September 22, 2022

4939 Views

9 Products Travel Nurses Swear By

Posted on September 22, 2022September 12, 2022 by Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare provided this article.

Some products are a must-pack for every assignment if you’re a travel nurse. Whether heading out on your first travel assignment or your hundredth, check out these products to add to your “must-pack” list.

Self-Cleaning Water bottle

The title really sells it all. Being on the go, traveling to assignments, and working long shifts doesn’t always give you access to consistent hydration, let alone cleaning your water bottle. Order this self-cleaning water bottle that nurses are raving about so you are always hydrated and can keep it sanitary wherever you go. You even have six color choices to find the one that really fits your style or maybe one that matches your scrubs.

Supergoop Sunscreen

Keeping SPF in your daily skin routine, whether you are traveling somewhere hot or cold, is super important year-round. Supergoop developed its products based on this and now offers 40+ formulas so you can find the one that is perfect for your skin – there are even travel sizes for flying.

One nurse raved about the “Unseen Sunscreen” product, claiming it is perfect for a day of adventure outside. She wrote, “This is my favorite sunscreen ever! It’s nongreasy, has no white streaks, it has a nice subtle glow.”

Alarm Clock

When you are moving into your temporary housing, you might not know where every outlet will be, what it can reach, or how many outlets you will have. This alarm clock comes in handy because it has two USB ports, so no matter where the outlets are, you can charge your phone or smartwatch right from your clock. Plus, the mirror design is sleek and matches any room.

Nespresso Machine

If you love kicking off the night shift with the perfect coffee, this will change your assignment. Think about bringing your Nespresso along with you, so you have access to caffeine 24/7. It might not fit in your suitcase, but if you are driving, make sure to pack it in the car!

One nurse said, “I also always bring my Nespresso machine for assignments, so I can start my shift with a perfect cup of coffee instead of purchasing one every day!”

Home Scented Candle

Homesick creates candles for specific cities and states, so find your hometown candle and order it to pack in your suitcase. It will help you relax post-shift and bring you back to your cozy home feeling. One nurse said, “Bring a candle for your bedroom that reminds you of home. I really needed it when I extended my stay. ♥️♥️♥️”

Blackout curtains

There is nothing more crucial than your sleep. If you are traveling for your assignment, you might not be sure if your temporary bedroom gets too much light, so investing in some blackout curtains to take with you from place to place will be worth it. They can also muffle some of the outside noise, making them even more important when traveling to a large city.

These blackout curtains from Amazon were rated as the “Best Affordable Curtains in 2022”.

Compression Socks

Compression socks are often overlooked as a way to prevent some of the chronic issues that come from working in a profession where you are on your feet for such long hours. Wearing compression socks helps to prevent varicose veins, improve venous blood flow, decrease the risk of blood clots, and decrease swelling of the ankles and feet. One nurse wrote, “I have found that compression socks with 20-30mmHg are the right compression strength for me as a nurse.”

Apolla, a female-founded company that was on Shark Tank, creates compression socks that provide targeted compression in key insertion points in the arch and ankle with a patented knitting technique your feet will thank you for after a long shift. This is an American Podiatric medical association approved product.

Silicone Rings

Are you paranoid about losing your wedding ring at work or while traveling? Silicone wedding bands are the perfect solution to keep you from accidentally losing your real band while taking gloves off. They also prevent your jewelry from getting dirty while working your shift. There are so many color and texture style options for you to choose from.

One brand, Qalo, specializes in silicone rings for nurses. The product is made from medical-grade silicone to keep you and your patients safe at all times.

Audible Subscription

There is nothing better than a physical book, but they might weigh you down, literally. If you are flying to your next assignment, the weight of your suitcase is important, so ditch the hardback while on duty and get an Audible subscription through Amazon.

Audible offers a variety of products you can utilize, from audiobooks, sleep tracks, meditation programs, podcasts, and more. The best part is that you will have access to all this content from an app on your phone, so you can take your book with you everywhere.

We hope that you found this list of 9 products travel nurses swear by helpful when packing for your next travel nursing assignment. Don’t forget to include them on your packing list. Do you have any products on your packing list that we forgot? Comment them below.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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

START HERE

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

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

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By Medical Edge Recruitment

September 21, 2022

4010 Views

How To Avoid Weight Gain While Traveling On Night Shift

Posted on September 21, 2022August 10, 2022 by Medical Edge Recruitment

Medical Edge Recruitment provided this article.

Written by: Christine Purviance, BSN, RN, Director of Clinical Services at Medical Edge Recruitment

It is no secret that working night shift can cause weight gain. We have all been there—it is 02:00 in the morning, and you have hit the wall where you struggle to keep your eyes open. You find yourself ordering delivery from the nearest fast-food restaurant, or you are at the vending machine getting a candy bar. You might grab a soda for a sugar rush or sneak an ice cream from the nutrition room. Next thing you know, it is a few months later, and your scrubs start to feel tight. You are screaming on the inside while reflecting back on all the poor eating choices you made over the past weeks, thinking to yourself that if you were on days, you wouldn’t have made those choices. You know that you are in a contract and start to feel like you will never get out of this cycle.

As a former travel nurse, I promise you that most of us have been there. After a year on nightshift in the ICU, I found myself needing larger scrubs and constantly craving sugary snacks to keep me awake. I consumed a ridiculous amount of candy, leading to recurrent binges every night that I worked. I finally committed to creating better habits for myself, losing the night shift fifteen, and improving my energy levels. These habits are for anyone who may be struggling on nightshift and wants to make healthier choices, drop a few pounds, and prevent weight gain! It may not be easy, but it will be worth it!

How To Avoid Weight Gain While Traveling On Night Shift

Get Moving!

Exercising regularly can be challenging while working travel assignments and working night shift. Finding ways to move your body that you enjoy is crucial to staying committed. There are many ways to exercise while on assignment, including:

Weightlifting
Running
Yoga and Pilates
Walking
Fitness classes (F45 and Orange Theory)
Spin

No matter who you are, there is a type of exercise for anyone and everyone. If you are worried that you do not have time to exercise on the nights that you work, invest an hour of time on your off days to get moving! Once you start exercising regularly, you may find that exercise before your night shift will increase your energy levels like it did mine!

Finding places to exercise while on a travel assignment is challenging, especially if you are not near a big city. If you do not have access to your preferred means of exercise, or if your hotel does not have a fitness center, increasing movement can be done from the comfort of wherever you are staying. Grab yourself a pair of dumbbells and find a YouTube workout you enjoy! There are dozens, if not hundreds, of apps and videos you can access for free to increase your activity level at your temporary home! A little bit goes a long way, and your body will thank you later!

Fuel Your Body

Eating a balanced diet as a night shifter is hard enough, but when you add in travel, it is a whole different ballgame. Fortunately, there are many ways to eat healthy-ish while on the road! Whether it be meal prep delivery services or bringing your own meals to work, there is always a way to improve our habits! Meal prep companies are great if you do not mind spending up to $10 a meal. For this former travel nurse, I prefer to make my own healthy recipes that are convenient, wallet-friendly, and easy to make with minimal equipment.

Selecting pre-cooked protein for lunches and dinner is not as hard as most of us may think. Rotisserie chicken, turkey sausage, frozen fajita beef, and lunch meat are some of my favorites! Make it a meal by microwaving frozen veggies, frozen rice, or even making a baked potato in the microwave (it is super easy—just google it)! For even simpler meals, make wraps or sandwiches for your shift with your favorite lunchmeat and toppings!

Are your shifts so absolutely nuts that even sitting down for a sandwich is unlikely? Try packing fast, easy snacks that will keep you full and can be consumed while you are walking to the med room or even hiding in the supply room! A few of my favorite snacks for busy shifts are:

Oatmeal bars or dried fruit bars
Bananas
Protein shakes
Peanut butter packs
Hardboiled eggs
String cheese

Remember, the way we feel internally is strongly related to the foods we consume. Fueling your body with healthy foods is key to feeling your best.

Don’t Drink Your Calories.

One of the easiest ways to drop a few pounds is to avoid drinking your calories! Did you know that drinking a 20-ounce Coke daily can result in a 2-pound per month weight gain? A Grande Caramel Frappuccino from Starbucks has almost 350 calories, even more than a soda! Although we may not realize it, these sugary drinks we have for energy on nightshifts contribute to unwanted weight gain! Being mindful and selecting low-calorie, or calorie-free, swaps can help you prevent unwanted weight gain, avoid a sugar crash, and even shed a few pounds! My favorite swaps for high-calorie drinks are:

Diet-soda
Flavored water (sparkling, Mio, Crystal Light)
Coffee with sugar-free coffee creamer
Stevia, instead of sugar
A splash of a protein shake instead of cream and sugar in coffee (Premier Protein is my favorite)
Light Body armor or Gatorade Zero
Iced tea with stevia

Prioritize Sleep

Have you ever noticed that when we are running on little sleep before a night shift, our cravings for carbs, candy, and sugar exponentially increases? It feels like our bodies are running on E, and we need a pick-me-up to improve our energy levels. We grab a candy bar or soda, and that sugar high perks us up for an hour, but then we feel even worse. The cycle continues; before we know it, we have consumed a very unhealthy amount of sugar.

It is no secret that sleep is essential, and the amount we need varies by person. However, the choices we make are significantly be impacted on the amount of sleep that we get! Improving your sleep schedule can result in better habits. If you are a new night shifter, finding a routine that works for you can be a process when you are training your body to sleep during the day. Blackout curtains, white noise, an eye mask, and melatonin are a few ways that work for most of us!

Find What Works for You

We are all so unique, from the foods we enjoy to the hours of sleep we need. These tips are what worked for me, and hope that they work for you! Finding balance in your life while you are traveling will be a learning process. Just because you are working away from home and working nightshift does not mean that your health must suffer. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself means you are better equipped to care for others!

We hope you found this article on ways to avoid weight gain while working night shift as a travel nurse. Do you have any tips to help fellow travel nurses avoid weight gain while working night shift? Comment below any tips you have to avoid weight gain.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

Looking For an Agency Who Understands Your Needs?

Medical Edge Recruitment is the premier travel nursing recruitment agency specializing in providing top talent to clients in the healthcare industry. We connect clinical and allied providers to their ideal opportunities, focusing on building long-lasting relationships through honesty and transparency. In travel nursing, bigger does not always mean better. While we have an extensive network of job opportunities, our experienced team is dedicated to making your personalized provider experience a priority. There are a lot of moving parts in getting set up for a new assignment, but we take care of all the details along the way. Adventure awaits; let Medical Edge Recruitment show you where to go next!

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

START HERE

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

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

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By TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

September 20, 2022

2717 Views

Traveler Tips for Adjusting to New Environments on Assignment

Posted on September 20, 2022September 14, 2022 by TNAA- Travel Nurse Across America

TNAA Healthcare provided this article.

The prospect of picking your life up and moving from place to place can be both exhilarating and overwhelming for a new travel nurse. Beyond your agency and recruiter, there are many things to consider, like, “How will I adapt to a new environment when I’m moving every few months?”

For the best tips on dealing with culture shock, adjusting to new environments, and finding community on assignments, we’ve reached out to some of our experienced TNAA ambassadors who were once in your shoes. Here’s the advice they have to share.

Work Your Way Up

Are you used to working at a small-town hospital? Do yourself a favor, and take it easy on your first assignment. Take a job at a hospital that’s similar in size to the hospital where you worked as staff.

“Make sure to work your way up to a larger city hospital. I would never recommend a nurse at a Level 3 small hospital go directly to a Level 1 trauma center. That first assignment is stressful enough. Go somewhere comfortable.”

Leah R.

“Don’t try to jump in and see everything at once. Get into a routine and get become familiar with the area, and then venture out from there!”

Matt L.

Be a Team Player

As a travel nurse, you are there to fill a gap in care for the hospital. That doesn’t mean you let yourself get run down with all the awful shifts and tasks, but you do offer to help and to learn.

“If my room is done, I look for the busier rooms and ask them if they need help. Keep your charge nurse aware of what you’re doing. Ask how you can help them. It helps to have a mindset that you were brought in to help.”

Joni C.

“Be nice, be quiet, and NEVER tell them, “That’s not how we did it at home.” Instead, say, “Can you show me your way of doing XYZ?” It won’t take long to find who is on your side. Never badmouth any of the staff you work with, make friends with the floor clerk (they will be the most helpful), and consider bringing in treat a time or two.”

Lynnette S.

Establish Your Community

As a traveler, you get the opportunity to make friends all across the country. From getting to know the hospital staff and meeting with other travelers to finding like-minded groups in the area, there are several ways to get conversations started and to create those bonds.

“I friend fellow nurses and ask them about the best places to eat or things to see in the city.”

Grace G.

“Know your other travelers, and create a text group so you can help each other out.”

Joni C.

“We are gamers, so I love stopping by local game stores. Most game stores have meet-up nights and open game days.”

Robb M.

“Continue a hobby while traveling, even if it takes a little extra work or packing, and find groups with a similar interest while on the road. It can be tricky, but the hobby will keep you grounded, and the connections will be easy to make… Find something that brings you joy, then link up with people who feel the same.”

ZD E.

“The MedVenture app is a great way to meet other travelers!”

Leah R.

In summary, take your time moving up to larger hospitals, have a helper’s mindset, and use resources both inside and outside the hospital to establish connections with people who will become lifelong friends.

We hope you found this article on tips for adjusting to new environments helpful. How do you adjust to new environments every 13 weeks? Comment below.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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

START HERE

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

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

Join Now

By The Gypsy Nurse

September 19, 2022

16628 Views

A BRIGHT SPOT IN HEALTHCARE: TRAVEL NURSES REPORT HIGHER JOB SATISFACTION

Posted on September 19, 2022September 20, 2022 by The Gypsy Nurse

New Study Shows 30% are more satisfied today than before the pandemic;

85% plan to continue their travel nursing careers

BOCA RATON, Fla. – September 19, 2022 – Burnout, turnover, and low morale have all taken a heavy toll on the healthcare profession in recent years. But for travel nurses, the pandemic appears to have increased resilience and galvanized the community, according to a recent survey. The study, Voice of the Travel Nurse reveals that 85% of travel nurses intend to continue in their careers. In measuring their satisfaction levels, 50% are as satisfied today as they were pre-pandemic; 30% say they’re more satisfied today.

Voice of the Travel Nurse was conducted by an independent research firm and commissioned by The Gypsy Nurse, the largest and most active online community of travel nurses in the world. The organization provides a variety of career resources to more than 500,000 followers and members across its digital channels. More than 1,000 travel nurses were surveyed.

“We commissioned this study to gain a more thorough understanding of travel nurse perspectives,” said Steve Curtin, CEO of The Gypsy Nurse. “By knowing what drives – and erodes – their satisfaction, we can provide better resources to the travel nurse community, and to the healthcare facilities and staffing agencies relying on these professionals for critical roles.”

Curtin will present the findings in detail on September 20 in Las Vegas at TravCon ’22, the yearly conference for travel health professionals. (More details on the conference are below.)

Additional Report Highlights

Current satisfaction: 79% of travel nurses are satisfied or very satisfied with their current role.
Compensation: Competitive pay attracts travel nurses to the profession, but once they’ve established themselves as travelers, factors other than money take on greater significance in retaining them.
Satisfaction drivers: Flexibility and the ability to make a difference in multiple healthcare settings are among the top factors contributing to travel nurses feeling fulfilled in their work.
Other contributors: Healthcare facilities in which travel nurses work and staffing firms that arrange their contract assignments also contribute to satisfaction, with facilities having a slightly more substantial impact.

Room for Improvement

The study pointed to several areas for enhancement. For uncommitted travel nurses – those who are uncertain or unlikely to continue their travel nursing careers – they noted the following areas as troublesome:

Patient ratios: 33% are dissatisfied with patient-to-staff ratios.
Treatment: 33% are unhappy with how they’re treated compared to staff nurses. More than one-quarter (27 percent) are dissatisfied with how they’re treated by hospital staff.

Communication is a central issue as well. Among committed travel nurses – those who plan to continue working in travel – only 64% received regular communications from their healthcare facility. When rating their experience with staffing agencies, 72% noted their agency keeps them informed regularly.

Making Meaningful Change

Curtin noted that while cultural changes cannot happen overnight, leaders should begin work now to identify issues so they can rectify them. “Organizations that take time to honestly evaluate their work culture and make necessary improvements will attract more talent,” he said. “It’s imperative for travel nurses to be viewed – and treated – as part of the core team, not a separate group. Leaders who integrate travel nurses into their organizations and keep them informed on key issues will enhance their culture and attract the best talent in the travel community.”

As nursing shortages are expected to increase sharply in the near future, Curtin emphasized that recruiting and retaining nursing staff is a shared responsibility among healthcare organizations and the broader community. “All of us must advocate for safe work environments, better communication, and greater recognition for current and future nurses. To build a workforce that can support our healthcare requirements moving forward, educational institutions, government agencies and the private sector must all work with the healthcare community to advance the nursing profession.”

About The Gypsy Nurse

The Gypsy Nurse is the world’s largest community of travel nurses with an audience of more than 500,000 members across multiple channels including TheGypsyNurse.com and TravCon, the leading healthcare traveler conference. The organization builds awareness of travel healthcare career options and offers travel healthcare professionals the knowledge, tools, and social connectivity required to build successful careers supported by a community of like-minded professionals.

Earlier this year, The Gypsy Nurse acquired TravCon, the yearly conference for travel healthcare professionals. TravCon ’22 will be held at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas from September 18-21. The conference is the largest in-person gathering of healthcare travel professionals in the United States. It enables attendees to earn continuing education credits, connect with other healthcare professionals, and be recognized for their contributions and work over the last year.

For more information on TravCon ‘22, visit https://travcon.org/. For more information on The Gypsy Nurse, visit https://www.thegypsynurse.com/

# # #

For a full copy of the report and/or interviews with Steve Curtin and travel nurses:

Maureen Carrig

maureen@carrigcommunications.com

650/520-0780

travel nurses report travel nurses report

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By TheraEx

September 19, 2022

3598 Views

How to Achieve a Work-Life Balance as a Travel Nurse

Posted on September 19, 2022September 19, 2022 by TheraEx

TheraEx Staffing Solutions provided this article.

Working as a nurse can be exciting and rewarding. Nevertheless, every nurse who has ever been on staff at a hospital or medical facility knows how stressful and demanding their job can be at times and how easy it is to fall victim to burnout. Many nurses find that their unpredictable work schedules and rigorous job duties prevent them from maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Travel nursing offers nurses the chance to escape from their day-to-day routine and allows them to explore new opportunities in different locations across the country. In addition to engaging in new workplace experiences, travel nurses also have the opportunity to enjoy a new and exciting lifestyle while exploring new activities and adventures.

There are a handful of small changes you can implement to help improve your work-life balance as a travel nurse gradually. We have a few tips to help you get started.

How to Achieve a Work-Life Balance as a Travel Nurse

Choose Travel Nurse Assignments That Suit Your Needs

The best part about travel nurse assignments is that you get to decide what will be the best assignment for you. Whether it’s location, desirable working hours, or high pay, there will always be an assignment that fits your needs. Think about what matters the most to you. Why did you decide to become a travel nurse? Was it to make more money, explore new fun and exciting locations, or create meaningful memories with your friends or family? Choose assignments that will help you achieve these goals.

It’s also important to note that it is okay if your needs change over time. You might miss family (if you decide to travel on your own and they stay back at home) and want an assignment closer to home. Or you might have an adventurous streak and want an assignment in a region with plenty of activities and things to do.

Set Limits and Stick to Them

Most nurses go into healthcare because they have an innate yearning to help people, but it’s also important to place reasonable limits on yourself while doing so. Try to do your best each day to stick to a set schedule and leave when your shift is done. While there will always be patients to care for, your personal time is just as valuable. By actively maintaining a set daily routine, you can go a long way toward establishing a healthy work-life balance that will leave you feeling less stressed at the end of the day.

Leave Work at Work

In your profession, there will be many times you are exposed to situations that will stick with you and will weigh heavily on your emotions. On any given day, a nurse may play a part in a particularly tragic or emotional situation, and those situations can affect you long after your shift is over. In order to have a happy home life, you will need to do your best to block out work events after you leave for the day. If you spend all night dwelling on the what-ifs and could-have-beens, not only will your home life suffer, but you’ll also feel mentally drained.

Create a Bucket List and Take Time for You

One of the easiest ways to improve your work-life balance is to build time for yourself into your schedule. Create a bucket list of the things you would like to do and pick assignments that will help you complete them. Maybe you’ve wanted to go whale watching in Alaska, watch the sunset on a Florida beach, or explore a California amusement park. Maximize your off-hours by doing things you enjoy and bring you a sense of adventure or relaxation. Most nurses want to do what’s best for their patients, so it’s time to start thinking of yourself as a patient and focus on giving yourself what you need to live a fulfilled, happy, and healthy life.

Just remember that one of the greatest perks of being a travel nurse is being in charge of your career and the decisions you make. You can come and do your job and leave when your contract is over without having to worry about the stresses of a permanent job. This alone is a huge step in taking care of your mental health and allows you to enjoy a healthy work-life balance.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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

START HERE

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

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

Join Now

By The Gypsy Nurse

September 19, 2022

29007 Views

The Voice of The Travel Nurse

Posted on September 19, 2022February 27, 2023 by The Gypsy Nurse

Insights from over 1,000 travel nurses on the state of their profession

As the world's largest community of travel nurses with an audience of over 500,000 members, The Gypsy Nurse is positioned like no other organization to tap into the attitudes and beliefs of travel nurses.

The Voice of The Travel Nurse is an unprecedented study that was commissioned by The Gypsy Nurse to allow travel nurses to directly express their thoughts regarding their profession: what they like, what they don’t like, and their plans for continuing in the nursing profession. Conducted in conjunction with a leading national market research firm with over 1,000 combined online respondents and live interviews, The Voice of The Travel Nurse helps us understand their unique perspectives more clearly.

The data in this report will challenge current assumptions regarding the travel nursing industry; among other insights, this study sheds light on:

The fact that travel nurses are more satisfied than staff nurses, and why
Despite talk about pay in the travel nursing field, other factors can influence satisfaction more
How hospitals and staffing agencies can better support and retain nursing talent

Please download your copy of the complete Voice of The Travel Nurse Report below by filling out our request form below:

Name(Required)

Email(Required)

Phone(Required)

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Thanks for your interest in “The Voice of The Travel Nurse” report. Please email us at Marketing@TheGypsyNurse.com if you would like further information about this report, or advertising opportunities with us or our travel nursing community.

Download Full Report

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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!”

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By Nurse First Travel Agency

September 17, 2022

3200 Views

The Top 3 Picturesque and Highest Paying States for Travel Nurses

Posted on September 17, 2022September 14, 2022 by Nurse First Travel Agency

Nurse First Travel Agency provided this article.

Travel nursing is an exciting career path for those wanting to get out of their comfort zone. Not only does it provide flexibility, but it allows you to see the country while you’re at it. Travel nurses are often paid more than regular nurses and are given a stipend for lodging as well. Many companies even provide bonuses and allow nurses to choose their own schedules. The average time for a travel nurse assignment is 13 weeks, and before venturing out on that journey, it’s time to decide where to go. Some nurses already have a place or a list of places in mind. It all comes down to narrowing down the pros and cons of each place to find that ideal location. Other nurses choose travel nurse locations by finding where they can best apply their skill set to the maximum value, and this might fall into states all over the country. To find that sweet spot, look at the top 3 highest paying states for travel nurses!

The Top 3 Picturesque and Highest Paying States for Travel Nurses

1. California

California holds three major hospitals that are likely to be hiring. These include Kaiser Permanente, which owns 38 hospitals throughout the state; Dignity Health which operates 32 hospitals; and Sutter Medical Foundation, which runs 19 hospitals.

The Golden State is a top destination for nurses thanks to its booming economy and picturesque landscape. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses in California make an annual wage of $106,905 and an hourly wage of $51.41. Pay rates tend to be higher in Northern California as the cost of living is one of the highest in the United States. However, the opportunities for nurses are endless in California, from big urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco to the rural areas in the north and south. Whatever your nursing needs, California has something to offer.

2. Hawaii

If you’re looking for an exciting and exotic location to work as a travel nurse, Hawaii should be at the top of your list! The mean annual wage for travel nurses in Hawaii is $98,080, and the hourly wage is $47.16. It is important to note that the cost of living in Hawaii is quite high, and one nurse suggested taking a housing stipend to save money. Luckily, with the size of Hawaii, it is likely better to go to less tourist-heavy locations such as the Big Island over Maui or Oahu instead of Kauai.

The hospitals in Hawaii are top-notch and offer a unique experience for nurses. Whether you’re looking to work in a tourist-heavy environment or a more rural area, Hawaii has something to offer everyone. With its diverse landscape, culture, and climate, Hawaii is the perfect place to travel nurse!

3. Oregon

Oregon has something for everyone. Whether it be the theater culture in Ashland, foodie-friendly portland, the natural beauty such as the Oregon Coast, or hiking Mt Hood, with its vast beauty and artistic cities, Oregon draws in a lot of travel nurses. The state holds a mean annual wage of $91,080 and an hourly wage of $43.79.

In order to be a travel nurse in Oregon, you must have an RN or LPN degree. If you’re coming from outside the state and don’t hold an Oregon nursing license, you may apply for one by examination or endorsement, depending on the stage of your career. It is possible to handle your license verification needs online, but as the nurse, you will still need verification from the original state of licensure. If you take the endorsement route, you will pay $195 plus $52 for fingerprint processing. Nurses who have been out of practice for a while may need to take a reentry course.

Ready For Your Next Adventure

If you’re ready to choose your next assignment, consider one of these states.

Hawaii is a great destination for those who want to step out of their comfort zone and explore new cultures. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vacation spot, consider spending some time in California. If you’re more of a nature person, Oregon has you covered with a heap of hikes and waterfalls.

No matter what your interests are, there is a great U.S. state waiting for you to explore. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next vacation today!

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

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

START HERE

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

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By AMN Healthcare

September 15, 2022

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The Travel Nurse’s Guide to Central Florida

Posted on September 15, 2022September 14, 2022 by AMN Healthcare

Palm trees, sunny days, world-class theme parks, and a wide variety of natural attractions—are just a few of the many things that have people flocking from all over the world to visit Central Florida.

The Central Florida region is generally considered the Orlando metropolitan area, located in the middle of the state, making day trips to nearby cities and beaches a breeze. The cities of Tampa, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Winter Park, Kissimmee, Lakeland, and many others are all easily accessible from this area.

Travel nurses working in Orlando and the surrounding suburbs can enjoy a variety of assignments at top-rated hospitals and medical facilities, competitive nurse salaries, unique experiences at famous amusement parks, delicious restaurants, gorgeous lakes, and a bustling downtown area, complete with lively bars and nightlife.

American Mobile has taken the guesswork out of working as a travel nurse in Central Florida by creating this comprehensive guide to help make the most of your next assignment in the Sunshine State. Here you’ll find everything you need to know about living and working in the Orlando area.

Lifestyle Benefits for Travel Nurses in Central Florida

The City of Orlando is nicknamed “The City Beautiful,” and it’s no wonder why. The city is home to distinct architecture, hundreds of lakes (the largest of which is Lake Apopka), towering skyscrapers, and plenty of walkable areas to explore by foot or bike.

There are countless benefits to taking a travel nurse assignment in Central Florida, including an affordable cost of living. According to data from Payscale, as of mid-March 2022, Orlando’s cost of living is 5 percent lower than the national average, with living expenses coming in at 6 percent below national averages.

Most major travel nursing agencies, such as American Mobile, offer several housing options to accommodate their travel nurses in the Orlando area. You can choose free, company-arranged housing close to your assignment facility or accommodations you find on your own if you opt for the housing stipend.

Since you’ll be saving money on living expenses and enjoying competitive compensation, travel nurses can enjoy an elevated lifestyle. Spend your day:

Relaxing on a nearby beach (be sure to check out Cocoa Beach – just an hour from Orlando);
Strolling through the botanical gardens and arboretums, biking on the West Orange Trail; or
Paddleboarding or kayaking on one of the area’s many lakes. Lake Eola Park is a fan favorite located in the heart of downtown Orlando. It features a sidewalk that circles the lake and is nearly a mile long, making it a perfect track for a run or energizing walk. The lake’s famous swan-shaped paddle boats are a must-do for anyone looking for a fun and memorable activity.

Live like a local in Central Florida by working hard and enjoying a laid-back yet active lifestyle!

Facilities for Travel Nurse Assignments

Travel nursing is an excellent way for nurses to expand their skills, experience, and clinical knowledge by working in some of the nation’s top healthcare facilities and learning from other talented nurses, physicians, and healthcare professionals.

Central Florida is a hot spot for healthcare, and it’s home to several notable health systems and medical facilities, including:

Regional Medical Centers

Several major medical centers can be found throughout Central Florida, and assignments are available in most nursing specialties, including ER, ICU, Med-Surg, L&D, and oncology, to name a few. There is also one Level 1 trauma center in this area. Patients range in all ages and acuity levels, and travel nurses can gain excellent clinical experience as they work with patients with various conditions.

Teaching Facilities

Central Florida is home to a top teaching facility that is highly rated and nationally ranked, making it an excellent place for any traveler looking for their next nursing assignment.

Children’s Hospitals / Pediatric Facilities

This area has three pediatric facilities, all members of the Florida Association of Children’s Hospitals. And there is a Level III neonatal intensive care unit.

Nursing Homes / Long-Term Care Facilities

According to U.S. News & World Report, 72 licensed nursing homes are in the Orlando metro area.

Outpatient Clinics and Medical Practices

From internal medicine and pediatric offices to surgery centers, infusion centers, and cardiac catheterization labs, travel nurses can find a number of outpatient jobs in the Orlando area.

Things to do in Central Florida

Top Activities & Experiences:

Known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” there is no shortage of fun and adventure to be had while working as a travel nurse in Orlando. Perhaps the most iconic of them all is the Walt Disney World Resort. There’s nothing more magical than that famous set of mouse ears. Here, you’ll find:

Looking for an experience that brings your favorite cinematic experiences together? Look no further than Universal Orlando Resort, where travel nurses can explore both lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. If you need a break from amusement parks, be sure to check out Universal City Walk, which is an attraction in and of itself. This modern attraction features a variety of restaurants, shops & family shows.

The other main Central Florida theme parks include:

SeaWorld
Discovery Cove
Legoland
Busch Gardens (Tampa)

Another fun fact: Orlando is also referred to as the “Hollywood of the East” due to the multiple movie studios that can be found throughout the city.

Not really into theme parks? Not to worry. Orlando offers plenty of other attractions, experiences, and fun things to do that don’t involve rollercoasters and animated characters. First up on our list:

ICON park is located on 20 acres in the heart of Orlando’s International Drive. Here you’ll find over 40 restaurants, The Wheel at ICON Park — a 400-foot-tall observation wheel, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Orlando, and Arcade City.

Are you an adventure seeker? Consider:

Go-karting
An escape room
Indoor skydiving
Axe-throwing

All of these activities can be found around the International Drive area. There are also airboat rides and alligator tours. And speaking of animals, a visit to Orlando isn’t complete with a trip to the Central Florida Zoo. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a jungle as exhibits are nestled among lush, green tropical foliage. The zoo has 23 acres of native gardens and more than 500 animals, including an insect zoo, a reptile house, a children’s area with animals that kids can feed and pet, and a splash playground for those hot days.

Don’t forget to check out the city’s fun shopping venues, get dressed up, and head out to an event hosted at the Orlando Museum of Art or the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

All About the Eateries

Now that you’ve worked up a healthy appetite with all of those activities, it’s time to explore the most delicious food Orlando has to offer. Lucky for travel nurses, you’ll never run out of a new place to try during a typical 13-week assignment!

According to restaurant research firm The NPD Group, there are over 7,000 restaurants in Orlando, Daytona Beach, and Melbourne. Cuisine types vary throughout different neighborhoods and regions, with a wide variety of international flavors to be sampled. From traditional Southern BBQ to mouth-watering Cuban cuisine, there’s something for every food lover here.

To get you started, here are some of the yummiest dishes to try at some of the most popular restaurants in Orlando, including culinary delights that have been featured in magazines, blogs, articles, and “most famous” lists:

Pizza Bruno – Named to Conde Nast Traveler’s “21 Best Restaurants in Orlando.” House favorite is the Crimson Ghost pie which is adorned with mozzarella, soppressata, basil, and Mike’s Hot Honey.
Hunger Street Tacos – Born out of the pandemic, this spot has the most delicious tacos and quesadillas, made from scratch using imported blue Oaxacan corn.
Wine Bar George – This Disney Springs staple isn’t just for tourists. Locals love coming here for its extensive wine list and fun weekend brunch.
Winter Park Biscuit Company – Vegetarian or plant-based diet? This will be your place. Every single thing on the menu—including the sauces—is plant-based.
Kabooki Sushi – Go there for the super-fresh sushi, sashimi, and the famous omakase experience, which includes a chef-selected, multi-course dinner.
The Ravenous Pig – Its legendary charcuterie boards will have you coming back for your fix of meat and cheese on the regular.
Knife and Spoon – John Tesar of TV’s “Top Chef” fame is the chef at this Ritz-Carlton gem. Known for its strip and rib-eye steaks and slightly-spicy creamed spinach.
Domu – Sure, there may be a line out the door at times, but there’s a reason for it. House-made noodles, fluffy buns, and craft drinks are just a few of the stand-outs you’ll enjoy at this fun spot.

And don’t forget the theme park food, which is another category entirely! Just a few of our must-haves: the Dole Whip icy treat from Magic Kingdom Park, Granny’s Apple Fries at Legoland, and the Butterbeer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios.

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. There you can search for what you are looking for in housing.

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

START HERE

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

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

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By ONESTAFF MEDICAL

September 14, 2022

3592 Views

How to Know It’s Time to Switch Travel Nursing Staffing Agencies

Posted on September 14, 2022September 13, 2022 by ONESTAFF MEDICAL

Onestaff Medical provided this article.

As a travel nurse, having a good relationship with your staffing agency is a key part of your success. Not only will your agency help you get the travel nursing assignment you’re looking for, but they’ll also be your best advocate as you move from hospital to hospital.

Sometimes, however, this relationship can turn sour and may no longer be helping you work toward your goals. Not every staffing agency will be a good fit for you, and you might need to switch agencies if you find this to be the case. If you’re unsure what red flags you should look out for, here is how to know it’s time to switch travel nursing agencies.

How to Know It’s Time to Switch Travel Nursing Staffing Agencies

When Is It Time to Switch Travel Nursing Agencies?

There can be many indicators that your relationship with your travel nursing agency isn’t working out. In general, if you aren’t happy with your current agency and feel that your needs are not being met or heard, it’s time to begin the process of moving on.

You Aren’t Presented Many Options for Assignments

It’s likely time to look for a new travel nursing agency if the one you’re currently working with doesn’t have any job options that align with your goals. Many travel nurses have specific career goals in mind, such as expanding their areas of expertise, trying different nursing specialties, and even traveling to new places for work.

Whatever your career goals are, your agency should have enough opportunities and assignment options available for you to explore. That way, you are more likely to find an assignment you’re excited about.

The Recruiters are Pushy or Rude

Dealing with someone that is pushy or rude is never a good situation. Unfortunately, this can happen with recruiters from time to time, as well. Feeling pushed into taking on a new contract or location that you are not comfortable with will likely lead to a bad experience.

If you feel that your travel nursing recruiter is pushing you to do things you are not comfortable with, they may not be looking out for your best interests. Your relationship with your recruiter is a two-way street, so if your needs and wants are not being heard, this is a sign that your agency may not be the right one for you.

You Can Never Get Ahold of Someone

To be successful, you need to be able to reach your recruiter and get a response in a timely manner. If communication is lacking from your staffing agency, this is likely a sign of a larger organizational problem. You deserve a certain level of service from your recruiter and agency. If you aren’t getting the communication you need, it might be time to consider another agency.

Many recruiters make a habit of checking in on their nurses a few times throughout the course of their contracts. The most critical times to speak with your recruiter are near the very beginning and the end of your contract. During these communications, your recruiter will make sure that things are going well in the new role and help set you up for success as you discuss potential upcoming assignments.

Outside of those two crucial time periods, you may hear from your recruiter a few times. However, if you are unhappy with the level of correspondence, you can always discuss your concerns with your recruiter. Your recruiter is here to support you on your travel nursing journey. Proper communication is necessary to ensure that problems can be resolved in a timely manner and that you are happy throughout your travels.

Documents or Paperwork Are Missing or Late

Just like lack of communication, missing or delayed paperwork can be a sign of a larger organization issue. Getting documents to the hospital you signed a contract with is a vital step to making the contract successful. Late documents can delay the start of your contract, causing you to miss out on shifts and money. Missing paperwork is an even bigger problem and contracts may be canceled entirely for this mistake, leaving you without a job.

Compliance can be a long process for both you and the agency. Hospitals have different requirements and expectations for this process. Because of this, most staffing agencies are aggressive about collecting the documents needed for compliance from you at the early stages of planning new contracts.

If your agency is not asking for your credentials and any required documents they don’t already have, reach out to them and ask about the next steps so your contract is not affected or canceled.

Your Recruiter Doesn’t Put Your Best Interests First

Finally, one of the most important red flags you should look out for to know when it’s time to switch travel nursing agencies is if your recruiter doesn’t put your interests before there’s. Some recruiters are just looking to complete a sale; getting you to say yes to an assignment means more money in their pocket, which can be a primary motivation for some.

If you find yourself in a situation where your recruiter is pushing you to say yes, it’s likely time to ask yourself if they are really meeting your needs or helping you to achieve your goals. If the answer is no, it’s probably best to start looking for another agency that will make you a top priority.

3 Tips on How to Leave a Staffing Agency

Leaving a travel nursing staffing agency can cause a lot of anxiety for some people. It’s never an easy thing to do, especially if you need to tell your recruiter that you are unhappy with their performance. To ensure success, consider these tips to help you quit your travel nursing agency.

1. Be Polite

You owe it to the recruiter and the agency you are working with to be polite. Even if they have not been kind to you, it’s important to be the bigger person. No matter what has happened, the agency has been a stepping stone to get you where you are. Respecting them as people is the best way to leave the situation with your reputation still intact. The last thing you want to do is burn bridges that may affect you later in your career.

2. Be Honest

Anything less than honesty helps no one in difficult situations. If there are problems with the agency you are working with, document them and discuss them with your recruiter. It’s best to give the agency your detailed reasons for leaving, since giving feedback can potentially spur positive change for that agency now or in the future. Also, remember to stick to the facts when leaving, and try to keep your emotions at bay.

3. Be Realistic

If you know it’s time to switch travel nursing agencies, be realistic about the things you want to be different when negotiating a contract with your next agency. While a lack of communication is a fair reason to move on, expecting the new agency to be in constant contact with you about positions is not necessarily realistic. Balance what you want with what you can reasonably expect to get.

Changing travel nursing agencies is not something that should be taken lightly. Consider your wants and needs, what your family needs, as well as your own career goals when making the right decision.

Our recruiters at OneStaff Medical are to help if you’re looking for your next travel nursing agency. Contact us today at 877-783-1483 to learn more!

Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.

Sources:

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