Did you know that your RN
nursing skills are in demand across the country and that you can use your experience to take
advantage of travel nursing opportunities across America? It's true; your skills can open doors to a flexible RN travel nursing career that can enhance your resume, while also getting you some great pay and benefits.
Traveling nurses enjoy the best of both worlds. The work is stable but it also offers variety. A fresh challenge and adventure comes with every new location. We talked with one of our travel nurses to hear what they love about their job and any advice they have for nurses like you!
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- How many assignments have you been placed with National Staffing Solution?
Which location has been your favorite to work and explore?
I have worked for this company since January of 2015. My first assignment in Bar Harbor, ME was great! In spring I was there for two assignments working as House Supervisor and ICU, which truly was great! I have been lucky to experience all the places that I have been sent to. I especially enjoy my current assignment in Laconia, NH because it is in the Lakes region.
- What is most rewarding about your profession?
I love what I do no matter what or where I am! What’s most rewarding for me is helping sick people get better or sending them to where they need further care. I love meeting all the new people at the hospitals and helping them while they are short staffed.
- In your opinion, what are the best traits needed for success as a travel nurse?
My advice is to act as if you are a guest in someone’s home and to be considerate of your host. You are essentially a guest in their hospital. I stand back and watch where I am and try to be what they need. Everybody has a way they do things, so don’t try to change people. They were there before you arrived and will be there after you leave. Don’t judge management and try to fix it. You need to learn how to adjust.
- What are some of the benefits being a contracted nurse? Why should new grads or other nurses consider this growing travel healthcare industry?
One of the biggest benefits working on contract is that you can move on after you finish if the assignment did not suit you. Meeting new people and learning how things are done in different hospitals and in different styles is a plus to the experience.
- Can you give us your #1 tip for travelers? (Location research, packing, adjusting, etc.)
I always research and try to get a feel of the area that I am traveling to. As for packing, figure out what you need and don’t forget to contact whoever you are renting from. Find out what they will have available and whether extra furnishing is needed.
I have totes separated for all my rooms so I know what I have and what I still need. Adjusting to traveling takes time and you will either love it or hate it. You’re not always greeted with love because some nurses resent travelers. Seek sympathy by reminding them that you are away from family and living in an unfamiliar place.
- Working short-term in several cities can be challenging. Have you faced any obstacles while on assignment? How did you overcome them? (If you have a specific story, it would be great!)
In the past, I was working for a different agency that assigned me to a level 2 ER trauma hospital. The education nurse only gave me 4 hours on the computer system and then told me to learn as I go by taking one patient at a time. When I went to the floor, the nurse on shift handed me four patients and walked off. The hospital was very unsafe and unethical at times.
I called my recruiter at the time and instead of taking care of the situation, things became worse. I felt as though my license was in jeopardy so I documented all messages with my recruiter and manager before choosing to leave the assignment. I do not suggest that anyone leave like I did unless you have no other choice.
- The support you have from your recruiter ensures that things will run smoothly before, during, and in the transition to your next assignment. How would you describe your relationship with your recruiter?
I have always felt protected with NSS. Corey is my recruiter and we have a great relationship. Josh is also very nice and has worked with me no matter what. The one thing I would express is to research the area and trust your company.
- With the holidays coming up, do you do anything special to make yourself feel at home while away from home?
I decorate my apartment with the stuff I have acquired over the years. I bring special things with me so when I look around; I have a little bit of home there. I also have been very lucky to have great coworkers that invite me to different activities!
If you would like to share your travel assignment experiences with National Staffing Solutions, please email Marketing@NationalStaff.com.
We have Recruiters for Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Language Pathology, Nursing, and Advanced Practice that are knowledgeable in the industry and are determined to creating a lasting relationship with you while working with us!