive strategy that considers the patient’s social, emotional, and physical needs is known as holistic care. It involves a multidisciplinary team collaborating to address the patient’s various demands. In addition to providing medical care, holistic care takes the patient’s comfort, dignity, and quality of life into account. This method can include, among other things, counseling, physical therapy, pain management, and spiritual support, all of which add to a more comprehensive and successful treatment strategy. The combination of these components promotes comfort and a sense of well-being, which is vital for individuals managing significant medical conditions.

patients

Fostering Hope and Resilience

For people dealing with severe medical issues, holding onto hope and perseverance is essential. When it comes to giving patients hope and motivating them to get past obstacles in their path, healthcare providers are critical. This can be accomplished by having honest conversations, establishing reasonable objectives, and giving patients the chance to contribute to their treatment decisions. Support networks and relationships with people who have had comparable difficulties can also be incredibly beneficial sources of motivation and inspiration. Developing hope and resilience is an ongoing process that involves the patient and the entire healthcare team. It builds a network of support that enables patients to face their health challenges head-on and with optimism.

Family and Caregiver Education

Providing patients with significant medical care often goes beyond the confines of a hospital or clinic. Caregivers and family members are crucial to the patient’s overall health. It is essential to inform them about the illness, possible side effects, and treatment options. This gives them the ability to make wise decisions, deliver efficient treatment, offer emotional support, and even deal with losses in the best way possible. Giving caregivers the tools and direction they need can result in more compassionate and smooth care, which is advantageous for the patient as well as their support system. 

Providing comprehensive care to individuals with severe health issues is a complex undertaking that calls for a blend of medical knowledge, compassion, and an all-encompassing outlook on health. We can establish a supportive environment where patients with significant health concerns can receive the finest care possible and improve their quality of life by addressing these factors holistically. Providing care for these patients is an ongoing process that requires compassion, devotion, and a desire to improve their quality of life.

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

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!)

By trustaff

December 1, 2023

3369 Views

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Tips for Networking As a Travel Nurse

Trustaff provided this article.

Trustaff’s Networking Tips for Travel Nurses

Navigating the dynamic world of travel nursing can sometimes feel like a solitary journey. However, with the right connections and relationships, every travel nurse can amplify their career opportunities and enrich their professional experiences. Networking, an often-underutilized tool, is pivotal for personal and professional growth, especially for travel nurses. Whether you’re looking to expand your horizons, discover new job opportunities, or find camaraderie in shared experiences, networking can be the key.

Why Networking Matters for Travel Nurses

networking

1. Unveiling New Opportunities:

Networking can open doors to travel nursing assignments you might have yet to encounter in your regular job search. It can offer exclusive insights into potential job openings, allowing you a competitive edge in application processes.

2. Knowledge Exchange:

With travel nursing spanning diverse healthcare settings, networking provides a platform to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss challenges. The collective wisdom of fellow nurses can help you prepare for diverse scenarios and enrich your professional skills.

3. Mentorship and Guidance:

For those newer to the travel nursing realm, networking can connect you with seasoned travel nurses. Their guidance can provide valuable insights into navigating assignments, understanding contractual nuances, and achieving work-life balance.

4. Emotional Support:

Travel nursing, with its unique set of challenges, can sometimes be isolating. Building a network of fellow travel nurses offers a support system, a sounding board, and a comforting presence of those who truly understand your journey.

Strategies for Effective Networking

1. Engage in Professional Associations:

networking

Associations like the American Nurses Association offer platforms to connect with fellow nurses, attend events, and participate in mentorship programs. Being an active member can provide numerous networking opportunities.

2. Attend Conferences and Workshops:

These are hubs for meeting professionals from your field. Not only do they provide learning opportunities, but they also serve as platforms to connect, share experiences, and explore collaborations.

3. Dive into the Digital World:

Platforms like LinkedIn, specialty nursing forums, and even Facebook groups can be goldmines for networking. Engaging in discussions, sharing insights, and connecting with peers online can broaden your network effortlessly.

4. Embrace Local Communities:

While on assignment, engage with local nursing communities. It can be through volunteering, attending local workshops, or simply connecting with local nurses. Building local connections can enhance your assignment experience and offer a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.

5. Proactively Connect:

Take the lead in initiating conversations, whether introducing yourself to a fellow nurse in the breakroom or contacting someone online. Remember, every interaction holds the potential of a lasting professional relationship.

6. Continuous Engagement:

Networking isn’t a one-time activity. Continuous engagement is crucial to truly benefit from it. Keep in touch with your connections, share updates, and be there to offer support when needed.

In the realm of travel nursing, where every assignment is a new journey, having a robust network can be your compass, guiding you through challenges, offering support, and leading you to opportunities. As you continue to provide exceptional patient care and explore new horizons, remember that building and nurturing professional relationships can be a catalyst for unparalleled growth and fulfillment.


At Trustaff, we pride ourselves on understanding travel nurses’ unique needs and aspirations. With our extensive network of assignments, continuous support, and a commitment to your professional growth, Trustaff is your partner in every step of your travel nursing journey.

Explore the limitless opportunities and experience the Trustaff difference today. Discover, thrive, and let us be the bridge to your next great adventure.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By Triage Healthcare Staffing

November 21, 2023

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How to Land a Travel Assignment in a Desirable Area

Triage Healthcare Staffing provided this article.

If you’re looking for an assignment in a great location, you know the competition is fierce. Desirable locations have a lot of nurses, all competing for the same jobs. Luckily, we’ve got tips that can help you land a travel assignment where you want to go—even if lots of other nurses are all vying for the same position.

land a travel assignment

Be Flexible with Pay or Housing

In desirable areas, you may need to be less picky than with a normal assignment. This means that the average pay rate may be lower than you’re used to because so many other nurses are interested in the area. It’s simple supply and demand—if the supply of nurses who want to experience a specific area is higher than normal, the facilities will lower the bill rate, which directly affects travel nurse pay.

Housing may be hard to come by in popular areas, too. This can affect you in one of two ways: you may need to pay more for housing that’s close to the facility or live further away. Either option works. It just depends on what you want out of your living situation.

Book an Assignment in the Off Season and Extend

This tip comes directly from a pair of Triage travelers. Our travelers often think ahead to where they want to spend the summer and then book an assignment in that location in the spring. That way, when the summer is close, they are already in the area and their first choice when the position opens up. Of course, this tip might not work as well in locations like Hawaii that are super popular year-round, but our travelers have found it to work in nearly every instance.

land a travel assignment

Work with a Recruiter You Can Trust

A recruiter you can trust is an invaluable resource. When you have someone in your corner that you trust, you’ll be able to have a conversation with your recruiter about what you’re looking for in an assignment. By maintaining this relationship, your recruiter will be able to look out for the locations you want to work in. Then, if you have your profile ready, your recruiter can submit you within seconds once you give them the go-ahead. When there’s a lot of competition for desirable locations, being first in line can make it more likely that you get the assignment. The early bird gets the worm, right?

Be Open to a Night Shift or Float Pool

Lastly, being open to a night shift or float pool can help your chances of being hired in a competitive location. When you’re flexible with your shift or willing to jump in and help out in a different specialty, you’re a more attractive candidate for the facility. However, make sure that you talk to your recruiter to ensure you’re not floated to a specialty you’re not comfortable with. And if you are asked to float somewhere outside your skill set, your agency’s clinical department can help you navigate that situation so your license stays safe. That’s what they’re there for! Looking for travel nurse jobs in a location everyone else wants to go to? Scoring one of these sweet assignments can be a challenge, but there are ways to make it happen. Use these tips (and a Triage recruiter) and get yourself on the road.

We hope you enjoyed this article on landing a travel assignment in a desirable location. Do you have any tips to share with your fellow travelers? Comment them below.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By Medical Solutions

November 13, 2023

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Why Travel Nurses Must Take Time for Themselves (And How You Can!)

Medical Solutions provided this article.

When you hear the phrase “work-life balance,” what comes to mind? Those newer to travel nursing, and even veteran travel nurses, sometimes feel like it’s a concept out of reach. Yet, nobody understands more than healthcare professionals that doing the job effectively requires having the physical and mental energy to do so.

Taking time off between assignments is more than simply a promising idea. It is vital for your overall well-being and even the care of your patients. Fortunately, the flexibility of travel nursing—being able to work when and where you want—allows for this. It is up to you to prioritize self-care by taking time off!

self-care

Self-Care for Travel Nurses In-Between Contracts

The perception of self-care is often things like taking time to hit the gym or get a massage. While these can certainly be part of your self-care practices, true restorative self-care for nurses is about much more.

  1. Rest and Recovery

Jumping from contract to contract with no break in between doesn’t give you the time to decompress. Resting, relaxing, or even taking the time to recover from burnout is crucial to your physical and mental well-being. It can also help you avoid health issues and enhance your job performance, maintaining safety in patient care.

  • Spending Quality Time with Family and Friends

Connection is a basic emotional need we all have, and using your time off between assignments to be in contact and spend intentional time with family and friends can offer you emotional support, reduce feelings of isolation, and help alleviate the stresses and demands of your profession.

self-care

Quality patient care is your primary focus during a contract, and the time off you take between assignments is the perfect time to assess the care you are giving to your body and mind. Consider your nutrition—everyone has different nutritional needs. Are you eating in a way that leaves you feeling energized and at your best?  

How about your movement? Physical activity helps prevent disease, boosts “happy hormones” like serotonin and oxytocin, and can lead to improved sleep and mental restoration.

Taking time off between assignments allows you to reflect on and assess your previous contract. Was the location everything you thought it would be? Were there any specific factors of your role or the facility that appealed to you? Maybe there are aspects of your last assignment you’d like to reflect on and explore what you would like to change in your upcoming contract.

Your recruiter will help you prepare for your next assignment, but taking that intentional time off allows you to have an honest conversation with yourself about what you want and need for your nursing career. Then, you can pick a future assignment that aligns with your overall goals.

Putting it into Practice: How to Take Time Off

“Time off sounds great, but I can’t lose my benefits!”

This is a common concern among traveling clinicians who would really like to take time off but don’t feel it’s possible. You can ensure it is possible by working through the right agency or organization, such as Medical Solutions. This way, you can retain your benefits during breaks and choose assignments mindfully. Work-life balance can be as accessible to you as it is to anyone else.

Our job board is the perfect place to look when you are ready for your next assignment or looking for your first assignment! Find both the role and the location that speak to you and your priorities.

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!)

By AB Staffing Solutions

October 30, 2023

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Avoiding Housing Scams in Travel Healthcare

AB Staffing Solutions provided this article.

We asked our Housing Department about avoiding housing scams in travel healthcare, and the one commonality is to trust your own instincts. If it doesn’t seem right, like a landlord is asking to be paid via Venmo or Zelle or asking for money before a lease is signed, then don’t sign anything. Call your housing specialist for guidance; this is a sign of a scam. As with any agreement, be sure to read the terms of your lease, ask questions, and then sign and send money. If you’re not sure, don’t move ahead.

avoiding housing scams

We understand that housing in certain areas of the country can be challenging, like in rural areas. Our team does their best to support your housing search and help you find a safe, suitable place for you, your pets, and your loved ones.

Common Signs of Housing Scams

As you’re heading to a new location, we encourage you to do your research about the area, including housing options. Common signs of housing scams include asking for a wire transfer or other payment prior to signing a lease, asking for money to be sent a lease and zero online reviews. No reviews don’t necessarily mean a scam, but if there have never been other renters, it might be. It’s important to be cautious.

Rather than heading to the internet and clicking the first links that appear, find reliable sources for apartments and other housing.

  • Check with your housing specialist because they may have experience finding housing where you are going and have recommendations of resources and neighborhoods where other travelers have stayed.
  • Find Facebook groups for travel nurses or housing for travel nurses; search in the group for the place where you are moving and see what people have to say about their experience.
  • Secure housing before heading to your new job; you need a place to rest when you’re not working.

DOs for Avoiding Housing Scams

We always want you to be safe and secure and have a plan when you arrive at your new location. Here are things to do to ensure this happens.

avoid housing scams
  • Check social media accounts for the person with whom you are interacting. If the account is less than two years old and/or changes the profile photo often, this could be a scammer.
  • Go with your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t sign the lease. If they want to do a handshake deal, run; you don’t want to be caught in a bad situation before you start your assignment.
  • Be aware of landlords who are scammers when they say things like they need a renter as soon as possible. They can’t meet you because they are traveling or they have poor grammar.
  • Insist on a receipt/invoice of payment. Not only does this create a paper trail, but it is good to have for your records and taxes.
  • Wait to put a deposit down/send money until you have been fully cleared to start working. Things can always change.
  • When sending money, verify the payment method site. Look for “https” or check for the closed lock symbol at the beginning of the URL. That means the website is secure.
  • Look at reviews from the listing. If you are looking on sites like Airbnb, always read what past tenants say about the landlord.
  • Be aware of the rent if it is lower than the average rate for the area.
  • Report scammers to local authorities and our housing department if you encounter them.

DON’Ts for Avoiding Housing Scams

It is exciting to be working as a travel nurse, moving from place to place every few months, but it is important to always be aware of the possibility that someone doesn’t have your best interests in mind. Here’s what to avoid.

  • Request to wire money, especially before signing a lease.
  • Communicating with a prospective landlord exclusively via direct messages or WhatsApp. They should have an email and phone number where you can contact them to prove they are real and the opportunity is legitimate.
  • Give out personal information until you are positive it is a legitimate housing offer.
  • Find housing on Craigslist. We have heard of multiple people getting scammed on Craigslist. Just avoid it.
  • Skim the lease agreement. Read in detail and ask questions to ensure you understand the terms, conditions, and responsibilities are clearly outlined before you sign.

We recommend these trusted resources for finding housing as a travel nurse:

Your Recruiter and Housing Specialist are here for you. Trust your instincts. If a housing option doesn’t feel right, just say no and keep looking. We understand that securing safe housing is a crucial part of your travel healthcare journey, which is why we encourage all our travelers to utilize the resources in this article to avoid housing scams.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By Jogan Health

October 4, 2023

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How to Balance Travel Nurse Duties During the Holiday Season

Jogan Health provided this article.

The holiday season can be an especially joyous and memorable time. But, nurse shortages aside, it can also be challenging as a travel nurse.

Living a few miles or a few states away from family can be difficult when everyone around you is decking the halls. But you don’t have to settle for the holiday blues. Here are a few tips for traveling nurses to enjoy the holiday season — even if you’re on assignment.

How to Balance Travel Nurse Duties During the Holiday Season

holidays

Schedule your placements around holiday functions.

This may be a no-brainer, but it’s worth the consideration: schedule your assignments with the holidays in mind, if possible. Very few professions have the luxury of scheduling when and where they want to work. However, as a travel nurse, you get this liberty.

Travel nurse agencies and healthcare staffing companies may offer flexible assignments. Proactively communicate your holiday preferences to your agency so they can plan accordingly and find a placement that fits your needs.

Plan a remote holiday get-together.

While you might be hundreds or thousands of miles away from your closest loved ones, you can still feel like you’re two feet apart. Technology — video calls, text messages, etc. – can help you connect and participate in holiday activities from afar.

Here are a few ideas to bring your loved ones closer:

  • Video call into your family dinner
  • Cook a family favorite together over Facetime.
  • Host a holiday-themed game night.

Dust off your video camera and set your calendar — don’t forget to account for differing time zones! — and haul out the holly.  

Celebrate the holiday season during downtime.

Healthcare providers are essential professionals, so don’t be surprised if you are required to work on Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, or other holidays. But just because you clock in on December 25 or the fourth Thursday in November doesn’t mean you can’t partake in the festivities.

Celebrating before or after the designated holiday does not delegitimize the meaning or excitement of gathering with friends and family. And, if you want to look out for your healthcare provider friends and family who face the same situation, throw a holiday bash of your own.

holiday season

Embrace the local culture.

Family traditions aside, you have the unique opportunity to experience the local culture — take advantage of this time!

Every state, city, and town has its own traditions and celebrations that can make spending the holiday season a fun adventure.

Don’t believe us? Here are a few unique holiday traditions from around the United States:

  • Alexandria, Virginia, hosts Water-skiing Santa, an annual parade of water-skiing Christmas characters.
  • Newport Beach in California holds a five-night precession Christmas Boat Parade where more than 100 illuminated boats decorate the coast.
  • Las Vegas, Nevada, organizes the annual Great Santa Run, where hundreds of Santas take to the strip to show their holiday cheer.
  • New York, New York, holds its famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Practice self-care

Like so many, the holiday season can be stressful for travel nurses — whether it be the disappointment of missing a family tradition or the loneliness of spending the holidays in a new environment.

Proactively plan and prioritize a self-care routine that supports your wellness during this time. Join support groups, seek counseling, or plan holiday-centric activities that you can enjoy solo.

Conclusion

Being a travel nurse is an exciting but challenging feat. And just because you’re on assignment doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the holiday season. Plan accordingly and turn your “Bah, humbug” into “Have a holly jolly holiday” this holiday season.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By AB Staffing Solutions

September 21, 2023

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6 Ways to Stand Out in the Competitive Travel Nurse Market

AB Staffing Solutions provided this article.

Becoming a travel nurse can effectively build your resume and experience, but how do you stand out in a competitive market? We asked our recruiters to share what gets our clients noticed, how they continue to grow themselves and their careers, and why it is essential to stay connected.

The journey begins when you find a travel nurse agency and recruiter with whom you connect. If you’re unclear if they’re a good match, read the article Healthcare Red Flags and Green Flags. It is important to research an agency’s online reputation before jumping in to find a recruiter. We know there are a lot of places you can go, and finding the right agency is the start of standing out in a competitive market.

Stand Out as a Travel Nurse

Ways to Stand Out as a Travel Nurse

1-2 years of shift nurse experience is required to become a travel nurse. If you’re ready for a different experience in life, it’s time to get organized and make a move!

Moving from shift nurse to traveler means moving multiple times a year, being away from loved ones, and constantly being the new person at work. While the lifestyle is challenging, it is also rewarding at the same time. How you organize and manage your life can have an influence in getting offered a contract you like versus one you love.

Polish the Resume

As you complete a contract, update your resume with new skills, certifications, and accomplishments. That way, you’re ready for the next job opportunity. Include specialized training that sets you apart, such as previous travel nurse experience and experience in settings like those for which you are applying. Keep a digital copy handy so you can send it quickly. Remember to spellcheck and grammar check before sending and update contact information as needed.

Showcase your Flexibility – 

Stand Out as a Travel Nurse

In most cases, you have a higher chance of getting a travel contract if you’re flexible in your location, shift schedule, and pay. Be open to learning new systems and floating to other hospital areas to fill gaps. Remember that as a traveler, you will likely not be able to make changes, but offering feedback, if asked, to your on-site supervisor may be helpful.

Obtain Specialized Certifications

Set yourself apart by pursuing specialized certifications related to your specialty. Popular or preferred certifications include Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). It shows you’ve taken the initiative and have the training to work in other (related) areas; it gives your recruiter more options to share your resume with our clients.

Highlight Cultural Competency

Working as a travel nurse means you are likely working in diverse communities with varying patient demographics. If you have experience with this type of work, highlight it on your resume and in conversations. Managers want to know if you can provide patient care that respects and values cultural differences. Working for Indian Health Services (IHS) or Corrections Facilities are two areas that need experienced medical professionals.

Ace the Interview.

It (literally) pays to prepare for the interview. Your travel nurse recruiter can support you in this process. It helps to review your own experiences and research the facility and location beforehand. This will help you prepare thoughtful questions and emphasize your eagerness to contribute to the team.

Build Strong Relationships

Connection is key to standing out in a competitive market as a travel nurse. Begin when you contact your recruiter. At AB Staffing, our recruiters are available to you before, during, and after your contracts; ask them anything related to your job. Connect with the travel nursing community to understand where there are job opportunities and needs in communities. Take advantage of agency bonuses when referring friends. Lastly, stay connected with friends you meet via social media and connect in person when working in their hometown.

You’ve made a smart decision to become a travel nurse. We know you will do well and are here to support you in your career and travel journey.

When you’re ready to start, check out the AB Staffing Travel Nurse Job Board and Contact Us.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By Staffmax Healthcare Staffing & Recruiting

September 2, 2023

3104 Views

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Snow in September?  It’s 100 Degrees Outside!

Staffmax Healthcare Staffing and Recruiting provided this article.

Article was written by: Julie Hesseltine, RN, CNO, and Sr. Recruiter for Staffmax.

It isn’t time for snowflakes for most of us. After all, we are still hitting triple digits in most of the USA, and the beaches still have visitors.   However, this morning was a chilly reminder that at any point in the coming 13 weeks, we could have a blizzard here in the Northern States.   Two weeks ago, a friend of ours in the high mountain country of Wyoming was scraping frost off the windshields. Many of us have seen the first blizzard of the year in September and occasionally in August.  It is time to prepare for winter assignments ahead of time.  For travelers who are preparing to head northbound, be sure to think about what you are going to need for the winter months. 

winter assignments

Tips for Cold Winter Assignments:

“Be sure to check your oil.”

That is what my dad used to always preach to his kids before leaving on a trip.  Car maintenance is of utmost importance. Dad didn’t always tell us to check the radiator fluid to make sure it would withstand certain temperatures.   If you are putting your own windshield wiper fluids into the chamber, be certain it is the winterized kind or that you have some with you.  Change your blades, too, if they are getting old.  Visibility is important, just as is traction on the road surfaces. What about your tires?  All tires are NOT the same.  If you are contracted to work where there is usually a fair amount of snow, and you permanently reside in an area that never sees those gorgeous, white, cold, icy flakes, make sure the tire man knows you want all-weather tires if you are getting new ones.  Trust me, it will make your life better.

Keep a warm blanket and snacks in the car.

winter assignments

Something else that you may have never thought about was keeping a nice warm blanket in your car and some snacks.  It is a good thing to have a small survival kit if you are going to be in an area far between towns.   Growing up in a very rural part of the Midwest, I always keep a survival kit in my car, and there are usually 2 or three blankets as well as a small shovel and an extra pair of gloves.  Sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it?  Why in the world would one need things like this?   It does happen that I have been darn happy to have those things when I was stuck in a snow drift waiting on help. Here is a short list of items you may want to keep in the kit:  1-2 candles, matches, some energy bars, candy bars, puzzle books and pencils, an extra pair of gloves or mittens, a good book to read, beef jerky, a few bottles of water, and a small empty can.  The can is simply for filling with snow you will melt over the top of the candles so you have something to drink in an emergency. Battery charging cord.  The hope is to never have to use anything in your kit at any point in time.  But occasionally, people do get stranded or stuck in the snow.  Caught in a blizzard or bad roads, these can be life-saving for those who have this.  Just as some get caught stranded in the heat of the deserts without water and suffer, this will help you stay safe too. 

Finally, it comes down to clothing.

Oh, how I hate to see people traveling in the wintertime wearing shorts.  They could freeze to death if they were in an accident!  But, by traveling with the appropriate clothing in one’s car, I guess they should be okay.  Just be sure to pack and carry an extra jacket, and on those cold, blustery days, take a coat with you! 

For many, this may seem like mere common sense.

But here in Nebraska and elsewhere, we may wake up to the birds chirping and the sun shining, 90 degrees by noon, raining in the afternoon with a heavy snowfall at night. We can pack a punch of all 4 seasons in one 24-hour span.  Most importantly, drive slowly and with care.  Icy and snowy roads aren’t so bad once you become accustomed to them.  My cousin once told me a story about how everyone from Nebraska, South Dakota, etc., would park their cars when the roads were icy and there was any snow where she attended school because “those people down there didn’t know how to drive in those road conditions. 

Soon there will be frost on the pumpkins, and we will all be wishing for spring once again. Be careful and safe travels

We hope you found this article on preparing for winter assignments helpful. Do you have any tips you would like to share on how you prepare for winter assignments? Comment them below.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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!)

By LeaderStat

August 29, 2023

3786 Views

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Best National Parks to Visit While on Assignment

LeaderStat provided this article.

Of the 423 national parks in the United States, 63 incorporate the words “national park” into their official name. The other locations are identified as national historic sites, seashores, recreation areas, forests, or monuments. Wherever your travel assignment takes you, chances are that you will be close enough to visit one of these sites!

Here are some tips for planning your national park visit and suggestions on which parks to put on your bucket list. The National Park Service website is a great place to start.

best national parks

Your Visit

Before you lace up your hiking boots and hit a trail at a national park, spend a few minutes researching the area. You’ll need to learn about the park and the environment to ensure you’ve brought the right gear. Don’t forget to inquire about the fees and permits you’ll need for your trip.

Once you arrive at the park, obey all posted signs and check in with the ranger station for up-to-date information on weather and other local conditions. Stay away from the wildlife, and don’t deviate from the marked trails and paths.

Best National Parks to Visit

Now that you’re ready to visit a park, which ones should you choose? Check out this list of national parks, which provides state-by-state information. There are parks for everyone, from beaches to mountains or historic sites to popular monuments. Here are nine suggestions.

best national parks

Denali, Alaska

Denali, Alaska, has North America’s highest peak, plus six million acres of wilderness accessible by a single road. But plan your trip in the summer because all the snow arrives in the late fall through early spring.

Yosemite, California

Yosemite, California, boasts one of the most well-known rock-climbing formations, El Capitan. But you don’t have to be a rock climber to enjoy the Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite Falls, or Half-Dome.

Everglades, Florida

Everglades, Florida, offers mangrove waterways and wilderness home to crocodiles, Florida panthers, and manatees. You can also fish for snook, snapper, and tarpon in the park.

Craters of the Moon, Idaho

Craters of the Moon, Idaho, originated several thousand years ago due to eight major volcanic eruptions that created craters, deep cracks, and lava fields. The landscape changes frequently since the area’s sub-surface still experiences high levels of volcanic and tectonic activity.

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, has more than 400 miles in its cave system—the longest known US cave. You can explore the surface or descend into the earth for a closer look at the cave’s twists and turns.

Acadia, Maine

Acadia, Maine, offers granite cliffs along with a rugged seashore. Hiking trails include the exposed Precipice Trail—with its metal rungs and wooden bridges—and paths to the summit of Cadillac Mountain.

best national parks

Assateague, Maryland

Assateague, Maryland, is a barrier island inhabited by wild horses. You can camp on the waterfront with the horses nearby.

Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico

Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico, offers caves used for thousands of years by nomadic dwellers. Come for the dwelling tours, bird watching, and nature walks.

New River Gorge, West Virginia

New River Gorge, West Virginia, is the newest National Park, designated in 2020. You’ll have more than 1,400 established rock-climbing routes to enjoy, plus miles of trails to pique your interest.

Find the perfect opportunity to explore our country’s national parks with LeaderStat. With these possibilities to choose from, how will you spend your free time this year?

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