January 29, 2021

13200 Views

How to Manage Your Professional Development as a Travel Nurse

Posted on January 29, 2021January 16, 2023 by Helen Birk

Travel nursing is a demanding career, and healthcare institutions are always searching for the best-equipped nurses in terms of education and experience. The health sector is rapidly changing as new technologies evolve at a high pace. The travel nurse who trained more than ten years ago may find themselves overtaken by technology.

It is important for the travel nurse to continually advance their profession through continuous education. Work demands can prevent travel nurses from advancing their skills, but wise planning can help them manage their professional development.

E-learning

Travel nurses are always on the move working from one state to another or internationally. The travel nurse might not consistently follow their coursework in a traditional college because their practice will demand they travel for anything between 3 weeks to 12 months or more.

The best remedy for their professional development will be e-learning to help them earn continuing education credits. Resources for e-learning can be available through a wide range of programs like workforce development, medicine, practices, training videos, and audios.

The travel nurse can register for an online course in an accredited college. To help them organize their study in the least stressed way, the travel nurse can use the best study apps and install them on their phones or computer.

Join in-service training

Many health institutions offer in-service training for their staff from time to time. The training equips them with the latest practice knowledge and the new rules and regulations affecting the industry. You can continue studying with the help of external services that include coursework help from the EduBirdie team, online tutors, etc., and keep practicing to enhance your nursing skills. Sharing work with professional medical writers will ease the burden on you, and it will ensure that your studies and practical training with a good hospital continue uninterrupted. Lab reports, coursework writing, medical essays, and much more – it’s all possible with a good academic writing service.

The health workers also learn about the latest technology available for the health industry and how to use it to benefit the patients and staff. If there are fresh discoveries of disease-causing viruses and bacteria, the staff is taught about the new developments and how to handle patients infected with the new disease. In-service training keeps the health workers updated with information and technology to help them better their performance.

Travel nurses can take advantage of in-service training to help them in their professional development. If the training takes place when they are working in the institution, they can request to be enrolled in the in-service training course.

Take short courses during breaks

Travel nurses may not be able to attend regular courses while working, but they can register for short courses during their breaks. The travel nurse may not continually be working as the other nurses in permanent employment.

They can take advantage of their break and enroll in a short course that can take a few weeks to complete. They will earn a certificate for the course and advance the next time they get another break.

Many travel nurses complete a second degree by attending college during breaks and keeping themselves updated with the latest technology in the nursing practice.

Volunteering

The travel nurse might not earn any salary during the volunteering period, but it helps their professional development. Each working environment is unique, and the nurse will handle different categories of patients. The technology available in certain centers of health could be better than what the travel nurse is used to.

Through volunteering, the travel nurse gets the chance to access and use the best technology, which they could not have access to if they were seeking employment in the institution. The travel nurse will refine their skills and build greater confidence in their practice. They will also have the chance to work closely with some of the best doctors in the industry.

Conclusion

Professional development is critical in today’s competitive world. When a travel nurse is better trained, they gain more opportunities in their career path. Many employers seek workers who better understand the latest technology in their field and know how to use it in their practice. When the travel nurse improves their education, it does not just benefit them as individuals. It also benefits the thousands of patients they handle during their career life.

If you are a travel nurse looking for Continuing Education opportunities we have great news! The Gypsy Nurse and Elite Learning have partnered to bring Registered Members of TheGypsyNurse.com 20% off Nursing CEs! Click here for more information.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By Favorite Healthcare Staffing

January 26, 2021

6906 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 Amber Pickler

January 23, 2021

15140 Views

6 Quick and Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Travel Nurses

Posted on January 23, 2021January 16, 2023 by Amber Pickler

Being on assignments for up to 13 weeks at a time means packing and moving a lot. That also means only taking the necessary items with you with each move. We recommend including an Instant Pot in your packing. Instant Pots make cooking quick and easy. Working 12-hour shifts sometimes longer makes these that much more useful. Below you will find 6 quick and easy Instant Pot recipes. All these recipes were found on Instant Pot’s website; they have a vast array of recipes for any skill level or taste, for that matter.

6 Quick and Easy Instant Pot Recipes

White Chicken Chili

By :Campbell’s®

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large Red Bell Pepper diced (about 1 cup)
1 cup frozen whole kernel corn thawed
1 tbsp chili powder
12 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast (2 small or 1 large cut in half lengthwise)
2 cans white cannellini beans about 15 oz each, rinsed and drained
1 cup Pace® Chunky Salsa
1 cup Water
1 can Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup10 1/2 ounces
5 tbsp shredded Cheddar cheese
2 green onions sliced (about ¼ cup)

Instructions

On a 6-quart Instant Pot®, select the Sauté setting. Heat the oil in the Instant Pot®. Add the pepper, corn and chili powder and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Press Cancel.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Layer the beans, salsa, water, chicken, and soup over the corn mixture (the order is important, so do not stir until after the cooking is done). Lock the lid and close the pressure release valve. Pressure cook on High pressure, setting the timer to 4 minutes (timer will begin counting down once pressure is reached- it takes about 18 minutes). When done, press Cancel and use the quick release method to release the pressure.
Remove the chicken from the pot. Shred the chicken and return to the pot. Season to taste and serve topped with the cheese and green onions.

Recipe Notes

Nutrition Values Per Serving: Calories 308, Total fat 9.5 g, Saturated fat 2.6 g, Cholesterol 42 mg, Sodium 965 mg, Total carbohydrate 34.7 g, Dietary fiber 7.6 g, Protein 21.9 g, Vitamin A 229 %DV, Vitamin C 42 %DV, Calcium 10 %DV, Iron 14 %DV

*Pressure Cook and Manual are interchangeable

Easy Beef Stroganoff

6 Quick and Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Travel Nurses

By :Campbell’s®

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Passive Time: 5 Mintutes

Ingredients

1 large onion diced (about 1 cup)
1 ¼ lbs. boneless beef sirloin steak cut into thin strips
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
4 cups uncooked extra-wide egg noodles
2 cups Swanson® Beef Broth or water
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 can Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup10 1/2 ounces
¼ cup sour cream
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Season the beef with salt and pepper. Layer the onion, beef, paprika, garlic powder and noodles in a 6-quart Instant Pot®. Pour the broth and Worcestershire over the noodles and spoon the soup on top (the order is important, so do not stir until after the cooking is done).
Lock the lid and close the pressure release valve. Pressure cook on High pressure, setting the timer to 8 minutes (timer will begin counting down once pressure is reached- it takes about 15 minutes). When done, press Cancel and use the quick release method to release the pressure.
Stir in the sour cream and let stand for 5 minutes uncovered. Season to taste and sprinkle with the parsley before serving.

Recipe Notes

Nutrition Values Per Serving: Calories 300, Total fat 9.5 g, Saturated fat 3.2 g, Cholesterol 67 mg, Sodium 707 mg, Total carbohydrate 25.8 g, Dietary fiber 1.8 g, Protein 26.3 g, Vitamin A 38 %DV, Vitamin C 4 %DV, Calcium 3 %DV, Iron 9 %DV

*Pressure Cook and Manual are interchangeable

One Pot Chicken and Brown Rice Dinner

By :Chop Secrets

Servings: 6-8

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

1tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion finely diced
2 carrots chopped
2 celery stalks chopped
2 1/2cups chicken broth warmed
2 cups uncooked brown rice rinsed
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves plus additional for garnish, or 1 tsp dried
8 oz sliced baby Bella or cremini mushrooms
2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs
10 oz condensed cream of chicken soup canned or homemade

Instructions

Add olive oil to the Instant Pot. Using the display panel select the SAUTE function.
When oil gets hot, add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until onion is soft, 3-4 minutes.
Add broth to the pot and deglaze by using a wooden spoon to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add rice, thyme, mushrooms, and chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
Layer the cream of chicken soup on the top–do not stir.
Turn the pot off by selecting CANCEL, then secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
Using the display panel select the MANUAL function*. Use the +/- keys and program the Instant Pot for 30 minutes.
When the time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot to a cutting board, chop, and return to the pot. Adjust seasonings.
Serve hot garnished with additional thyme.

Recipe Notes

*The MANUAL and PRESSURE COOK buttons are interchangeable.

Buffalo Wings

By :The I Love My Instant Pot Affordable Meals by Alieen Clark

Servings Prep Time 4servings 10minutes

Cook Time 15minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds frozen chicken wings
Cajun seasoning
Water
buffalo wing sauce

Instructions

In a large bowl, toss chicken wings in Cajun seasoning so they are evenly coated.
Pour water into Instant Pot® and add a trivet.
Place wings in a (7 inch) spring form pan. Create a foil sling and lower pan into Instant Pot®.
Close lid and set pressure release to Sealing.
Press Manual or Pressure Cook button and adjust time to 15 minutes.
When the timer beeps, allow pressure to release naturally and then unlock lid and remove it. Remove pan from Instant Pot® using foil sling.
Remove wings and brush with buffalo sauce. Serve hot.

Recipe Notes

Road Map: Bone-In Chicken Breasts

By: From Freezer to Instant Pot Cookbook by Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough

Servings: 6

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup liquid Choose from water, broth of any sort, wine of any sort, beer of any sort, unsweetened apple cider, or a combination of any of these.
frozen bone‑in skin‑on chicken breasts 12-14 ounces
dried seasoning blend Choose from Provençal, Cajun, poultry, taco, Italian, or another blend you prefer or create.
table salt Optional (check to see if the seasoning blend includes salt)

Instructions

Pour the liquid into an Instant Pot. Position the bone-in chicken breasts in the liquid in a crisscross pattern (rather than stacking them on top of each other) so that steam can circulate among them. Sprinkle the top of each with 1 tsp dried seasoning blend and 1/4 tsp salt (if using). Lock the lid onto the pot.
Optional 1 Max Pressure Cooker
Press Pressure cook on Max pressure for 35 minutes with the Keep Warm setting off.
Optional 2 All Pressure Cookers
Press Poultry, Pressure Cook or Manual on High pressure for 40 minutes with the Keep Warm setting off. (The Valve must be closed)
Use the quick-release method to bring the pot’s pressure back to normal. Unlatch the lid and open the cooker. Insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of a couple of the breasts, without touching bone, to make sure their internal temperature is 165°F. The meat can be a little pink at the bone and still perfectly safe to eat, so long as its internal temperature is correct. If the internal temperature is below 165°F (or if you’re worried about the color), lock the lid back onto the pot and give the breasts 3 extra minutes at MAX, or 4 minutes at HIGH. Again, use the quick-release method to bring the pot’s pressure back to normal.
Use kitchen tongs to transfer the breasts to serving plates or a serving platter to serve. Or cool them at room temperature for 10 minutes or so, then store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Finally, to get the skin crisp, transfer the cooked breasts skin side up onto a lipped baking sheet. Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler, heat the broiler, then brown the breasts under it for 1– 2 minutes

Recipe Notes

• For an 8-quart Instant Pot, you must use 1 1⁄2 cups liquid. You can also fit up to eight 12- to 14-ounce bone-in chicken breasts in the larger pot. There is no change in the cooking timing under pressure (although the pot will take longer to come to pressure).
• If you’ve used water and/or broth, the resulting liquid in the pot is astounding chicken stock. Don’t throw it out! Save it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Use it in place of chicken broth in any recipe.
• Consider making the liquid in the pot a 50-50 split of broth and the brine from a jar of pickles, pepperoncini, or pickled jalapeño rings. In this case, omit the salt. (And the
remaining liquid in the pot won’t be fit to be used as stock.)
*Using a –20°F CHEST FREEZER?

Cook under pressure in step 2 for 40 minutes on the MAX setting, or for 45 minutes on the HIGH setting, followed by a quick release.

Fruity Quinoa & Granola Bowls

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 2 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa rinsed
Water
maple syrup plus more for topping (optional)
vanilla extract
ground cinnamon
Pinch salt
nondairy milk
granola any variety
Fresh Fruit Compote
Sliced bananas for topping (optional)
Toasted walnuts for topping (optional)

Instructions

In your Instant Pot®, combine the quinoa, water, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Lock the lid and turn the steam release handle to Sealing. Using the Manual or Pressure Cook function, set the cooker to High Pressure for 8 minutes (7 minutes at sea level).
When the cook time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, quick release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the lid and stir the quinoa. Add enough milk to get the desired consistency. Spoon the quinoa mix into bowls and top with granola, compote, and any additional toppings, as desired.

Recipe Notes

MAKE-AHEAD TIP:
The quinoa and compote can be made during your weekly meal prep and stored separately. Simply reheat and assemble for a delicious breakfast!
PER SERVING: Calories: 507; Total fat: 7g; Saturated fat: 2g; Sodium: 100mg; Carbs: 104g; Fiber: 9g; Protein: 10g

We hope you found these easy Instant Pot recipes helpful. Do you have any favorite easy Instant Pot recipes? Share your favorite easy Instant Pot recipes 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 Krucial Staffing

January 22, 2021

15858 Views

Packing a Go-Bag for Your Next Travel Assignment

Posted on January 22, 2021May 19, 2021 by Krucial Staffing

This article was provided by Krucial Staffing.

What goes into packing a Go-bag? Recently we took to Instagram to ask our frontline workers what items they absolutely could not live without during an emergency assignment. Boy, did we enjoy reading the answers! Among the most popular responses were common “must-haves,” such as masks, scrubs, comfortable shoes, and proper identification. Other responders gave us a chuckle by replying with some not-so-obvious items, such as peanut butter and Siracha sauce. Many people suggested packing the adequate number of undergarments for those “just in case” moments when life gets busy and you need a clean pair. A few other “essentials” included peppermint oil, a coffee maker, laundry detergent, and a Brita water filter.

Although most items can be purchased once you reach your destination, it’s important to come as prepared as possible. Here is a list of items healthcare workers suggest:

Go-Bag Packing List:

Personal Items:

Toiletries (shampoo/conditioner, body wash, toothbrush and paste, etc.)
Money (Cards and/or cash)
Vitamins and Medicine
Feminine Products
First-Aid Kit and flashlight

Identification needs:

Proper I-9 Identification (Driver’s License, Social Security Card, Passport, etc.)
Immunization Records

Attire:

At least a week’s worth of scrubs
Comfortable shoes (bring a backup pair)
Extra undergarments
Masks, masks, and more masks

Go-Bag Comfort Items:

Photos of friends and family
Bath salts, compression socks, and melatonin for relaxation
Books, games, or puzzles for entertainment during your days off
Favorite blankets or pillows from home
Electronics (e.g., Firestick, Kindle), chargers, and headphones
Snacks (for your travels and the first couple of days before getting settled in)
Pen and Paper for notes
Water bottles and thermal cups/mugs for hot/cold drinks
Nightlights (hotel rooms can be hard to navigate)

Hopefully, this list will help you be prepared for your next assignment. Whether it’s your first or fifth assignment, it is vital to have a well-packed a go-bag.

Did we miss anything on the list that is essential for a go-bag? Please leave a comment below to help others.

By Katherine Rundell

January 20, 2021

10359 Views

Top 6 Books All Travel Nurses Should Read

Posted on January 20, 2021December 13, 2021 by Katherine Rundell

Whether you are an experienced traveling nurse or only just beginning to consider this healthcare career option, there are some fantastic books available that can help guide you and provide invaluable information. Here are 6 must-read books all travel nurses should add to their reading list.

**1. ‘Hitting The Road: A Guide To Travel Nursing’ By Shalon Weddington**

If you’re wondering whether or not becoming a traveling nurse is the right option for you, then you should definitely make sure that you check out Hitting the Road. In this 2010 updated version of the book, Weddington provides practical information for those about to embark upon travel nursing. A retired travel nurse herself, she shares her decades of experience with readers. She provides detailed information on a range of topics, such as tax strategies, international travel, finances, and listings of travel staffing services. There are even some self-assessment quizzes to help you decide whether or not travel nursing is the right option for you.

**2. ‘I Wasn’t Strong Like This When I Started Out: True Stories Of Becoming A Nurse’ By Lee Gutkind**

Even if you absolutely love being a travel nurse, there are inevitably bound to be days where it can feel like a struggle, and when you may begin to question how to keep going. I Wasn’t Strong Like This When I Started Out is the perfect book when you need a little support and inspiration. In this book, Gutkind shares a range of true stories from a variety of nurses as they share their experiences. The book is filled with stories of nurses who discuss their struggles and how they were able to keep going during the hardest of times.

**3. ‘The Nurses: A Year Of Secrets, Drama, And Miracles With The Heroes Of The Hospital’ By Alexandra Robbins**

If you’re looking for a book that really examines what it is like to be a nurse, then look no further than The Nurses: A Year of Secrets, Drama, and Miracles with the Heroes of the Hospital.

“This book covers a range of topics which nurses encounter in their jobs and indeed, throughout the course of their careers. Robbins was able to follow four real-life nurses over the course of a year at four hospitals, as well as interviewing many others. The result is a book that authentically captures the drama, courage, and sisterhood of nursing,” says Nathan Mitchell, a journalist at Academized and OXEssays.

**4. ‘The Truth About Travel Nursing’ By Kyle Schmidt**

In The Truth About Travel Nursing, Schmidt offers an insight into the world of travel nursing from the recruiter’s perspective. A former travel healthcare recruiter himself, Schmidt provides helpful information, including offering advice about how to compare travel services and the compensation packages that they offer.

**5. ‘Travel Nurse’s Bible (A Guide To Everything On Travel Nursing)’ By David Morrison**

If you are thinking about becoming a travel nurse or have just embarked upon your journey, then Travel Nurse’s Bible (A Guide to Everything on Travel Nursing) is a must-have resource. Morrison uses his 14 years of experience as a travel nurse to provide useful need-to-know information for every aspiring or practicing travel nurse.

“The book covers some really important topics, such as detailed instruction on how to get started on your journey as a travel nurse, the qualifications you need, as well as the key personality traits you need to have. It’s a really useful resource for anyone at the outset of their travel nursing career,” says Jennifer Ackles, a writer at Custom Writing and Dissertation Help.

**6. ‘Fast Facts For The Travel Nurse: Travel Nursing In A Nutshell’ By Michele Angell Landrum**

Although this book is particularly suited to those thinking about beginning a career as a travel nurse, it’s also filled with valuable information and tips for those already practicing. An experienced traveling nurse herself, Landrum provides helpful advice on how to better prepare yourself for assignments and how to successfully negotiate assignment contracts, as well as ways to increase your pay and improve your benefits.

Conclusion

Being a traveling nurse is a rewarding and challenging job. With these books, however, you’ll be better equipped to face any challenges which come your way. The next time you’re traveling to your next assignment, take along one of these books to help inform and inspire you.

Do you have any books to add to the list? Any you have read that you think other travel nurses would love? Comment them below.

By Frank Hamilton

January 18, 2021

9024 Views

How to Write an Exceptional Travel Nursing Resume?

Posted on January 18, 2021May 19, 2021 by Frank Hamilton

It’s okay to change the workplace. What’s more, somewhere else, patients really need your care right now. So it’s time to create a cool travel nursing resume. Even if you seek professional help from the best essay writing services, you still need to prepare the right facts about your work experience and logically structure your travel nursing resume. The following tips will help travel nurses create a resume that will definitely grab a potential employer’s attention.

Write a Summary

Interesting fact! HR managers look through each resume for only six seconds. For this reason, you need to make your resume more attention-grabbing. Therefore, it is worth considering creating a summary.

A summary consists of two to four sentences where you tell about your current goal, experience, and achievements.

Summary Example:

Certified nurse with over seven years of experience in emergency care. An ethical and compassionate professional who can remain calm in emergencies with a Master’s degree in Surgical Nursing looking for a Senior Nurse position.

The presence of such an element as a summary is a must-do for everyone who has working experience since you really have a lot of important things to say.

Replace Ordinary Words with Specific Ones

If you analyze the various resumes of nurses, then the most used expressions are “responsible,” “worked,” “created.” These are quite logical phrases that immediately come to mind during the writing. But to stand out among the thousands of resumes, you can grab attention with other words.

When HR managers read the same thing in each of the resumes they receive, it looks like reading templates (because of the above expressions). But when they start skimming through the text where slightly different wordings are used, it will arouse interest to perceive your resume differently. Such a psychological trick may become your competitive edge.

Use the following phrases to stand out on your resume:

Measured;
Analyzed;
Administered;
Specialized;
Treated.

If you have difficulties with choosing the right expressions for your resume, you can find a writer using the website’s ratings that will help you come up with a unique vocabulary.

Highlight the Hard Skills in Your Travel Nursing Resume

Most professionals overwhelm their resumes with “soft skills.” These are such skills as precision, observation, endurance, friendliness, or teamwork. Instead of such skills, focus on skills that will distinguish you as a specialist, as this is the prevailing factor that HR managers pay attention to. For example:

Chemotherapy;
Surgery;
Urgent Care;
Laboratory testing.

These are just examples of “hard skills” with which you can understand what is at stake. If you have been an assistant during surgery or chemotherapy, be sure to list your skills in these areas. Surely, you should mention some of your soft skills as well. However, your professional skills still matter most to make the right impression and convince the HR manager you are suitable for a specific position.

Add “Non-Typical” Sections to Your Travel Nursing Resume

Most likely, you are well aware that there are typical lines for a nursing resume. But since you have the experience, it will not be superfluous to add non-typical graphs that will help you stand out from other specialists. Here are some sections you can add:

Courses: Many nurses strive to gain new knowledge in their field and if this is about you, be sure to mention all the additional courses and certificates you have. Managers always pay attention to such moments. Even if you have completed the Rescuer courses, you can indicate this.
Conferences: Experienced nurses tend to attend and even speak at various thematic conferences. If you have such experience, it can once again emphasize your interest in your specialization.
Volunteering: If you took part in any volunteer programs, be sure to indicate this. Such experience is important in your career, and it will again show you from the best side not only as a specialist but also as a person.
Languages: If you know foreign languages, then you cannot keep silent about it. Do you doubt that this can affect your job opportunities? However, indicating your foreign language skills, you get a chance of being hired by an international clinic, where knowledge of a foreign language will be one of the key requirements. Also, don’t forget to indicate the level of foreign language knowledge and mention the corresponding courses and/or certificates, if any.

Resume Structure for an Experienced Nurse

Now let’s move to the logical and clear structure of your resume. Below you will find a simple sample that you can use to get started with resume writing.

Name
Address
Position
email
Phone number

Summary

Education (Start from the last to first education degree)

Skills (Use Hard Skills first)

Work History (Start from the last workplace to the first one)

Additional Sections (Courses, Conferences, Volunteering, Languages)

The Final Words

When it comes to creating a resume, the main thing is not to be shy about your successes and skills. But you still need to be professional, so make sure to use the right wordings, emphasize your hard skills and complement them with the soft ones, plus attract the attention of the potential employer to your competitive advantages like certificates, courses, languages, and volunteering experience.

As travel nurses, your resumes are very different from other professions, even staff nurses. Have you found any ways to make your resume stand out or steps/tips while working on yours? 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 Rebecca Metzler

January 15, 2021

7987 Views

Reservation Travel Nursing In a Pandemic

Posted on January 15, 2021May 19, 2021 by Rebecca Metzler

I walked through the hospital doors feeling a bit nervous. Today was my first day on the job. The roof had large window cut-outs, exposing the blue sky. Statues and paintings of Native Americans were displayed throughout the lobby. Women and men were photographed in native clothes, beautiful thick braids below their waist. The land surrounding the hospital was flat and expansive. I got my badge laminated together and headed to the outpatient department, where I would be working for the next 13 weeks.

COVID-19 and Native Americans

A few months ago, I heard on the news how COVID-19 was devastatingly affecting the Native American communities in Northern Arizona. One of my friends was actually working in the inpatient department at the hospital. She told me what it was like living on the reservation and how the hospital needed more nurses. At the time, I was working as a public health nurse in Austin. I had no idea there were clinic nurse travel positions. I thought traveling was limited to hospital nursing. But after reaching out to a recruiter and filling out a ton of paperwork… there I was! 13 hours from home, in the middle of the Navajo reservation with 2 suitcases and 4 jugs of water.

Barriers they face

For the next 13 weeks, I spent the weekdays in the outpatient department and doing drive-thru covid testing. I soon learned some of the barriers this community faced in the presence of COVID-19. Multi-generation family living accelerated the spread of the virus in households. The prevalence of chronic illnesses among the population made it harder for locals to fight and recover from COVID-19. As a result, many people lost loved ones. It was hard on the community and the hospital. So I worked alongside my team, lessening the spread of COVID-19 through education, testing, providing resources for essential supplies, and any other way we could.

The majority of my coworkers were local and permanent employees.

They would tell stories about growing up on the reservation, showed me videos of the different dances they perform for ceremonies. One day, a coworker pulled a piece of corn out of her bag and handed it to me. “I smoked these over the weekend. Do you want one?” I smiled and took a piece. I really enjoyed the contrast to my typical work. Patients were curious, “You must be new here. Where are you from? How do you like living out here?” they would ask. Everyone knew everyone around town, and I was a new face.

The pandemic kept me from knowing my neighbors well.

A simple wave on the side of the streets as we walk past 6 ft apart. But I found ways to entertain myself. On the weekends, I would slip my Nikes on in the morning and go pet the horses behind my house. I would go on hikes, climb up on the giant boulders overlooking the scenery around. You could see the sandy dirt for miles, shrubs decorating the sides of the canyons. In the evening, I would sip on tea, maybe read an old western. Get a soda from the one gas station nearby, drop off some letters at the post office.

There is a peacefulness that exists out there.

I have always been attracted to that. To live somewhere remote, farther from wifi and the accessibility to the things I claim to “need.” It would annoy me at times, but it was an opportunity to see how other people live. I had to buy jugs of water to drink because their water source is contaminated with uranium and arsenic. I had to buy groceries in bulk because it took 2 hours to get there. And inevitably, I would forget something, lettuce or dish soap.

I truly appreciate my time on the Navajo reservation.

I watched sunsets behind the canyon, saw how the pink sky painted the landscape. Saw birds perch on the telephone pole wires, chirping away every evening. Giant ants were crawling on the cemented sidewalks as I walked into work. I learned what the difference between a crow and a raven was. I was welcomed with generosity and learned from the locals. In turn, I was able to contribute my nursing abilities.

I would encourage other nurses to take IHS contracts.

I want to encourage other nurses to take an IHS or other remote contracts. To work with communities that need assistance, especially during COVID-19. I do not in the slightest believe I am now well-versed in Native American culture. I am only beginning to dive in, but I have an awareness I would not otherwise have. An awareness that will continue to influence how I nurse, maybe even the future jobs I pursue. Working on the Navajo reservation caused me to expand my understanding of cultures (especially in the United States) and the barriers underserved communities face. So take a chance, Go on an adventure to a whole other world. You will grow in ways you never imagined.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By Nancy Howard

January 13, 2021

10285 Views

6 Nursing Apps for Travel Nurses and Nursing Students

Posted on January 13, 2021November 10, 2023 by Nancy Howard

Modern medical professionals need to stay updated with the latest developments, innovations, and discoveries in this area. There are many specialized sites, dental blogs, medical journals, and even specialized nursing apps. This article will focus on the latter.

However, with such a variety of different nursing apps, travel nurses and students can be misled. Therefore, below you will find the best applications that will help with your professional development and education.

Top 6 Nursing Apps for Travel Nurses and Students

Whether you are a student or already working as a travel nurse, there are some apps to help you get better. Some tools allow you to broaden your knowledge, prepare for exams, while other apps are responsible for workflow planning. Below you will find 6 nursing apps that are a must-have for all travel nurses and medical students.

1. PEPID PEDS

Pros

Available for both IOS, Android, and PC.
Allows for a more accurate diagnosis statement.
There is a lot of detailed information on patient care.

Cons

The only drawback is the cost of the app. There is a trial period here.

It can be safely noted that this application is a must-have for both students, nurses, and doctors. In this app, each specialist can find the information they need to make a more accurate diagnosis or find answers to questions.

For students, there are complete discipline guidance, clinical practice, and even laboratory exercises. The tool is paid, but in fact, the fee is charged for a year, and from this perspective, this application looks more affordable.

2. Epocrates

Pros

Availability of a wide database of information in the field of pharmacology.
The availability of a free version of the app is sufficient for students and novice nurses.
The application can work offline. It is available for IOS and Android.

Cons

While the free version offers many options, a premium membership will be a better option for healthcare practitioners.

In this application, you can find all the information on each drug, interactions between drugs, and in-depth clinical guidelines. There is also a “Pill ID” feature with the help of which the nurse may quickly get all the data about the drug. Thus, nurses can avoid mistakes in patient care, and students can better prepare for exams with this tool.

3. NCLEX RN Mastery

Pros

There is a free version, but with in-app purchases.
Available on both iOS and Android.
This app is a good trainer to prepare for an exam.

Cons

There are no obvious disadvantages.

This app is a good option for those who want to prepare well for the NCLEX RN exam. There are hundreds of tests in this app to check the knowledge. You can not only test your knowledge but also fill in the gaps that can become an obstacle to successfully passing the exam. If you do not answer the test correctly, you will receive a detailed explanation of this issue, and thus, avoid the mistake next time.

4. WebMD

Pros

There are a lot of helpful resources for students and nurses.
The application is available for free for both Android and iOS.

Cons

In most cases of diagnosis checks, this application will suggest “cancer”. This feature can confuse students and nurses.

This is an app of the famous resource of the same name. All publications and resources of the official site are available in this application. Here, both students and nurses can find useful information regarding medical practice, pharmacology, and other topics in the field of health. It is also known for allowing patients to receive information in simple words rather than complex medical terminology.

5. NurseGrid

Pros

The ability to have a work schedule at hand.
The ability to view the schedule of colleagues and communicate within the platform.
Available for both iOS and Android.

Cons

Customer support can take a long time to respond.

It is a good tool for nurses and students to plan work schedules and communicate. Here you can create a schedule for the entire work shift to be aware of who is at work. This app provides internal communication between nurses. It is a good time and task management tool for medical professionals.

6. Med Mnemoni c s

Pros

A good knowledge base for both students and healthcare practitioners.
There are tips on how to memorize information faster.
Users note the real benefits of using the application.

Cons

The tool is paid ($2). However, this symbolic sum is difficult to consider as a crucial drawback.

This app is designed to help experts and students quickly memorize complex medical terminology. There are a variety of tips and about 1600 abbreviations to help you quickly understand diagnoses or terms. There are all sections of topics that are useful for both travel nurses and students. This educational tool will be useful for all users.

Conclusion

Choose the best apps that will help you both in education and at work. A busy schedule sometimes does not allow you to develop and study further, but apps allow you to do this at any free minute. Download any of the tools above and start improving your knowledge and skills right now.

By Medical Staffing Solutions, LLC

January 12, 2021

6786 Views

Healthy Snacks on the Go for Travel Nurses

Posted on January 12, 2021May 19, 2021 by Medical Staffing Solutions, LLC

This article was provided by Medical Staffing Solution LLC.

As a healthcare professional, it can be hard to eat healthy when running and to work long shifts. But, taking care of yourself is so important when you’re taking care of others. You don’t want to get run-down. To help you snack well and keep your energy up, we wanted to share these 10 energy-boosting healthy snacks with you.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas are packed full of protein, fiber, and potassium. In addition to filling you up, they can help control diabetes and blood pressure. Along with all the other nutrients, the iron and calcium in chickpeas contribute to bone health. Roasted chickpeas are an easy way to get your snack fix.

Trail Mix

This delightfully tasty mix of dried fruits, nuts, chocolate, and grains. Buy pre-packaged or create your own that is tailored to your tastes. The protein in the fruits and nuts will help fill you up and give you an energy boost, while the chocolate can help satisfy your sweet tooth. Add in some roasted chickpeas. It is important to remember to eat your trail mix in moderation. Trail mixes are high in calories. Remember, too much of anything is not a good thing.

Jerky

Made from beef, chicken, or turkey, jerky is a quick portable snack that’s loaded with protein. Just make sure if you are buying jerky that you check for added sugars or salt.

Greek Yogurt

A single-serving of Greek yogurt packs a lot of protein into a small container. Add in berries packed with lots of nutrients and fiber to help fill you up and aid in your digestion. The calcium in yogurt is another boost for your bone health.

Pumpkin Seeds

No access to the fridge? No problem. Keep a little packet of pumpkin seeds for a quick snack. Just a ⅔ cup can give you 8 grams of protein. They are also loaded with fiber, vitamin k, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and many antioxidants. Studies have shown that diets rich in pumpkin seeds have been associated with reducing the risk of certain cancers, improving prostate, bladder, and heart health, and lowering blood sugar levels. And this amazing snack does not require refrigeration.

Peanut Butter and Apples

Apples contain a whole slew of vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, C, K, copper, manganese, and potassium), are high in fiber, and are just good for your health in general. Peanut butter is protein-rich, high in healthy fats, and chocked full of vitamins and minerals. A quick apple and peanut butter snack will help fill you up and give you an energy boost to get you through your shift.

Almonds

Almonds, too, are loaded with nutrients even in just a small handful. They are high in protein and fiber and low in carbs, making them a great option if you have diabetes. Packed with magnesium – almost half your daily requirements in just one serving, almonds can assist with blood sugar control and benefits blood pressure levels. Plus, they fill you up.

Cheesy Popcorn

Popcorn alone is a yummy, easy healthy snack that will help fill you up. But, give yourself an energy boost by adding on some parmesan cheese for protein.

String Cheese

It’s hard to believe that nutritionists will approve processed food, but string cheese actually makes their list. String cheese provides your carbs and protein for energy and calcium for strong bones. Add veggie sticks or fruit to your snack for an extra boost.

Veggie Sticks

No list of healthy snacks would be complete without veggie sticks. Pack yourself a handful of carrot and celery sticks. Snack on them with peanut butter or yogurt for a protein boost. These veggies are loaded with antioxidants, potassium, and numerous other vitamins and minerals.

High-protein healthy snacks are valuable to you as a strike nurse to ensure you can stay full until mealtime and avoid any “hanger” issues that can arise while you’re working. Keeping a small selection on-hand will make it easier for you to grab a quick bite, even when time is short.

APPLY FOR TRAVEL NURSING JOBS TODAY TO GET STARTED ON YOUR TRAVEL ADVENTURE!

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

START HERE

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1. ‘Hitting The Road: A Guide To Travel Nursing’ By Shalon Weddington

2. ‘I Wasn’t Strong Like This When I Started Out: True Stories Of Becoming A Nurse’ By Lee Gutkind

3. ‘The Nurses: A Year Of Secrets, Drama, And Miracles With The Heroes Of The Hospital’ By Alexandra Robbins

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Write a Summary

**1. ‘Hitting The Road: A Guide To Travel Nursing’ By Shalon Weddington**

**2. ‘I Wasn’t Strong Like This When I Started Out: True Stories Of Becoming A Nurse’ By Lee Gutkind**

**3. ‘The Nurses: A Year Of Secrets, Drama, And Miracles With The Heroes Of The Hospital’ By Alexandra Robbins**

**4. ‘The Truth About Travel Nursing’ By Kyle Schmidt**

**5. ‘Travel Nurse’s Bible (A Guide To Everything On Travel Nursing)’ By David Morrison**

**6. ‘Fast Facts For The Travel Nurse: Travel Nursing In A Nutshell’ By Michele Angell Landrum**