October 11, 2021

5961 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!)

By Amber Pickler

October 8, 2021

4909 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.

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 Kevin Devoto

October 7, 2021

7794 Views

6 Travel Nurse Tips For Packing Lightly

Posted on October 7, 2021September 27, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

It can be difficult to pack for extended trips, especially when you’re traveling for work rather than for vacation. Not only do you need everyday items such as clothes and toiletries, but you may also need cookware and even furniture. Here are six travel nurse tips for packing lightly for your next travel nurse assignment.

1. Use Combination Products

Products that combine two or more uses in one are particularly useful for reducing the number of things you need to pack. The most common combination products are personal care items and toiletries. For example, instead of packing separate sunscreen, you can pack SPF lip balm, foundation and moisturizer, and two-in-one shampoo and conditioner, so you only need to pack one bottle. Clothing and bags are also multi-tasking products. You should pack several pieces of light clothing that can be layered in cooler weather. Instead of small purses, backpacks, and cases, you can bring one medium-sized or large bag for everyday use.

2. Get Travel-size and Portable Items

You can use this strategy instead of or in conjunction with combination products. Travel-sized toiletries are sold at most stores and are useful if you’re flying or taking public transportation to your job destination rather than driving a personal vehicle. If you use items such as hair dryers, curling irons, or electric toothbrushes, look for portable versions of them, which are typically smaller and lighter than the regular versions.

3. Check Whether Bulky and Heavy Items Are Included In Your Housing

Many travel nursing employers are aware of the limitations associated with long-term work-related travel and so will work to accommodate you as best they can. Before you start packing, confirm with your employer what type of housing is included in your contract. Some companies provide corporate apartments, while others will reimburse you for temporary housing. Check with your employer what types of furniture, appliances, utensils and other amenities are provided, and then determine what else you need.

4. Research What’s Best to Purchase After Arrival

No matter how much is provided in your housing and how much you pack, you’re likely going to need to purchase at least one thing after you arrive at your destination. Food, cleaning products, and replacements for your travel-sized toiletries are the most common items you’ll need to purchase. If your mode of travel limits how much you can pack, you may need to plan to purchase items such as cooking utensils and hangers. Additionally, make sure you have refills on all prescription medications you’re taking so you can get them if you run out while you’re away from home.

5. Go Digital Where You Can

You need to carry all essential paperwork when you travel for work, including your government-issued ID, employment contract, and credit cards. You should also carry copies of documentation, such as your social security card and your nursing license. Aside from these, you should try to keep as many of your records, documentation and entertainment material confined to digital storage as you can. Carrying a laptop, an external hard drive, an e-reader or tablet, and a phone means a much lighter load than packing books, binders, and files.

6. Only Pack Essentials

You may think packing essentials only applies to things you physically need to live and to do your job. While you need to prioritize personal care items, medications, and clothing, you should also pack to accommodate your mental and emotional needs. Since you’ll be away from home for several weeks at a time, you should bring some small items to combat homesickness, such as a knick-knack that reminds you of home or a framed photograph of loved ones. You should also pack one or two items to help you relax and feel calm, such as scented candles, sheet masks, a plush blanket, or your favorite sweatshirt.

Conclusion

Remember, the things you need for work are important as a travel nurse, but you shouldn’t neglect your comfort either. Try to balance professional and personal items as best you can so you can stay healthy, happy, and able to do your job well.

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 Amber Pickler

October 6, 2021

9733 Views

Selecting with Precision: The Best Stethoscope for Nurses Unveiled

Posted on October 6, 2021December 19, 2023 by Amber Pickler

As a nurse, you know how important the quality of your stethoscope is. After all, you use it on every travel nurse assignment you take. You also know that they can cost a pretty penny. How do you know which stethoscope is worth the price? Your fellow travel nurses are here to help! A post made in our Facebook network group recently asked what the best stethoscopes are for travel nurses. There were many comments, and out of those comments, Three brands were mentioned the most. Before we get into the top brands, here is a little history of the stethoscope.

The stethoscope was invented in France in 1816 by René Laennec at the Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital in Paris. It consisted of a wooden tube and was monaural. Laennec invented the stethoscope because he was uncomfortable placing his ear directly onto a woman’s chest to listen to her heart.

Twenty-five years later, George P. Camman of New York developed the first stethoscope with an earpiece for each ear. This design would be used for more than 100 years with very few modifications.

Now, let’s find out what the top stethoscope brands are the best for travel nurses.

Top Stethoscope brands for Travel Nurses:

Littmann

Littman is probably the most well-known brand of stethoscopes. Littmann offers many options for stethoscopes. Whether you are looking for a classic stethoscope or a cardiac, there are many options to choose from. They also carry a line of pediatric stethoscopes as well. Their classic stethoscopes are a favorite among the group. They offer classic stethoscopes, cardiac stethoscopes, lightweight stethoscopes, and digital stethoscopes. They all come in various styles, colors, and ways to personalize the type of stethoscope you choose.

Littman has many resources on their website about stethoscopes, education on stethoscopes, how to choose the right stethoscope, and many other resources for medical professionals.

Ultrascope

Ultrascope offers something for everyone. They have a variety of styles and looks. They also offer a variety of types of stethoscopes that they list on their website. Below you will find each type along with information about each from Ultrascope’s’ website.

Single Ultrascope:

According to their website, Single Ultrascope is a pressure-sensitive stethoscope with a single-sided chest piece and would be considered a “normal stethoscope” that most providers carry… It has an adjustable or tunable diaphragm that allows the user to hone in on different sound frequencies without flipping the chest piece. It’s’ a true workhorse model that will often serve as the point of reference for comparing these different kinds of stethoscopes.

The Duo Stethoscope:

Their site states that “The Duo Stethoscope looks a lot like the Single Stethoscope but offers an additional feature: the ability to switch between stethoscope heads. This is the stethoscope for medical professionals who deal with patients of different sizes or ages. To switch heads, all you have to do is unscrew the head connectors and attach the head of your choice. This is also a great option for those who just enjoy having multiple stethoscope designs on hand.”

Extended Stethoscope:

The Extended Stethoscope differs from the previous kinds in one key aspect: the option of extending the tubing on your stethoscope.

A standard stethoscope has a length of about 30 inches. With an Extended Stethoscope, you have a tubing extension that increases the total length to about 51 inches, making it nearly double the standard length. The tubing extension is optional to use, so you can easily switch between the standard and extended-length as called for by the situation or patient.

Classic Stethoscope:

The Classic Stethoscope is very similar to the Single Stethoscope but differs in how it delivers sound to the user’s ears. Like the Single Stethoscope, it has a pressure-sensitive diaphragm on a single-sided chest piece that is great for picking up sounds of different frequencies. Unlike the Single Stethoscope, however, the Classic Stethoscope has two tubes emanating from the chest piece, with each tube delivering individual sound to the left and right ear, respectively.

The Classic Stethoscope can be a great choice for medical professionals who are hard of hearing or have hearing issues. Sounds travel to each ear separately, giving you better and more focused sound quality. Note that hearing aids must be taken out when using this stethoscope. This stethoscope, like the others above, may also be used on human or animal patients.

Teaching Stethoscope:

The Teaching Stethoscope may look similar to the Classic Stethoscope, but its two tubes serve a different purpose. These tubes emanating from the chest piece allow two users to use it at the same time: a teacher, as the name suggests, and a student.

Like all the stethoscopes previously mentioned, the Teaching Stethoscope also has a single-sided chest piece with an adjustable diaphragm. The advantage of the Teaching Stethoscope is that it allows instructors to hear what students are hearing in real-time. This is great for academic environments where aspiring medical professionals are taught and tested on their auscultation skills. Having separate tubing’s is also great for hygiene, as the ear tips don’t’ have to be shared between users.

MDF

If you are looking for variety and options, MDF has both. They have an extensive list of stethoscope options they list on their website. They offer fifteen different collections of stethoscopes, all of which offer something different from the other collections. MDF also offers a free parts for life program. As you know, your stethoscope can and does taking a beating, so this is a fantastic program. The information below comes from their website and details the program:

Yes, our Free-Parts-For-Life Program (including ear tips) is really free. Free-Parts-For-Life shipments will be sent to the shipping address on the original order or location of purchase. Suppose you have moved to another address or country other than the original shipping location. In that case, we will do our best to send Free-Parts-For-Life and Lifetime Warranty shipments from a designated distribution center or distributor. We have distribution centers in the USA, European Union, Mexico, China, and Japan. We have official MDF Instruments distributors in over 80 countries.

What is Included in the FREE-PARTS-FOR-LIFE-PROGRAM?

The parts include our ComfortSeal® Eartips in three sizes (small, medium, and large), ID Tag, diaphragms, retaining rings, and non-chill rings.

Your stethoscope is a vital part of your job. Picking the right one can be difficult. We hope that you found this information helpful in the process of choosing one. Did we miss a stethoscope brand or company you think should have made our list? Comment them below and if you would like to give a little information on them and why you think they are the best.

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 Frank Hamilton

October 5, 2021

11226 Views

How To Write Covid-19 on Your Travel Nurse CV

Posted on October 5, 2021September 22, 2021 by Frank Hamilton

During the global pandemic, healthcare professionals were as demanded as never before. Travel nurses aren’t an exception. But despite the demand in the labor market, there is fierce competition that forces travel nurses to pay special attention to promoting themselves as a specialist.

For example, the experience of treating patients with COVID-19 can be crucial in landing a worthy job. Therefore, a modern travel nurse CV must necessarily contain information about COVID-19, if there is experience with caring for patients with it. How to properly highlight it in your CV? Below you will find some tips on how to create a competitive CV, mentioning your contribution to the global pandemic fight.

How to Write Covid-19 on Your Travel Nurse CV?

There are two main points regarding Covid-19 that you should note in your CV. It’s about what skills you got and how they affected your professional experience. How to describe them correctly? Below you will find a couple of insights in these areas with the help of which you can correctly highlight your experience during the pandemic.

Don’t Hesitate

When it comes to Covid-19, it can be decisive for your employment. If you have experience in caring for patients with Covid-19, have quickly adapted to new treatment protocols, or have received additional certification in lungs ventilation, then all this should be reflected in your resume without any hesitation. Even minimal experience in treating patients with Covid-19 can be decisive.

Mention Relevant Certificates

If you have undergone additional training, then undoubtedly it is worth mentioning this in your CV. Certified specialists are always in demand, especially during a pandemic, and such a point will beneficially highlight your theoretical background, which you will have to prove in the next sections of your CV.

Add Statistics

At the first glance, it may seem strange to have a statistic in a CV, but if we talk about a global pandemic, each person you helped to survive matters. Therefore, you do not have a single reason to devalue your services to society.

If you worked during the peak of the pandemic and you have indicators of how many people got better with your help, then this can be a good moment that will set you apart from the competitors. For example, you can indicate something like “During my employment at X, 148 out of 150 patients went on a full recovery”.

Expand the Skills Section

There is no doubt that due to the worldwide pandemic, you have gained additional skills that you could not have noted earlier. What skills are we talking about? If we talk about Covid-19, then you can additionally highlight the following vital skills:

adaptability to the situation,
instant decision making,
Covid-19 treatment protocol awareness,
the ability to work with different ventilation devices,
the ability to implement preventive measures for Covid-19.

Highlight the Achievements

If you have any awards that you received during Covid pandemic, note them in your CV. This includes both achievements and awards. For example, if you have such a nomination as DAISY, then it is worth mentioning this in your resume. There is no doubt that such an award will be another benefit you shouldn’t hesitate to show off.

Use Professional Resume Writing Help

Even though travel nurses are now in great demand, competition remains fierce. To get a high-paying job, you need to market yourself as a medical expert and empathic caregiver at the same time. Your CV is a good tool for this.

Use the professional help of writers to create a resume that will grab the attention of HR managers and employers. Use the best essay services reviews to discover the best custom writing companies to get quality help in CV writing.

How To Find Travel Nurse Job

After you have your CV ready, you can proceed to the final stage. Post your resume on local and global job boards, partner with relevant recruiting companies, and don’t forget about using social media.

For example, a platform like Linkedin can help you build the right connections with both employers and HR managers. If you have experience of working with an HR manager, then send your resume again. Perhaps the manager has a suitable job offer for you right now. Always stay in touch with managers, agencies and recruiting companies to be always updated on fresh openings and relocation opportunities.

Wrapping Up

Use the above tips to create such a CV that will differentiate you from the other travel nurses and will open doors to the best job offers. Highlighting your skills and experience in the right way is key to your career as a travel nurse. In this article, we have shared simple yet actionable tips on how to dwell on your experience in the context of Covid-19, so make sure to use them and turn your new skills into competitive advantages along with the opportunity to proceed with helping those in need.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our jobs page. Do you have an 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!)

By Triage Healthcare Staffing

October 4, 2021

9395 Views

Kamana: The Last Profile You’ll Ever Need

Posted on October 4, 2021September 30, 2021 by Triage Healthcare Staffing

This article was provided by Triage Healthcare Staffing.

If you haven’t taken the travel plunge yet, you probably aren’t sure what it means to build out your profile. Quite simply, your traveler profile is like a neatly packaged, detailed resume that agencies can use to help you find a job. Every agency you work with requires you to build out a profile with them, and they use it to find a job, and then like magic, a love match happens.

How the Traveler Profile Currently Works

If you’re currently working with multiple agencies (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), you probably have quite a few profiles floating around in cyberspace, all that might include some personal info. Since each agency normally uses their own specific profile, this also means that you’ll have to update information over and over when something changes, like a license expiration date or even something as simple as receiving a yearly flu vaccine. Take a second and think about how many profiles you have out there and just how long it can take to update each one when you’re looking for a job. Annoying, right?

Enter the Kamana Profile

Kamana is an encrypted, universal profile that stores your information in one secure location. You can share your universal profile with multiple agencies, so say goodbye to creating and updating multiple profiles that need to be individually updated whenever you have a new piece of info. Update your info once, and your profile can be updated with multiple agencies with one click. Easy peasy.

Also gone are your paper folder and dusty laptop that you haul around from assignment to assignment. Since you access Kamana through a secure web app, you don’t need to text or email sensitive documents to your agency. Send the secured Kamana link and know that your data is safe.

What Info Can Kamana Manage

But what actually goes into a Kamana profile? Like an agency-specific profile, you’ll need to include personal info like your contact details and what you’re looking for in an assignment. Then, you can upload attachments, such as JPGs or PDFs of your license, certifications, or even vaccine records. The next step is to enter your work history, what electronic health record systems you’re experienced in, and even skills checklists.

How the Heck Does Kamana Actually Work?

Once you’ve completed your Kamana profile, you can choose to share your profile within the web app. Only recruiters or agencies that you create a relationship with are able to see your profile. Your profile comes with two versions—a limited view and a complete profile. With the limited view, agencies can only see your name, contact info, and a short summary of your qualifications.

With the full profile view, your receiver can see and download your full profile. In this case, your home address, work history, and reference contact info are available. Kamana recommends that you reserve a full profile share until you’re applying for a specific job with an agency. If you ever decide that you don’t want to work with a particular agency or recruiter anymore, you can also revoke access at any time.

In addition to making it incredibly simple to share your profile, Kamana also keeps track of any expiring licenses or vaccines and sends you a reminder before the expiration, so you are never caught off guard.

What if My Agency Doesn’t Take Kamana?

Over 100 agencies currently use Kamana to help speed up their onboarding process, but what if yours isn’t one of them? You can still send a link to your universal profile, and all the information your recruiter needs is at their fingertips, making your life easier.

Not a Traveler Yet? Kamana is Still for You

If you haven’t dipped your toes in the travel water, you can still take advantage of a Kamana profile. When your Kamana profile is up to date, Kamana can generate a downloadable PDF of your resume, so you don’t need to spend time formatting or updating information if you want to look for a new position. And, of course, Kamana still keeps track of your personal credentialing info and expiration dates, so you’re never unaware when something is about to expire.

To create your Kamana profile and connect with Triage, please visit Triage’s Kamana portal.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse job? Click here to view our job board. Have the job, 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!)

By Heather Downen

October 3, 2021

17502 Views

17 Things You Need to Know About Being a Travel Nurse

Posted on October 3, 2021January 16, 2023 by Heather Downen

Travel Nursing isn’t for everyone. Just like with any other job there are pros and cons to it. For that reason, a travel nurse of 8 years came up with these 17 things you need to know about being a travel nurse before you sign that contract.

17 things you need to know about being a travel nurse.

1. Yes, it will be hard getting your first job.

Because not all hospitals take first time travelers, the more requirements you have (location, shift, block schedule, time off) the harder it will be.

2. You may get a great hospital for your first job that is okay with you being green, asking questions, needing guidance.

But it’s unlikely. Most will give you little to no orientation, the hardest patient load, and then nitpick your care. Or if they do take you it will be a hot mess. Know your practice. That skills checklist you have to do? Be honest. And if you aren’t marking expert in most to all the boxes, get more experience.

3. Yes, we are serious that you should get two years in your specialty.

Yes, TWO years minimum. Are there people who do it? Yup. Would you want someone caring for your grandma who is a year nurse with no support system in place? Oh, and you can bet they will cancel you if you can’t keep up. Or if you need a lot of assistance.

4. We are at-will employees.

Because of this we can’t sue for cancelled contracts, housing issues, ect. We put up a lot of upfront money with no guarantee. It’s just part of travel. You want security, keep your staff job.

5. Are there jobs out there that are destination locations, paying $3k a week, and block scheduling?

Yes, there is one. And it was filled 0.0000005 seconds after it posted by Janet who has been traveling for 22 years and has her travel game on lock down.

6. Have a savings.

You will hit a snag and not have a contract for a month, get cancelled, have that cheap housing fall thru, get sick/injured on contract. Nothing sucks more than being 3000 miles from family, broke, alone, and jobless.

7. They are paying us to work.

If you don’t, they will keep more of your money and you may get cancelled.

8. Be professional.

Yes, more professional than the staff nurses.

9. Mind your business.

They don’t want to know how you did it at your staff job. So, do it the way they want (within the parameters of patient safety). There is more than one way to skin a cat. As they say.

10. Be smart about safety when traveling.

You are alone in a new city. You are a prime target for all kinds of criminals.

11. No one can tell you if it’s better to fly and rent a car, drive to your destinations, or ship your car.

It’s what fits your time and budget.

12. Yes, it’s harder to travel with pets.

Yes, housing is harder. Adding big, bully breeds, or multiple dogs makes it even harder. Is it doable? Yes, but it’s harder. It may limit your locations.

13. Yes there is a quarantine for dogs going to Hawaii.

It’s it doable? Yes. But it’s a huge pain, expensive, and stressful for your pet.

14. Recruiters

There are crooked recruiters. Yes, there are lazy recruiters. There are crappy recruiters. Yes, you will work with a few before you figure it out. But there are great recruiters who will become your friends. Who will support you, listen to you lose your mind/whine/cry. When you find them, keep them. And tell all your friends.

15. Not every “good” recruiter is a good recruiter for every nurse.

Because of this you need to realize your needs and desires and find a recruiter who fits with you.

16. Travel nursing isn’t for everyone.

And that’s okay. You must be flexible, optimistic, and roll with the punches. Therefore, if that’s not you, stay home.

17. There will be nurse that disagree with these.

Saying well “I traveled after being a nurse for two weeks, have fifteen pit bulls and a horse and I found a job making $3k a week with block scheduling on day shift and housing for $50 a month. You can do it”. You can friend, but you are responsible for your license, bank account, and happiness. No one else.

So, before you sign that contract make sure you have not only read over these 17 things you need to know about being a travel nurse, but do your own research as well.

Want more information on travel nursing?

Check out our Travel Nurse Guide

By Go Healthcare Staffing

October 1, 2021

7650 Views

When Should I Take Time Off as a Travel Nurse?

Posted on October 1, 2021September 28, 2021 by Go Healthcare Staffing

This article was provided by Go Healthcare.

This is a question that is asked over and over. The best time to take time off? There is no best time, BUT as a travel nurse, one must understand they are supplemental staff to the Full-time staff why the whole industry was created due to Full-time staff shortages. But we are in a pandemic, so here are some ideas.

In between contracts or extensions.

This is the best time if you need a week to take a breather and get recharged. Nurses are being asked to work longer, and in more difficult environments, so it is okay to say you need some time for yourself.

Work with your manager for scheduling.

If you feel burnt out or tired, work with them to see if you could get a week where your schedule may allow for a long weekend or a four-day weekend where you would have a Friday and/or a Monday off. Sometimes you just need a few days….

Not holidays but around the holidays.

Meaning supplemental staff is usually asked to work the holidays due to the Full-time staff wanting to take holidays. Hence there is usually a solid bump for that day or bonus. So if you work with your manager, you can schedule sometime around and still get the benefit of higher pay.

Just like any profession, there is never a good time one feels to take a breather.

Just know work will be there. But understand the pandemic will end in time, and rates will come back down, so if there is a time to work and actually work as many hours as you can, now and the near term would be the time and save some money to take a nice relaxing vacation when the pandemic ends!

We hope you found these tips for taking some time to yourself as a travel nurse helpful. Do you have any advice to share with new or even veteran fellow travel nurses about vacations and time off? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Need housing for that next assignment? Click here to visit our housing page.

About Go Healthcare:

For every reason you decide to travel, we are there for you. As a Travel Nurse, you have the opportunity to travel anywhere in the country while gaining an enriching experience both professionally and personally. Some reasons you may decide to travel include avoiding “hospital politics” as a staff RN, a chance to see the country, gain clinical experience for your nurse resume, increase your earning potential and connect with friends or family far and nearby working in the same city. We offer our Go RN Travelers exciting travel assignments across the country, competitive pay & benefits, and healthcare insurance from “day one” of your contract.

By CareerStaff Unlimited

September 28, 2021

7609 Views

Leaving the Day Behind: Relaxation Techniques for Nurses

Posted on September 28, 2021September 22, 2021 by CareerStaff Unlimited

This article was provided by CareerStaff Unlimited.

By Karen Stockdale, MBA, BSN, RN

For most nurses, dealing with high levels of stress on a daily basis becomes the norm. The nature of the job lends itself to stressful situations – from dealing with life and death situations to interacting with people at some of the worst moments of their lives – over long, demanding hours. The rates of nursing burnout are very high, with similarly high rates of mental health problems like anxiety and depression.

Many nurses find themselves re-living the day’s work – mentally rechecking everything to make sure nothing was missed or secretly chastising themselves for not doing more. This mental game is called “ruminating” and can be very damaging. Ruminating prolongs and intensifies stress, leading to depression and impairing your ability to process events. If you find yourself ruminating on the day, step back and find an activity that requires your mental ability in a non-exhaustive way. Puzzle and word games, crafts, visiting friends, sports, or other hobbies can help “reset” your brain and get it out of the loop.

Nurses are often giving people by nature – they entered the profession to help others. This selfless attitude, while admirable, can cause a challenge when it comes to a positive nurse work-life balance. These are the qualities that make great nurses! However, it is also these qualities that make it hard for travel nurses to unwind after work.

As a nurse, how do you unwind, reset, and protect your private time? Let’s take a look at some techniques to reclaim your mental space and coax the stress away.

Five Ways to Unwind

1. Exercise.

Exercise releases feel-good endorphins and takes the tension away. And it doesn’t have to be physically exhausting. A walk, some yoga, some dancing, playing with a child or your dog – all of these are ways to move your body and release some stress. It also helps you sleep better!

2. Keep a Journal.

Focusing your thoughts on exactly how you are feeling can help you express yourself – and leave it on the page. Many find that gratitude journaling is a good technique for emphasizing the greatest things in life. Instead of focusing on stressful parts of the day, it might be helpful to express gratitude for the coworker that brought you lunch or the family member that hugged you. Journaling can help bring the joy back.

3. Spend time with family and friends.

When you don’t feel at your best, it is tempting to be a hermit and skip social events. Don’t do it! Spending time with those you love is a natural stress reliever and gives you a feeling of belonging and connectedness. When nurses talk about work-life balance, this is one component that is crucial to well-being.

4. Laugh.

Sometimes it is hard to find the humor in a situation – but nurses are known for a wicked sense of humor! A twisted sense of humor is a tried-and-true coping mechanism for healthcare workers. Caution – use your humor around people that “get it,” or it could be mistaken as in poor taste. Then laugh until it hurts!

5. Learn to Say NO.

As givers, nurses are sometimes not good at boundaries. This equates to extra shifts, staying late, and helping out coworkers and friends. This often leads to a lack of personal time and self-care and breeds resentment. While it is difficult, learning to say “no” in kind ways such as “I just have too much on my plate right now” or “Thank you for thinking of me, but I need to step away for a while” become easier with practice. Saying “no” gives you control over your stressors and eliminates that overwhelmed feeling.

CareerStaff Unlimited knows how important self-care is to busy nurses, and we support the work-life balance of each individual. Travel nursing opportunities allow nurses to select the assignment and the hours that are right for him/her while seeing new areas of the country and experiencing new cultures. Explore your options through CareerStaff by searching current travel job openings. Then relax and let us handle it!

We hope you found these tips for travel nurses to unwind. Do you have ways that you unwind after a long shift? Comment them below.

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

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

START HERE

Tips to Land a Travel Nurse Job:

1. Highlight Yourself

2. Polish Your Resume

3. Take Initiative

4. Be Open

The Main Takeaway

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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1. Use Combination Products

2. Get Travel-size and Portable Items

3. Check Whether Bulky and Heavy Items Are Included In Your Housing

4. Research What’s Best to Purchase After Arrival

5. Go Digital Where You Can

6. Only Pack Essentials

Conclusion

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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Top Stethoscope brands for Travel Nurses:

Littmann

Ultrascope

Single Ultrascope:

The Duo Stethoscope:

Extended Stethoscope:

Classic Stethoscope:

Teaching Stethoscope:

MDF

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

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Don’t Hesitate

Mention Relevant Certificates

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Wrapping Up

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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