May 20, 2019

20853 Views

A Travel Nurse’s Unique Story of Surviving Hurricane Irma in the US Virgin Islands

Posted on May 20, 2019May 20, 2021 by Tanisha Terry

Guest Post By: Tanisha Terry

A personal account of surviving Hurricane Irma as travel nurse US Virgin Islands. From preparation through the aftermath, a travel nurses personal account.

Travel Nurse US Virgin Islands

When I received the phone call from my recruiter telling me that I landed my first travel assignment in the Virgin Islands, I couldn’t believe it! My mouth fell open. I was excited, and couldn’t wait to share the news with all my family and friends.

Struggling with Doubts

Soon after, my feelings turned from excitement to doubt. I doubted how I would survive living in St. Thomas all by myself. How I would excel as a travel nurse US Virgin Islands with such limited experience. I questioned why God was calling little Tanisha from Missouri City, Texas to start her travel nursing career on St. Thomas, Virgin Island…

A Heavy Heart

The following Sunday, I came to church with a heavy heart and was greeted by extreme confirmation. Our Sunday school lesson was titled, “Beyond Doubt”, and my Sunday school teacher spoke on believing beyond what you can see. I felt like the lesson was made especially for me.

After class, my teacher pulled me aside and asked me how things were going. I broke down in tears and told her that I was feeling extremely doubtful about my upcoming move. She embraced me and reminded me that God is with me; it’s not my job to wonder why He called me, but to be obedient and walk into the new season of life with confidence that He will continue to provide. After church, she sent me a powerful message that got me through the next month of my life when I was feeling down, discouraged and extremely doubtful.

God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things

Those words spoke to me louder than anything had in the past few weeks of my life as I was feeling overwhelmed and stressed behind all the work I was putting into starting my new journey. This message provided reassurance in a dark season of my life when I needed it the most. Anytime I started to feel unworthy I reminded myself, “God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things that He might get the glory“.

Departures

As the days came closer to my departure, I became excited and eager to start my new assignment. When I finally arrived in St. Thomas, I remember having an overwhelming sense that I belonged there; that I was being sent with a purpose. I stepped off the plane and saw the following sign… The first two months of my assignment were filled with partying, boat trips, cliff jumping, island hopping and living on vacation all while wondering, “What am I here for? When will it be my time to be extraordinary?”

Travel Nurse US Virgin Islands: Hurricane Irma

The weekend of September 1st, we all received news that a major hurricane was expected to hit the island. Some of my fellow travelers grew worried, some began to frantically prepare and some even chose to evacuate the island. While “Hurricane Irma” was the talk of the town and everyone was in a complete uproar, I had peace knowing that THIS is what I was called for. Finally, it was my time to be extraordinary!

The day before the storm hit, I reached out to my closest family and friends and asked for their prayers. I knew I was being faced with a great task and that I needed all the support they could give. All of the island natives warned me that if the hurricane hit… it would be devastating. We were expected to lose water, power, phone service, and all means of communication. I warned my family that if they didn’t hear from me, don’t worry…I would be fine.

Going to Work Prepared

Tuesday night September 5th, I went to work fully prepared. I had a weeks worth of clothes, all my valuables, and food to last for a few days. That night I made my hospital bed and laid down. I was comforted with tons of encouraging words from my family and friends letting me know that they were praying for me. My Instagram and Facebook were overflowing with messages from people who I didn’t even know; everyone finally got word that Irma, the category five hurricane was headed straight towards me and there was nothing left to do but pray.

“When the lights go out, it will be your time to shine.“

On Wednesday morning, I woke up, prepared for work and walked to the unit to receive report. I was in charge that day and remember thinking, “Why me?” My mom texted me her prayer for that morning and said, “When the lights go out, it will be your time to shine.” I knew then that everything would be okay. Placing my phone in my pocket, I began my day. I rounded on my patients and made sure everyone’s needs were met. When I looked outside I noticed that the rain and wind began to pick up. Everyone gathered by one big window on the unit as we watched Hurricane Irma begin her wrath.

From Scary to Terrifying…

Things quickly escalated from scary to terrifying, so I decided to move my patients from their postpartum rooms to the Labor and Delivery unit for their safety. While transporting my patients I heard loud banging on the door coming from the emergency stairwell. I opened the door and saw other nurses transporting their immobile patients by their mattresses down the stairs to safety. I soon discovered that the windows on the floor above me blew out and the entire floor was forced to evacuate immediately.

The hurricane was blowing through the hospital. From that moment on, things were in complete chaos. We were in full crisis mode transporting patients, administering emergency medications, making life-threatening decisions in split seconds and doing everything we could to keep our patients alive.

Out of respect for my company, my hospital and my profession…I choose to spare the details of what went on that day. The hospital was simply filled with, “Ordinary people, doing extraordinary things.“

After the Hurricane

The days after the hurricane, I was forced to stay at the hospital because the roads were unsafe to drive home. There were huge trees, power lines and remains from people’s homes that filled the streets. I slept in the uninhabitable hospital and I began to wonder, “How would I ever survive?” Friday morning, the curfew that was placed on the island ended and I was finally able to return home. I feared going home alone with no water, no power and a limited supply of food; but I knew I had to. I had to get away from the hospital because it was no longer safe.

Going Home

When I finally went home, I opened the door to my beachfront condo to discover that the roof caved in, and it too was uninhabitable. I packed everything I could and went to my friend Veronica’s house. We began discussing our options and realized they were slim. My company canceled my contract and booked my flight home for Sunday morning, only to discover that the airport was destroyed as well. I literally felt trapped on the island, and paradise was starting to feel more like my worst nightmare.

With no running water, limited food, no roof, no cell phone service, no internet and people robbing at gunpoint for necessities; my fear finally set it. I became fearful for my life and overcome with emotion. That Saturday night, I sat on Veronica’s sofa and asked God to make a way…

An Unexpected trip to Puerto Rico

Around six o’clock Sunday morning, Veronica looked out her window and saw a boat. Without hesitation, we packed everything we could and ran to the dock! With a quick confirmation from the captain, we were welcomed onboard and told that we were headed to Puerto Rico. Veronica spoke Spanish and had family in Puerto Rico, so we knew we would be just fine.

Once we made it to Puerto Rico, Veronica arranged for her family to pick us up at the marina and I instantly felt peace that everything would be alright. Her family treated us like royalty; they fed us, gave us warm showers and a safe place to stay for the night. When we woke up the following morning, they served us coffee and breakfast sandwiches. They told us they arranged for a driver to show us around town and I couldn’t believe it! Our evacuation was starting to feel more like a vacation.

After rationing our food for days, we were finally able to enjoy eating out, exploring the city and staying at our five-star resort. I owe Veronica and her family endless thanks for their kindness and hospitality. They were there for us in a time of need and reminded me that God will always make a way. Three days after being in Puerto Rico, I was able to fly home to Houston and be reunited with my family. Looking back on my experience in the Virgin Islands, I am so grateful that God saw fit to give me such a task. I hope my testimony serves as a lesson to you all: Go wherever God is calling you, and trust that He will provide!

Have you ever been a travel nurse during a hurricane? Contact us at content@thegypsynurse.com and let us help you tell your story. Travel Nurse in the US Virgin Islands? We would love to hear your tips and tricks!

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By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

May 19, 2019

11038 Views

Five Tips for Acing Your Travel Nurse Video Interview

Posted on May 19, 2019January 16, 2023 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

This article is sponsored by: Travel Nurse Across America

With advancements in technology, more and more hospitals are using travel nurse video interviews.

Travel nurses often find themselves having to participate in interviews with nursing managers and HR professionals at a potential assignment location hundreds of miles away. Phone interviews are common, though we know body language speaks volumes. Technology can definitely help bridge that gap by using video to interview candidates. However, many people find video interviews to be intimidating and difficult to navigate.

Here are five tips to help you ace your travel nurse video interview and score your dream assignment.

Video interviews don’t have to be daunting or nerve-wracking.

1.) Is Your Environment Appropriate?

Think about what most in-person interview environments are like. You’ll usually find yourself in a quiet room with minimal distractions. You’re likely offered a bottle of water or coffee. Use a quiet room in your home, and if other people or pets are home, ensure you won’t be interrupted. Make sure you have water to sip on – nerves and talking can provoke thirst!

Test your camera and see what your backdrop looks like. If you’re comfortable showing off your collection of Star Wars figures or Cabbage Patch Kids, go with it — but a blank wall or a bookshelf is always safe. Make sure the room is well lit, and the interviewer will clearly see your face. Reserving a private room at a co-working space or your local library is also a great alternative.

2.) Test Your Technology!

One of the #1 things that can go wrong with video interviews is technology mishaps. Some blunders are unavoidable, such as a storm taking out your WiFi, but many can be prevented by testing your computer or smartphone, webcam, and audio tools. Make sure your device is fully charged, and check your internet speed with test videos to makes sure everything runs smoothly.

You can even ask a friend to do a test run with you on another computer, so you see how everything looks and sounds and determine where to place your webcam for natural eye contact. Look at the camera rather than your screen. Making eye contact over video can feel awkward at first, so remember not to overcompensate by staring.

3.) Find Your Zen

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before an interview. After all, your dream assignment could be on the line. Do whatever it is that helps you relax. Mediate, practice some deep breathing exercises, or do five to ten minutes of yoga beforehand to get centered. You can ask your recruiter for a few quality questions to ask and practice the routine with them.

One important thing to remember is the person interviewing you might be nervous too! An interview is a two-way street, and you are both assessing mutual fit. Be yourself and answer questions honestly and openly. Ask questions that help you determine if it’s the right job for you. Once you get into a good conversation, any anxiety will likely melt away.

4.) Dress To Impress

It can be tempting to dress down during a video interview since they won’t be seeing your entire outfit. Be yourself and dress as you would if you were going to an in-person interview. Even if no one sees how great you look, you’ll feel more confident, and that will shine through in your interview.

Make sure whatever outfit you choose doesn’t blend into the background. You don’t want to appear as a floating head on the interviewer’s screen! If you aren’t sure what to wear, err on the side of more formal, or ask your recruiter for suggestions. They are there to help!

5.) Body Language Matters

Some people speak with their hands more than others. It’s ok to make hand gestures, but make sure they stay within the video frame so they make sense with your speech. It’s appropriate to nod when you are engaging with something the interviewer says. Make sure you have good posture – it projects confidence and professionalism.

Finally, don’t forget to smile! If you seem scared or frozen in place, the interviewer might wonder how you’ll react in an emergency on the job, even if you’re just nervous about the interview. You know you’ve got the skills and confidence to be a great fit for any assignment, so don’t be afraid to let your confidence shine!

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By Joseph Smith @ Travel Tax

May 18, 2019

53990 Views

Travel Nurse Taxes & The 50-Mile Rule.

Posted on May 18, 2019May 14, 2024 by Joseph Smith @ Travel Tax

A traveler will eventually encounter the “50-Mile Rule” during conversations with recruiters or fellow travelers.

The rule is often discussed as an accepted law of traveling and defended with evangelistic zeal on social networking sites. No matter how many times it is refuted, the rule emerges in another conversation like a marathon game of Whac-A-Mole[I].

Let’s start with the facts:

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A 50-MILE RULE!

Ahhh that feels better… Now that we have released our frustrations let’s explain the origins of this myth.

The 50 Mile Myth and the 50 Mile Reality

Myth: As the myth goes, if you live more than 50 miles away from the assignment, you are entitled to, eligible for, or guaranteed a special government subsidy for lodging that is completely free of taxes. What a deal! If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Reality: Tax-free reimbursements for lodging are only allowed when one is traveling away from their tax home (not their permanent residence)[ii]. The distance traveled must require the employee to get rest and sleep at the assignment location to fulfill their duties at the facility. There is no mileage benchmark for this. It is a simple overnight stay test.

Apply some logic here: Why should one receive tax-free lodging allowances without incurring lodging expenses?

Agency Use of the ’50 mile Rule.’

Unfortunately, a lot of agencies have this 50-mile verbiage in their contracts, tax home statements, and marketing. Some recruiters are taught this as an IRS rule and insist that travelers use an alternate address on their tax home forms to qualify for the provisions. It’s no wonder that there are more than 20 agencies being audited, and for some of them, the 50-mile myth is part of the problem.

50-mile rules are good internal screening tools for the agency to test the validity of the information that a traveler provides. However, it is not the litmus test to determine eligibility for tax-free lodging allowances. Even if a traveler prefers to drive 80 miles each way to work and back each shift, they do not qualify for tax-free lodging allowances. Why? There are no lodging expenses to reimburse.

Some facilities that use travelers or per diem staff incorporate a 50-mile limit for the professionals that the agencies submit for positions or shifts.

This is an attempt to keep current employees from jumping ship and working with the agency for premium pay. Some facilities have a longer distance requirement of 75 or even 100 miles due to the geographical nuances of the area that they serve. This facility rule is often confused with the mythological 50-mile IRS rule by recruiters and travelers alike.

There are only two places where there is a 50-mile rule in the tax laws.

First, §162(h) of the Internal Revenue Code allows state legislators to receive a per diem when traveling more than 50 miles for legislative business. They are not required to incur lodging expenses for the payment.

Furthermore, the second 50-mile rule applies to moving expense deductions. A taxpayer can deduct moving expenses when they permanently move their residence 50 mile plus their old commute to be closer to a new permanent job. Moving expenses do not apply to a regular traveler. A traveler is never “moving” – they are temporarily working “away from home.”

We hope this clarifies the 50-mile rule for you. We realize that it may be another futile attempt at resisting assimilation by the industry Cybermen. Maybe this installment of Traveler Dr. Who will prevail for good[iii].

[i] Our apologies to those of you that are too young to remember this game J
[ii] A Permanent Residence and a Tax Residence are different- refer to previous articles for this discussion
[iii] Both the Borg in Star Trek and the Cybermen in Dr. Who warned their prey of assimilation

Would you like to learn more?

Check out the TOP 10 Questions for Travel Nurses on Taxes.

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By HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

May 17, 2019

10931 Views

Nursing Goals 101: A Travel Nurse’s Guide to Success

Posted on May 17, 2019May 20, 2021 by HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

This article provided by: HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

nursing goals — Photo by Saketh Garuda on Unsplash

So you have embarked on the fascinating life of a travel nurse—how fantastic!

It’s an exciting way to see the country, even the world. As the captain of your career, navigating the path can no doubt feel a bit curvy and indirect at times. When moving from city to city, state to state, assignment to assignment, it’s so easy to get caught up in the excitement of day-to-day living and exploring new places that you might even forget where you were originally headed. With so much change and activity it can be challenging to keep focused on nursing goals that will help ensure your continued success. It’s important for travel nurses to take the initiative and create a plan that helps them stay competitive in the marketplace so they can keep landing those dream jobs.

Here’s the good news: Travel nursing goals can come in any size. You can set your goals to include very simple, practical and necessary milestones, as well as those that have you reaching for the stars.

Here are 10 ideas for setting Nursing Goals that can help keep your career on track:

Develop new skills

Travel nurses are certainly encouraged to advance their skills in the medical field whenever possible to not only improve patient care, but to further their career. However, you may also consider focusing on a less traditional area like leadership development. Good leadership skills can be a great differentiator for you in the workplace, including the ability to motivate and organize team members.

Work at top hospitals

Don’t be afraid to seek out the best institutions and look for assignments. Facilities with impressive reputations get there by having solid staff members, attractive patient outcomes, and the most advanced equipment to service both staff and patients.

Save for retirement

Check to see if your package includes an option for a retirement savings plan. Either way, you should sharpen your pencil and sit with you calculator to determine how you can put at least a small amount away on a regular basis. You will be surprised how fast it grows.

Join a national organization

National nursing organizations not only enhance your resume, but they can expand your network and help keep you up-to-date on news and development. As part of a collective group, they also give nurses a louder, more unified voice on important topics.

Focus on personal development

It’s important to remember that not every minute of your day should be about work. While it’s admirable to be concerned about your patients, you need to ensure you have other avenues for personal enrichment. Don’t lose sight of your interests, hobbies, or newer areas that you’d like to learn about. Take time for you and the benefits will surely spill over to your professional performance.

Live a healthy lifestyle

Keeping long hours in a stressful job and dealing with a lot of change as you transition assignments can take its toll on your well-being. Be sure you get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, and care for your body both physically and mentally. This may be a simple as getting a massage, taking yoga, or meditating each day for a few minutes at home.

Target your favorite places

As a travel nurse, you have the flexibility to work almost anywhere you choose. While it’s also necessary to go where the work is, take a minute to make a plan for the places you’d most like to live and work. Keep it visible and look for every opportunity to start checking off those destinations.

Become a mentor

Forget the myth that suggests you need 10+ years experience to be a good mentor. A mentor can be anyone at any stage of his or her career that has knowledge to share above and beyond the mentee. If you are particularly savvy in one area, consider sharing those skills with someone willing to learn.

Polish your organizational skills

Keeping track of your schedule can pose a cumbersome task for many. Try some of the new apps to pull it all together; many do a great job of blending personal and professional appointments. This is also a key area for licenses and certifications to ensure renewals and applications are filed on time.

Increase your network

It’s always nice to be surrounded by people who are supportive of your career—whether they do similar work or not. Your network should be a good balance of professional colleagues and personal friends who you can look to for guidance. With the availability of social media, networking online can be a convenient way to bring more people into your circle.

One of the best ways to stay on track toward any goal is to share your ambition with others. The more people you tell about your nursing goals, the better chance they will help keep you accountable for staying the course. Family can play an important role here to provide encouragement and unconditional support. Another great tip is to find a friend who is looking to achieve similar results and partner together for some of your efforts. This could include taking a class together, setting regular study time, even enrolling in a yoga class.

Anything that is important to you professionally or personally can be a legitimate goal. To keep your nursing career moving in the right direction, consider adding a few items from our top 10 list to your goal sheet and get started!

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!)

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By HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

May 15, 2019

5561 Views

Why Mentors Matter for Travel Nurses

Posted on May 15, 2019May 20, 2021 by HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

This article provided by: HealthTrust Workforce Solutions

Mentors for Travel Nurses: Making the Most of your Career as a Travel Nurse

It’s not unusual to feel alone at times when working as a travel nurse. You are often in locations for a short amount of time and instead of putting down roots, you are likely planning your next assignment. This makes travel nursing unlike jobs where you become part of longer-term work family or community. In these more traditional environments, fostering deeper friendships with people you see daily and easily finding those that you look up to for inspiration and professional growth is very common. But just because travel nurses don’t stay put for very long doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to thrive. Here’s how a mentor can play a key role.

Generally speaking, a mentor is a more experienced and knowledgeable person who teaches and nurtures the development of a less experienced and less knowledgeable person called a mentee. It’s important to recognize that the mentor does not have to be senior in terms of age. In fact, these days many younger people are mentoring their senior colleagues when it comes to social media and technology. What is most important is that the mentor has value to share. Let’s explore some of the ways a mentor can help you make the most of your nursing career.

The Role of the Travel Nurse ‘Mentor’

Lead the relationship

To begin, the mentor will generally take a leading role in developing your relationship. This includes both informal and formal types of activities. For example, the mentor might call you occasionally to check in, schedule a weekly coffee break, or you may agree upon a due date for some type of written exercise.

Guide and counsel

A mentor will draw from their experience to help you make good decisions and understand situations that may be confusing. This will depend greatly on how much you share and confide in your mentor. You may seek advice in choosing your next assignment, or want another opinion about a sensitive workplace situation.

Teach

Perhaps the largest contribution from a mentor is their ability to educate. Learning can often be easier when information is shared from someone with first-hand experience. This type of peer-to-peer instruction is very effective and usually promotes faster learning.

Shape professional development

Given the extra understanding a mentor brings to the relationship, they can advise on paths that have worked for them personally or where they have seen success with others. It’s also useful to learn what might not have worked so well. A mentor can also identify advancement opportunities or areas to improve your skills or credentials.

Motivate

Staying inspired is a key part to any nursing assignment. People differ greatly on what motivates them and what keeps them positive, especially during rough patches. A mentor can provide genuine empathy in situations and ensure you remain encouraged. They can also create some new energy by sharing their milestones and accomplishments. Reaching further and a bit outside of your comfort zone to grow can be much easier with a reliable supporter available for advice.

Model desired behavior

Ideally, a mentor will be working nearby on a regular basis so that you could observe their actions and ongoing work ethic. However, this may be a challenge for travel nurses. Even if you cannot watch your mentor in real time, you can still hold them up as a role model by following their achievements, hearing their stories, or by seeing accolades given by others.

Now that you understand how a mentor can be a wonderful resource, how do you find one?

Mentors can be informal, such as a colleague that you meet on an assignment. As you get acquainted with people, try to identify someone you feel is approachable, willingly answers questions, and is well respected. Your recruiter may also have a structured mentoring program in place. Be sure to ask if they can pair you up with someone who can guide you through new processes and procedures. Also, check with professional nursing associations as they often offer a more formalized mentoring resource for those new to the field. And perhaps the vastest source is the internet and social networking sites. LinkedIn and Facebook have several groups dedicated to nursing, and professional organizations will frequently use this as a vehicle to promote membership benefits.

While there are many aspects to the role of the mentor, understand that the mentee also has responsibility for overall success. To get the most out of any mentor relationship, a mentee should observe the following guidelines:

Be open and receptive to feedback
Share information that is accurate and truthful
Stay respectful at all times, even if there is disagreement
Be prepared to deliver on things you agree upon
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Honor the confidentiality of your patients and your mentor
Understand that your mentor is not a replacement for your supervisor, and always use your good judgement as the mentor is not liable for outcomes
Follow proper social media etiquette and do not share personal information
Find ways to show your appreciation, as mentors are most likely volunteering their time and expertise
Give back—find an opportunity where you can be a mentor to someone else

As a travel RN, there are numerous ways a mentor can make your profession more rewarding. Find a mentor today to answer questions, act as a sounding board, provide advice, or just help you learn the ropes of a new environment.

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

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

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By The Gypsy Nurse

May 12, 2019

22501 Views

The Pitfalls of Maintaining RN Licensure in Multiple States

Posted on May 12, 2019May 20, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

Maintain multiple RN licenses – The Easy Way. If you have been a traveling nurse for a few years you likely have several RN State licenses. Knowing what to do when it’s time to renew these licenses can be daunting. Do you simply let it expire? Keeping all of your licenses active as a Travel Nurse can become expensive.

Understanding Inactive Status for RN License

The best option to maintain multiple RN licenses is to place your license on an inactive status. This should be done with each state before it expires. Each state has specific requirements for reinstating a license. Placing your license in inactive status can forego financial and paperwork headaches down the road.

Let it expire or Place on Inactive Status

Here are a few state examples of the difference between placing a license on inactive status vs. allowing the license to expire.

Oregon

If you allow your license to expire, you may have it reinstated by submitting a renewal form to the OSBN office with the appropriate late fees. If you do not renew your license within 60 days of its expiration date; it will need to be reactivated (with additional fees) and undergo a national criminal background check.

The process of reactivating an Oregon nursing license that has been expired more than 60 days.

Generally, you are eligible for reactivation if your Oregon nursing license has been expired for more than 60 days. Provided you are otherwise qualified. Specifically, you must meet the OSBN’s education, practice and legal requirements: You must have worked as a nurse, at the level for which you are seeking license or above, for at least 960 hours during the last five years.

Please note: Continuing education cannot be used to meet the practice requirement.

All licensure and renewal applications are run through the Oregon Law Enforcement Data System and may be run through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Information Systems and Disciplinary Databank.
Complete a national criminal background check. Fee $52.00
Reactivation (licenses that has expired 61+ days) $265.00

Washington

Expired license more than one year, but less than three years. Send in application with fees.
Expired license for more than three (3) years Send in application with fees, and include a copy of a current/active license from another state. Fingerprints are also required for and additional fee.
RN expired license re-issuance (this fee plus renewal and late renewal fees) $70.00
RN license renewal (annually on birthdate) $97.00 **
**RN late renewal penalty (this fee plus the renewal fee if late) $50.00
RN verification of licensure/education $25.00

Texas

Texas is one of the more difficult states to renew an expired license. Texas not only requires late fees, but an exam and ethics course.

If your nursing license has expired, submit copies of continuing education certificates, any application for renewal received after the expiration date shall be charged a late fee.

THERE IS NO GRACE PERIOD.
Fees can be up to $190.00
If your Texas RN license has been expired for more than four years, and you have practiced as a registered nurse in another state within the last four (4) years, then you must comply with Rule 217.6 (d) which includes:
- completion of the Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam (NJE)
- Online Texas Board of Nursing Jurisprudence Prep Course,
- Texas Board of Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics Workshop, or a Texas Board of Nursing approved Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics course.

It is your responsibility to submit both of the completion certificates (NJE and choice of prep course/workshop/course). All requirements must be met before re-instatement of license.

Arizona

You must submit a written request for a paper application AND submit a self-addressed stamped business size envelope. Include a paper application. This takes an average of 29 days from the time the application is received until the license is issued. Total amount due if not requesting a temporary license ~ $200.

VERIFICATION OF YOUR ORIGINAL STATE OF LICENSURE
Submit documentation regarding citizenship/nationality/alien status
Fingerprints required

In conclusion, some states have a lot of requirements and fees while other states are much easier to get reinstated. Additionally, many states also have specific CEU’s that must be maintained. It’s recommended to contact the BON and request that your license be placed on ‘Inactive’ status. Generally a license on inactive status simply requires a standard renewal fee and compliance with the state CEU requirements.

Most importantly, its good to note that Licensing timeframes can vary from state to state. Keep this cheat-sheet close as you look at job possibilities and states for travel nurses to license in.

If you are a new travel nurse, read over our Travel Nurse Guide for additional guidance and industry specific information.

Find your Next Travel Nurse Job

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By LRS Healthcare

May 11, 2019

11594 Views

Travel Nursing Self-Care: Carve Out More “Me Time”

Posted on May 11, 2019May 20, 2021 by LRS Healthcare

This Article is Sponsored by LRS Healthcare ®

Nurse life, in general, can naturally wear a person down. You basically give all day in almost all ways—mentally, emotionally, and physically on top of socially and professionally.

On the rewarding flip side, you’re literally a lifesaver some days and a galvanized link between patients and the care they need to achieve the best outcomes.

Now add travel to the mix. New city, new people, new living space, new work environment—all of which come with a mixed bag of pros and cons, you know all too well.

The life of a travel nurse is a roller coaster, to say the least, and it’s important to acknowledge the real potential for burnout and to be intentional about self-care wherever you happen to be calling “home” for the moment.

Here are a few self-care action items travel nurses can prioritize and some ways to fit them into your exciting yet busy life.

Travel Nursing Self Care Tips

Do Nature Daily

The scientific health benefits of spending quality time in nature have become a big focus over the years, and it’s good to be aware of them.

When we say “daily” here, we’re not just talking about the outdoor adventures many of you love dearly, like ziplining, kayaking, hiking, or snowboarding. We’re talking about the health benefits micro-moments in nature provide the body and mind.

When considering the following, if you can keep your phone or laptop tucked away, give yourself bonus points. Disconnecting and being present will maximize these outdoor micro-moments.

Walk a few extra blocks on your way to the train or bus stop before or after your shift.
Bike to work or when meeting a friend for lunch.
Step outside during a break or have coffee at an outdoor café on your day off.
Open the windows of your living space to let natural light and fresh air in.

Get Some Zzz’s

Easier said than done, but it’s essential to physical and cognitive functioning—two things you need on the floor and your adventures. The National Sleep Foundation lists seven hours of sleep as the low-end range for adults aged 18–65 and over. Consistency is also key, so try to keep a regular bedtime routine.

For quick self-care, never underestimate the positive impact of a well-deserved nap. According to sleep expert Sara C. Mednick, Ph.D., a 15- to 20-minute power nap can reset the system and provide a burst of alertness and increased motor performance.

Stretch Yourself

There are tons of quick and simple yoga routines out there to incorporate into your week. Yoga can not only relax your body and mind; it can strengthen it too. Plus, you can double-down on the self-care here by doing a few poses in a park or on your rooftop deck.

If following a more guided practice is more your thing, check out these eight yoga workouts recommended by Men’s Journal. Session times vary, some are free, and others offer a free trial.

Feed Your Face

While every 12-hour shift doesn’t come with a quality meal break, you can make the most out of the time you do have to nourish yourself on the job.

Keep your fresh food cool and more enjoyable by investing in a decent insulated lunch bag.
Cook in bulk and freeze pre-portioned meals for when you need to grab-n-go.
Stash energy-boosting snacks in your purse or pocket for a quick nibble (mixed nuts, no-bake oatmeal bites, soy crisps, etc.)

For a few more tips on maintaining a healthy diet as a busy nurse, check out Tasting Table’s “What a Nurse Really Eats in a Week” article.

By spending a little extra time focusing on self-care, this roller coaster life and career you’ve come to know and love can be even more fulfilling, and you can be an even better you for yourself, your patients, your friends, and your family.

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By Titan Medical

May 10, 2019

9218 Views

How Agencies Scope out Housing for Travel Nurses

Posted on May 10, 2019November 12, 2025 by Titan Medical

This article provided by: Titan Medical Group

After accepting a traveling healthcare assignment, travelers typically have the option to let their agency assist in finding temporary housing for them. So, how do agencies find quality housing for their travelers? Here is a list of housing sites and options allowing agencies to agencies find travel nurse housing for travel nurses to stay temporarily:

Housing for Travel Nurses:

Hotels

Hotels usually offer special rates for facilities with contracted employees or even offer a deal on extended staying guests. Staying in hotels makes for a convenient option.

There are typically a variety of locations you can select from when narrowing down options. Additionally, you can generally earn ‘points’ and accumulate free stays. Unfortunately, hotels can become limited when looking at rural areas. Sometimes travelers might need to commute from nearby towns that have the space to accommodate them.

Traveler can benefit from sites like HotelEngine for quick overnight stays.

AirBNB / VRBO

AirBNB and VRBO are both up-and-coming ways of travel. These are sites that allow homeowners to rent their entire homes, rooms, or shared spaces. Perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a unique place to stay for a weekend or an extended amount of time away from home. The main difference between the two sites is that VRBO focuses more on renting out entire homes and apartments and AirBNB has more variety regarding room-renting options. There are a lot of fun housing opportunities that can be found across both sites adding to the traveling experience of our healthcare professionals.

Craigslist

Craigslist is an option that allows agencies to search for specific housing types, widening the selection of available spaces for travelers to stay. When searching for homes or apartments on Craigslist, there is a chance you can also find them fully furnished. Furnished apartments are most convenient for travelers bringing minimal items on their adventure. If the apartment or home is unfurnished, there are local companies that can bring in basic furnishings that would be necessary for the travelers stay. If you’re using Craigslist, protect yourself from possible scams.

Zillow / Apartment Finder

Zillow and Apartment finder are websites that give updates on available housing for rent. This is a great way to search specific locations and find available properties. If a home or apartment is available for rent, agencies will reach out to the property manager and request information on temporary stay rates.

The BEST Travel Nurse Housing

We hope you found this article on how agencies scope out housing for travel nurses helpful. Agencies look in a variety of places when securing travel nurse housing. Where do you search for your travel nurse housing? Have tips? Please post them in the comments!

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!)

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By Accountable HealthCare Staffing

May 7, 2019

48302 Views

15 Great Ideas to Celebrate Nurses Week

Posted on May 7, 2019April 29, 2024 by Accountable HealthCare Staffing

This article provided by: Accountable Healthcare Staffing.

Accountable Healthcare Staffing loves Nurses Week. It is a wonderful time to show our nurses the love and appreciation they so deserve. The American Nurses Association declared May 6-12 as the National Week to celebrate and elevate the nursing profession. National Nurses Week is a time for everyone – individuals, employers, other healthcare professionals, community leaders, and nurses – to recognize the vast contributions and positive impact of America’s 4-plus million registered nurses. Each year, the celebration ends on May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday.

Not sure how to show your appreciation all week long?

Our friends at Positive Promotions rounded up some of our favorite ways to celebrate National Nurses Week:

Arts & Crafts

Add a special touch to your nurses week gifts and celebrations by getting patients, students, or nurses themselves involved. Show your nurses how much you appreciate them with a sentimental, handmade gift.

1. Ask patients/residents to sign thank you cards for nurses. Then, distribute the cards along with gifts of appreciation.

2. Cut out stars from yellow construction paper, write the names of nurses on them, and attach the stars to a bulletin board in a common area of your facility. Place a banner across the top that says, “Our Nurses Are Stars!”

Even on a day or week when we’re celebrating them, nurses love to give back to the community. Plan a fundraiser or community-oriented event as part of your nurses week activities.

3. Hold a canned food drive for a local food pantry and involve all employees at your facility. Take a picture of nurses delivering the food at the end of the week and put the photo in your newsletter.

4. Plant a tree in honor of your nurses. Place a plaque next to it that dedicates it to your nursing staff.

Events & Activities

Go above and beyond when you’re celebrating your nurses by planning special events and hosting themed activities.

5. Decorate a common area of your facility with Balloons and Posters. Surprise nurses with colorful decorations at the beginning of the week.

6. Enjoy a picnic outside during National Nurses Week. Have dietary services provide sandwiches and salads.

7. Use this National Nurses Week to kick off your “Nurse of the Month” Recognition Program. Choose a special nurse who serves as a role model to honor during this first month.

8. Give everyone a matching T-Shirt to wear. Then, smile and say, “Nurses Rock!” by participating in a group photo with nurses from every shift. Submit the photos to a local newspaper.

Food

Nurses are often so busy caring for their patients that they don’t have the time to grab lunch or even a snack. Make sure your nurses are filled with delicious treats all week long.

9. Appeal to everyone’s sweet tooth with an ice cream social. Put out a variety of ice cream and toppings for nurses to enjoy.

10. Let nurses know that they warm everyone’s hearts. As a special treat one day, serve them heart-shaped cookies and hot chocolate.

11. Push a drink cart around your facility and stop by each nurses’ station. Serve up tea and coffee in Travel Mugs.

Games & Contests

Bring more fun and excitement to National Nurses Week with games and contests like Nurse Olympics or Nurse Bingo.

12. Hide “germs” around the facility for nurses to find. Attach a ticket to each one. Nurses can turn them in for prizes.

13. Highlight famous nurses of the past, such as Florence Nightingale and Clara Barton. Quiz your nurses about them and pass out small prizes to those who answer questions correctly.

Health

Nurses spend most of their day making sure that their patients are healthy. Take some time during National Nurses Week to make sure that all your nurses are in tip-top shape.

14. Hold a health fair, especially for your nurses. Offer free blood pressure screenings.

Relaxation

Help your nurses relax after an overnight shift or long day of tending to patients.

15. Brighten each nurse’s station with potted flowers, such as daffodils and tulips. Encourage nurses to take them home at the end of the week.

Be sure to follow Accountable Healthcare Staffing on social media. We will be giving away prizes all week. If you win, you can share them with your team or keep them all for yourself! www.facebook.com/AccountableHealthcareStaffing/

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

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Here are five tips to help you ace your travel nurse video interview and score your dream assignment.

1.) Is Your Environment Appropriate?

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A traveler will eventually encounter the “50-Mile Rule” during conversations with recruiters or fellow travelers.

Let’s start with the facts:

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A 50-MILE RULE!

The 50 Mile Myth and the 50 Mile Reality

Agency Use of the ’50 mile Rule.’

There are only two places where there is a 50-mile rule in the tax laws.

Would you like to learn more?

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So you have embarked on the fascinating life of a travel nurse—how fantastic!

Here are 10 ideas for setting Nursing Goals that can help keep your career on track:

Develop new skills

Work at top hospitals

Save for retirement

Join a national organization

Focus on personal development

Live a healthy lifestyle

Target your favorite places

Become a mentor

Polish your organizational skills

Increase your network

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

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

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Mentors for Travel Nurses: Making the Most of your Career as a Travel Nurse

The Role of the Travel Nurse ‘Mentor’

Lead the relationship

Guide and counsel

Teach

Shape professional development

Motivate

Model desired behavior

Now that you understand how a mentor can be a wonderful resource, how do you find one?