March 3, 2021

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Northeast Georgia Why You Should Add it to Your Travel List

Posted on March 3, 2021January 16, 2023 by Katie Fitts

I am currently on assignment in a town called Gainesville, Georgia. No, no, not Gainesville, Florida, Gainesville, GEORGIA! Most people assume I am working in Florida when I tell them about Gainesville. No gators here in this Gainesville! I have to be honest; I had never heard of this town before this assignment. It turns out it’s a wonderful place for an assignment! Situated in an area deemed Northeast Georgia, adjacent to the Appalachian Mountains (the most beautiful mountains in the U.S. in my opinion) and right next to beautiful Lake Lanier, it’s a nature lover’s paradise and a relatively short drive to the city life of Atlanta and other lovely towns.

The Hospital

Northeast Georgia Hospital is based in Gainesville but has a few different smaller locations, including Braselton and Barrow, and plans for a Dahlonega facility. At 557 beds in Gainesville, it is quite large and is a level II trauma center, has labor and delivery services, cardiovascular services, and dialysis capabilities, as well as 23 operating rooms. Outside of Atlanta, it offers some of the most comprehensive services and state-of-the-art technology.

I have been quite impressed with NGHS. I would recommend this hospital based on my experience in the peri-operative area. They use EPIC for their EMR (electronic medical records), which is the best charting system I have seen.

What to See and Do in Northeast Georgia

Hiking

If you are anything like me and love nature and WINE, 🍷 you are in for a treat!

Hiking abounds! The Appalachian Mountains provide an incredible backdrop for all kinds of amazing hikes dotted with incredible scenic mountain views, waterfalls, and lush forests. I found a super great site that lays out all the hikes around the Atlanta and Northeast Georgia area, atlantatrails.com. It is very detailed in the trail terrain, distance, difficulty to be expected, and directions.

The infamous Appalachian Trail (AT) starts in Northeast Georgia at Springer Mountain and ends at Mount Katahdin in Maine. I have now inadvertently been to the beginning and the end of the Appalachian Trail! Maybe a sign I need to do this hike one day?! In the summer of 2019, I had the good fortune to spend my time in beautiful Maine as a camp nurse, and that is another wonderful area to visit.

Whether it is the AT or other trails, Northeast Georgia provides for some spectacular hiking! Some of the trails I was able to explore and enjoyed included Amicalola Falls, Raven Cliffs Falls, Blood Mountain, and Preacher’s Rock. It would take months of consistent hiking, though, to really see all Northeast Georgia has to offer. Happy hiking!

Northeast Georgia Wine Country 🍷

Now to my close second favorite part (ok, probably my top favorite) about Northeast Georgia…. the wine! Did you know there were wineries in Northeast Georgia? Me neither! I was pleasantly surprised!

Despite being in the well-known hot and humid south of the U.S., the Georgia foothills provide moderately cooler temperatures and rich soil for grape growing and winemaking. From muscadine to sweet wines to more heavy-bodied wines, Northeast Georgia has it all!

Some of the wineries also have full-sized restaurants and also do superbly done brunch. Who doesn’t love brunch? There are also tasting rooms in the quaint little town of Dahlonega, GA, which is just 30 minutes outside of Gainesville and where I happen to reside for this assignment.

Some of the wineries near Dahlonega include Wolf Mountain, Montaluce, Three Sisters, Kaya, Cavender Creek, and Frogtown Cellars. A little further out near Helen and Cleveland, Georgia, you can find one of Georgia’s oldest wineries Habersham Winery, Yonah Mountain, The Cottage Vineyard and Winery, and CeNita, to name a few.

Charming Towns in Northeast Georgia

Dahlonega

I live in Dahlonega, Georgia; pronounced Duh-lawn-egah for my non-Georgia resident friends. It took weeks of purposeful practiced pronunciation as I read it as dall-o-nega (akin to Talladega) as any typical part unabashed southern redneck may do. 😂 It is derived from a Cherokee Native American word meaning yellow, as it was found as a gold mining hub in the 1800s.

At any rate, Dahlonega is about 35 minutes outside of Gainesville and is a quaint town locally revered as a Hallmark movie inspiration with its picturesque small town square surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, particularly during Christmas. A local Dahlonega bar also debuted in a country music song by Ashley McBryde, A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega. Who knew?! The square has many cute little restaurants and shops, and wine tasting rooms. If you like Greek food, you MUST visit Capers on the Square. I probably ate there 5 to 6 times during my stay, don’t miss the goat cheese and fig flatbread… to die for. They also have delicious baba ganouj, gyros, and moussaka.

Charming Dahlonega at Christmastime

Helen

A Bavarian-inspired town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Helen is full of charm. You will think you have just teleported to the Bavarian region of Germany! The architecture is stunning, and downtown has plenty of shops and German-inspired restaurants. It was revamped in the 1960s and modeled after Germany’s Bavarian region to increase tourism and bring life back to the town after an economic downturn.

Other Charming Towns

More towns to see within a relatively short distance include Clayton, Blue Ridge, Ellijay, and Cave Spring, to name a few.

Additional Things To Do in Northeast Georgia

Gainesville is pretty neat in itself! It has a quaint square downtown area with shops and restaurants. Gainesville boasts lakeside views of Lake Lenier, popular for kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. A special little treat for my garden lover friends, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens has a branch in Gainesville and is a lovely respite area! Moreover, they have special events like “Wine in the Woodlands” nights with food trucks and wine, so be sure to check their events page.

In the mood for big city life? Atlanta and the metro area are only about 70 miles outside of Gainesville. Plenty to see and do there as well!

Pro Tips for Northeast Georgia

Ideal times to visit and or do an assignment – Spring to Fall (Winters are dreary and cold and gray and not a whole lot of snow to make it a great winter destination)
Travel Nurse Housing is surprisingly expensive in Gainesville! This is likely because it is a lakeside community as caters to people making mountain/lake getaways. I opted to live in Dahlonega for much more reasonable pricing, although a hike from the hospital.

I hope you enjoy Northeast Georgia as much as I did and put it on your list to visit! With wineries and nature, you can’t go wrong. Happy travels!

Gypsy love,

Katie

By Laura Greco

March 2, 2021

8153 Views

Why Do We Provide Better Preventative Maintenance for our Cars Than We do For Ourselves?

Posted on March 2, 2021May 19, 2021 by Laura Greco

Self-care or preventative maintenance has a long list of benefits: optimizing your immune system, relieving stress, improving resilience, having a more positive mindset, greater well-being, improved sleep, better able to manage chronic pain, reducing your risk of heart disease, and enjoying a better quality of life. It is enjoyable, makes us feel better, and is easy to access.

So why don’t we do more of it?

People have misconceptions about self-care, thinking it takes too much time, is costly, or is selfish. People often question where the line falls between self-care and self-indulgence. Why do we provide better preventative maintenance for our cars or homes than for ourselves? Do we consider that preventative maintenance an indulgence?

Self-care is not an indulgence.

It is preventative maintenance for YOU, the whole you: body, mind, and spirit. It takes many forms but is basically any action that replenishes you and enhances your well-being. If it causes you to slow down, be present in the moment, contributes to better self-awareness, and leaves you feeling good about yourself, it is probably self-care.

If you are a car, you aren’t particularly useful with no oil, no gas, and deflated tires. To be of service, you need to have reserves, be tuned up, and ready to go.

When you are depleted you are no longer as effective or resilient. It is hard to give when you don’t have anything to give. The negative effects of stress, physical, mental, and emotional illness run higher in those who neglect their own care.

Methods of replenishment

Because self-care nourishes us physically, emotionally, mentally, intellectually, spiritually, it will be different for each of us. While some aspects of self-care are universal (caring for our bodies with sleep, nutrition, hygiene, and exercise), others are unique. We each need our own methods of replenishment. What restores your soul and lights you up?

Some behaviors have immediate benefits, and others are cumulative. Notice there are tiers of self-care: some things you do monthly, weekly, and others daily. Some of the suggestions below won’t appeal, and that is OK. But before you write off an idea as “I can’t do THAT!” pause and determine what you are reacting to, what it represents to you, and whether your reaction is how you really choose to respond.

Ideas for self-care (preventative maintenance):

getting a massage or facial
meditating
cooking from scratch
starting each day with an intention to find beauty in the world
getting sauna treatments
setting a bedtime and creating a bedtime ritual
practicing mindfulness several times a day (when you wash your hair, sip coffee/tea, brush your teeth)
practicing gratitude daily
devoting a weekend to reading a book
journaling
creating art
trying photography
having time with friends or family
enjoying your pet
having time to daydream
having time alone
spending time in nature
learning
getting enough non-work mental stimulation
exploring a city
practicing self-compassion
traveling
enjoying hobbies
soaking in a tub with Epsom salts
volunteering
taking stock of all, you have accomplished
watching a sunset
performing random acts of kindness
floating in a pool or ocean
maintaining work-life balance
creating healthy boundaries
dancing
having a source of meaning outside of work
playing sports on a team
taking breaks and vacations
breaking up work with play
making regular time for decompression and reflection
streamlining/simplifying life
shopping for something that isn’t a necessity
making a bucket list and tentative plans to accomplish it

What brings you joy or connects you to your purpose?

Self-care (preventative maintenance) is not about getting more done. Culturally we are encouraged to push through, do more, be more…do it all. After a while, this approach backfires, and we are less productive, less efficient, and less happy. Therefore, practicing self-care is an ongoing lifestyle, not occasional spurts of doing something nice for yourself. Like gas for your car, it is best to keep some fuel in your tank and not run down to empty.

As nurses, we excel at caring for others, and we must also care for ourselves…proactively and regularly.

By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

February 16, 2021

13990 Views

7 Useful Things Nurses Need to Bring on a Shift

Posted on February 16, 2021April 29, 2024 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

This article was provided by Travel Nurse Across America.

As a travel nurse, you’re used to being busy during your shifts. This is why working with an agency that supports you and prioritizes your well-being is important, as it will help you deal with the stress that can create. However, you might also get stressed when you can’t find something when you need it. That’s why it’s a good idea to be as prepared as possible. Keeping these nursing essentials on hand will help you keep going throughout your travel nurse shift, even when things get a little hectic.

Extra Pens/Permanent Markers

Most travel nurses agree that you can never have enough extra pens and permanent markers. These are always important to have but can be easy to misplace or lose in the craziness of a shift. Bringing extras with you will ensure you always have one when you need it. Try to find pens and markers that you can easily attach to things like your badge, scrubs, or clipboards, as this will help you keep track of them. Frixion pens can be good to use since they’re erasable and let you easily color-code your patients.

Bandage Scissors

Keeping bandage scissors on hand is great because of how versatile they are, as they’ll be able to cut through just about anything. Keeping a pair with you will mean that you won’t have to try and find some scissors to use should you need to cut something. Instead, you can take care of the issue and keep things running smoothly.

Extra Scrubs/Clothes

Unfortunately, being a travel nurse can be a bit of a messy job. Since you won’t want to go through your shift with dirty scrubs, having a backup pair in your locker is great, so you can quickly change on the fly. The same goes for bringing a backup pair of socks and shoes- wearing ones that are messy or uncomfortable not only feels bad but can be dangerous as well. If you have longer hair, extra hair ties will also be useful.

Lotion & Chapstick

All the hand washing you do as a nurse will dry your hands out very quickly. With how annoying this can be, having lotion with you will help keep your hands moisturized and healthy. Since hospitals also tend to be rather cold and dry, try to keep some Chapstick with you, too, when your lips get chapped.

Snacks & Water

Keeping your energy levels up is crucial when you’re on the job. However, finding the time to sit down and eat isn’t always easy. Keeping something small to snack on, like a granola bar, is perfect for those times when you need a pick-me-up. Bringing a water bottle with you will also help keep you hydrated, even as you’re moving back and forth across the hospital. You might want to keep some gum in your pockets, too, so you can keep your breath nice and clean.

Phone Chargers

After a long shift, coming back to a dead phone is always a bummer, so bringing a phone charger with you will make sure that won’t happen. Having a charged phone is always useful, especially when you’re in a new area and are still getting the lay of the land.

Spare Toiletries/OTC Medicine

It helps to have a way to freshen up during or after an especially tough shift. That is why travel nurses will bring things like deodorant, toothpaste, and a toothbrush to their shifts. This gives them a chance to feel nice and refreshed and is particularly helpful if you’ve got a long shift. As for dealing with the aches and pains that come with the job, bringing some ibuprofen is a great solution.

When it comes to travel nursing, it’s key to prepare ahead of time. Bringing useful items like these with you will help you power through the day, even when things get hectic. Do you have any useful items you bring to your travel nurse shifts that didn’t make our list? Comment them below.

Finished the travel nursing guide and are ready to look for an assignment?

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By Soliant Health

February 10, 2021

7132 Views

Fall Back in Love with Travel Nursing – Five Reasons Why You Started in the First Place

Posted on February 10, 2021May 19, 2021 by Soliant Health

This article was provided by Soliant Health.

No doubt about it, 2020 was rough. It was rough for the average human, much less those working in the healthcare field, especially nurses. It could’ve been the hardest year of your career and challenged you in ways you never thought possible. It might have very well been the fight of your life. Yet, here you are. You made it. Let’s not pretend that 2021 isn’t shaping up to be just as…interesting, but never again will you be caught off guard like you were in March of 2020. Never again will you think, ‘well, that can’t happen’ because now you know it most certainly can, and best of all, you most certainly can handle it. The downside of all this empowerment and growth is, you may be feeling a bit tapped out. Maybe even like you’re at the end of your rope with all this ‘humanity’ nonsense and having very clear and present thoughts about going off-grid and forgetting the world exists, and we wouldn’t blame you.

However.

We would like to remind you of that little kid who made up their mind about the rest of their life so young, people were shocked when you made it happen. Or that high-schooler who applied to the school of their dreams…and got in! Or that grad student who thought they would never see the light of day again, but they did. And that very first day, of your very first assignment, when you took a deep breath and knew it had all been worth it. Whether you’re a life-long travel nurse or just getting started, there is a reason why you choose this field, and now is a great time to remind yourself why.

It’s Exciting:

You’re not built for a desk job. Sitting in an 8×8 cube and staring at a screen all day would drive you crazy, and you know it. It’s something you knew pretty early on too. Your mind can download and process information quickly, and as such, you require more stimulation than the next person. New cases, new patients, and new opportunities every day invigorate you. Now, add in the travel aspect of your career choice, and you’re right where you need to be, wherever that is.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T:

For 18 years in a row, nurses have been rated the most honest and ethical profession according to Americans’ Gallup surveys, outpacing doctors by 20 points (and members of Congress by 73). In a world where people don’t trust anyone, they trust their nurses. They listen to their nurses. They respect their nurses. Your integrity and professionalism proceed you from assignment to assignment, and you’ve earned that respect. You should be proud of yourself. We sure are.

Job Security:

Stability appeals to you. Nurses and healthcare professionals will always be in demand. It is a recension-proof (and we now know apocalyptic virus-proof) field of study. 2020 taught us that while always in demand, the healthcare field can change just as quickly as any other profession. Being a travel nurse means you’re ready to go where you’re needed and, as such, are a precious resource. In fact, one article referred to travel nursing as ‘the hottest job during a pandemic,’ and the need keeps on growing.

Flexibility:

There’s something to be said for a flexible work environment, and this control over your schedule is important to you. You chose nursing because it offers multiple opportunities for flexibility in scheduling, work settings, and specialization. Medical facilities need someone 24-hours a day and typically base work shifts and days off according to the facility’s expected demands and employee requests. Travel nursing opens this door even wider for per diem and PRN assignments, allowing you to take control of your career path and take time for yourself and your mental health. (Not last year, of course. But usually.)

To Make a Difference:

Hands down, the number one reason nurses in all fields across the globe give for choosing their profession is to make a difference in the lives of others. Like this nurse in Nebraska who stopped on the way to her daughter’s wedding to save a life or this nurse in Indiana who saved a life while volunteering, stories about nurses going above and beyond the call of duty flood the internet. This is your calling. This is what you were made for. This is your bag, baby.

Here at Soliant, we have a saying, a motto if you will. We make life better for those who make lives better. We see you. We see you going above and beyond every day. We see you hanging in there when others might have thrown in the towel. We see you making life better for everyone, and we think it’s time someone helped make your life a little bit better too. Give us a call today and let us show you how we can help manage your travel assignments, putting your focus back on what you’ve always loved: saving this crazy world – one patient at a time.

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 Gifted Healthcare

February 3, 2021

26659 Views

8 Things Every First-Time Travel Nurse Should Know

Posted on February 3, 2021May 19, 2021 by Gifted Healthcare

This article was provided by Gifted Healthcare.

Travel nursing is an excellent way to see new places, meet new people, and gain valuable clinical experience.

If you’re an RN that wants to become a travel nurse, GIFTED Healthcare wants to help you prepare for your first assignment. That’s why we’ve created a list of things that every first-time travel nurse should know.

Read on for 8 tips to help you have an amazing start to your travel nursing career!

Organize & Prepare

Finding a great travel assignment is much easier if you’re organized and prepared. Make sure your records, license, and any other relevant documents are up to date.

All travel nursing companies interview and screen their applicants. Being prepared for your interview will increase your chances of getting the assignment you want.

Note: Most travel nursing companies do not place RNs with less than one year of clinical experience.

Be Flexible

Many RNs choose travel nursing so that they can practice nursing on their terms. However, due to their lack of experience, first-time travel nurses don’t always get the assignment at the top of their list.

Try to remain open-minded about the locations, environments, and facilities in which you’re willing to work. You can be more selective once you have travel nursing experience under your belt.

Communicate with Your Recruiter

At GIFTED, your recruiter is here to help you with any issues you have related to your assignment.

Before your assignment begins, your recruiter can help you find housing. During your assignment, call your recruiter immediately if any serious problems arise regarding living arrangements, your paycheck, or your schedule.

Feel free to check in to let your recruiter know how things are going during your assignment. You are not alone – we are here to support you!

Avoid Too Many Distractions

Travel nursing is a fantastic way to get out of your comfort zone and experience new things. But it’s important to set yourself up for success on your first assignment.

Consider choosing a location close to home or a place where you already have a network of friends or family. Ensure your living arrangements won’t expose you to stressful circumstances, like a lack of sleep or safety.

Do your best to minimize distractions so that you can perform well and enjoy your first assignment.

Packing: Be Strategic

Packing for any trip can be stressful. But there are plenty of ways to make packing for your assignment easier.

Keep in mind that most travel nursing assignments are 8 to 13 weeks long. Make a list of the essentials, and try to stick to it. Think about items you can buy once you arrive at your new location, like shower curtains, trash cans, and other household items.

Packing efficiently will make it easier to settle into your new home, giving you more time to prepare for your first day.

Day One: Make a Great First Impression

Making a great first impression will help you excel during your first assignment.

Arrive early on your first day to show initiative and familiarize yourself with the facility. Or, go the extra mile and ask to tour your unit before you’re scheduled to start your assignment.

Making the right first impression will help you make a smooth transition into your new environment, benefitting both you and your coworkers.

Be Friendly

Before you arrived, the staff may have been pushed to their capacity. Remain aware of this when you enter your new assignment, and do what you can to show you’re there to help.

As a first-time travel nurse, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If a coworker is helpful, show gratitude. Talk to your teammates about their hobbies and favorite restaurants in town. Or, bring everyone snacks or coffee before your shift.

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

For more strategies on settling in, read GIFTED’s tips on adjusting to new facilities as a travel nurse.

Give It Everything You’ve Got

Travel nursing requires commitment. Once you’ve settled into your new assignment, prepare yourself to give it your all.

No matter where you travel, the location of your new assignment is worth exploring. Be open-minded, learn about the local culture, and get involved in local activities that you truly enjoy. Plan a day trip, invite your loved ones to visit, and make new friends!

Also, dedicate yourself to learning everything you can at work. Hone your skills as a travel nurse and take advantage of the fantastic opportunities that travel nursing offers.

Do you have any tips for first-time travel nurses? Comment them below.

Begin Your Travel Nursing Adventure with GIFTED Healthcare

From travel to per diem assignments, GIFTED Healthcare provides nurses with exceptional, high-paying career opportunities.

Apply now to join the GIFTED Family today!

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 Favorite Healthcare Staffing

January 26, 2021

7028 Views

21 Destinations You Must Visit As A Travel Nurse

Posted on January 26, 2021May 19, 2021 by Favorite Healthcare Staffing

This article was provided by Favorite Healthcare.

2020 is finally over, which means it is time to start checking off cities on your travel nursing bucket list! Favorite Healthcare Staffing has chosen our Top 21 Travel Nursing Destinations for 2021 that we know you will love. See what cities made a list and start exploring the country!

Boston, MA

Home of and the Boston Red Sox and the Boston Tea Party, this Northeastern city is the perfect location for history buffs. Step back in time as you stroll the cobblestone streets and visit some of the city’s best American History museums. This city also boasts impressive architecture and plenty of parks to play in. Boston has everything you could want in a destination!

Worchester, MA

The first city to invent the monkey wrench! How clever! With beautiful fall leaves in the Autumn, multiple science and history museums, Worchester (not to be confused with Worcestershire sauce) is a great destination to visit.

Minneapolis, MN

One of the major cities that forms Minnesota’s “Twin Cities,” Minneapolis experiences all seasons during the year. Cold and snowy winters, but warm and sunny summers. There are many cultural landmarks to check out in Minneapolis, a city that can unlock so much!

Tucson, AZ

Tucson has an outstanding performing arts scene with multiple galleries and museums. The city’s dynamic multicultural heritage radiates and is front and center. Tucson is also celebrated for its sensational beauty with the Sonoran Desert, which covers this region with incredible cacti.

Chicago, IL

Home of big silver, aka “The Bean.” Chicago is the center of the United States and is also known as the “Windy City.” With many museums, sightseeing, and amazing nightlife, there is no way you would not love the hustle and bustle of this city.

Davenport, IA

Davenport is located right next to the Mississippi river! This city is green because of its massive number of parks – over 50 local parks to visit! Activities can include biking, walking, and outdoor events, all located right in Davenport.

Kansas City, MO

Kansas City, home of the 2020 Superbowl Champions and the famous KC BBQ! The city is constantly growing as a travel destination. Great shopping, beautiful Italian inspired fountains throughout the city, and one amazing art district will make you never want to leave.

St. Louis, MO

21 Destinations You Must Visit As A Travel Nurse

The Hill, The Arch, and The Cardinals all call St. Louis, Missouri, their home. Visit the city’s biggest attraction, the St. Louis arch, for unique views of the city. Make sure to take a trip to other popular tourist spots, like the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and St. Louis Art Museum.

Detroit, MI

Snowy Detroit, right in the center of the great lakes and across the way from Canada, is a great spot to travel to. The large presence of the auto industry gave the city its nickname, Motor City. Detroit is also the perfect place for music lovers as it’s the birthplace of Motown. Groove your way through D-Town!

New York City, NY

New York City is the city that never sleeps. With museums galore, shopping, and thousands of restaurants, you will never be bored at this destination. As one of the world’s major melting pots, it is guaranteed that you will always have something to do. Make sure to take a trip to the other boroughs of New York – The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island – each unique in its own way!

Denver, CO

Denver, Colorado – The-Mile-High City – is the perfect blend of urban life and outdoor adventure. The city not only boasts top-notch craft breweries and a thriving music scene but is also conveniently situated near Rocky Mountain National Park – a traveler’s dream come true!

Cincinnati, OH

Located right across the state line of Kentucky in Southwest Ohio lies the city of Cincinnati. History lovers will want to visit some of the city’s popular museums, including the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, the American Sign Museum, and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Be sure to also take a trip to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, which is the second oldest zoo in America.

Cleveland, OH

Cleveland’s 78 square miles are jam-packed with quality attractions. You will not be disappointed by the city’s top tourist attraction, the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Spend your days exploring the most popular destinations like the Cleveland Botanical Garden, West Side Market and the Cleveland Metroparks. Sports fanatics should also catch a baseball game at Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Indians Major League Baseball team.

Houston, TX

Houston’s sprawling city is the perfect location if you love to shop and is home to the Galleria, one of the best shopping malls in the state. Visitors can learn where the phrase, “Houston, we’ve had a problem” comes from taking a trip to the Space Center Houston. Let’s not forget about the cuisine. If you are a fan of Tex-Mex, put Houston at the top of your list!

Knoxville, TN

As Tennessee’s third-largest city, Knoxville is sometimes overlooked, but we promise you will want to put this city on your list! Knoxville’s charming downtown is easy to navigate and is filled with quaint shops and even better food. Nature lovers will feel right at home with the city’s proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Lexington, KY

Lexington Kentucky, best known as the city of the Kentucky Derby, is the “Horse Capital of the World.” Enjoy the breathtaking views of farmland that stretches for miles and make sure to visit Kentucky Horse Park, home to the International Museum of the Horse.

Centralia, IL

Centralia’s downtown is the perfect mix of old and new with plenty of historic architecture, as well as new and modern development. The Illinois Theater is a wonderful spot to catch a movie on a Sunday afternoon. You can also check out some of the many local parks that allow you to fish and attend different sporting events.

Durham, NC

Home of the Blue Devils basketball team, Durham has become a must-visit destination for basketball fans. Explore all this city has to offer, including a vast number of restaurants, top universities, and a diverse culture where you can learn more about the history of Durham.

Buffalo, NY

One of the biggest cities in the United States consists of an art district to keep your creative juices flowing. The city’s growing restaurant scene will help you explore new tastes, and the historical sites will teach you more about the city. Tour some of Buffalo’s parks, gardens, and theatres that are scattered throughout the city.

Oklahoma City, OK

As the capital of Oklahoma, OKC is the main star of show. Ignite your taste buds by visiting popular breweries in the city. You also won’t want to miss out on other major landmarks, such as the Skydance bridge. For those looking to dance the night away, look no further! Oklahoma City has a vast nightlife scene. You won’t want to miss out all this city has to offer.

Las Vegas, NV

Most people visit this city for the Las Vegas Strip – home of more nightclubs, casinos, and replicas of major world landmarks than you can count. There is always some form of entertainment in Las Vegas, and, indeed, you will never be bored! There’s no other place in the world like Las Vegas, which makes it a must-see destination.

What do you think of our list of must visit destinations? Are there any we missed? Comment the destinations you think need to be included on this list below.

By Kevin Devoto

January 25, 2021

5352 Views

How To Perform Your Best During Long Workdays

Posted on January 25, 2021May 19, 2021 by Kevin Devoto

No matter how much you love what you do as a travel nurse, long workdays can exhaust you. To make matters worse, that exhaustion often kicks in before your shift is over. By the time your day off rolls around, you may have no motivation to pursue your hobbies or stay active. If you practice more intentional living, you can create a solid action plan for tackling these long workdays.

Start With Meditation

If your workday requires getting up early, the thought of setting aside time to meditate might seem impossible. With some practice, you can make it happen. Start by setting the alarm for a minute earlier every day for a week. It might not sound like much, but within a week, you should have created almost an extra 15 minutes for meditation. Use this time to ground yourself and mentally prepare for the workday.

People meditate differently. Some people focus on clearing their heads and hone in on their breathing. There are others who allow their thoughts to play out in the morning, so they do not become distracted by them later in the day. Find the approach that works for you.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

If you worry you might not have enough time to make something healthy, consider prepping your meals ahead of time. Buying specific products can make things easier. You can also learn how to incorporate some cooking into your morning routine that will barely tack on time. Here are some tips:

Buy travel packets of jam, peanut butter, cream cheese, etc.
Buy yogurt.
Try instant oatmeal.
Package fruits from the night before.
Start the coffee pot as soon as you get up.
Start toasting the bread a few minutes before you head out.

Add Supplements

Sometimes, during your long workdays, you may not have enough time to eat healthily. Even when you do, your diet could probably use a boost. Supplements are a great way to ensure you cover all your bases and get all the nutrients your body needs to function at its most optimal point throughout the day. Multi-vitamins are often enough for most people, but not everyone.

For example, vegetarians and people with low-meat intake may need additional protein. When choosing supplements of any kind, be sure to do your research. Power Life High Impact Plant Protein reviews are a good starting point. You can also check health blogs, hospital websites, peer reviews, and even Amazon customer reviews.

Stay Active

Newton’s First Law of Motion shares that a body in motion stays in motion when propelled. Similarly, a body at rest will remain at rest until an external force changes this. Newton may not have meant literal human bodies when he made this scientific observation, but the rule still applies.

If you stay active, your body is more likely to treat long workdays as another walk in the park. This is especially true if you spend a lot of your workday on foot. Not everyone likes the idea of going to the gym, so here are some alternatives to consider:

Walking or hiking
Running
Biking
Rock climbing or bouldering
Yoga

Make It a Habit

The only way to ensure you get results is to keep your good habits consistent. One way to ensure this is to tackle one thing at a time. Trying to do everything at once can feel overwhelming and only add to your exhaustion.

Pick the tips you think will have the greatest impact on your long workdays, and then add more once you master one. If one doesn’t work, don’t feel discouraged. Move on to the next, and keep pushing. As your intentional living steps grow, consider creating a to-do list to keep track of everything.

By taking intentional steps to tackle your long workdays, you’re in a much better position to anticipate challenges and address them. You also improve your chances of success. You also improve your chances of success and reduce the amount of stress you feel throughout the day.

Do you have any tips or tricks for long workdays? Comment them below.

By Amber Pickler

January 16, 2021

12847 Views

10 Tips for Your First 12-Hour Travel Nurse Night Shift

Posted on January 16, 2021November 10, 2023 by Amber Pickler

Travel nursing can be hard, add working a 12-hour night shift for the first time and it can prove to be even more difficult. This is always a hot topic in our Facebook network group. We have compiled the most popular ways to survive your first 12-hour travel nurse night shift.

Drink Coffee-

This may not work for everyone. Caffeine doesn’t have the same affect on every person. However, for those that it does help boost them, this would be a great option. Just be sure to not use too much sugar in your coffee, because contrary to popular belief sugar can cause an energy crash. So, while you may get a boost from caffeine the energy crash could outweigh the caffeine.

Water-

While some people believe that coffee is the key to staying awake during your first 12-hour travel nurse night shift. However, for those who do not like coffee, or it doesn’t wake them up, water may be a better option. Dehydration leads to fatigue because it impacts the flow of oxygen to the brain and causes your heart to work harder to pump oxygen to all your bodily organs, making you more tired and less alert. By staying hydrated you stay energized. Being energized will help keep you awake for your night shift. Water is the best drink to keep you hydrated. If you don’t like water, try putting some type of water flavoring in it. Just make sure it isn’t full of sugar because as previous stated it can cause you to crash.

Appointments-

You may not even think about your work schedule when making appointments. However, because you work night shift it is important to keep that in mind when making appointments. When making appointments, stick to the early mornings so you can go as close to the end of your shift as possible. If this isn’t possible try to get a late afternoon or early evening appointment. Having a mid-afternoon or early evening appointment makes it difficult to get a decent amount of uninterrupted sleep before your night shift.

Sleep as late in the day as possible-

Try to sleep as late in the day before your first travel nurse night shift. This may mean staying up later the night before and getting your sleep closer to your night shift. If you aren’t able to sleep during the day, you can try a sleep aid. There are many options of over the counter sleep aids, including melatonin. Melatonin comes in natural and synthetic forms. If these don’t do the trick you may need to talk to your doctor about a prescription sleep aid until you get used to the night shift life.

Exercise in the evening-

This is another option that may not work for everyone. While some people get a boost of energy from exercising, it may make others tired. For many working out gives them a boost of energy and gets them going for the night shift. Exercising releases endorphins which can give you a boost of energy. For some they even do some light exercising while at work on night shift. A couple ideas of easy exercise to do at work includes arm circles, jumping jacks, walking the unit and lunges. There are many more you can do but this just give you an idea to get started.

Keep sleep schedule-

Try to maintain your sleep schedule for night shifts even when you aren’t working. On days you aren’t working, sleep during the day and try to stay awake for as much of the night as possible. Our readers also suggest that you start your new sleep schedule before you start working the night shift. Many suggest a week before your first day. This will give you time to get used to your sleep schedule before you absolutely have to be on that schedule.

Black out curtains-

Black out curtains are always a popular suggestion from our members for travel nurses starting to work night shift. Our bodies are meant to sleep when it is dark, so trying to sleep during the day in daylight will make it that much harder to get used to your new sleep schedule. Black curtains come in many different styles and some will completely block out light while others will block out most of it. The heavier duty ones also help keep the heat and cold out, as well as can help buffer some sounds.

Stay active-

This is by far the most popular tip for surviving your first 12-hour travel nurse night shift. There are many ways to keep active while working. Walking the unit is a popular option. Light cleaning or stocking carts are other great options. Just staying up and on your feet will help you fight fatigue, like exercising this can give you a little boost of energy to keep you going.

Healthy snacks-

Healthy snacks at night can help keep you awake. Try to stay away from foods high in sugar and carbohydrates. According to The Washington Post “the quick spike in your blood sugar from eating junk foods high in refined carbohydrates and added sugars can cause a surge in insulin, leading to a quick drop in blood sugar. That leaves you feeling tired, cranky and hungry for more.”

If you are looking for suggestions of healthy foods to snack on during your night shift here are a few ideas to get you started.

Green Tea
Protein (jerky, boiled eggs and cheese are a few examples)
Chocolate (dark chocolate is best)
Fruits (Oranges, pineapples, strawberries and bananas are great options)
Whole grain foods (try whole grain toast with peanut butter on top)

Nap before work-

If you aren’t able to stay awake for a period of time after your night shift it is in your best interest to get up earlier and then take a nap before your shift starts. Power naps are a great option for night shift travel nurses.

To get the most out of a power snooze, follow these quick tips from Mednick:

Be consistent. Keep a regular nap schedule. Prime napping time falls in the middle of the day, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Make it quick. Set your cell phone alarm for 30 minutes or less if you don’t want to wake up groggy.
Go dark. Nap in a dark room or wear an eye mask. Blocking out light helps you fall asleep faster.
Stay warm. Stash a blanket nearby to put over you because your body temperature drops while you snooze.

Power napping before your first travel nurse shift will give you a little kick to start your shift.

We hope that these tips help you with your first travel nurse night first, or any night shift for that matter. These tips are just to get your started, you may find ways that work better for you. If you have any other tips or tricks for working night shift comment them below.

If you would like some information on self-care to keep your mind and body at its best these articles have some great tips!

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 ONESTAFF MEDICAL

December 24, 2020

8443 Views

7 Unique Places to Visit While on Assignment

Posted on December 24, 2020May 19, 2021 by ONESTAFF MEDICAL

This article was provided by OneStaff Medical.

One of the greatest perks of being a healthcare traveler is seeing what different country areas have to offer. Of course, it’s a no-brainer to visit the must-see landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, and the list goes on and on. If you are looking for a unique experience or just feeling a little weird, these are the most unique places to visit while on your next assignment.

Ben & Jerry’s Flavor Graveyard (Waterbury, Vermont)

Oh, our “dearly De-Pinted” gone too soon but not gone forever? At the Ben & Jerry’s Original Factory in Vermont, you can visit their Ice Cream flavor graveyard, where they pay homage to their ‘failed’ flavors. Love a de-pinted flavor? You can help resurrect it from the grave by voting on the online poll for the flavor you wish to see back in the ice cream aisle. (vote here) If you’d like to pay your respects, visitation to the flavor graveyard is available with their factory tour.

7 Unique Places to Visit While on Assignment

Carhenge (Alliance, Nebraska)

Stonehenge but make its cars, because why not? This Nebraskan replica was initially created for the summer solstice of 1987 and hasn’t moved since. If you can’t get to Europe anytime soon, this is a great substitution and will be a fine addition to your Insta Feed.

Neon Boneyard / The Neon Museum (Las Vegas, Nevada)

Travel back in time via neon lights and see what you can discover at this non-profit dedicated to collecting, preserving, studying, and exhibiting Las Vegas neon signs. Their main collection has more than 200 unrestored signs, which are illuminated at sunset. Alas, another Insta-worthy visit.

Cabazon Dinosaurs (Cabazon, California)

Move over, Jurassic Park! East of Los Angeles and North of Palm Springs, you can find two ‘life-size’ dinosaurs. Walk the dinosaur trail and enjoy the Wafflesaurus truck to enjoy the Cabazon Dinosaur experience fully. A perfect little day trip.

Husky Homestead (Denali Park, Alaska)

Meet Alaska’s finest four-legged athletes, the sled dogs, and puppies of Husky Homestead. Book a tour to learn all about this rural lifestyle from a four-time Iditarod Champion, Jeff King, and meet the pups in front of the sled.

Rock City (Lookout Mountain, Georgia)

Adventure through an enchanted trail and discover magical caves, incredible rock formations, and some stunning views. When you reach Lover’s Leap, you best believe you’ll be looking at SEVEN states. An all-around magical experience in nature and a great day trip for any season.

Mackinac Island (Michigan)

No car, no problem on Mackinac Island as the preferred mode of transportation is a horse-drawn carriage. Party like it’s the 19th century and live lavishly at the Grand Hotel, where meals are an event, and you can enjoy traditions such as Afternoon Tea in the parlor and finish your day with nightly dancing. Bask in the simplicity of no cars, no chain restaurants, stunning nature, and beautiful Victorian Architecture.

Travel Nurses are in a unique position as they travel the country from assignment to assignment. You can see all the country has to offer, the popular tourist destinations, and the unique places, not well-known parts of the country. It’s all for you to discover.

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!)

https://www.theactivetimes.com/travel/38-most-bizarre-tourist-attractions-america/slide-39

https://www.thestreet.com/personal-finance/wildest-and-most-unusual-places-to-travel-in-the-us-14554421#gid=ci0256b1b3f0012716&pid=neon-boneyard-and-neon-museum-las-vegas

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However.

It’s Exciting:

R-E-S-P-E-C-T:

Job Security:

Flexibility:

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!)

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Organize & Prepare

Be Flexible

Communicate with Your Recruiter

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Be Friendly

Give It Everything You’ve Got

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

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