October 20, 2021

6466 Views

5 Tips to Stay Healthy as a Travel Nurse

Posted on October 20, 2021October 13, 2021 by AMN Healthcare

This article was provided by AMN Healthcare.

Experts share ways to set goals and stick to a routine

Whether you’re starting your first travel nursing assignment or are a seasoned travel nurse who has been on the road for a while, it can be tempting to blow off healthy habits due to a busy schedule and lack of familiar resources. But your health can’t afford to take a holiday.

So, check out these helpful tips from experts on how to improve or maintain your health while working as a travel nurse.

1. Set some attainable goals

What do you want to achieve during the 13-or-so weeks at each location? You’ll need to figure out how to stick to a routine that will help you stay healthy during your travel nursing career. “I always recommend that individuals take the time to log exercise and eating activities, along with mood and energy levels,” said Mindy Haar, Ph.D., RN, director of program development for interdisciplinary health sciences at New York Institute of Technology. “Many people will find what is optimal and doable and thus set realistic goals.”

2. Focus on yourself, first and foremost

According to the National Sleep Foundation, most adults require 7–9 hours of shut-eye each night, but they don’t always get it. Fatigue can make you apathetic and be detrimental to your physical health. If you’re finding it hard to sleep in an unfamiliar place, try using earplugs or a white noise machine to block out distractions.

To fight that lonely feeling while you’re away from loved ones, turn on your laptop or smartphone and Skype, FaceTime, call or email them, suggested Elena Capella, EdD, assistant professor and director of the online MSN program at the University of San Francisco. “Be connected with the people you love.”

3. Eat as healthy as you can

Preparing healthy meals in a strange kitchen doesn’t have to be complicated. For example, whole-wheat couscous and frozen vegetables are easy to prepare and make healthy additions to your plate, said Haar. Healthy cooking apps and websites and YouTube and Pinterest can also be great sources of inspiration. If you opt for takeout, order small portions—or divide larger portions and save half for later.

Travel nurses really do need to make an effort and be sensible while they’re on the road, said Jennie Johnson, Ph.D., RN-BC, author of Wake Up Call 911: It’s Time to Reduce Your Risk for a Heart Attack and Stroke. “Enjoy your adventures, but make healthy choices and stay safe.”

4. Find a stress-reduction technique that works for you

Feeling anxious or out of sorts? Practicing some simple relaxation techniques, including yoga poses and deep breathing exercises, can help you lower your stress levels. Another way to combat stress on the road is to focus on a project.

“A good book or needlework project works great,” said Johnson. “It keeps me busy and prevents eating junk food.”

5. Incorporate some regular exercise into your routine

“I think the biggest struggle in trying to stay healthy on a travel assignment is getting yourself organized quickly into a routine,” said Rebecca Ronaldson, MSN, RN, a former travel nurse who now works as a wellness coordinator for a nonprofit organization. “While trying to adjust to new surroundings, new people, and a new job, sometimes our health and fitness can be pushed to the background while we adjust to a new home and work life.”

You may feel like you’re too tired to work out, but exercise can actually improve your energy levels. Travel nursing jobs are a great time to embrace portable fitness activities. Resistance bands and fitness DVDs easily fit in your suitcase, or you can search YouTube for a fun fitness routine to do in your living room. You can also get to know your neighborhood by walking, jogging, or biking through nearby streets and parks and get to know your co-workers by inviting them to join you in outdoor sports and activities.

We hope you found these 5 tips to stay healthy as a travel nurse helpful. Do you have any advice to share with your fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

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

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

START HERE

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

By Furnished Finder

October 19, 2021

4999 Views

How to Navigate Housing in High-Cost Cities

Posted on October 19, 2021October 15, 2021 by Furnished Finder

High-cost cities can sometimes make it difficult to have a successful and fun assignment, so allow me to make suggestions that may help during your next adventure. Let me just start out by saying there is no Easy-Button here as we are all subject to the market. What I mean is that demand for housing is so high in these cities that it drives up the cost of rent for everyone. And while you can’t change the housing market, you can adjust the way that you do things, so they work in your favor. Be sure to read to the end to get discounts on hotels as well.

The first thing you should know is that you are competing against a lot of other people when you’re looking to secure a monthly furnished rental. People across the globe are suddenly able to live and work anywhere, so we are seeing more relocating families and remote workers than ever before. Secondly, don’t expect preferential treatment because you are a healthcare worker. Property managers don’t necessarily care what you do for a living – their job is to just make sure you are the best tenant for the property.

Since the focus of this article is the cost of living in cities like LA, San Francisco, New York, Boston, San Diego, and Chicago, here are 5 things you can do to help you navigate the costs of these high-cost cities:

1. Don’t Pay Booking Fees

Booking fees are a percentage of rent which is added to the total cost of your stay. Booking fees are annoying and expensive…especially if you are required to pay them every month! Booking fees are synonymous with vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO and can add up to 15-18% to the total cost. Still, if you can use platforms like Furnished Finder, you book directly with the landlord and can literally save hundreds every month.

2. Consider Shared Spaces

Rooms are probably the easiest way to guarantee that you’ll pay the least amount of rent living in a high-cost city. Of course, that means that you may need to make a lifestyle compromise since you’ll be sharing the unit with someone else, but the savings of a room over a private unit can sometimes cut your costs in half. Many travel nurses prefer sharing space because it provides them companionship and conversation on their off days. While there are a lot of variables to consider when renting a room vs. a private unit, the cost savings alone are undisputable. Here is where you can search for rooms.

3. Know Before You Go

Make sure you really want to go there before you accept your assignment. That may sound pretty obvious, but there are travelers who don’t do their research before signing a contract and are absolutely shocked once they start looking for housing. There is definitely a trade-off when you decide to work in a high-cost city because you’ll be spending more of your stipend money on housing. The main thing is to educate yourself on the housing costs of an area when you are shopping for jobs, so there are no surprises.

4. Parking…Ugh

Yep. It’s common for properties in high-cost cities to charge extra for parking, making your cost of living even higher. Consider whether you need your car at all during your next assignment. It if will cost you a couple hundred dollars extra a month to bring your car, maybe leave it at home and save the money. Many of these cities have excellent public transportation, and services like cabs and Ubers can help as well.

5. Hotels

If you’ve been doing this long enough, you’ve probably parked it in hotels a few times here or there. It could be for a few nights until your place is ready, a few weeks to scout out an area, or sometimes even for the entire assignment. Since hotels are getting aggressive about marketing to healthcare workers for any length of stay (even for personal stays), more than 35 hotel brands have partnered with Furnished Finder to offer travelers discounts across the nation. Get up to 25% off (depending on the brand and your length of stay) when you book via Furnished Finder.

Every assignment varies, and housing is, of course, that big X-factor that can make or break an assignment…especially in high-cost cities. Start your housing search early… even before you accept an assignment! Don’t get caught off guard by housing costs. Good luck, and safe travels ahead!

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

By LRS Healthcare

October 15, 2021

6204 Views

Tips to Help Boost Your Immune System

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

This article was provided by LRS Healthcare.

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

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

Tips to Help Boost Your Immune System:

Get Adequate Sleep

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

Eat a Healthy Diet

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

Drink Plenty of Water

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

Address and Manage Stress

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

Daily Exercise

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

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

Good Hygiene Practices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

START HERE

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

By Gifted Healthcare

October 14, 2021

11657 Views

5 Things to Consider Before Taking a Travel Nursing Assignment

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

This article was provided by Gifted Healthcare.

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

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

Read on to learn more!

What Are Your Goals and Expectations?

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

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

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

Are You Willing To Float?

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

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

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

Finding Your Ideal Assignment Takes Determination

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

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

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

Are You Ready To Be a Team Player?

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

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

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

Travel Nursing Is a Fast-Moving Industry

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

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

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

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

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

START HERE

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

By Cristina Thorson

October 13, 2021

8137 Views

Staying Healthy While Working the Night Shift

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

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

Set a sleep schedule—

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

Consume caffeine in moderation—

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

Eat healthy foods—

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

Stay hydrated—

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

Exercise regularly—

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

Schedule night shifts close together—

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

Create a routine—

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

Avoid alcohol—

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

Use free time wisely—

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

Keep your household in the loop—

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

Take nap breaks—

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

Prioritize self-care—

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

Design a sleep-friendly bedroom—

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

Limit blue light—

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

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

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

Below you will find an infographic with some more information.

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

START HERE

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

By Kristen and Sam Smith

October 12, 2021

12925 Views

Cost Of Living In Hawaii

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

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

Cost of Living in Hawaii:

Housing

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

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

Cost of Groceries

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

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

Eating Out

The cost of eating out isn’t too expensive.

Transportation

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

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

We hope you found this article on the cost of living in Hawaii helpful. Have you taken an assignment in Hawaii? Do you have any tips to share regarding the cost of living in Hawaii? Comment them below.

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

START HERE

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

By Kevin Devoto

October 11, 2021

5841 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

4740 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:

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

By Kevin Devoto

October 7, 2021

7654 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

1. Set some attainable goals

2. Focus on yourself, first and foremost

3. Eat as healthy as you can

4. Find a stress-reduction technique that works for you

5. Incorporate some regular exercise into your routine

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

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Set a sleep schedule—

Consume caffeine in moderation—

Eat healthy foods—

Stay hydrated—

Exercise regularly—

Schedule night shifts close together—

Create a routine—

Avoid alcohol—

Use free time wisely—

Keep your household in the loop—

Take nap breaks—

Prioritize self-care—

Design a sleep-friendly bedroom—

Limit blue light—

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

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

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