By Emma Joyce

March 12, 2024

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When to Start Preparing for Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment

Starting a travel nursing assignment is an exciting adventure that offers the chance to experience different cultures and locations in addition to professional development. It’s a chance for nurses to grow as professionals, experience new things, and improve healthcare systems all around the world. Nevertheless, careful planning and preparation for your next travel nursing assignments are necessary to maximize this experience.

Every facet of preparation is essential to guaranteeing a seamless transfer and a rewarding experience, from understanding licensing requirements to making travel and housing arrangements and handling funds. With the aim of empowering nurses to take on their next travel nursing assignment with confidence and readiness, we’ll explore the important dates and actions to take into account in this extensive guide.

When to Start Preparing for Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment:

next travel nursing assignment

Getting Certifications and Licenses

Obtaining certificates and licenses for a travel nursing assignment can be a complex and time-consuming process. In addition to making sure all of their licenses and certifications are current, nurses should also consider the particular requirements of each jurisdiction in which they intend to operate. This could entail submitting applications for further state certifications or licenses, each of which has requirements and processing dates. For example, to practice effortlessly across state lines, nurses in the United States may need to apply for a multistate license or traverse the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).

Furthermore, it’s imperative to stay up to date on any modifications or adjustments to licensing laws in order to prevent delays and other issues that can affect how your next travel nursing assignment gets started.

Researching Your Potential Next Travel Nursing Assignments

An essential part of the preparation process is researching possible assignments, which enables nurses to choose placements that fit their interests, lifestyle preferences, and professional objectives. Nurses should do extensive studies about the standing of healthcare institutions, the patient population they serve, and the general work environment, in addition to merely noting opportunities that are accessible. This could entail utilizing the resources offered by travel nursing firms, speaking with other travel nurses, and researching online forums and communities. Nurses can make well-informed decisions about which assignments to pursue and guarantee a more meaningful and rewarding experience by obtaining personal experiences and insights from others.

Arranging Housing for your next travel nursing assignment

next travel nursing assignment

In addition to being a practical requirement, finding appropriate lodging is essential to guarantee the comfort and well-being of nurses while they are on assignment. The location, length, and particular requirements of the assignment may affect the housing options and availability. That is why looking into luxury apartments in Baltimore is a good option for you because you want to be close to work and also other amenities.

Among the lodging alternatives available to nurses are short-term rentals, long-term hotels, and residences offered by travel nursing firms. When choosing a place to live, it’s important to take the neighborhood’s safety, accessibility to the workplace, amenities, and affordability into account. Nurses should also take the initiative to learn about local rental markets, comprehend leases, and look into housing stipends or allowances offered by their organizations or companies.

Organizing Finances

In order to guarantee stability and peace of mind for the duration of their placement, nurses preparing for a travel nursing assignment must engage in effective financial planning. It is important for nurses to consider a range of charges, such as emergency savings, living expenses, travel expenses, housing prices, and license fees. Nurses can better manage their finances and prevent needless stress or overspending by creating a precise budget and keeping track of their spending. Additionally, nurses may optimize their financial condition and maximize their earnings by being aware of the reimbursement rules provided by travel nursing companies as well as the tax benefits given to healthcare professionals working on temporary assignments.

Packing and Logistics

It takes considerable thought and preparation to pack for a travel nursing assignment so that nurses have all they need to carry out their responsibilities and be healthy while away from home. When packing clothing and accessories, nurses should take into account the destination’s environment, cultural norms, and special requirements in addition to necessities like medical equipment, uniforms, and personal things. It’s critical to pack light and give priority to the things that will be most helpful for the task.

In addition, nurses should become acquainted with the mechanics of getting to and from work, as well as any immunizations or health tests that may be required for the assignment site. By taking proactive steps to prepare and organize their belongings, nurses can alleviate stress and focus on making the most of their travel nursing experience.

Taking on a travel nursing assignment is a thrilling chance to advance both personally and professionally. A seamless transition into their new roles can be ensured by nurses by carefully planning and following deadlines. Every stage is essential to the assignment’s success, from obtaining a license to making travel and housing arrangements to managing funds. Travel nurses can make the most of their travels and contribute significantly to healthcare communities all around the world by being proactive and knowledgeable.

We hope you found this article on when to start preparing for your next travel nursing assignment helpful. Do you have any tips for preparing for your next travel nursing assignment? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Travel Nurses Inc.

March 10, 2024

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Travel Nurse Tips for Avoiding Online Scams

Travel Nurses Inc. provided this article.

There are so many ways travelers can find assignments and housing. New platforms are becoming available, and with that comes new ways to be scammed online. But how do you know what’s real and what’s an online scam? This blog post will uncover where you could encounter online scammers, how to spot them, and how to steer clear of their traps.

Tips for avoiding online scams:

online scams

Facebook

Facebook has always been a place for recruiters and travelers to share information in groups. There are Facebook groups for housing, jobs, and general information about traveling. However, a lot of groups have issues with spam and scammers now. To avoid getting scammed in Facebook groups, here are a few helpful tips for avoiding online scams:

online scams
  1. Look for groups that require you to answer questions to be admitted. This is not a fool-proof way to avoid hackers. But if the group is not public, then it will weed out some people who should not be in the group.
  2. If you see a job posted by a recruiter, go to the recruiter’s Facebook page. They should have the name of their agency on their Facebook page. If you do not see any agency information, this could be a red flag.
  3. If you don’t recognize the name of the agency a recruiter is with, do a quick Google search for it. Check out the reviews and look for the job postings on their website. If you don’t see any reviews or jobs, this could be another red flag.
  4. If something looks too good to be true, it likely is. For the most part, agencies should have relatively similar rates for positions. They might be within $100-$200 of each other, but if you see a quote for a position that is $500+ more than other agencies, it could be a trap. Scammers know what recruiters include in posts, and they know what travelers are looking for.
  5. Look for contact information on the recruiter’s post. At Travel Nurses, Inc., our recruiters list their name, our agency, their phone number, and their email address when they post in groups.
  6. Do not send information over Facebook. If a recruiter sends you a direct message and asks you to start sending them information about yourself, ask them for their agency’s information and verify that they work for a credible agency. You can ask for their agency’s website, email address, and phone number, and ask them to call you with more information about a job.
  7. On housing groups, ask for a phone number to call the host. You can also ask them to send you more information about the property they are renting via email or ask to see the listing on a platform like Furnished Finder, Landing, or Air BnB.

Phone calls

If you sign up for platforms like Vivian, BetterNurse, or RNVIP, be prepared to get calls from recruiters. These platforms offer subscriptions to agencies as lead generation sources. So you might find that you start getting an influx of calls from agencies you have never heard of before.

Unfortunately, online scammers can get their hands on this information, too. To avoid getting scammed, you can try doing the following:

  1. Download a call fielding app like Robokiller or Truecaller. Sometimes, your phone carrier will also offer fielding service. This will help cut back on the number of spam calls you get in general.
  2. If a recruiter calls you, do not give them personal information over the phone. Credible agencies will have a more formal way for you to submit documents that contain your personal information.
  3. You can always let calls go to voicemail and call the recruiter back. Recruiters from credible agencies will leave you a voicemail and might also text and email you to follow up. A scammer might not leave a voicemail or a callback number.
online scams

Emails

One of the most common ways people are scammed is through email. This is because it’s easy for scammers to find a recruiter’s contact information from their LinkedIn, Facebook page, or their agency’s website to use to mask their own identity. There are a few ways you can avoid getting scammed via email:

  1. Open emails on your laptop instead of your phone. When you are on the go, it’s easy to check emails from the palm of your hand on your phone, but it is harder to verify links from your phone.
  2. If you see a link in an email, verify that the link matches its description. You can do this by hovering your mouse over the link to see the link address. If you see it’s supposed to be a link for benefits information, but the link address doesn’t have benefits or the agency in the link, then it’s likely a scam. Oftentimes, clicking links makes you vulnerable to online scams because the link is giving hackers access to a lot of your personal information.
  3. Since scammers can easily find recruiters’ contact information, it would be easy for them to create an email address that looks like it’s coming from a recruiter. The easiest way to spot the difference is the email domain (the part after the @). If you notice that the email domain is Gmail, yahoo, or AOL, then this is not a recruiter.
  4. Look for spelling and grammatical errors. If there are random words that aren’t capitalized, extra spaces, or words missing in sentences, then this is likely a scam.
  5. If someone asks you for gift cards as a form of payment over the phone or in an email, it’s a scam.

It’s important to be alert and to have a healthy level of skepticism when you are traveling. The biggest piece of advice is to find a reputable agency, like Travel Nurses, Inc., and stick with it. Travel Nurses, Inc. has been around for more than 35 years, they are JCAHO certified, they were the first agency to partner with the DAISY award, and they were listed as a top-rated healthcare agency on Great Recruiters. These are the types of things to look for when searching for a reputable agency.

We hope this article on ways to avoid online scams has been helpful. Have you ever been a victim of online scams? Want to share your story or advice for avoiding online scams? Comment your advice or tips below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your housing search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Uniti Med

March 8, 2024

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Travelers Share 6 Ways They Spend Free Time on Assignment 

Uniti Med provided this article.

For travelers, the journey isn’t just about the job—it’s an opportunity to explore, unwind, and create memories. Uniti Med asked travelers how they spend their free time while on the road. Here’s what they said… 

Ways to spend free time on assignments:

free time

Embrace Exploration:

“I always liked to go to places I haven’t been before so that I can do some sightseeing, get to know the people of the area,” shared Estia, travel LPN. From hiking through national parks to seeking out paranormal hotspots (so fun!), travelers find solace in discovering the hidden gems of their temporary homes.

Culinary Escapades:

Just as food punctuates life’s moments, it also flavors the travel experience. From browsing farmer’s markets and uncovering hole-in-the-wall restaurants to indulging in the flavors of local cuisine, there’s a shared excitement for food among the travelers, we discovered.

Cultural Immersion and Socializing:

To fully immerse yourself in your new surroundings, travelers shared they enjoy attending events and exploring historical sites, museums, and libraries. In addition, mingling with locals and coworkers enriches the travel experience.

free time

“I try to make friends in every city,” said Annette, travel LPN

Similarly, Jennifer, RN, a traveler with Uniti Med, found that joining a local church during her year-long assignment in Hawaii significantly contributed to her happiness and well-being.

Relaxation and Self-Care:

Downtime is precious, with many travelers prioritizing relaxation and self-care in their free time. Top responses include catching up on sleep, indulging in spa days, reading, hiking, and movie nights. 

Sports and Recreation:

Staying active is key to supporting physical and mental well-being while on the road. Many travelers enjoy activities like hiking and yoga, while others opt for team sports like racquetball and softball. Also mentioned were exploring casinos and doing laundry.

“My husband and I like to explore the surrounding towns, hiking, fishing, and discovering good food and brewery spots.” – Alex, Radiologic Technologist.

Continual Learning and Growth:

Lastly, each travel assignment presents an opportunity for personal growth and discovery.

 “The ability to learn, adapt, and grow is one of the most significant benefits of a career in travel nursing,” said Jennifer, RN.  

In conclusion, healthcare travel encompasses more than just the job—it’s about embracing adventure, forging connections, and exploring the world around you. So, whether hiking through national parks, sampling local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the beach, seize every opportunity to make the most of your downtime and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Safe travels!

We hope you enjoyed this article on how travelers spend their free time on assignments. How do you spend your free time while you are on assignment? Tell us in the comments below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By trustaff

March 6, 2024

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Mobile Tech: Changing the Game for Travel Nurses 

Trustaff provided this article.

The way travel nurses find and manage jobs is getting a significant upgrade thanks to mobile apps. These days, instead of dealing with piles of paperwork and waiting days for a response, nurses can tap an app to search for jobs, apply, and even chat directly with potential employers. This shift to mobile is all about making things faster, easier, and more personalized for nurses on the go. 

mobile apps

Why Mobile Apps Are a Big Deal for Nurses 

Travel nurses are constantly moving, so it makes sense that they need job tools that move with them. Mobile apps fit perfectly into their lifestyle, letting them look for new jobs no matter where they are. And it’s not just about convenience; it’s also about getting noticed faster. With mobile apps, job posts, and updates happen in real-time, so nurses can apply as soon as they see a job they like, speeding up the process. 

Statistics show this approach is working. Apps are becoming more popular every year, with more people downloading and using them for all sorts of things, including job hunting. Mobile apps are way ahead when it comes to getting people to read messages and notifications. They have a 22% open rate for messages, much better than the 5% open rate for traditional phone push notifications. 

Making Job Hunting Personal 

One of the most incredible things about using apps for job hunting is how they can match you with jobs that fit exactly what you’re looking for. These apps use innovative tech to determine your skills, preferences, and availability and then show you jobs that match. This means you’re more likely to find a job that’s a good fit for your career and your life. 

All the Info You Need, Right in Your Hand 

Another big plus of mobile tech is how it gives nurses all the information they need to make intelligent decisions. Through an app, you can learn about different employers, what a job will be like, and even get a feel for a new city or hospital, helping you go into a new job feeling prepared and confident. 

mobile apps

As the healthcare world keeps changing, mobile apps are becoming more important for travel nurses looking to manage their careers efficiently. This move towards mobile isn’t just a convenience; it’s transforming the future of travel nursing, making it easier for nurses to do the work they love wherever they’re needed most. 

For those looking to stay ahead in this dynamic field, exploring the latest mobile solutions can make a significant difference. A prime example is the Ingenovis Health Mobile App, which offers a streamlined, user-friendly platform for travel nurses to find, apply and manage their job placements efficiently.  

By integrating such tools into their job search strategy, nurses can ensure they’re meeting the demands of today’s healthcare landscape and are poised for success in the rapidly evolving world of travel nursing. 

We hope you found this article on how mobile apps are changing the game for travel nurses. We want to hear from you! What mobile apps do you use on a daily basis as a travel nurse? Comment them below.

Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel healthcare assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By AMN Healthcare

March 4, 2024

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A Comprehensive Guide to Washington, D.C. for Travel Healthcare Professionals

AMN Healthcare provided this article.

Washington, D.C., known for its iconic monuments, renowned museums, and rich history, also stands as a vibrant hub for healthcare professionals. As the capital of the United States, D.C. boasts a thriving medical community featuring multiple acclaimed hospitals, academic institutions, and medical centers. Beyond the rewarding professional opportunities, the city offers a plethora of attractions to explore during your downtime. Picture yourself strolling amidst the famed cherry blossom trees or immersing yourself in the historic monuments you’ve only read about – all within your reach as a healthcare professional in D.C.!

Why Choose D.C.?

washington, d.c.

Lifestyle Advantages

Nestled between Maryland and Virginia, Washington, D.C. pulsates with energy and opportunity. Its efficient metro system and logically structured numeric and alphabetized streets make navigation a breeze. Embracing a career in D.C. opens doors to numerous benefits, including:

  1. Flexibility in Work: With over 15 hospitals and medical centers, D.C. offers healthcare professionals a plethora of job options, allowing you to choose when and where you work.
  2. Abundant Leisure Activities: D.C. brims with diverse attractions, from world-class museums and historical landmarks to bustling shops and restaurants, ensuring there’s never a dull moment during your downtime.
  3. Personalized Scheduling: Tailor your schedule to align with your preferences, whether it’s dedicating a day to leisurely exploring shops or planning a weekend getaway. Some professionals even opt to consolidate workdays to enjoy extended periods of travel.
  4. Extensive Trail Network: While the metro system provides convenience, exploring the city on foot or by bike offers a more intimate experience. With over 60 miles of designated biking trails and scenic pathways, D.C. invites exploration on two wheels or on foot.

Facilities and Healthcare Landscape in D.C.

washington, d.c.

Navigating the diverse healthcare landscape of Washington, D.C., becomes seamless with the assistance of staffing agencies like AMN Healthcare. Considerations for your ideal workplace include:

  1. Facility Preferences: Determine the type of healthcare setting that aligns with your career objectives, whether it’s a large urban medical center, a suburban hospital, or a teaching institution.
  2. Career Growth Opportunities: Capitalize on the myriad healthcare job openings in D.C., ranging from positions in academic medical centers to clinics and home health companies, to advance your professional trajectory.
  3. Specialized Roles: Leverage your specialty certifications to secure in-demand positions, enhancing your career profile and bolstering future job prospects.

Top Attractions and Experiences in D.C.

Beyond the confines of the workplace, Washington, D.C., promises a wealth of cultural and recreational activities. Indulge in the following must-see attractions:

  1. The Lincoln Memorial: Marvel at the majestic statue of Abraham Lincoln and immerse yourself in the historic significance of this iconic monument.
  2. Smithsonian Museums: Explore the diverse array of museums within the Smithsonian Institution, offering insights into art, history, and science.
  3. The White House and U.S. Capitol: Embark on tours of these emblematic structures, witnessing firsthand the seat of American governance.
  4. Tidal Basin and National Zoological Park: Delight in the serene beauty of the Tidal Basin and encounter diverse wildlife at the National Zoological Park.
  5. Union Market District and Potomac River: Savor culinary delights at the Union Market District and embark on adventures along the scenic Potomac River.

Join AMN Healthcare for Rewarding Opportunities in D.C.

Consider the myriad advantages of partnering with AMN Healthcare for your professional journey:

  1. Seamless Job Search: Utilize the AMN Passport app to explore job opportunities, manage assignments, and connect with fellow professionals.
  2. Comprehensive Support: Benefit from dedicated recruiters, round-the-clock clinical assistance, and licensure support to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience.
  3. Exceptional Benefits: Enjoy premium health benefits, retirement savings plans, free continuing education courses, and a robust Employee Assistance Program.

Embark on an enriching career journey in Washington, D.C., with AMN Healthcare by your side.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Miles Oliver

March 2, 2024

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Adapting to Different Healthcare Settings: Challenges and Solutions for Traveling Nurses

As a traveling nurse, one of the primary skills you should possess is the power of adaptability. Since you constantly move from place to place, you must quickly adjust to the new environment and different healthcare settings.

When visiting a new hospital or clinic, in addition to learning where everything is located, you also need to learn the protocols and how the team works at that new location. While there will likely be a learning curve, if you have a plan to hit the ground running, you have a better chance of success.

To better equip you for the future, here are some challenges to expect and solutions to implement as you adjust to new work environments.

Adapting to Different Healthcare Settings:

healthcare settings

Fitting In With Your New Staff in Different Healthcare Settings

The first of many things you’ll likely want to do when going into a different healthcare setting is to meet the medical staff that will be your team during this assignment. The trick here is to be open and approachable. To succeed, you must work together, so you must be able to communicate.

Don’t forget to ask all the questions you can so you’re informed and prepared to act at a moment’s notice. On the flip side, know when it’s time to listen so you can hear all of the finer details. Don’t assume you know how it’s done at this new place. Listen to instructions, and you’ll be fine.

Since your new coworkers will likely be busy throughout the day, and it may be hard to track someone down when you need them, ask if one of the supervisors can act as a mentor. Find someone willing to provide guidance and show you the ropes, and you’ll get on the right path. To retain the information you learn, write notes. Then, take them with you and refer to them when necessary.

Helping Your New Patients

You’ll also want to get used to speaking to and helping the new patient population, especially if they speak a different language. This is one of the reasons why expanding your language skills is a critical cultural competency in healthcare.

There are many advantages to being bilingual in healthcare. One of them is that the world is becoming more diverse, and patients speak more languages than ever, so you will be in greater demand. As far as the job goes, when you can speak the patient’s native tongue, you can be certain that you’re getting all the details and providing quality care. The ability to read in more than one language may also be helpful as a secondary form of communication.

Even if there isn’t a language barrier, there may be a learning curve when it comes to patients you’ve never worked with before, especially if you’re trying to convey new information. Each patient will have their own learning style. Some would like to hear you verbally provide guidance. Others will want to read their prescription and instructions. The best thing to do is ask the patients how they prefer to communicate and go with it.

healthcare settings

Learning New Protocols in Different Healthcare Settings

Perhaps most importantly, you’ll also need to learn the protocols and procedures that may differ from where you’ve been before. Try to understand as much as you can early on. The hospital may even have reference cards that you can study during breaks.

Start by learning the basic procedures in this new setting. Ask about their charting system and how to navigate tablets and electronic devices so you can find the data you need without confusion. Also, ask about the crash carts and the necessary codes you need to know. You’ll also want to learn about your specific schedule and how your day-to-day routine should be. Ask who creates the schedules if you need to call out for an emergency.

It’s also essential to learn about the health and safety requirements in your new hospital, including the exit plan in the case of an emergency and the personal protection equipment you should have on you at all times.

Finally, pay special attention to the biohazard waste disposal guidelines at the new location. The guidelines include segregating each form of waste and not throwing biohazard waste into regular trash receptacles. The containers must also be puncture-resistant and properly labeled. Everyone must be trained on how to move and handle the containers. Each hospital may manage these waste requirements differently, so ask good questions to keep yourself and the patients safe.

Conclusion

There are many considerations you’ll want to keep in mind as you travel from one healthcare facility to another, and proper preparation is a must. If you can, call or visit the hospital in advance so you’re not going in completely uninformed. When in doubt, ask questions and do your best to make a nice addition to the team.

We hope you found this article on adapting to different healthcare settings helpful. How do you adapt to different healthcare settings? Comment your tips for fellow travelers below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Vibra Travels

February 28, 2024

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Staying Active and Connected During Your Travel Assignment

Vibra Travels provided this article.

Being away from home as a travel nurse can be difficult. You may find yourself not taking care of yourself and feeling disconnected. We have put together some tips and advice to help you stay active and connected while on your travel assignment. 

Ways to stay active and connected during your travel assignment:

active and connected

Stay connected! Being away from home can be challenging. While on assignment, don’t forget to take care of yourself, too! 

Try purposefully carving out time to stay connected and make new connections. Here are just a few ideas for inspiration:

Ways to Stay Connected:

1. Join a local group:

Check out opportunities available in the city you’re working in. This is a great way to meet new people who share your interests and have fun in your free time.

2. Social media:

Connect with other travel nurses and healthcare professionals through social media groups and pages. Facebook and LinkedIn have groups specifically for travel nurses, which can help you connect with other professionals in the industry. Don’t be afraid to reach out to fellow travel nurses in the area to form a support network!

3. Volunteer:

Volunteering can help you feel more connected to a community and meet new people.

4. Stay in touch:

Even though you may be far from home, staying in touch with family and friends can help you feel connected and supported. Schedule regular phone calls, video chats, and check-ins.

5. Take advantage of travel:

Explore your new area, try new things, and connect with new people. People love to share what’s great about their cities—ask for some recommendations from the local team to get started!

active and connected

While staying connected, be sure to take some time for yourself. It’s the perfect time to rejuvenate your health and well-being! Here are some simple tips to help you make the most of the season and prioritize your health while on assignment.

Ways to Stay Active:

1.      🚲 Explore Active Springtime Opportunities:

Spring opens doors to various outdoor activities, even during your travels. Research your destination to discover local parks, walking trails, or bike-sharing services. Take advantage and explore the surroundings!

2.      🍓 Savor the Seasonal Bounty:

Seek out some farmer’s markets or restaurants that feature seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. Embrace the opportunity to savor the unique tastes of spring wherever your travels have taken you.

3.      💧 Hydration for Wellness on the Go:

Staying hydrated is crucial, as you know! Adequate hydration supports your energy levels, digestion, and overall vitality—don’t forget to care for yourself, too!

4.      💭 Cultivate Mindful Moments:

Take time to nurture your mental well-being. Engage in mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, or meditation to center yourself and reduce stress. Immerse yourself in the beauty of spring wherever you are, and allow yourself the opportunity to find times for tranquility.

5.      💤 Optimize Rest and Recovery:

Quality sleep is vital, particularly while adjusting to a new place and routine. Create a restful environment in your space by adjusting the lighting, temperature, and noise levels to suit your preferences.

We hope you can seize all the opportunities you have while traveling for outdoor activities, savoring seasonal foods, and optimizing your own well-being this spring season!

While this is just a short list of ways to help you stay active and connected while on your travel assignment, we hope that it gives you some ideas and inspires you to find ways to stay active and connected. Do you have any tips for other travelers to stay active and connected while on assignment? Comment your tips below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your housing search.

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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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Geraldine Mills

February 27, 2024

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12 Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gifts for Travel Nurse Moms

With Mother’s Day coming up, you might want to plan a gift for your mom, a travel nurse. If you can’t come up with ideas, here are some 12 thoughtful gift ideas that your mom might appreciate if they receive them.

12 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Travel Nurses

Mother's Day

1. Flower bouquets

There’s a reason why flower bouquets are still a go-to gift for mothers during their day. Receiving flowers no matter the occasion is always flattering, so giving them Mother’s Day flowers can be a great choice if you have a low-maintenance mom.

What’s great about flower bouquets as a gift for your traveling nurse mom is that it doesn’t need much upkeep or work on their part. They can leave it in a vase and admire it in their home. Every time they see it, it’ll remind them of you.

Just remember to get flowers your mother loves, if they have a favorite one. Also, giving a bouquet with a vase is excellent if you don’t think your mom has any vases in their home, especially when they’re traveling around a lot.

2. Personalized relaxation kit

When your mom is a traveling nurse, they have to tend to many other people as part of their job. Also, they must constantly adapt to new situations, coworkers, environments, etc. All of these together can be stressful, so giving them a gift that can help them relax is a great choice this Mother’s Day.

A great example of that would be a personalized relaxation kit.

Ask yourself what your mom likes to do to relax. Some prefer to read a good book while lighting a scented candle. Others stay in the bath and listen to their favorite album with a glass of wine. Every person is different.

You can create a relaxation kit filled with items that make for the perfect rest day for your mom based on what she wants.

3. Professional massage gift certificate

Speaking of relaxation, sometimes, the most relaxing thing one can do is to leave all of their stresses behind with the help of a good massage.

While relaxing at home is excellent, and having an at-home spa day is always a great time, sometimes, you want to leave it all to a professional. That’s why another easy gift to give your traveling nurse mom would be a professional massage gift certificate.

You can also get the whole pampering package here, so she can spend an entire day feeling pampered.

Given the challenging work they do in the hospital, spending the day getting a massage can help soothe these tired muscles.

4. Under-Shirts

Getting your traveling nurse mom a Mother’s Day gift that you know they’ll use is a great way to avoid the likelihood of you getting them something that could be a hassle to use. You also will avoid getting a gift they won’t use at all to the point of cluttering up their space.

If this sounds like a great idea, getting your mom some under-shirts can be a great choice. You can buy multiples of them so that they have something extra while their other under-shirts are still in the hamper. These will be great for the cooler months so they can feel warm as they work.

5. Fitness watch

A fitness watch can be great if your mom is into fitness. It can be an excellent way for them to track their steps and a great companion for people who travel often, which is what a traveling nurse does as part of the job.

If you want more functionality, you can get your mom a smartwatch so they can do more than just fitness-related activities.

Mother's Day

6. Travel Journal

If you know your mom enjoys tracking all the places they’ve been to as they travel for their job, then why not gift them a travel journal? It’s an excellent choice for moms who are sentimental and into self-reflection.

Ideally, it should be easy enough to carry so that it won’t make their bags heavy if they bring their travel journal.

7. Travel Scarf

An underrated travel item with a lot of versatility that your mom, a traveling nurse, can use would be a travel scarf.

Your mom can use this scarf for multiple purposes. They can use it as a fashion item. They can bundle it up and utilize it as a makeshift pillow while traveling. It’s also helpful in keeping warm. They can also use it as a mat to sit on the ground without getting dirty.

Just choose one scarf that comes in a style you know they’ll like, and you’ve got yourself an all-purpose gift for your mom.

8. Travel-friendly toiletries

Since traveling nurses must leave often, gifting them something like travel-friendly toiletries can significantly help.

Once they have to go to a new assignment, they can pull out these toiletries and make their way to their new job. Ensure that the containers for these toiletries are also leakproof so that they don’t have to deal with a mess in their luggage once they get to their new workplace assignment.

9. Nice pens

If you know that your mom loves stationery, consider getting them some nice pens they can use for their job. They should be nice pens that write well and are comfortable. Pens that they can pin to their clothes pockets at work are also a good choice.

Ideally, they shouldn’t have a pen cap to put on and off when using it. That’s why pens that you can click are a better choice.

Fountain pens might seem fancy, but they’re too much work and are impractical since travel nurses don’t work in an office. That’s why getting retractable pens is a better choice.

10. Nurse tote bag

Getting your mom a tote bag that they can use at work is another great Mother’s Day gift for them.

An ideal nurse tote bag has many pockets to ensure everything is where they are. You should also ensure that the tote bags are waterproof or resistant to protect their items against the elements. It should also be made from durable materials like canvas to last a long time.

11. Travel pillow

A travel pillow is an excellent gift for anyone who travels often so that it could be a fantastic gift for your mom, a travel nurse.

Invest in a travel pillow that offers comfort and relieves neck pain so your mom can sleep comfortably in transit.

12. Reusable water bottle

If you’re sure that your mom doesn’t have one yet, get them a reusable water bottle. You can even get water bottles in various colors and designs these days. You can even personalize it with the help of some waterproof stickers.

Conclusion

This Mother’s Day, give your mom the gift of joy with the help of these gift ideas for your travel nurse mom. Whether it’s a gift to help them destress or improve their work life, you should have an option available here.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

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Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab

By Triage Healthcare Staffing

February 26, 2024

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What to Know About Being a Home Health Travel Nurse

Triage Healthcare Staffing provided this article.

Home healthcare jobs are expected to rise dramatically in the next decade or so to help support an aging population. It’s expected that nearly 200,000 new home health nursing jobs will be created as Americans live longer and stay in their homes. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a home health travel nurse, there’s never been a better time. Here’s what you can expect from a home health travel job.

home health travel nurse

Home Health Travel Nurses Have Variety in Their Schedules

Want a day job that differs nearly every day? While the same can be said for nurses in a clinical setting, home health nurses definitely have a different schedule every day, especially when they’re travelers. Travel home health nurses may be filling in for a nurse who’s on vacation or sick for the day, which means that they’re seeing different patients every day of their assignment.

If you’re in an unfamiliar city for your assignment, make sure you have a reliable GPS app on your phone that automatically updates with road closures and traffic info so you’re never lost wandering around. And look for an agency that pays you for mileage in between patients, so you’re not stuck footing that bill.

Of course, it’s possible for home health travel nurses to see the same set of patients throughout their 13-week assignment. If you’d rather form short-term relationships instead of seeing new patients every day, make sure to ask what type of job you’re applying for when you interview or ask your recruiter to find out the details. If you’re seeing the same patients day after day, this can help set a routine while you’re far from home.

Home Health Travel Nurses Make More Money

It’s no secret—home health travel nurses get paid more, and there’s no shame in that game if that’s why you’re a traveler.

The average hourly rate for a home health nurse is about $36 an hour or about $75,000, according to ZipRecruiter. While home health travel nurse salaries can vary according to location, NursingProcess.org reports that the average home health travel nurse earns about $113,000 a year. How does that sound?

home health travel nurse

Home Health Travel Nurses Are More Independent

While travel nurses have an incredible independence streak, home health travel nurses have to be even more independent. They’re often on their own, working one-on-one with patients without the support system of other nurses and hospital staff.

When you’re working as a home health nurse, you’ll need to be confident in your skills so that you can handle any situation that’s thrown your way. It’s also important to choose a travel agency with a full clinical department. This means you have support if you encounter a situation you’re not comfortable within the field.

Triage’s new long-term care division has home health, hospice, long-term care, senior living, rehab, and assisted living positions available, with more being added every week. No matter what your specialty, Triage has travel nurse jobs in locations throughout the country.

We hope you found this article on what you need to know about being a home health travel nurse helpful. Do you travel as a home health nurse? Comment below and let us know your tips or advice for other travel nurses.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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!
—Meagan L. | Cath Lab