By Host Healthcare

September 29, 2025

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8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers

Host Healthcare provided this article.

Looking for trusted housing sites for healthcare travlers? You’re in the right place!

You’ve secured your next travel healthcare assignment, but have you figured out where you’re staying yet? If housing is still on your to-do list, don’t worry! With so much change happening in a short amount of time, the thought of finding temporary home can feel a little overwhelming. Between cost, commute, roomates, and even whether your pet can tag along. Where do you start?

Finding furnished, short-term housing isn’t alwasy easy. But it is possible to find a place that fits your needs and feels like home while you’re on assignment. We have compiled some of the most trusted and traveler-friendly housing resources out there to make your move smoother.

In no particular order, here are our top 8 recommended healthcare traveler housing sites for you to explore:

Transplant Housing

8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers
A temporary housing website built just for healthcare travelers? You bet! Transplant Housing prides itself on its ability to provide unparalleled comfortability in knowing that these homes are strictly open to healthcare travelers on assignment. Considering the lifestyle of a healthcare travelers, this platform connects healthcare professionals to homeowners who truly understand the constant shifts in this profession and the uncertainties that come with being on a traveling contract. They help take the hassle out of healthcare traveler housing so that you can focus on the job that awaits you!

Airbnb

8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers
The most well-known company in short-term rentals, Airbnb, goes beyond short-term vacation rentals. The platform also serves as one of the best resources for healthcare travelers to find housing when on assignment. With extensive options to filter your search, you can find the exact needs you are looking for in a short-term home. Airbnb also offers the most accurate availability listings when looking for specific dates to book.

Because Airbnb properties are typically owned and managed by independent homeowners who can dictate their own pricing, there are certain fees to be aware of when searching for homes on the platform. For example, cleaning and service fees may come attached to your booking reservation. There are, however, in most Airbnb bookings discounted rates for monthly stays. Airbnb is a must-start website when looking for your short-term home.

VRBO

8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers
A very useful alternative to Airbnb, VRBO offers many of the same searching features, along with clarity in when your future home is available and whom you are renting from. Like we noted for Airbnb, VRBO allows property owners to determine pricing for their rental property, which includes fees for cleaning and service. All fees will be communicated prior to booking your reservation. However, it is important to note that there are far fewer monthly discounts offered on VRBO than there are offered on Airbnb.

Furnished Finder

8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers

For those looking for short-term, furnished housing, Furnished Finder is one of the best options. Not only do they offer competitive prices, but they also provide property verification to eliminate the worry of scammers. Using Furnished Finder, you can perform a background check on any residential property you are interested in and gain access to property owner ratings. You can even check out what other listings property owners have rented out.

There are no hidden fees with Furnished Finder as they provide you with the direct contact of the property you wish to rent, so you may book directly through the homeowner. Furnished Finder is geared towards helping healthcare travelers discover furnished homes, apartments, and even single rooms that fit their every need. They even go the extra mile by providing city guides to help both new and well-seasoned healthcare travelers get familiarized with their new location.

Zillow

8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers

You may associate Zillow with purchasing a home, but did you know that Zillow actually has its fair share of short-term leases? Like other platforms, with Zillow, you can filter your search by price, location, house amenities, and even the style of home you are looking for to fit your preferred aesthetic. Before you start your search, we must tell you that the only way to find short-term or furnished housing is through the keyword bar. Once you’ve found a property that looks promising, you will want to read the description on the rental to help determine if it is the right fit for you.

The Gypsy Nurse Facebook Group

8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers

A Facebook page created for healthcare travelers by healthcare travelers. Could it make more sense for healthcare travelers? The Gypsy Nurse community is filled with healthcare travelers who are open to sharing their experiences traveling and working in different facilities across the country. Created to equip healthcare travelers with useful insights and tools they need to navigate the experience, this Facebook page built by Gypsy Nurse provides a caring community of both travelers who are renting out their homes and travelers who are searching for housing.

For those who would rather avoid communicating with landlords who may not completely understand the nature of this unique travel profession, the Gypsy Nurse Facebook Group lets you do just that. By joining this Facebook page, you are instantly connected to a host of healthcare travelers who may even be looking for somewhere to stay in your area. 

HotPads

8 Best Housing Sites for Healthcare Travelers

A smaller subset of Zillow, Hotpads primarily offers rental opportunities rather than homes and apartments available for purchase. This housing platform allows you to edit all the same filters as Zillow, making it a simplified process for healthcare travelers searching for their next place to stay. Hotpads gives users the ability to search for a variety of furnished options, whether that be a specific style of townhouse, condo, apartment, or even house. Although Hotpads is connected to Zillow, Hotpads provides unique listings different from what’s available on Zillow. To start searching for properties, create a profile, add your favorite listings to your account, and begin reaching out to landlords to make easy, seamless connections. 

Apartments.com

housing sites

Say goodbye to third-party servicing fees and hello to countless apartments across the nation right at your fingertips. Apartments.com is a very reliable website whether you are searching for a townhouse, condo, or any other type of apartment-style of housing. Aside from the never-ending listings on tap, a major advantage of using Apartments.com is that you will be working with the apartment complexes or real estate agency directly.

However, one disadvantage of using Apartments.com is the lack of short-term housing options. Many of the options available on the platform are listed as 12-month leases, so before you start your search, be sure to apply the appropriate “short-term” filter in the lifestyle tab. Once you have the proper setting selected, start exploring a variety of suitable apartments for your upcoming travel healthcare assignment.

🌍 Oh, The Places You’ll Go…

Travel nursing is an exciting career path filled with opportunities, challenges, and adventures not everyone will experience. Whether you are about to start a 3-month or 12-month assignment, it’s important that you feel at home in your new city. Leave it up to the short-term housing experts at Transplant Housing, Furnished Finder, Airbnb, and so many others to help you settle into your new home away from home. It’s the least we can do. After all, you are out there saving lives.

We hope this article on the top 8 housing sites for healthcare travelers was helpful in your housing search. Do you have any housing sites you use that we didn’t mention here? Comment those housing sites below.

Need a new assignment? 👉 Check out our job board.

Looking for your next home away from home? 🏠 Check out our housing page!

housing sites

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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 Titan Medical

September 26, 2025

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Tips for Starting Your Journey as a Healthcare Traveler

By Jenni Lundy, Nursing Recruiter at Titan Medical Group

Starting your journey as a travel nurse can feel both exciting and overwhelming! You’re chasing new experiences, new cities, and career growth—but there’s a lot to know before you pack your scrubs and hit the road. If you’re thinking about starting your journey as a healthcare traveler, here are 10 expert-backed tips to help you start strong and stay ahead.

Tips for Starting Your Journey as a Healthcare Traveler:

journey as a healthcare traveler

1. Experience Matters

Before taking the leap, most hospitals want to see at least two years of recent experience in your specialty. This ensures your skills are sharp and that you’re ready to hit the ground running—especially in fast-paced or short-staffed units! Some specialties may even require more.

2.  Keep Certifications Current

Your certs are your ticket to landing contracts! Stay on top of expiration dates for certifications like BLS, ACLS, PALS, NIHSS, or specialty-specific requirements (like TNCC for trauma or NRP for NICU). Having updated certs on hand can help your submission move faster.

3.  Polish That Resume

A generic resume won’t cut it in the travel world. Make sure yours includes:

  • The trauma level of your facility (I, II, III, etc.)
  • Unit size (how many beds?)
  • Your typical patient ratios
  • Charting systems you’ve worked with (Epic, Cerner, Meditech, etc.)
  • Any unique skills, awards, or standout experience

These details help hiring managers understand your true scope of practice and make you stand out in a competitive market!

4. Be Patient

The travel job market moves fast, but that doesn’t mean your first contract will be instant. It’s normal to submit to several roles before landing one. Don’t get discouraged!!!! It’s a process, and persistence pays off.

5. Stay Flexible

Every traveler has a non-negotiable—pay, shift, location, start date, or time off. The key is choosing just one and staying flexible on the others. The more open you are, the more options your recruiter can present—and the faster you’ll get placed.

6. Prep Health Docs Early

Start gathering your standard immunization records (MMR, Hep B, Tdap, Varicella, Flu, COVID, etc.). Most agencies will help arrange TB tests, mask fits, and physicals—but having your core records ready will fast-track compliance!

7. Financial Cushion = Less Stress

Once you sign a contract, it might take 2–4 weeks before your start date—and another 1–2 weeks after that for your first paycheck to hit. Having a savings cushion (equal to 2–4 weeks of pay) can help cover travel, housing deposits, and expenses until that first check comes in.

8. Check Your License

Double-check that your state license (or compact license) is active and in good standing. If you’re applying in a non-compact state, you may need to apply by endorsement—and that can take time. Ask your recruiter about the process if you’re unsure.

9. Bring a Positive Attitude

Facilities hire travelers to fill a need, not create one. Being professional, flexible, and easy to work with goes a long way—not just in getting hired, but in getting invited back (or extended). A good attitude is your secret superpower on assignment!

10. Choose the Right Recruiter

Most agencies have access to similar jobs—but your recruiter is the game-changer! Work with someone who’s transparent, communicative, and truly listens to what you want. You don’t need ten recruiters—you need one or two you trust.

At Titan Medical, we believe in building real partnerships with our travelers. Our recruiters (like me!) work closely with each nurse to match the right contract, provide support every step of the way, and cheer you on while you chase this crazy, amazing lifestyle.

Becoming a travel nurse is one of the most exciting decisions you can make in your career. It’s not just about seeing new places. It’s about growing professionally, meeting incredible people, and learning to advocate for yourself in a whole new way. Start smart, stay flexible, and surround yourself with the right team. Your first travel assignment could be just the beginning of something life-changing.

Want help finding your first contract? Let’s chat.
👉 TitanMed.com | @TitanMedicalGroup | 866.332.9600

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 Fastaff Travel Nursing

September 25, 2025

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The Evolution of Travel Nursing: Post-COVID Shifts and Future Outlook

The Evolution of Travel Nursing Post-COVID Shifts and Future Outlook

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped nearly every aspect of healthcare, and travel nursing was no exception. Once a niche career path for adventurous nurses seeking flexibility and variety, travel nursing became a frontline solution during a global crisis. As the dust settles, the landscape of travel nursing continues to evolve, marked by new expectations, challenges, and opportunities.

A Surge in Demand During the Pandemic

Before COVID-19, travel nursing was primarily used to fill staffing gaps due to seasonal fluctuations, regional shortages, or temporary leaves. But the pandemic created an unprecedented demand for healthcare professionals, especially in critical care, emergency medicine, and respiratory therapy. Hospitals across the country turned to travel nurses to meet surging patient volumes, often offering premium pay and rapid onboarding.

This surge brought travel nursing into the spotlight. Nurses who had never considered travel roles were drawn by the opportunity to help in high-need areas, earn competitive compensation, and gain unique experience. Agencies expanded their networks, and many nurses found themselves moving from one COVID hotspot to another.

Travel Nursing Post-Covid: Shifts in the Industry

As the immediate crisis waned, the travel nursing industry began to recalibrate. Several key changes emerged:

1. Compensation Adjustments

During the height of the pandemic, travel nurses were offered record-high pay rates. While those rates have since normalized, they remain higher than pre-pandemic levels in many regions. Nurses now expect more transparency and consistency in compensation, and agencies are adapting to meet those expectations.

2. Greater Awareness and Respect

Travel nurses earned widespread recognition for their role during the pandemic. Hospitals and healthcare systems now better understand the value of flexible staffing models and are more open to integrating travel nurses into their workforce planning.

3. Expanded Specialties

While ICU and ER nurses were in the highest demand during COVID, the post-pandemic era has seen increased need across a broader range of specialties such as behavioral health, med-surg, and labor and delivery. This diversification has opened doors for more nurses to explore travel opportunities.

4. Focus on Mental Health and Burnout

The emotional toll of the pandemic was significant. Many travel nurses faced long hours, high-stress environments, and frequent relocations. As a result, agencies and healthcare systems are placing greater emphasis on mental health resources, support networks, and sustainable work-life balance.

Technology and Flexibility: The New Norm

Technology has played a major role in reshaping travel nursing. From virtual onboarding and credentialing to telehealth integration and mobile scheduling apps, nurses now expect a streamlined experience. Agencies are investing in platforms that make it easier to find assignments, manage paperwork, and stay connected.

Flexibility is also key. Nurses want more control over where, when, and how they work. Shorter contracts, local travel option,s and hybrid roles are becoming more common, allowing nurses to tailor their careers to their personal and professional goals.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Travel Nursing?

The future of travel nursing is bright, but it will require continued adaptation. Here are a few trends to watch:

1. Permanent Integration into Staffing Models

Hospitals are increasingly viewing travel nurses not just as emergency fill-ins, but as strategic partners. Expect to see more long-term planning that includes travel nurses as part of core staffing strategies.

2. Rise of “Local Travel” Nursing

Some nurses prefer to stay closer to home while still enjoying the benefits of travel contracts. Local travel nursing, where nurses take short-term assignments within their own state or region, is gaining popularity and offers a middle ground between traditional staff roles and national travel.

3. Increased Credentialing Portability

Efforts to streamline licensing across states, such as the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), are gaining traction. This will make it easier for nurses to move between states and take on assignments without delays.

4. Focus on Retention and Support

Agencies and healthcare systems are investing more in retention strategies, including mentorship programs, continuing education, and wellness initiatives. The goal is to create a more sustainable and supportive environment for travel nurses.

Conclusion

Travel nursing has undergone a dramatic transformation since the onset of COVID-19. What was once a flexible career option has become a vital component of the healthcare system. As the industry continues to evolve, nurses can expect more opportunities, better support, and greater flexibility.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or considering your first assignment, the future of travel nursing offers a dynamic and rewarding path. With the right resources and mindset, nurses can thrive in this ever-changing landscape, making a difference wherever they go.

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 AB Staffing Solutions

September 24, 2025

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What Happens When You’re Finished with Your Travel Contract?

Travel healthcare contracts open a world of adventure and meaningful work for nurses, therapists, and other medical professionals. These roles let you practice your skills across the country, fill urgent staffing needs, and experience new cities and cultures. While starting a contract is always a whirlwind, the end of an assignment brings its own big question: What comes next? When your travel healthcare contract wraps up, you face important decisions and tasks that can shape the next phase of your career. Here’s what to expect and how to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Wrapping Up Your Travel Assignment

The last few weeks of any contract are a time for tying up loose ends and leaving a lasting positive impression. Your recruiter and facility will be in contact to finalize your last day of employment. This keeps everyone on the same page, prevents scheduling mix-ups, and supports good relationships for future opportunities.

As your contract concludes, you’ll need to:

  • Complete all required documentation for the facility and your agency.
  • Submit final timesheets accurately and on schedule so your last paycheck arrives without issue.
  • Return any facility-owned equipment, such as badges, pagers, or access cards.

You’ll likely be asked to participate in an exit interview or fill out a feedback form. Take this part seriously. Think of it as the final scorecard on your work and a way to help both the facility and your agency improve conditions for the next clinician.

Above all, leave with professionalism. Say goodbye to colleagues, thank leadership for their guidance, and leave doors open for future assignments. A positive last impression can set you apart in a tight-knit healthcare community.

Exploring Post-Contract Options as a Travel Healthcare Professional

The end of a contract brings choices that can shape your path and growth as a traveler. It’s your chance to take the next step, whether that’s staying put, moving on, or even taking a break.

Contract Extensions: Keeping the Momentum

If you’ve found a great fit at your current facility, you may be able to extend your contract. Some hospitals offer extensions several weeks before the original end date, especially if they still need extra help. Talk to your recruiter about 6 weeks before your contract ends if you’re interested. Extensions can mean extra income and stability, plus you’ll already be comfortable with the setting.

Taking Planned Time Off

Some travel healthcare professionals budget for time off between contracts, using it for rest, travel, or family. If you plan to do this, set aside funds from each paycheck to cover any gaps in income. Think of it as a mini sabbatical where you recharge and reframe your goals.

Finding and Preparing for a New Assignment

Ready for your next adventure? Agencies often suggest jobs that match your background, but you can also set your own course. Decide if you want to try a new specialty, seek a different location, or work in an urban or rural setting. This can help you grow your skills while keeping work fresh and exciting.

To get a better sense of what travel nursing can offer long-term, take time to explore travel nursing opportunities and see how they fit your lifestyle and goals.

Working with Your Recruiter to Plan What’s Next

Strong recruiter relationships lighten the load of changing assignments. Let your recruiter know your plans several weeks before your contract ends. They can handle everything from extensions and job placement to interviewing support.

Recruiters will also remind you to:

  • Keep your licenses and credentials current for any state you wish to work in.
  • Update health screenings, immunizations, and other requirements.
  • Gather letters of recommendation or ask for referrals from your current assignment.

When you keep communication open, you get more tailored job suggestions and avoid missing your preferred start dates. Consider your recruiter your career coach, someone who wants you to thrive and succeed.

Managing Practical Logistics After Contract Completion

Moving from one travel healthcare contract to the next involves more than just changing jobs. The daily logistics can be just as important as the work itself.

Housing and Personal Details

End lease agreements or short-term travel nurse housing contracts with proper notice to avoid extra charges. Begin arranging new housing for the next job as soon as you confirm your next assignment. Balance convenience, safety, and affordability—your agency may offer assistance or a stipend.

Licensure and Credentialing

Each state has its own rules for healthcare licenses, including compact licenses and background checks. Research these requirements early, as processing times can vary. Keeping copies of your important documents (license, certifications, immunizations) helps speed up each transition.

Health Insurance and Payroll

If you get insurance through your agency, check how coverage works between assignments. Sometimes, short gaps still allow coverage, but longer breaks may require new options. This will differ from agency to agency. Pay cycles can change from assignment to the next, so budget for any delay in your next paycheck.

Handling Reimbursement and Taxes

Travelers often qualify for housing stipends, travel reimbursements, or per diem. Save receipts and understand what your agency offers. Look ahead to tax time: keep copies of all contracts, W-2s, and expense records in a secure folder.

For more details on pay, stipends, tax-free allowances, and budgeting advice, read understanding travel nurse benefits and compensation.

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Transition Between Contracts

Job transitions can feel daunting, but a few simple habits make a big difference in how things play out.

  • Start preparing 4-6 weeks before your contract ends. Don’t leave details to the last minute.
  • Use checklists to track paperwork, badge returns, and communication with your facility and recruiter.
  • Request references or a letter of recommendation as soon as you know you’ll be leaving.
  • Keep positive connections with both the facility and your agency; kindness and professionalism can turn short-term gigs into long-term relationships.
  • Read up on new assignments and local rules so your next contract starts off on the right foot.

If you’re interested in tips for picking your next role wisely, consider reading about selecting the ideal travel nurse assignment for further guidance.

Conclusion

Finishing a travel healthcare contract signals progress in a unique and growing field. By completing all steps carefully, understanding your choices, and making smart transitions, you position yourself for steady growth and new adventures.

Whether you extend, move on, or take a well-earned break, travel healthcare contracts give you flexibility and the power to shape your own path. Rely on your recruiter for help, keep your paperwork organized, and always leave on a high note. Use every assignment to build stronger skills and deeper connections, knowing that each contract is a stepping stone toward the next opportunity.

For more information, visit the AB Staffing Job Board. We look forward to working with you.

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 Ario Healthcare

September 23, 2025

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National Suicide Prevention Week: Changing the Narrative, Saving Lives

National Suicide Prevention Week (NSPW) is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a national call to action. This week unites individuals, communities, and organizations in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting mental health support. Suicide remains a leading cause of death in the United States, with approximately 48,000 deaths annually. However, suicide is preventable, and open conversations can save lives.

National Suicide Prevention Week: Changing the Narrative, Saving Lives:

The Power of Conversation

The theme for 2024–2026, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” emphasizes the importance of transforming how we perceive and discuss suicide. By fostering an environment of openness and empathy, we can encourage individuals to seek help and support each other. IASP

Recognizing the Signs

Understanding the warning signs of suicide is crucial for early intervention. Common indicators include:

  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden
  • Withdrawing from social activities and relationships
  • Increased substance use
  • Talking about wanting to die or hurt oneself
  • Displaying extreme mood swings

If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, it’s essential to take them seriously and seek professional help immediately.

How You Can Make a Difference

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, educator, or community member, you can play a vital role in the prevention of suicide.

  • Start the Conversation: Engage in open, nonjudgmental discussions about mental health.
  • Be Supportive: Listen actively and offer empathy to those in need
  • Know the Resources: Familiarize yourself with local mental health services and crisis hotlines
  • Educate Others: Share information about suicide prevention and encourage others to do the same

As frontline healthcare professionals, nurses are uniquely positioned to identify at-risk individuals and provide critical support. Your role extends beyond clinical care. You are often the first to notice subtle signs of distress.

If you’re a nurse looking to make a meaningful impact in suicide prevention, consider exploring opportunities with us. At Ario Healthcare, we understand and value the importance of mental health and the critical role nurses play in saving lives. Your expertise and compassion can be the difference between life and death.

Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness!

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 Katie Fitts

September 22, 2025

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Why Nervous System Regulation is the Key to Nurse Wellness

The Hidden Cost of Nursing Stress

Nurses are carrying impossible loads. Long shifts, constant alarms, and high patient acuity. Short staffing, nurse bullying, being asked to do more with less; the list goes on. As nurses, our nervous systems are always “on”. But what happens when we never reset?

Burnout, anxiety, and even physical illness become the norm.

Nervous system regulation isn’t just self-care — it is the foundation of true healing.

When the Nervous System Gets Stuck in Overdrive

The autonomic nervous system is designed to help us adapt and control our unconscious bodily functions such as breathing, heart rate, and digestion. The sympathetic nervous system, one division of the autonomic nervous system, helps us to respond to danger and stress. If you are all of a sudden being chased by a huge bear, your sympathetic nervous system responds by flooding your body with the “go” chemicals, adrenaline, cortisol, and norepinephrine. It allows us to run fast or fight if we need to. In contrast, during non-threatening times, another division called the parasympathetic nervous system kicks in and helps divert the attention back to relaxation, rest, repair, and digestion.

This is healthy and natural when it’s working properly. Ideally, most of our time should be spent in the parasympathetic rest and digest phase, only using the sympathetic system when there is a threat or danger. But what happens when you work in an environment where you are constantly stressed? Back-to-back 12-hour shifts of critically ill patients while being understaffed and under-supported? Or an environment where you are subjected to constant bullying? Or any of a number of a myriad of situations where a nurse may be stressed?

In these situations, your nervous system can get stuck in fight or flight, even on your days off. This leaves your nervous system constantly under duress, with little if any time to shift back into a parasympathetic state.

When the brain gets stuck in fight or flight, this is actually our body’s way of trying to protect ourselves – but unfortunately, it can have some dire consequences.

What is Nervous System Regulation?

Nervous system regulation is a big buzzword these days, and for good reason. It’s a key part of not only nurse wellness, but wellness in general . But what the heck is nervous system regulation anyway?

To be honest, I had never heard of it before dealing with a chronic, debilitating illness. Being a nurse, I knew the basics about the nervous system – central nervous system versus peripheral nervous system and the autonomic versus somatic nervous system. I also knew about the sympathetic nervous system (“fight or flight”) versus the parasympathetic nervous system (“rest and digest”).

But I had no idea that I was dealing with a chronically dysregulated nervous system that was playing a huge part in my chronic stress and anxiety and eventual physical illness. Turns out, I was in constant fight or flight mode for way too long.

When we are in constant fight or flight, our bodies have trouble coming back to the parasympathetic rest and digest phase. Our brains start interpreting even small things as a danger or threat, our adrenaline and cortisol stay elevated, hormones shift, and the brain can struggle to process emotions.

This can lead to symptoms such as:

  • irritability
  • racing thoughts
  • poor sleep
  • anxiety
  • fatigue
  • digestive issues, and more.

The symptoms can further compound into other, more complex physical symptoms if left untreated.

Unfortunately, I found myself in this situation in the midst of the COVID pandemic in 2020, and I know I am not alone. While not a 100% contributing factor to my chronic illness, my nervous system played an enormous part in perpetuating it.

So what can we do when our nervous systems get stuck in fight or flight mode?

This is where nervous system regulation comes in. Nervous System Regulation is a set of tools we can use to help bring our bodies and minds back into the parasympathetic, or “rest and digest” part of our nervous system. These tools work to stimulate or activate our vagus nerve, a key moderator of the parasympathetic system.

Nervous System Regulation Tools for Nurses

There are numerous tools you can build as a practice into your day, even at work. However, what may work for one person may not work for another, or you likely may need a combination of the tools to soothe your nervous system. It’s important to find which ones work for you, and to not try to take on too many.

Here are just a few examples of nervous system regulation tools:

Breath work

Breathing practices stimulate the vagus nerve and shift the body toward calm. Try:

  • Box Breathing: Inhale 6 seconds → hold 6 → exhale 6 → hold 6.
  • Voo Breath: Inhale slowly, exhale with a long “voooooo.”
  • Long Exhales: Any pattern with longer exhales than inhales helps activate the parasympathetic response.

Even 1–2 minutes on a break can reset your system.

Meditation and Mindfulness

Meditation helps retrain the brain away from constant stress loops. Mindfulness—pausing to notice thoughts and emotions without judgment—creates space between stress and response. It’s not easy at first, but consistency builds resilience.

Even taking 1-2 minutes during a work break to practice mindfulness or meditate is a great tool for nurse wellness.

Grounding

Grounding restores calm by connecting the body to the present. Try noticing five things you can see, hear, smell, touch, and taste. Or simply press your feet into the earth, grass, or sand after a long shift. These small practices signal safety to the nervous system.

Movement and Somatic Therapy

This is one of my personal favorites and something that really helps me. Moving the body to dispel pent-up energy is a form of what is known as somatic therapy. Somatic therapy is based on the belief of a mind and body connection; that emotions and trauma can get trapped in the body, and movement can help release them.

Oftentimes I feel that I am unable to quiet my mind enough to do something like meditation or breath work if my anxiety or emotions are too strong, so movement helps bring my body back into the “window of tolerance” as one therapist once explained to me.

Imagine a lioness on the hunt, and it just spotted a gazelle after not eating for 3 days. As soon as the lioness creeps up to the gazelle, it’s on! Fight or flight. All the “go” hormones start flooding, and the lioness is sprinting after the gazelle. Now, are you going to be able to tell the lioness in the middle of a chase to leave the gazelle alone to go lie down and meditate right then? Heck no. The lioness is going to chase that gazelle and dispel all that pent-up primal energy until she catches the gazelle, runs out of energy, or gets called off the chase for another reason.

So it’s the same when your emotions or anxiety are running high. Sometimes your emotions are running full speed after the gazelle, and you need to get out that energy before you can come back to a “window of tolerance”. Once you reach a window of tolerance, then you can sit down and meditate or do some breath work.

There are many different somatic exercises you may choose from. Some examples include:

  • Yoga
  • Tai Chi
  • Shaking
  • Dancing

Shaking and dancing are two of my favorite nervous system regulation tools, and something that can be done at work.

Shaking your body – literally shaking out your shoulders, your arms, your hands, your legs, your feet. Anything to help the body physically release. You can do it for as little as say 30 seconds. This is a great one to use at work. Head to the bathroom and, as T-Swift says, shake it off! (This, by the way, is a GREAT song to employ for my other favorite somatic exercise of dancing!) Just be sure to lock the door so someone doesn’t walk in on you and think you are having a seizure.

Dancing is also incredible for this. Even if it’s just gently swaying from side to side with one hand on your heart and one hand on your belly. Or find some music that moves you in some way, whether its gentle meditation music, music that makes you feel beautiful, or music you need to get out some rage to.

I have made several playlists based on my moo,d and when I feel anxious or upset, I put on that playlist and dance it out!

Mind and Body Connection in Nurse Wellness

The mind–body connection is the constant communication between your thoughts, emotions, and physical body. It’s the recognition that what happens in your mind directly affects your physiology—and that what happens in your body shapes your thoughts and emotions in return. It’s a fascinating concept to explore, and I believe it is one of the most important, if not foundational, aspects of true healing.

Nervous system regulation is what makes this connection possible. When your nervous system is stuck in fight-or-flight, your body stays flooded with stress hormones and your mind gets trapped in survival mode—racing thoughts, poor sleep, anxiety, and digestive issues. The brain and body stop communicating clearly.

But when you practice regulation, you activate the parasympathetic “rest and digest” state. This not only calms your heart rate and breathing—it restores the two-way communication between body and brain. Your body signals to your mind that you are safe, and your mind sends messages of safety and calm back to your body.

This is the mind–body connection in action: a feedback loop that allows both physical healing and emotional balance. Without nervous system regulation, the loop breaks down. With it, the mind and body work together to build resilience, energy, and even joy.

True healing isn’t about choosing between mind or body—it’s about restoring the connection between both.

If you are interested in exploring more of the mind-body connection, there’s a ton of good books out there. Some books of note I recommend reading are:

  • The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk – studies on how trauma is stored in the body, if you’re looking for some concrete evidence, but the book is a bit heavy emotionally.
  • Dr. Joe Dispenza – all of his books are amazing! Becoming Supernatural or Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself are great places to start. He is a chiropractor who was involved in a pedestrian versus car accident, broke his back in multiple places, and was told he would never walk again. He used the power of his mind to heal his body and devotes his time teaching, writing, and running workshops on how to use the power of your mind and thus emphasizing the mind-body connection
  • Dr. Dheepak Chopra – such as Quantum Healing or Ageless Body, Timeless Mind are also great and explore the mind-body connection. Dr. Chopra is a world-renowned physician and alternative medicine advocate.
  • When the Body Says No – Dr. Gabor Mate. Dr. Gabor Mate is an incredible physician and healer, who digs deep beyond the physical disease and explores the connection between stress and disease.

Healing the Healers

As nurses, we give so much of ourselves that it’s easy to forget our own needs until burnout forces us to pay attention. Nervous system regulation is the foundation of nurse wellness and the key to rebuilding the mind–body connection that allows true healing to happen.

One of the most powerful ways to restore your nervous system is to step outside of the constant stress cycle and immerse yourself in environments that naturally support rest, renewal, and connection. That’s why I created Never Lost Travel—to offer trips that aren’t just vacations, but intentional opportunities to reset your nervous system, reconnect with yourself, and rediscover joy.

Looking ahead, I’m working on weaving these principles directly into nurse wellness retreats. In fact, I’m planning a retreat in Bali next June—a place of healing traditions, sacred ceremonies, and natural beauty designed to nourish both body and soul.

If this speaks to you, or you just want a chance to travel to beautiful exotic places, be sure to stay tuned for more updates. Head on over to my website, neverlosttravel.net, to learn more and subscribe for updates about trips and more tips on nurse wellness!

Cheers to healing the healers.

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By Amber Pickler

September 21, 2025

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What Kind of Nurse Are You Based on Your Favorite Bridgerton Character?

Take our Bridgerton nurse quiz and find out which character matches your nursing style!

When you’re not working a 12-hour shift or figuring out the fastest way to get your charting done, you might be like so many others, catching up on Bridgerton. Whether you’re deep into Season 3 or rewatching that epic Kate and Anthony tension, there’s a character that resonates with everyone.

But what if we told you that your favorite Bridgerton character could reveal something about your nursing style?

If you’re a nurse and a fan of Bridgerton, this blog is for you! Whether you’re enjoying a rare night off or counting down the hours until your next shift, it’s time to find out what your favorite character says about the kind of nurse you are.

Bridgerton Nurse Quiz: Which Character Matches Your Nursing Style?

bridgerton nurse quiz

👑 Daphne Bridgerton: The Classic Bedside Nurse

You’re kind, calm, and deeply intuitive. Just like Daphne always knows the right thing to say at exactly the right time, you’re the nurse who instantly puts patients at ease.

  • You thrive in: Labor & Delivery, Med-Surg, or Pediatrics.
  • Your superpower: Advocacy and critical thinking
  • Heads up: Don’t forget you can’t care for others if you aren’t taking care of yourself!

🗨️ Eloise Bridgerton: The Outspoken Advocate

You ask the hard questions and challenge the system, and you always stand up for your fellow nurses and patients. Like Eloise, you’re not afraid to go against the grain.

  • You thrive in: Public Health, Case Management, or Infection Control.
  • Your superpower: Advocacy and critical thinking
  • Heads up: Change takes time. Don’t burn yourself out trying to fix everything at once.

🖋️ Penelope Featherington (Lady Whistledown): The Quiet Force

You are very observant, detail-oriented, and low-key running the unit. Like Penelope, people tend to underestimate you, but your work speaks volumes.

  • You thrive in: NICU, Oncology, or Research.
  • Your superpower: Precision and quiet confidence
  • Heads up: Don’t be afraid to step into the spotlight, you have certainly earned it!

🔥 Kate Sharma: The Tough, But Fair Charge Nurse

You command respect without even trying. Whether during a code or a staffing crisis, you are the calm in the chaos. Like Kate, you hold the team and the bar high!

  • You thrive in: ICU, ER, or Trauma.
  • Your superpower: Leadership and grit!
  • Heads up: Not everyone is as tough as you, so don’t forget to keep your softer side in check!

🧠 Anthony Bridgerton: The Team Leader

You have a plan, a backup plan, and a flowchart. Like Anthony, you’re all about structure, accountability, and making sure the shift runs smoothly.

  • You thrive in: OR, Critical Care, or House Supervisor.
  • Your superpower: Discipline and decisiveness
  • Heads up: Trust your team, you don’t have to do it all!

👑 Queen Charlotte: The Mentor

You’re strategic, composed, always at least 10 steps ahead. Like Queen Charlotte, you’re respected, a little mysterious, and absolutely fabulous!

  • You thrive in: Nurse Educator roles, Informatics, or Administration.
  • Your superpower: Vision and Influence
  • Heads up: Don’t forget there are humans behind the data; you have wisdom and warmth.

🌍 Colin Bridgerton: The Friendly Float Nurse

You’re charming, adaptable, and always down for an adventure. Just like Colin, you make friends everywhere you go and thrive on variety.

  • You thrive in: Float Pool, Travel Nursing, or Ambulatory Care.
  • Your superpower: Flexibility and people skills
  • Heads up: Don’t let your curiosity get ahead of your charting. 😉

💭 Which One Are You?

Let us know your Bridgerton nurse alter ego in the comments! 🩺👑

✨ Bonus: Your Travel Assignment Match

  • Daphne: Nashville, TN – Southern charm and heartwarming patients
  • Eloise: Sanfrancisco, CA – A city full of causes and character
  • Penelope: Minneapolis, MN – Quiet, cold, but full of brilliance
  • Kate: Chicago, IL – Fast-paced, high-stakes, and fiercely loyal
  • Anthony: New York, NY – Hustle, hierarchy, and constant motion
  • Charlotte: Washington, DC – Policy meets purpose
  • Colin: Austin, TX – Good vibes, great eats, and endless variety

Join The Gypsy Nurse Nation

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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 TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

September 19, 2025

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When Is the Best Time to Become a Travel Nurse?

If you’ve been wondering when the “perfect” moment is to become a travel nurse, here’s the simple truth: the best time is right now.

There’s always a demand for travel nurses and healthcare travelers. Facilities across the country rely on travelers to fill staffing gaps, cover seasonal surges, and keep patients cared for when teams are stretched thin. That means whether you’re considering your first travel contract or returning to the road after a break, opportunities are waiting.

The key to knowing when it’s time to start is preparation.

How to Prepare to Become a Travel Nurse:

Set Yourself Up for Success as a Travel Nurse

Everyone’s journey looks a little different, but the most successful travelers often share the same foundation. Here’s how you can be prepared to hit the road, no matter when you choose to take the leap:

  • Choose the Right Agency: Not all agencies are created equal. The right agency will offer strong recruiter support, transparency, benefits, and resources to guide you through every step of your journey.
  • Research Locations: Think about where you’d like to travel—urban hospitals, rural communities, coastlines, or mountain towns. Your lifestyle preferences matter just as much as the clinical side.
  • Understand Your Why: Are you traveling for adventure, higher pay, career growth, or flexibility? Knowing your “why” will help you choose the right contracts.
  • Stay Flexible: Being open can help you land contracts faster and open doors you might not have considered.
  • Keep Your Documents Ready: Have your licenses, certifications, references, and immunization records organized and up to date. A traveler “binder” (digital or physical) makes applying for assignments faster and smoother.
  • Stay Financially Prepared: Save up a small cushion before your first assignment to cover travel costs, temporary housing deposits, or gaps between contracts.
  • Build Your Support Network: Connect with other travelers through online groups, mentorship programs, or professional organizations. A community of people who “get it” can be invaluable.

Finding the Best Assignments

Getting those dream assignments isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. Working closely with your recruiter, staying organized, and acting quickly when the right job comes up are all part of the equation.

Want insider tips? Check out our on-demand webinar with Brandy Pinkerton, seasoned travel nurse and mentor at Travel Nurse 101. She shares how to stand out, secure top contracts, and set yourself up for success—even if you’re brand new to travel nursing.

Watch On Demand Now

Start Your Travel Nurse Journey Today

The truth is, there’s never a bad time to become a travel nurse—but starting out with the right mindset, support, and preparation makes all the difference. If you’re waiting for the perfect time to start, you might miss out on some amazing opportunities. Think through your goals, plan ahead, and find the right agency to make your travel career successful—and then get ready to embark on your first travel adventure!

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 The Gypsy Nurse

September 18, 2025

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On the Road Again – 10 Tips to Help Healthcare Travelers De-Stress

Long shifts. New cities. Unfamiliar hospitals.

If you’re a healthcare traveler, you’re no stranger to the chaos that comes with life on assignment. That’s why having quick and easy stress relief tips for healthcare travelers is important not just for your mental health, but for your ability to care for others.

From tough patients to crazy, unpredictable schedules, travel assignments can add to the pressures of an already demanding career. We’ve got good news! De-stressing doesn’t have to take an extended time off or cost you a lot of money. Just five minutes of your time can make a big difference.

Here are 10 easy ways to de-stress, recharge, and keep your mood and blood pressure in check! 🧘‍♀️

10 Stress Relief Tips for Healthcare Travelers on the Road 🚙

stress relief tips for healthcare travelers

1. 🎧Play Music

While classical music can be extremely calming and decrease levels of stress hormones, the truth is, any music you enjoy can increase the flow of feel-good chemicals to the brain and help you relax.

2. 📵Disconnect

Turn off your cell phone, step away from your computer, and look away from the screen. Uninterrupted screen time can actually increase stress. So be sure to take frequent breaks and, from time to time, disconnect completely.

3. 🤣Laugh, Like REALLY Laugh!

One of the best stress relief tips for healthcare travelers we can give you is LAUGH . Find or use anything that makes you chuckle will work: a joke, a funny video, a hilarious memory, or laugh out loud. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughing:

  • Enhances your oxygen intake
  • Stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles
  • Increases the endorphins

So, turn on a funny movie 🎥, podcast, or video and practice some self-care!

4. 🌬️Take Some Breaths

Breathing exercises can help with stress and anxiety. There are many breathing exercises out there, but here is a simple one to try: Inhale for 10 seconds, hold for 10 seconds, exhale for 10 seconds.

Taking just a few deep breaths can reduce tension and help you de-stress. The extra boost of oxygen really nourishes the brain and can help lower your blood pressure ❤️.

5. 💐Smell The Flowers (or Essential Oil)

Escape for just a few moments with essential oil. Aromatherapy has been shown to decrease stress levels, making them perfect for de-stressing; some popular scents include lavender, vanilla, and chamomile.

Keep a travel-size roller in your travel bag for those high-stress or anxiety moments.

6. 🍌Eat Like a Monkey

Bananas aren’t just for your smoothie! Bananas are loaded with potassium, which has been shown to help regulate blood pressure and even improve energy levels during stressful times. A perk is they’re a super simple on-the-go snack.

7. 🚶‍♂️Take a Walk

We aren’t talking about walking a 5K. A simple walk around the block can help stimulate blood flow and help de-stress. Moving your body or any exercise that you enjoy stimulates blood flow. Helping to de-stress. Staying active regularly helps keep you fit and better prepared to handle stressful situations.

8. 🍫 Eat (Yes, Really)

A balanced diet is key, but don’t underestimate the power small treats have on you. Dark chocolate is one of the best choices because its flavanols (antioxidants) may improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. So, feel free to indulge in a square (or 2 😉)

9. 🛌 Priorize Rest

We all know that sleep is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. But not all sleep is created equal. Many times, it’s quality, not quantity, that can best help you de-stress. Uninterrupted sleep, deep sleep, is what will truly help your body and mind recover. Create a wind-down routine.

10. 📅 Plan to De-Stress

De-stressing isn’t always spontaneous. It can take some planning. Avoid overbooking yourself, build in some breaks, and give yourself some time to recoup between commitments. You aren’t lazy for needing downtime. You are creating room to breathe!

💡Final Thoughts

Being a healthcare traveler is rewarding, but it is also demanding! But having a few go-to stress relief tips for healthcare travelers can make all the difference. With these 10 simple tips, you can protect your peace, boost your mood, revitalize your energy, and stay emotionally resilient on the road. 🚙🩵

Remember: When you take care of yourself, you can take care of others better!

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