One of the top posts we see in The Gypsy Nurse Facebook group is: What app do you use to track your hours? Keeping track of your hours and calculating pay can be difficult at times. So, we have put together the top 5 apps from the comments on the posts. You can find them below!
Not only does HourTracker track your hours and calculate your pay, but it also reminds you to clock in, organizes your jobs and job entries with tags, de-clutters using filters, and much more!
ShiftLife has many benefits that are listed above, including track hours and calculating pay. You can find some more benefits on their webpage!
We hope that these 5 apps help make your life as a travel nurse easier! There are other apps out there and if you have found one that works well for you that we didn’t list here, post it in the comments below! If you are looking for other great apps for travel nurses, read: The Top Six Apps Every Travel Nurse Should Have.
Also! Be on the lookout for next week’s Frequently Asked Friday article which will feature some top comments about where to get insurance as a travel nurse!
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“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
Depression is a very devastating mental disorder and takes a severe toll on a person’s life. Depression is a word that is thrown around inconsequently these days. People use it to describe every other episode of negative emotions, but in reality, depression is much worse than sadness.
Depression is also accompanied by a severe lack of self-esteem, hopelessness, lack of motivation, and an overall loss of interest in everything. Depression is also quite a common disorder; according to a report from 2016, it is estimated that 16.2 million adults in the US have at least one depressive episode in any given year.
Depression can demotivate you to the extent that you don’t even want to put any effort into your treatment; therefore, here are some ways which can increase your motivation and support your treatment. So, read on to learn more.
You feel like nothing is going to go your way, and these feelings can actually turn into reality, and the negativity overwhelms your mind. You have a pessimistic perception that hinders your ability to be your best self.
This leads to problems at work or in your personal life, which reinforces your negative mindset making it much worse.
This vicious loop continues, making your mentality worse and worse every time; therefore, breaking this negative feedback loop is very important. The best way to do that is to bring small positive changes in your life.
Start with small things; for instance, find one thing in your room that is bothering you and just fix it. It can be something as small as a messy desk or a stray sock on the floor. Small positive changes promote positivity and eventually motivate you to be more productive, breaking out of the loop of negativity.
This is an excellent way to improve your motivation, as well.
Make sure that you are getting a healthy amount of sleep:
Your sleep has a very significant impact on your overall health. It is important that you maintain a healthy sleep cycle and get the right amount of sleep. Ideally, you should get at least 6-8 hours of sleep every day; any less or even more than that can have a negative impact on your mental health and exacerbate your depression.
Sleep deprivation can cause mental fatigue, and it can make it challenging for you to get the motivation that you need both for your treatment and to deal with the difficulties of daily life. Sleep deprivation also decreases your tolerance against stress and leads to several physical disorders as well.
Furthermore, sleeping too much can also be bad for your mental health, and it can make you lethargic and have a negative impact on your self-esteem as well.
Therefore, if you want to regain your motivation, you should make sure that you sleep on time and wake up on time as well. Maintaining a healthy sleep routine is key to the effective treatment of depression.
Adopt an emotional support animal:
Our pets have a very important place in our lives, and did you know that they can even be very beneficial for your mental and physical health. In fact, if you or anyone you know is dealing with depression, adopting an emotional support pet can be an excellent way to improve your treatment.
Emotional support dogs are trained to know when you are feeling down. They can understand your moods and show you love and affection when you need it the most. Though it is easier to take care of these pets, it is still a responsibility, which can be very good for someone who is dealing with depression.
Being responsible for your pet allows you to feel more reliable and productive. It can also give your self-esteem a boost allowing you to be more productive and find motivation.
People with depression need emotional support, but sometimes it can be very hard to get. People with depression feel that they are a burden on their friends and family members, and they can’t seek the emotional support that they really want.
Therefore, adopting an emotional support pet is very effective, and it has an incredible impact on your mental health.
Organize your routine:
Another excellent way to improve your depression treatment and bring back some order to your life is to put an emphasis on organization. You should organize your routine and make a physical to-do list.
Writing down your routine and sticking it on a wall where you can see it makes a huge difference. When you check-off different tasks from your to-do list, it leads to a boost in your self-esteem and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
This motivates and inspires you to aim higher every day. Furthermore, organizing your schedule can help you combat day to day stress as well. It makes it easier to meet your deadlines and find time for rest and relaxation as well.
You should also consider keeping a journal as a part of your everyday routine. It allows you to keep track of your positive thoughts, and dispose of the negative ones in a safe way, which can make room for positive thoughts and ideas.
Disconnect and spend more time in nature:
Nature has a soothing effect on your mind, and if you are feeling overwhelmed because of stress and anxiety, and you feel like you are about to have a depressive episode, spending some time in nature can have a positive impact on your mind.
You should consider going for a walk, and enjoy the fresh air. Moreover, it is important to disconnect from your gadgets and spend some time focusing on yourself.
This allows you to get out of the negative loops in your life and feel more motivated.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
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“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
“You only get one chance to make a first impression.” It’s an old adage that couldn’t be more true for travel nursing applicants looking to win their dream job.
A job application is a crucial introduction between you and a hiring manager or potential employer. A well-organized resume gives your future boss a quick glimpse into a lifetime of experiences and accomplishments, helping them decide whether or not you’d get that call for an interview.
Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a newly registered nurse, or one who’s been working in the field for many years, it’s important to keep your nursing application well-polished and up-to-date.
So how do you make an impression as the best candidate for a travel nursing job? Below are some tips and advice to help you stand out from the competition and get that job you’re seeking:
Earn a degree.
To stand out from the crowd, a nurse should consider earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. While a bachelor’s degree is enough for nurses to gain knowledge and demonstrate their dedication to the field of healthcare, the rapidly growing number of professional nurses with a bachelor’s degree has become the norm.
An MSN degree on your resume or CV can help boost your chances of getting the job. A nurse with an MSN degree has the advanced knowledge, training, and expertise required to not only provide high-quality patient care but also to lead and guide their colleagues.
Spice up your resume and cover letter.
Even before entering the professional world, fresh graduates should highlight their school activities, volunteer work, special projects, and other notable involvement in student nursing organizations.
If you’re new in the field, you can also talk about previous job experiences, even if it’s not in the health care setting. If you’re a newly registered nurse, you should also offer examples of your great work ethic.
Meanwhile, seasoned nurses should write in detail about their job experiences, skills, and ability to contribute to and work with a team. They can also focus on their enthusiasm, eagerness, and dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest technology and theories in nursing, as well as their readiness to embrace change.
Of course, make it a habit to proofread, edit, and double-check errors on your resume or cover letter before submitting it to a potential employer. Make sure there are no mistakes in your grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Additionally, use fonts that are readable and easy on the eyes, such as Arial.
Not sure how to get started with your resume? Don’t fret. You can find writing help online, straight from experts and professionals. Whether you need nursing essay writing services or writing and editing assistance for your nursing application, you can always turn to a seasoned writer or editor to help polish up your papers. It’s easy, it’s convenient, and it’s affordable, too.
Put the spotlight on your clinical experience and areas of expertise.
Simply stating that you’re a registered nurse who has earned a degree won’t grab the attention of potential employers and earn you a slot for an interview. Instead, take some time to list down your areas of expertise. This way, you’ll give your future boss an idea of the specific skills you’re adept in.
While skills are usually described in detail during the interview process, highlighting them in your job application could be your key to earning that face-to-face meeting with a potential employer. For nurses, consider including a section, preferably near the top of your resume, where hiring managers can easily find your skill sets and expertise. This could be anything from intravenous (IV) infusion certification, emergency/critical care experience, management and administration, nursing informatics, and more.
Stress the importance of workplace values.
Describing your workplace responsibilities won’t be enough to impress an employer or hiring manager, especially in the health care setting. They will want to know how you, as a professional nurse, had a direct contribution to improving the overall quality of patient care, care delivery processes and reduced the cost of care in your previous job experience.
When presenting your travel nursing application, make sure you’ve included specific descriptions of your workplace values and accomplishments. Sure, showcasing your honors, awards, and certificates can be helpful, but they’re not the only way to express value.
As a nurse, you should look for chances to measure your job accomplishments in a tangible way, one that can be conveyed in your resume. Consider adding quantifiable information, like the number of employees or trainees you’ve supervised or the increase in your department’s productivity rate at the time you were working for them. Even small details like the average number of patients you can handle each day can provide a clearer picture of your nurse’s achievements.
For professional nurses, a job application is a great opportunity to put your best foot forward, both in your present and potential workplaces.
Remember: It’s important not to make your resume stand out for the wrong reasons. Follow the simple tips above while filling out your travel nursing application, and you’ll be one step closer to your dream travel nursing job!
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
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“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
Think about the things you want to have with you when you’re traveling for your job. What about what you need to have with you? Do the two lists have anything in common? It’s important to pack what will make you comfortable, but if you’re starting a job as a travel nurse, here are some travel nurse essentials you need.
1. Medications and Supplements
Make sure you pack an adequate supply of whatever medications you need or take regularly. If you take long-term prescriptions, make sure you have enough to cover your stay plus some extra. If you’re not taking any prescription medication but take something over the counter like allergy medicine, bring a good supply of that too. This applies to supplements as well. While many medications and supplements can be found in any grocery store, convenience store, or pharmacy, it can be better to make sure you pack what you need, especially if you buy your supplements online and don’t want to ship them to a new address every few months. For example, if you take high impact endurance coupon, you can buy a larger amount of it at once, so it lasts longer instead of buying it monthly while you’re on the road.
2. Important Paperwork
When you go on vacation, you bring some form of ID with you, whether your driver’s license or passport. When you travel for a longer period of time, there are other documents you’ll need to bring with you too. You should pack whatever documents you need for your work, such as your travel nurse contract and your nursing license. Bring along copies of your social security card, birth certificate, and any other credentials you think you might need. You don’t need the originals, and if possible, you should keep these in a safe place at your home base or somewhere else safe like a safety deposit box.
3. Climate Appropriate Supplies
When you accept a travel nurse position, you’ll be assigned a location. Once you know where you’re going to be working, you can do some research on the area. What is the climate like? How often does the weather change? This will help you figure out whether you’ll need to pack rain gear, sun protectant, or cold-weather clothing. Knowing these things will provide you with an easier time packing. If you know in advance that you’ll need sweaters and heavy coats, you can adjust the rest of your packing accordingly.
4. Space Saving Storage
You can purchase space-saving items such as packing cubes and vacuum storage bags. Packing cubes don’t reduce the space your things will take up in your luggage, but they will help you organize your things most efficiently and maximize the use of your available space. On the other hand, Vacuum storage bags are meant to reduce the size of certain items so you can store or pack more. You can fill them with bulky but soft items such as pillows, sweaters, and quilts, then vacuum out the air and compress the items, so you have more room to pack. They’re also made of waterproof materials like plastic, so they’re good at keeping fabric items dry.
5. Electronics
Electronics are ubiquitous in this day and age. If you’re a travel nurse, bring along your phone, laptop, and chargers so you can keep in touch with your friends and family you’re living far away from. You can also use them to familiarize yourself with the place you’re living and working in. Additionally, some travel nurse agencies will provide you with appliances like televisions in your living space. However, if one of those isn’t provided, you’ll still have access to videos and media through your devices.
When you travel for work, make sure you have what you need to live away from your home base for an extended amount of time, but don’t overpack. Think about how you’re traveling and where you’re going to figure out what you’ll need and what you’re able to bring.
We hope you found this list of 5 travel nurse essentials to pack helpful. Are there any other travel nurse essentials to add to the list? Comment them below.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
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“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
At the age of 23, I had moved over 1,000 miles away from home, on my own– my car packed to the brim– to a place where I truly didn’t know a soul. I had 2 years experience as a medical surgical nurse, and was headed to a hospital where they told me not to linger around outside..
I knew nothing about NOLA.
[Mind you, I grew up in the middle of nowhere with virtually no neighbors, surrounded by amber waves of grain, and had never really left] I was TERRIFIED. I had cried for an entire week before my departure date. Dramatically saying goodbye to everyone and everything as if I were being shipped overseas against my will.
Constantly wavering back and forth over my decision to dive into the unknown.
I remember gripping the steering wheel down the driveway with the most exhilarating feeling I’ve ever had. I pretended to cry one last time, but I couldn’t. It was just me, myself, and the open road– My fears suddenly shifted to pure adrenaline and excitement! I was going to be a travel nurse in New Orleans!
To say that New Orleans completely changed my life would be an understatement.
I had never felt so free. I got my first apartment on my own. I met many incredible people that became lifelong friends. I fell in love with jazz and the southern storms. I danced like nobody was watching. I learned the streets like THAT was my job. I immersed myself into the food and culture, and learned as much as I could.
New Orleans was also the first place I forced myself to go to a restaurant by myself; shaking with my heart beating out of my chest– I ordered a glass of red wine, drank it fast, and left. I learned so much as a travel nurse in New Orleans.
But I did it.
What I’m getting at is this:
I can’t imagine what kind of person I’d be today if I had never made that first move to be a travel nurse in New Orleans. All it took was taking one easy step, saying “what’s the worst that could happen?” Picking up the phone.. and letting go. Suddenly, a whole new world was opened up to me. One that I literally couldn’t even imagine before. I was hooked. There was no going back to my previous way of merely existing.
When I finally left for my next destination, after 6 months of learning, growing, expanding through the challenges (and a whole lot of memorable nights).. I cried all the way through Louisiana and Mississippi. Being a travel nurse in New Orleans had been such a profound experience.. I couldn’t even describe it. I didn’t know whether to be happy or sad.
I even remember my Facebook post:
“Until next time New Orleans “
No picture. No real words. I was speechless. Funny, it’s taken me 4 years to put this all into words, but sometimes you don’t even realize the impact something, or someone, or some moment has on you– until you’re able to look back with a new set of eyes.
Now here’s why I’m sharing today–
For the past few weeks, the thought of New Orleans has been popping up DAILY for me, (there’s a reason they say NOLA lives in you forever)..
And NOW I’ve figured out why.
It’s the feeling of absolute freedom.. of exhilaration.. of feeling SO alive in the moment I could cry.
My soul remembers.
It’s a personal guidance call to face my fears AGAIN. To level up. To just take one step into the unknown, to remind myself why I’m here, and what life is supposed to feel like. It’s a challenge to get to a whole new world and way of life that I can’t even imagine right now.
The best part is– every time I’ve ripped the band-aid off and just done whatever it is.. It’s ALWAYS paid off.
And what I’ve come to find is this:
The fears are always going to be there. The reasons NOT to do something are going to outweigh the reasons to do it when you’re skeptical or scared or doubtful.
It’s important to remember that your brain WILL try and stop you. That’s it’s job.. to protect you from straying from your personal status quo and level of comfort.
Wavering back and forth over a big decision..? Totally normal. That’s your heart and brain arguing over what’s best for you.
But when and if you can push past those thoughts and have COURAGE.. THAT’S when YOU take control and when the REALLY GOOD stuff flows in. That’s when you learn more about yourself and grow.
That’s when LIFE happens.
You then teach yourself that it’s ok to follow desires, it’s ok to take risks, it’s ok to listen to the heart once in a while..
And you’ll wonder why you waited so long to live.
P.s I’m simply sharing in the hopes that someone who is on the fence of choosing between comfort and something big and scary… that they choose the scary one. Take the chance. Opportunities don’t remain the same forever.
Are you searching for a GREAT Paying Travel Nurse Position?
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“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
After contending with the coronavirus for almost a year, travel nurses both need—and deserve—some R&R. Although international travel may not be safe yet, there are plenty of destinations within the United States that would make a perfect getaway. Treat yourself to beautiful vistas, spectacular weather, and sensational events.
January
In the month of January, escape the freezing temps by visiting idyllic Jekyll Island, Georgia, for a coastal getaway. The high temperature in January is in the low-60s, which means fairly uninterrupted beach time without the usual summer. As an added bonus, the island hosts an event called Island Treasures, which is a sort of hide-and-seek game where locals and visitors search for hidden glass globes similar to those fishermen once used to mark their nets.
February
Art lovers can rejoice in a vacation to Seattle, Washington, in February during the city’s Museum Month. Over 40 museums and cultural institutions participate in the event where admission is half-price. Visit exhibits like MoPop, the Seattle Aquarium, or the Seattle Art Museum, which have surely been on your bucket list for years.
March
If you’re looking for a quaint and cozy vacation during the month of March, then visit Newfield, Maine, during the maple season. Check out the famous sugarhouses and walk-through tiny cabins scattered in the woods as the scent of sugar wafts in the air. Try visiting on Maine Maple Sunday for free tastings.
April
Although the annual Jazz and Heritage Festival in New Orleans, Louisiana, was canceled this year due to the pandemic, it plans to reopen in April 2021. The event includes live music from both local and nationally known artists. Enjoy local foods like crawfish beignets and alligator sausage po’boys to get an authentic taste of the bayou.
May
Looking to vacation somewhere a little more mainstream? Consider Louisville, Kentucky, in May for the annual Kentucky Derby. While the weather can sometimes be finicky, the event is a great excuse to put on your most elaborate hat and sip a mint julep while watching the horse races. Tickets are reasonably priced and give you access to vendors to buy cigars, drinks, foods, and to place a wager on your favorite horses.
June
In June, travel to Temecula Valley, California, to experience the Balloon and Wine Festival. Start your day with a sunrise hot air balloon launch, and then enjoy wine tastings, craft fair art exhibits, or wine barrel racing. The warm weather is inviting but not overbearing, making it the perfect time to sit outside while sipping on wine or local craft beer.
July
A hidden gem to visit during the month of July is Mackinac Island, Michigan. The relatively small island can only be reached by ferry, and upon arrival, you’ll find that there are no cars or chain hotels. It is the perfect destination for quality time outdoors if you want to hike, horseback ride, or relax on the beach by the Great Lakes.
August
Visit the nation’s largest state fair in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during the month of August. Go on your favorite carnival rides or indulge in an assortment of foods served on sticks (like pickles or macaroni). It’s a fun time for kids of all ages.
September
Visiting San Francisco, California, in September is a great option because the city experiences one of its warmest and driest months. Take a stroll—without a large number of tourists—on the Golden Gate Bridge or go on a whale watching tour to see the migrating blue and humpback whales.
October
For something a little spookier, visit Salem, Massachusetts, in October for the annual Haunted Happenings Festival. There are parades, costume balls, ghost tours, haunted houses, and movie nights, all at the very location of the original Salem Witch Trials. If you are a bit of a history buff, make sure to check out the Salem Witch Museum or the Salem Witch Trials Memorial to learn more about the infamous witch trials.
November
If you want to escape the cold, November is a great month to visit Key West, Florida. Temperatures are in the high 70’s and low 80’s. There are plenty of aquatic activities to take part in besides enjoying the beach—you can rent a kayak, snorkel, or rent a boat and sail around the open waters. At the end of the day, enjoy a drink at Sloppy Joe’s, one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spots.
December
Enjoy the snow and ski season with a trip to Sun Valley, Idaho, in December. With picturesque and pristine mountains for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling, Sun Valley is an ideal winter getaway. And when it is time to warm up, the area boasts incredible naturally occurring hot springs. Rent a cozy cabin and snuggle up by the fireplace after a long day embracing the outdoors.
Fun in New York all year
If you are a thrill seeker and are looking for adventure and excitement, New York is a great assignment location any time of the year! There is so much to do and see in New York that it makes a great location for an assignment. If you are looking for excitement, there are many options. New York City is full of exciting things to do. You could try indoor skydiving at iFLY Westchester, go on a ghost hunt at the Ghostbuster’s firehouse, take in a game at one of the many sports stadiums in the city. You can also enjoy the hustle and bustle of Time Square. If relaxing is more your style you could spend some time in Central Park. If you are looking for more outdoor adventures, while in NYC, you can watch & listen to the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, admire street art in Bushwick, and of course, you could always take in a show on Broadway. New York really is a great place to consider for your next assignment for any adventure.
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“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
Crockpots or slow cookers are great for travel nurses and travel healthcare workers. You typically have to throw the ingredients into it and set it to cook for hours while you are at work. As such, we have put together some easy crock pot recipes for our travel nurses.
1/2 pound dried spaghetti noodles 1/2 a box, cook according to package directions
8 oz. pkg. mozzarella cheese, grated (reduced-fat or regular)
Instructions
Add the chicken, sea salt, garlic powder, pepper, tarragon, onions, and mushrooms. Pour over the chicken broth. DO NOT ADD THE CREAM CHEESE OR SPAGHETTI YET. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
Cut the cream cheese into squares and add the slow cooker, cover. In the meantime, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions.
After the cream, the cheese has had some time to melt. Take 2 forks and shred the chicken. Stir the sauce and chicken together. Add the cooked and drained pasta. Stir. Add the mozzarella cheese over the pasta and sauce. Cover for about 10 more minutes or until the cheese has melted. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional values are approximate. Please use your own calculation if you require a special diet. Values below are for 1/8 of the recipe.
Prep Time- 10 mins Cook Time- 6 hrs Total Time- 6 hrs 10 mins
Ingredients
1 15- oz. can black beans
1 15.25- oz. can corn undrained
1 10- oz. can Rotel tomatoes undrained
1 package ranch dressing mix
1 tsp. cumin
1 Tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 8- oz package light cream cheese
2 chicken breasts
Instructions
Drain and rinse the black beans. Place chicken at the bottom of the crock pot, then pour out the whole can of corn (undrained), Rotel tomatoes, and black beans on top of chicken.
Top with seasonings and ranch dressing mix. Stir together.
Place cream cheese block on top. Cover with lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
After the cooking time is over, take chicken breasts from crock pot and shred and add back to the chili. Stir together and enjoy!
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion until cooked. Add in the minced garlic, salt, basil, and oregano, and stir. Cook for 1 minute
Add the beef mixture, diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, and water into the slow cooker. Stir until combined. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Turn your slow cooker on high and add ziti or penne noodles, and stir. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until noodles are of desired consistency.
Sprinkle shredded Mozza on top {and parsley if desired}, cover, and cook until cheese is melted. This will take about 15 minutes.
Prep Time- 10 mins Cook Time- 6 hrs Total Time- 6 hrs 10 mins
Ingredients
1-pound lean ground beef
salt and pepper
1 bell pepper chopped
15 ounce can crushed tomatoes
1 cup jarred salsa I used mild
15 ounce can corn drained
3 tablespoons taco seasoning I use this easy recipe
2 ½ cups water or low sodium chicken broth I used one 14.5 ounce can chicken broth plus enough water to total 2 ½ cups
12 ounces shell pasta shapes whole grain or white
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and season with salt and pepper—Cook the meat, often stirring, until browned. Transfer beef to slow cooker.
Add the bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, salsa, corn, taco seasoning, and broth or water. Stir.
Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Stir in the pasta. Cook on high for 10-20 minutes. Pasta cook time will vary by the slow cooker. Begin checking for doneness at 10 minutes.
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (32oz container)
8 ounces cream cheese (cubed)
1 (20oz) bag of frozen cheese tortellini
3-4 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
Add the browned, chopped, and drained sausage, broth, both cans of diced tomatoes, and cubed cream cheese to your slow cooker.
Please give it a good stir and cook on LOW for about 4 hours or until the cream cheese has completely dissolved.
Stir in the spinach and frozen tortellini and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is done to your liking.
Serve immediately and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Recipe Notes
The tortellini will continue to cook if left in the crockpot to warm, so it’s best served right away with any remaining stored in the fridge for later.
You can also use the refrigerated tortellini, just keep in mind that it may cook a little bit faster.
Feel free to add anything else to the soup that you’d like. You can add a little minced garlic to the sausage while it’s browning if you have it on hand. You can also add cayenne or red pepper if you like it spicy.
We hope you found these crockpot recipes helpful. Do you have any easy crockpot recipes you would like to share? Please comment on your favorite crockpot recipes below.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
Discover new travel nurse jobs, subscribe to customized job alerts and unlock unlimited resources for FREE.
“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
Be honest. You’ve considered traveling as a medical professional, but the thought of leaving the comfort of your home, a steady job, family, and friends, gives you the sweats a little. It’s fine, we understand. But how do you feel about regret?
Take it from this young lady, Kahla (pronounced Kay-lah), a registered nurse who “leaped” as a first-time traveler in the middle of a pandemic: “I just have always known that it was something that I wanted to do and I knew that if I didn’t go for it, I would look back later in life and regret it,” she said.
On How She Got Here:
Kahla is one of those rare breeds of humans who knew what she wanted to be when she grew up straight out of high school. Anatomy and physiology classes had her dreaming about scrubs and stethoscopes, so she knew she wanted to be in the medical field.
Deciding what program to take, Kahla considered what she wanted in patient care. “Did I want just to go around and talk to people for five minutes and then not see them again for a couple of days,” she thought, “or do I want to work 12-hour shifts with the same people and actually get to know them and interact with them?” From there, she chose the ladder and began working toward a career in nursing.
While researching the medical field and deciding which nursing route to take (always researching with this girl), Kahla came across a travel nurse job listing. “I might have even been looking at ‘highest paying nursing jobs,’ and travel nursing was on that list,” she said. Pff, ain’t no shame in that game!
Generally, hospitals and medical facilities require a traveler to have two or more years of experience under their belt. Why? For many reasons, but one of which being, they need you to hit the ground running basically day one. You’re only there for three months, and they can’t afford one of those months to be spent on training.
Due to the pandemic, however, several healthcare systems around the country eased their requirements, so travel medical pros who had less than two years of hospital experience could assist.
You can see where “lucky” would be an odd way to describe Kahla having the opportunity to travel before most, but it gave her a jump-start she’s admittedly thankful for.
“Honestly, I was getting burnt out with my first job, and I was just kind of tired of some of the things that were going on there,” she said. “So I just was like, ‘You know what? Screw it. Why not now?’” After that, she took her first contract assignment.
On Connecting with a Recruiter:
Even “newbies” in the medical travel world know that options probably won’t be a problem once you put your feelers out there. Usually, getting your phone to stop ringing is the issue.
Jill, a social media recruiter at Triage, contacted Kahla via Messenger. After texting back and forth for a while, they hopped on a call that Kahla describes:
She was just super personable, social, and cared about me more than getting me to travel. I’ve had many phone calls with different recruiters where they answer [the phone], and they’re like, ‘okay, where do you want to go, and what’s your specialty?’ They didn’t ask any life questions. With Jill (and Robyn), I felt as if I was talking to my friends. I need that personal connection—to know that they have my best interest in mind and aren’t just trying to give me a job to get money.
On Choosing an Assignment:
Every travel nurse has their reason for experiencing the travel life—most have a few. It’s really about prioritizing your reasons and choosing assignments based on that hierarchy. For Kahla, her priority when it comes to picking an assignment is location, location, location.
“I feel like a lot of people right now will just go wherever the highest-paying job is, but I try to find a hospital in an area that I want to visit, usually because I have friends or family there,” she said. “But, when it comes to specific contracts, definitely the specialty!”
During her search for an assignment in Florida, she was sent positions for specialties she had no experience with, such as neuro.
“I’m like, ‘me and neuro? Ha!” she laughed. “I’m just not a neuro person—so, specialty is a big one for me and so is a shift.”
We’re telling you, we’ve found a unicorn with this one. Kahla prefers…wait for it…the night shift! In fact, she loves it. Yes, we know (and so does she), at almost 24, she’s probably better equipped to handle the “nightlife.” But, it’s not just that, she claims. Aside from it working better with her lifestyle, she also likes “the flow of work a lot better.”
“We definitely still have busy nights,” she explains, “but it’s nice to actually get time to sit down and talk to your patients if they’re still awake, or just sit down and talk to your coworkers instead of running around with a million people around you.”
So young, yet so wise, Kahla shares a couple of interview tips she has used, or plans on using:
“Right now, it’s self-explanatory why they need travelers during the pandemic with COVID,” she said. “But, when it dies down, I’ll start asking—trying to figure out what I’m getting myself into.”
On the Travel Life:
It’s been a long-standing rumor (and we say rumor because we aren’t there to bear witness) about perm staff treating travelers with, perhaps, a bit of jealous disdain. Thankfully, Kahla says, “for the most part, everyone’s pretty welcoming and helpful” and here to shed some light on the topic:
I’ve heard that’s one thing that holds many people back from travel nursing because they’re afraid of getting the worst assignment on the floor with the worst patients. But, for the most part, that really hasn’t happened to me. If it does happen to me, I’m a one-day-at-a-time type of person. I think, ‘tomorrow’s a new day; I can do this for 12 hours.’ I don’t really let it get to me. I’m not going to let that hold me back from continuing to travel and live the life I want to live.
Many-a-traveler has told us their favorite aspect of contract assignments can stay out of “workplace politics.” Bad attitudes? Take it with a grain of salt. It’s their problem, not yours. Boo-yah!
“It’s nice just not to have to be attached to something; you can just do your job and get out,” she said.
Kahla works hard to live the life she’s always dreamed of, including taking care of herself mentally and physically. This go-getter is also a part-time fitness coach (holy tenacity, Batman).
“If I didn’t work out and live the healthy lifestyle that I do, I think I would lose my mind,” she said. “Especially with nursing—I’m a firm believer that we have to take care of ourselves before we can do anything else and take care of others.”
We 100% agree.
The best part about the #TravelNurseLife? “One is obviously traveling,” she laughed. “Two, it definitely pays more. I feel like, as nurses, we do not get paid enough for what we do; but as a traveler, I feel like I’m making what I deserve.”
Cheers to that, friend!
On Where to Next:
Kahla is now finishing up her second assignment in sunny Florida and wondering, “where to next?” You’d assume with all the research this gal does; she’d have the next 30 years planned, right?
“I kind of had a plan, but I’m learning that plans don’t always go as planned,” she said. “So, I do, but I don’t; I’m more so kind of just doing it and going with the flow.”
With COVID-19 shutting the world down (something nobody thought possible), we’ve all learned the same lesson about plans. They’re nice to have, but sometimes the plan has to be to go after it.
Follow Kahla on her IG (Walkerk.fitRN) for some motivation, travel nurse tips, and a smile that will brighten your day.
Are you a staff nurse with travel nursing plans? What holds you back from making these travel nursing plans a reality? Comment them below. Are you a travel nurse that had travel nursing plans for years before making the leap? What finally made you put those travel nursing plans into reality? Comment those below as well.
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Looking after your mental health is important for your whole wellbeing. The restrictions and changes to daily life as a result of the coronavirus pandemic have led to increased feelings of anxiety, isolation, stress, and worry in some cases. Luckily, there are steps you can take to assess and improve your own mental health so that you can stay healthy.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
Talking about your feelings can enable you to feel listened to and supported. As a result, you are less likely to feel lonely or overwhelmed by negative emotions. It can also encourage others to open up to you in return.
2. Look After Your Physical Health
Looking after your physical wellbeing will also help to improve and maintain a healthy mental state. Make sure that you are getting some exercise every day. Simply going for a short walk each day can help you stay physically active. You could also exercise outdoors with a friend or relative, whilst following physical distancing rules. Regular exercise can help to boost your self-esteem, improve your concentration, and sleep.
It’s also important to ensure that you are eating well. Aim to eat three nutritious, balanced meals each day, as well as drinking plenty of water. Limit your alcohol consumption and avoid relying on alcohol or drugs to cope, as these will do more damage to your body in the long run.
3. Create New Routines
The coronavirus pandemic has meant that regular routines have been significantly changed. With so many changes, the ‘new normal’ can sometimes feel very challenging.
“Daily routines can help provide us with a sense of achievement and stability. Try to create new routines for yourself and your family. As far as possible, try to separate work and school time from your family time. Try to incorporate aspects of your usual routine, such as a gym class, into your new routine by joining an online class instead,” suggests Rose Johnson, a health writer at Writinity and Researchpapersuk.
4. Stay Connected With Friends And Family
Although restrictions and social distancing measures may prevent you from meeting up with family and friends in person, it’s still possible for you to stay connected. You may want to schedule virtual coffee dates with friends via video chats, join an online group, talk to friends and family on the phone, or even meet outdoors whilst maintaining social distance. It’s essential that you maintain your social network and connections as these will help you to feel well, safe, and provide an outlet outside of the pressures of work for you to reset your mental state.
5. Take Time To Yourself
Between the demands of a stressful job and other responsibilities, it can be easy to forget to set time aside for yourself. Remember to be kind to yourself and set aside some breaks where you can have some ‘me time.’
“Whether you just take a few minutes to do some meditation or breathing exercises, go for a quick walk alone or read a book, it’s important to give yourself time and listen to your body. You could also take up a hobby. This will help boost your self-esteem and allow you to forget your worries,” says James Rosenthal, a blogger at Draftbeyond and Last Minute Writing.
6. Ask For Help
Everyone gets overwhelmed from time to time. During the coronavirus pandemic, with increased worries about our own health and those of our friends and family, it can sometimes be difficult to cope. When you are the one caring for others, it can be difficult to carry the burden and worry. It’s important to know that you can reach out and ask for help if you’re struggling. Talk to your family and friends, or seek help from a health professional or an online or phone chat support service.
Conclusion
Being aware of your own mental health and taking steps to sustain and improve it are essential, particularly during challenging times such as the pandemic. Acknowledge your feelings, ensure you stay connected with friends and family, and look after your physical health to promote a healthy mental state. If you are struggling to cope, remember that you can always ask for help. Above all, be patient and kind to yourself.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
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“Since just recently joining The Gypsy Nurse, I have had so many questions answered about the world of travel nursing. This has been an excellent resource!”
Happy Nurses Week 2025! We’re so grateful for all that nurses do—every single day. This week is all about you, and we’re excited to celebrate with a giveaway! Need more details? Visit our Facebook page.
