By Jane Walker

April 27, 2020

6722 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

4 Work-Life Balance Apps for Busy Professionals

The world we are living in is a hectic one, especially if you are pursuing a career. Being a young professional and trying to keep your private and professional lives in check can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are plenty of work-life balance apps that can help you achieve that goal. The trouble is finding which ones are right for us among millions of them on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. That is why we decided to help you and narrow down your choices. Hopefully, you will find something for you.

What Are Work-life Balance Apps?

As far as work-life balance apps go, there isn’t a strict definition. Any app that can help you keep parts of your life from encroaching on one another can be considered that. In fact, we would go as far as to say that any app that helps you lead a healthy life can be a work-life balance app. Of course, there are various parts of our lives these apps can help us with. People deeply committed to their careers tend to lose sight of the bigger picture. Getting embroiled into professional life can be very detrimental to your personal life and many professionals discover this once the damage is done. These apps can help you keep things under control and prevent your business life to get in the way of your private one.

Personal Assistants

Let’s start with the most obvious type of work-life balance apps. Personal assistants are apps designed to help you bring some order into your life. Keeping all the important appointments during a week is much easier if you have one of these installed on your phone. They come in various shapes and forms, but all have one thing in common, they aim at helping you organize your day. Better organization leads to better efficiency and that is key in creating more free time for your personal life. As they say, a minute saved is a minute gained. Most of them come with several handy features, like the ability to sync calendars with your family and friends. This allows for quick arrangements and easy family and work planning. Our choice would be 24Me. It has all the usual features, but it also lets you pay your bills with it. That option alone is worth its weight in gold.

Online Gaming Apps

One point of work-life balance apps is to help you create enough free time so you can relax. And what better way to relax than to play a few games online? Of course, you will first need to know where to play and this great AskGamblers app does exactly that. It gathers reviews of all relevant online casino sites, so you know which ones are trustworthy. Reviews are written by players, so you know they are 100% accurate and unbiased. You can also find all sorts of relevant info on casinos as well, like what type of bonuses they offer and what games they have on their sites. In short, this is an essential app for all serious players.

Fitness Apps

Remaining fit is one of the best ways to stay vital and act preemptively about your health. When people spend a lot of time sitting at their jobs, like many of us do, staying fit is almost a must. All that inactivity and the time we spend in front of a computer monitor can spell some really bad news for our health. Now, as anybody who has ever tried to make going to a gym their New Year’s resolution, staying fit isn’t easy and we can use all the help we can get. Fitness apps can do that for us. Not only they can make keeping track of our progress a breeze, but they also act as a constant reminder that we need to pay attention to our bodies. We would recommend Jefit, one of the most comprehensive apps on the market.

Stress Elimination

Stress is one of the biggest underlying contributors to many serious illnesses. It has the ability to make any health matter worse and that is why it is important to eliminate it or at least reduce it to manageable levels. The first thing you need to do is to keep an eye on it and that is where the Stress Tracker app comes into play. By recording the level of stress you have experienced during the day, it can help you discover your biggest stress inducers and help you stay away from them in the future.

It goes without saying that work-life balance apps only work if you are serious about using them. It isn’t enough to have Jefit installed on your phone, you have to actually go to a gym to feel the benefits. Perhaps that is the biggest upside of these apps. They can provide us with the motivation to actually try and change our lives for the better. Of course, the hard part is still on us, but they can make it a bit easier to make the decision.

By Amber Pickler

April 22, 2020

5501 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

5 Relaxation Tips for Travel Nurses

Being a travel nurse can be stressful. You are moving every 13 weeks and starting new jobs at the same time. Leaving people you have come to know and love at this pace as well.  Add in being away from family and friends, and it can be hard to find ways to relax or de-stress. We have put together some relaxation tips for travel nurses to help you on your journey.

Autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR)

According to Oxford, ASMR “is a feeling of well-being combined with a tingling sensation in the scalp and down the back of the neck, as experienced by some people in response to a specific gentle stimulus, often a particular sound.”  ASMR can be triggered by things like paper tearing, scalp massages, or whispering voices. These are not the only things that can trigger ASMR. However, these are common ones. If you would like to find an ASMR for yourself, YouTube is a great place to search.

Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises are great ways to help you relax. To really relax, you need to activate your body’s natural relaxation response, a state of deep rest that:

  • It puts the brakes on stress
  • It slows your breathing and heart rate
  • Lowers your blood pressure
  • It brings your body and mind back into balance

Breathing techniques can be done in many forms such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and tai chi just to name a few. 

Treat Yourself

If you have the means, you could pay to have a massage, a facial, a manicure and/or pedicure, your hair done, or even go to a spa for numerous treatments. However, you do not have to go out and spend a ton of money on treating yourself or pampering yourself. You can buy some refreshing candles and give yourself a manicure or pedicure at home. If you want a facial for less money, go to the store and buy either a spread-on face mask or a face sheet mask. Pampering yourself does not have to be expensive. There is always the option of buying a massage chair/insert to add to a chair for those traveling. These are just a few ways you can treat yourself to help relax your body and mind.

Take a Hot Bath

Taking a hot bath may not be everyone’s “cup of tea”, however, it is a great way to relax and reduce stress. Bathing stimulates blood circulation and helps calm the nervous system. Another perk is it can relieve common aches and pains. Which can be common working such a strenuous job like nursing. Also, if you have trouble sleeping at night try taking a bath right before bed. You may find that washing in the shower first and then taking a bath after is more relaxing. As many do not feel as clean after a bath as with a shower. 

Laugh

This may seem a little strange. However, laughter really does help to relieve stress, which in turn relaxes us. Laughter has many benefits.

Short-term benefits

A good laugh has great short-term effects. When you start to laugh, it does not just lighten your load mentally. It actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter can:

  • Stimulate many organs. Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain.
  • Activate and relieve your stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down your stress response, and it can increase and then decrease your heart rate and blood pressure. The result? A good, relaxed feeling.
  • Soothe tension. Laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation, which can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.

Long-term effects

Laughter is not just a quick pick-me-up, though. It is also good for you over the long term. Laughter may:

  • Improve your immune system. Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. By contrast, positive thoughts can release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more serious illnesses.
  • Relieve pain. Laughter may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers.
  • Increase personal satisfaction. Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations. It also helps you connect with other people.
  • Improve your mood. Many people experience depression, sometimes due to chronic illnesses. Laughter can help lessen your depression and anxiety and may make you feel happier.

The way you choose to laugh is totally up to you and what you find funny. You can search for funny videos on YouTube, Facebook, or even Instagram, watch your favorite comedic movie or show. There are so many ways to find laughter.

We hope that these relaxation tips have helped you at least get started on your journey for relaxation. Do you have any relaxation tips to share? Comment them below.

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

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

By Soliant Health

April 6, 2020

10188 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

How to Find Housing as a Travel Nurse

This article provided by Soliant Healthcare.

As a traveling nurse, housing is often one of the most important components of the pay package. For many, the housing options are often a dealbreaker. Given that the average travel nurse assignment is 13 weeks, finding housing as a travel nurse has unique challenges. While many travel nurse agencies, like Soliant, offer included contract housing, many nurses opt for housing stipends to have more control over where they stay.

While there are pros and cons of both housing opportunities, as a travel nurse you must find what works best for you. These tips will help you better understand your housing options and find housing you are happy with.

Travel Nurse Housing Options

Travel nurse housing includes two main options:

  • Agency-Placed Housing – With agency-placed housing, your staffing agency arranges your housing in the area of your contract. In many areas, agencies have long-term contracts with properties to facilitate regular short-term occupancy.
  • Stipend Housing – With stipend housing, you receive a set stipend amount and are then responsible for finding your own housing arrangements.

As a travel nurse, chances are you will experience both options at some point. Which one you chose depends on different conditions, such as the location of the contract, availability of housing options, and your personal preferences. Both housing options have their own benefits as well as disadvantages. Here we will go over these differences to help you better understand which option might be best for you.

Agency-Placed Housing and the Advantages/Disadvantages

Agency-placed housing is often the most common option chosen and often recommended for new traveling nurses. Travel nursing agencies often lease properties in locations to be able to offer short-term leases to their nurses. These properties include furniture, as well as linens and dishes. Utilities, such as electric or gas, are included, with some agencies even covering cable and internet.

Some key benefits of agency-placed housing include:

  • Convenience – Your agency takes care of everything. You don’t have to worry about looking for properties that will accept short-term leases, you do not have to come up with security deposits, and you do not have to worry whether or not utilities are connected before you settle in.
  • Availability and Pricing– Finding short-term housing is not always easy, especially in smaller communities. In many cases, you may need to spend more than a stipend amount to find a suitable short-term rental. Agencies already have locations in place and can bypass these concerns.
  • No Up-front Costs – With agency-placed housing, you will not need to come up with deposits for housing or utilities.
  • Security – If for any reason, your contract is canceled, you do not have to worry about possible expenses when terminating a lease early.

While these benefits may make you wonder why anyone would choose something else, agency-placed housing does have some disadvantages. While some agencies may offer you more than one housing option, they are usually comparable and do not leave many options. While you can make requests, it is not always available. For example, if you are a wife and mother that travels with your spouse and small child, you may want housing that includes a second bedroom. This is not always available. Maybe you bring your canine companion when your travel and the agency doesn’t offer any pet-friendly locations. For these reasons, stipend housing is another available option and one many seasoned travel nurses ultimately choose.

Stipend Pay and Housing Options

A housing stipend is a sum of money worked into your contract designed to cover the cost of housing during your assignment. This can include money for housing, travel, and meals. The amount of the stipend is based on a monthly rate but is paid weekly through your paycheck. Choosing a monthly stipend means you are responsible for acquiring your own housing as well as utilities.

This opens you up to a variety of different housing options that can include:

  • Traditional housing – this can include traditional homes and apartments. Keep in mind, traditional rentals may charge higher rates for short-term leases. In many cases, these properties do not come furnished, so you will have to consider furniture rental.
  • Vacation Rentals – Vacation rental properties typically come furnished and available for short-term leases. However, finding one with a three-month vacancy can be challenging.
  • Temporary Housing – This option can include properties such as Airbnb.
  • Extended-Stay Hotels – Extended stay hotels, such as Extended Stay America, offer the convenience of a hotel but are designed for longer stays.
  • RV or Mobile Housing – Many travel nurses opt to travel with their own homes. RV’s allow you to bring your home with you and simply find an RV park facility

Advantages/Disadvantages of Choosing a Housing Stipend

When you choose a stipend, you must take the lead when it comes to housing. You are responsible for finding a suitable location, paying deposits and connecting utilities. The main challenge of this housing option is finding housing that fits within the allotted budget. Some resources that can help with finding housing include:

Some key benefits of housing stipends can include:

  • You control where and how you live – If you want to live on the beach while in California, for example, you can look for a beach home. If a washer and dryer are a must-have, you can find housing that offers it.
  • You can make additional money – The housing stipend is a set amount and, if you can find housing for under this amount, you can pocket the rest.
  • Extra move-in/move-out time – With agency-placed housing, you often get only a couple of days to get in and get settled before your contract starts. The same goes for moving out. When you find your own housing, you create your moving timeline.
  • If you travel with a pet, you will have the option of finding a location that allows pets.

Disadvantages of Choosing the Housing Stipend

Being in control of your housing may seem like a great option, it is not for everyone. It also has some disadvantages you must consider. These can include:

  • Up-Front Costs – You are responsible for covering deposits for both housing and any utilities. Also, you may need to arrive early to have utilities connected.
  • Renting Furniture – Many places will not come furnished, meaning you will need to bring your own, rent, or purchase second hand.
  • Paying Penalties – Should your contract be canceled for any reason you are responsible for any fees associated with the cancelation of your lease or rental agreement.

Housing is often the most stressful part of being a travel nurse. Understanding your housing options, as well as voicing your needs and concerns with your travel nurse agency, is essential before you accept a contract.

We hope that you found these tips on how to find housing helpful. Do you have any tips to help travel nurses find housing that wasn’t mentioned in this article? Comment them below.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By CareerStaff Unlimited

March 3, 2020

6389 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Where Will Travel Nursing Take You This Summer?

This article provided by CareerStaff Unlimited

From the chance to work a temporary assignment before committing to a full-time job, to diversifying your nursing portfolio by working in a new setting or facility type, travel nurse assignments offer many benefits to RNs, LPNs, and LVNs across all specialties and experience levels.

But maybe the best incentive for this exciting career option is the chance to mix the pleasure of travel with your passion for working as a nurse — and getting paid to visit some great destinations across the United States, too!

And what better time to plan a travel assignment than during the summer months, America’s favorite time to travel. Though they’re not all the same duration, most travel nursing opportunities are full-time, 13-week engagements, or about three months in length. In other words, it’s about the perfect length of time to get away for the summer!

So, our question to you is: Where will you travel this summer?

If you live in the Midwest, you might fancy spending the summer in a beachside town in California or the Carolinas. Or if you’re a city dweller looking to get out and explore nature, you may prefer to bask in the scenic beauty of the Great Lakes region, the Rocky or the Appalachian Mountains, or the Pacific Northwest.

Either way, no matter where you live, travel nursing is the perfect way to seize the advantage of your value as a nurse to enjoy a unique and unforgettable life experience.

You are Valuable

And make no mistake, you are valuable: Nurses are in demand across the United States like never before, and facilities are increasingly relying on travel agencies to provide nurses for temporary assignments. These travel nurses are often called upon to fill in for permanent staff members who may be on vacation or sick leave, during seasonal spikes in utilization, or to help rural facilities find specialists who may be in short supply in their local area.

And because travel nurses are in such high demand, most agencies will cover the expense of your transportation and housing. You should also choose an agency that provides guaranteed hours and competitive pay and benefits (like full medical, vision, dental and life insurance). And be sure to ask about additional perks like local gym membership discounts, assignment and loyalty bonuses, and reimbursement for continuing education classes.

Why Work a Travel Nursing Job This Summer?

In other words, travel jobs are a great way to build career momentum while helping facilities ensure continuous, high-quality patient care for their communities. But there’s much more to it than that. Travel nursing also has a particular appeal to the adventurous types — those who love the idea of getting away for the summer (or any other season) and seeing different parts of the country.

For these folks, travel nursing is even more than an adventure and a chance to explore. Because they’re longer than a standard weekend trip, travel nursing jobs provide a unique opportunity to live like a local for a few months. That means you’ll have plenty of time to hit up every museum or art gallery, dine at every chic restaurant, explore every shopping hotspot, hike every trail, hear all the hottest acts in the local music scene, or however you like to spend your time.

Home away from home

And because of their extended nature, travel nursing assignments often become a home away from home, and a chance to make new friends or even spend time with family or old acquaintances who live in other states.

So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself visiting your travel nursing destination again in the future! Some travel nursing agencies will even be happy to re-match you with a facility where you’ve already worked since you’ve not only already proven your value but have already learned the ropes there. If things work out, your assignment could even be a new summer tradition or a new home — some travel nursing assignments can even turn into full-time jobs.

On the other hand, many nurses prefer the variety of traveling to a new destination with each assignment. Particularly for those looking to build career experience, travel nursing provides a great way to diversify your portfolio by working in a larger variety of facility types, learning new systems and procedures, gaining experience with different technologies, and so on.

So, where will you travel this summer?

CareerStaff can help you choose! We staff travel nursing jobs in many of America’s vacation hotspots, including Florida, Colorado, New England, Washington State, California, and even Alaska and Hawaii! Contact us today to learn more about our amazing selection of assignments, and the great benefits we offer to travelers.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By Soliant Health

February 21, 2020

6247 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

How Networking Can Help Nurses on Travel Assignments

This article provided by: Soliant Health

Deciding to temporarily work as a nurse somewhere you’ve never been and with people you’ve never met takes a lot of courage, but an endeavor like this can have huge payoffs. Nurses on travel assignments encounter dozens of opportunities to grow their knowledge, experience, and connections, and all it takes is an effort to network.

Why Should You Network

Networking benefits professionals no matter what industry they work in. Getting to know other people with similar career goals and interests will enlighten you as to what goes on in the industry and how others are striving to reach their full potential.

Professionally, networking while on a travel assignment can help you discover the inner workings of another clinic or hospital. It’s easy to get stuck in the mindset of your usual place of employment, but when you talk to people in different environments, you learn how things vary and change, opening your eyes to the greater scope of your profession and the opportunities available to you in the sphere of nursing.

If you desire to improve as a nurse, meeting different nursing professionals can introduce you to people who can inspire and teach you skills and techniques you’ve always wanted to learn. Conversely, you can also teach your skill set to colleagues while you work together and explain your point of view. Exchanging ideas always has the potential to lead to professional development.

The job itself

In terms of the job itself, getting to know the people you work with is vital for the overall success of your performance. Being in touch with how things operate is necessary for making the transition to a new place of work, and knowing who you can ask for help or how you can inquire about certain issues is vital. Teamwork is necessary in a medical setting, and you’ll fit in best if you go out of our way to learn about others.

Many nurses who choose to travel for a short-term nursing job enjoy exploring new places and medical practices. Getting to know your new coworkers will provide you with informational outlets outside of strict professionalism.

Your new connection can inform you about the area, where all of the best restaurants are located, what’s fun to do nearby, and why it might be a good place to live. These connections can also explain why or why not they enjoy what they do and give you further insight into the dynamic of your hospital or clinic.

How You Should Network

Introduce yourself — to everyone. You never know who you can learn from. Don’t stress too much about what you’re going to say, but be ready to engage in some sort of job-related discussion. Choose a few topics you’re comfortable talking about and be prepared to start a conversation based on them.

The important thing is ensuring that the people you’re meeting remember who you are after time passes. Making business cards is a relatively cheap and easy way to have something professional to give out while you’re networking and improve the chances they’ll remember who you are.

Also, make sure to collect business cards from the people you meet; write a few notes that will help you remember where and how you met this person (and maybe something you have in common); and keep it someplace safe. It’ll make a good point of reference months later when you’d like to remember details of your encounter.

Show enthusiasm

When speaking with your new acquaintances, show enthusiasm for your profession and remain upbeat. You want to make a positive impression, and if you appear excited about your nursing career and eager to learn more, people will be more willing to help you.

It’s important to remember, though, that the object isn’t just to benefit from the skill set of others; it’s also important to impart your knowledge and make the connection mutually beneficial. Offer to help other nurses learn new procedures or assist with others’ patients. Show that you can contribute and leave a lasting impression on your coworkers.

CONCLUSION

Getting to travel, meet new people, and experience different methods of doing things can be an amazing and valuable experience. Networking ensures you’ll make the most of your time spent at the new location. If you have professional connections, you can learn from them, reach out to them whenever you have questions or concerns about nursing, and continuously have access to different opinions and points of view.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By GHR Travel Nursing

February 20, 2020

7200 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Homesick as a Travel Nurse? Here’s What to Do.

This article provided by: GHR Travel Nursing

As a travel nurse, you are undoubtedly aware of the many perks that your career provides, not to mention the excitement and adventure that comes along with it. However, there are times when you may feel a bit homesick. This feeling is not uncommon, especially if it is your first assignment or if you have not traveled in some time.

Good news is, there are ways to cope with homesickness as a travel nurse. In many cases, you will welcome your new assignment and your new friends in no time at all. Here are a few ways to make the most of your job while kicking homesickness to the side.

Put Technology to Work

Technology is making it easy for you as a travel nurse to stay in touch with your loved ones and friends. FaceTime and Skype are making face-to-face communication up close and personal. And apps like Marco Polo offer you the option of recording a video chat that your family can watch at a time that works for them. This option is particularly helpful if you work odd shifts or have friends in different time zones.

Of course, a simple phone call is always a good option. There is nothing like hearing the sound of the voices of your loved ones and catching up. And don’t forget about texting and emails. With modern technology, keeping up with family is easier than ever before. There are multiple options for you to keep in touch with those back home, so pick one that works best for you.

Connect with Your New Colleagues

Probably one of the best perks for you on a travel assignment is the opportunity to make new friends. Although breaking the ice may be difficult at times, try to embrace the new environment and invite a co-worker to coffee or dinner. Doing something outside of work is an ideal way to foster friendships. Do not be surprised if you end up making a few long-lasting friendships along the way.

Bring Part of Home with You

A great way to prevent homesickness is by bringing part of your permanent home along with you. It takes little effort to create a feeling of comfort and familiarity in your new home while combating feelings of depression and anxiety. A favorite blanket or pillow and meaningful photos can put a smile on your face.

Also, many travel companies offer pet-friendly assignments, so you may want to consider bringing your dog, cat or other pet along with you. Pets love you no matter what the circumstances, and there is nothing better than coming home to a familiar face when you are in a strange town.

At the end of the day, travel nursing is truly an amazing and one-of-a-kind career. Don’t let homesickness stop you from fully embracing your assignment. If you are on the hunt for your next adventure, check out the opportunities available now at GHR Travel Nursing.

We hope these tips for avoid getting homesick as a travel nurse helps you along your way. Do you have tips for fighting being homesick while on assignment? Comment them below.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By Favorite Healthcare Staffing

February 19, 2020

23188 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Top 20 Travel Nursing Destinations for 2020

This article provided by: Favorite Healthcare Staffing

2020 is finally here! With the new decade comes brand new Travel Nursing jobs. If you’re looking for a new adventure this year, Favorite Healthcare Staffing has chosen our Top 20 Travel Nursing Destinations for 2020. See what cities and their surrounding areas made our list and start exploring the country today!

1. Atlanta, GA

Atlanta


Located in the heart of the South, Atlanta has quickly become a popular city destination. From its thriving restaurant scene to the bustling nightlife, tourists flock to this cultural hub. Popular attractions include the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium and the College Football Hall of Fame.

2. Baltimore, MD

travel nursing destinations


History buffs and foodies alike will love this East Coast city. Take a stroll along the Inner Harbor and try freshly caught blue crabs, a local favorite. Sports fans can catch the Orioles play at Camden Yards and book lovers can stop by the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum. Baltimore has something to offer for every traveler!

3. Boston, MA

travel nursing destinations


A bustling city with many of the nation’s top hospitals, why wouldn’t you want to travel to Boston? This Northeastern city has history and charm on every corner. Step back in time and stroll the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill or visit the financial district for some fantastic seafood.

4. Chicago, IL

Chicago


Shopping districts, nightlife and an Instagram-worthy food scene are just a few things the Windy City has to offer. Don’t forget to stop by quintessential tourist attractions like the Navy Pier, “The Bean” and Wrigley Field. Chicago deep dish pizza anyone?

5. Denver, CO

Denver CO


Denver is the perfect location for those wanting to experience the hustle and bustle of city life and for those who want to escape in nature. Hiking, skiing and exploring the city – Denver has it all!

6. Hays, KS

Hays KS


Located in Western Kansas, Hays offers a unique look at history. Visit museums and learn about the Wild West, Fort Hays or the German heritage of the town. For foodies, be sure to visit Downtown Hays and try the local coffee shops, craft beer and cuisine.

7. Harrisburg, PA

Harrisburg


Fascinated with American history? Check out the interactive exhibits and historical re-enactments at the National Civil War Museum, or learn more about the city’s cultural and industrial heritage at the State Museum of Pennsylvania.

8. Houston, TX

Houston


This sprawling city is home to some of the greatest shopping areas including the Galleria. Houston is also home to an up and coming art scene, delicious Tex-Mex cuisine and grassy parks. Don’t overlook this Texas city.

9. Kansas City, MO

Kansas City


Located in the heart of the country, Kansas City is quickly becoming a must-see travel nursing destination. The city is perfect for sports lovers and is home to a variety of professional sports teams including football, baseball and soccer. Let’s not forget about the barbecue – lots and lots of barbecue.

10. Lebanon, NH

travel nursing destinations


Make sure to bring your appetite as this small town offers an eclectic food scene ranging from Thai to French cuisine. Check out the Lebanon Opera House or spend time in the great outdoors because this quaint town experiences all four seasons – a nature lover’s paradise!

11. New York, NY

Top 20 Travel Nursing Destinations for 2020


The Big Apple has something for everyone – art, history, nightlife, eclectic food scenes, shopping…the list goes on. It’s true that you’ll never be bored in New York City. Snag tickets at a Broadway show, spend time at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or stroll through Central Park. Just be sure to add this energetic city to your list!

12. Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City


As the largest city in the state, Oklahoma has a lot to offer. Learn about its western heritage in one of the many museums or snag a pair of new cowboy boots and you’ll fit right in. Don’t forget to add this eclectic, laid back city to your list!

13. Portland, OR

travel nursing destinations


Portland is easily a must-see destination of the Pacific Northwest. The City of Roses boasts a top-notch craft beer scene with over 100 breweries located in the metro area and has diverse and affordable street food lining its pedestrian-friendly streets. Adventurers will also be satisfied and can find miles of trails for hiking and biking.

14. Providence, RI

travel nursing destination


Providence, RI is a true college town home to schools like Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design. This vibrant city’s thriving restaurant and art scene is a huge draw for visitors. Be sure to visit popular attractions like the RISD Museum or admire the architecture of historic Colonial houses along Benefit Street.

15. Seattle, WA

travel nursing destination


Nestled in the stunning Pacific Northwest, Seattle is the perfect travel nursing destination for those who love the great outdoors. Don’t let the rain scare you off, Seattle has some of the most lush and breathtaking landscapes, thanks to the average annual rainfall of 35 inches.

16. St. Louis, MO

travel nursing destination


As the birthplace of iced tea and ice cream cones, there’s plenty to eat and see in St. Louis. The city is filled with free attractions so you can find things to do without putting a major dent in your wallet. Make sure to check out the City Museum, Busch Stadium and the Gateway Arch.

17. St. Paul, MN

travel nursing destinations

Is St. Paul the hidden gem of the Twin Cities? We think so. Foodies go crazy for the city’s eclectic food and craft beer scene. Don’t forget about the spectacular views of the Mississippi River!

18. Trenton, NJ

travel nursing destination

As the capital of New Jersey, Trenton has a long list of things to do and the Trenton Farmers Market is a great place to start. Visit the market five days a week and find fresh food and produce. On a nice day visit the Grounds for Sculpture, a museum full of incredible well-known sculptures.

19. Tucson, AZ

travel nursing destination


Escape cold weather and visit this sunny Arizona city. You’ll find influences of the Hispanic heritage on every corner. Sample the Mexican cuisine and stroll through neighborhoods to see the colorful adobe buildings and charming shops. Explore Saguaro National Park for a true taste of the Arizona desert.

20. Waterford, CT

travel nursing destinations


A shoreline town full of parks and outdoor space makes for a great travel nursing destination. Stroll through the lush landscapes of Harkness Memorial State Park or make a trip to Waterford Beach to take in the breathtaking sights and sounds of the open Atlantic.

Interested in Travel Nursing contracts in any of the locations above? Or is there somewhere else on your list? Call 800-755-1411 and a Favorite Recruiter will help you find your next adventure!

We hope that this travel nursing destination list will help you pick your next assignment! Do you have a favorite assignment? Comment it below.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By Gifted Healthcare

February 18, 2020

7016 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

Better Sleep Health: Tips for Travel Nurses

This article provided by: Gifted Healthcare

For many travel nurses, sleep is merely a luxury. Long hours and night shifts make sleep precious and hard to find.

However, getting enough shut-eye is an essential part of maintaining a healthy, productive lifestyle. Studies have shown that insufficient sleep can significantly affect one’s well-being.

But don’t worry, there’s hope! Read on for a list of tips to help travel nurses improve their sleep health.

Stick to a Schedule

While it can be difficult for shift workers to maintain a stable sleeping schedule, try to be as consistent as possible. This will make falling asleep and waking up much easier, and reduce your chance of crashing while you’re awake.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, maintaining a consistent schedule trains your body’s internal clock. This internal clock, or circadian rhythm, determines your cycles of sleepiness and alertness.

If you fall asleep and wake up at the same time each day, you’ll be less likely to feel the changes of your internal clock.

Take Time to Decompress

Engaging in stressful activities before bedtime can cause anxiety, which makes it harder to fall asleep and sleep soundly. Your body needs time to transition into “sleep mode.”

Try a calming activity like reading, meditation, or taking a bath. Once you’ve found a reliable way to decompress, try to incorporate it into your daily routine.

Avoid Electronics & Bright Lights

The type of light emitted from modern electronics can activate your brain in a way that makes it harder for you to sleep. Try to avoid screens at least an hour before your bedtime.

In addition, other kinds of light can disrupt your body’s natural sleep/wake cycle. If you work nights, do your best to avoid sunlight and make your home as dark as possible when it’s time to go to bed.

Exercise

Exercising is a great way to ensure that you sleep soundly, especially if you struggle with anxiety. Physical activity is a natural stress reliever and has been shown to improve sleep quality and increase sleep duration.

According to Sleep.org, “as little as 10 minutes of aerobic exercises, such as walking or cycling, can dramatically improve the quality of your sleep.”

Save Your Bedroom for Sleeping

Do you use your bedroom for activities other than sleeping? If you’re someone that has trouble falling or staying asleep, you might need to find a new room for working, watching television, or using your laptop.

By using your bedroom exclusively for sleeping, you strengthen your brain’s association between “bedroom” and “sleep.” If you find yourself lying awake and struggling to fall asleep, try moving to another room and doing something else until you feel tired enough to try again.

Avoid Stimulants & Large Meals Before Bedtime

Stimulants like nicotine and caffeine can significantly affect your body’s ability to wind down and fall asleep. Large meals can cause indigestion, which can keep you awake or cause you to wake up in the middle of the night.

Try to avoid stimulants and large meals at least two hours before bedtime.

Make Sure You’re Comfortable

Nobody looks forward to sleeping in an uncomfortable place. That’s why it’s so important to view your bedroom as a sleeping sanctuary.

Having a mattress and pillows that encourage a good night’s sleep is a worthwhile investment. It’s also essential to organize your bedroom in a way that eliminates stress and clutter.

Start Improving Your Sleep Health Today

Getting enough sleep is an important part of living your best nurse life! Use our list of tips to improve your sleep health today.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By LRS Healthcare

December 27, 2019

6337 Views

ADVERTISEMENT

New Year’s Resolutions for Travel Nurses

This article provided by: LRS Healthcare

It’s a proverb as old as time: The early bird gets the worm—and the prepared travel nurse gets the coolest assignment. It may be too soon for some to think about their 2020 resolutions, but travel nurses are a different, forward-thinking kind.

As you plan for all the adventures this new year of travel nursing will bring you, take a moment to make some resolutions that will help you enjoy your travels even more. Travel nursing is all about creating your best life on your terms, so draw inspiration for your 2020 goals from our resolutions and let’s make this year awesome!

Learn Something New

No matter where you find yourself working in 2020, embrace its landscape and culture to squeeze every bit of goodness out of your experience there. You can find opportunities to learn new hobbies, meet new people and try new foods at any assignment in any city. Spending a few months in Colorado? Check mountain climbing off your bucket list! Exploring the Pacific Northwest? Get to know your local barista! In New York City for the first time? Find the best pizza in your neighborhood!

Each new assignment is a chance to enrich your life with unforgettable, meaningful experiences. So, get out and try something new.

Build Out Your Professional Network

Networking is an essential career tool for travel nurses, especially when you have your heart set on a contract but don’t know how to secure it. Because travel nurses don’t have a permanent set of coworkers to advocate for them, they’re constantly representing themselves. In order to advance your career and land dream contracts, you have to build connections everywhere you go.

In 2020, focus on expanding your network of advocates and friends through social media, your recruiting agency and your assignment coworkers. The more people you have in your corner, the more options open up to you.

Make Life Easier for Yourself

There’s no doubt nursing can be physically and emotionally taxing, so take every opportunity to reduce your stress. You deserve to fully experience the freedom and fun of travel nursing. But that can be tough if you’re battling burnout. So, if you see a way to make your life simpler and less stressful, go for it. Here are some of our favorite ways to manage stress:

  1. Work with your recruiter to get your travel documents organized in a way that’s easiest for you.
  2. Build family and relaxation time into your 2020 schedule.
  3. Make your housing needs clear so you can quickly find ideal housing.
  4. Schedule a massage or take a soothing bath.
  5. Make time to regularly talk with the people you care about.

Whatever makes you happy and takes a weight off your shoulders is well worth your time.

And if you’re in need of a new contract for the new year, contact LRS Healthcare to lock in your perfect 2020 plans.

We hope these New Year’s resolutions for travel nurses gives you some ideas for resolutions this year!

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!