Imagine yourself hopping from one city to another while doing what you love: providing patient care. Travel nursing is the ticket to a lifetime adventure where you can make money, gain experience, and explore new cities. However, it is important to know that if you are thinking of jumping into a travel nursing career, you must be prepared for it. If you are a new travel nurse ready to dive into this adventurous career, you are in the right place. in this blog, we have gathered top advice for new travel nurses on how to make your first assignment smooth and successful.
Choosing the right assignment
If you have already decided to become a travel nurse and are ready to embark on an exciting journey, then choosing the right assignment is the first thing you should consider. Travel nursing might seem fun and exciting but if you don’t choose the assignment that matches your needs and interests then it can be very challenging. Our first advice to new travel nurses will be to know what you want and consider your preferences. Factors to consider while choosing your first assignment are:
- Geographical preferences
- Specialty focus e.g., ICU, ER, etc.
- Work environments such as nursing homes, hospitals, etc.
- Pay rate, bonuses, and benefits.
- Duration and flexibility of an assignment.
- Cultural preferences.
- Reputation of the facility.
Do your Research
The next advice we can give to new travel nurses is to do research and explore the area before signing the assignment. Familiarizing yourself with the area will help you adjust quickly and will make your stay easy and smooth. Things you should consider after arriving at the location are:
- Familiarity with the route.
- Parking considerations.
- Explore the neighborhood and discover local essentials.
- Research on local attractions and things that you might consider doing in your free time.
- Location of grocery stores, gyms, and restaurants.
Asking questions before saying yes to the assignment
Our next piece of advice to the new travel nurses will be to ask the right questions before saying yes to the travel nursing assignment. asking questions is a sign of professionalism and commitment. Here are the reasons why asking questions is vital for travel nurses:
- To ensure safe patient care.
- To understand the policies and equipment of the facility
- Help you learn from your colleagues.
- Staying informed.
What to ask?
Here is the list of questions you can ask before signing the contract.
- Facilities emergency protocols
- Infection control guidelines of the facility
- Shift handover procedures.
- Patient ratios.
- Technologies and equipment used in the facility.
- Workflows and charting systems.
- Rapid response calls and code policies.
- Schedules and time policies.
- Break areas and resources.
Maintaining connections within and beyond the hospital
The next important piece of advice we would give to our new travel nurses is to stay connected both in and outside the hospital. Building connections with colleagues and engaging with the local community can make you feel supported and comfortable.
Why is connection important?
- Support and positive connections at the workplace.
- Fostering a positive work environment.
- Social support outside work makes you feel less isolated.
- Stress relief
- More enjoyable experience.
Maintaining Presence During Your Assignment
For your professional success and personal growth, being present mentally and emotionally is important for your travel nursing assignment. let us discuss why being present is important.
- Maximize learning and understanding during orientation.
- Enhance patient care.
- Meaningful engagement with your colleagues
- Being present will remove stress and prevent burnout.
- Fully appreciate and engage during our time.
Tips for staying present during your assignment
- Start your day calmly.
- Set a positive intention for the day.
- Stay engaged with your task.
- Take regular breaks.
- Build relationships with your co-workers.
- Participate in activities.
- Ask questions and offer help if needed.
Have a snack ready
Okay, so another advice for you will be to have a snack ready. We all know that travel nursing is a hectic job and during your duties, you might forget to eat lunch or drink water. The same goes for your colleagues and team members too. Offering snacks could go a long way and can brighten someone’s day. It is not just a snack but a way to appreciate their hard work and care for their well-being. This can also help build positive relations with your team members and colleagues.
Taking care of yourself
Travel nursing is a demanding job both physically and mentally therefore it is important to take care of yourself to prevent burning out. Some of the tips on how to take care of yourself during your travel nursing assignment are:
- Maintain work-life balance.
- Prioritize mental health.
- Be physically active by doing yoga and exercise.
- Seek professional help if you are feeling emotionally drained.
- Engage yourself in hobbies and activities.
- Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
Conclusion
If you are choosing travel nursing as your career it is important to know that it requires research, preparation, and dedication. Our advice to first-time travel nurses is to do your research before saying yes to the assignment our choosing travel nursing as your career. Some of the tips for travel nurses include maintaining a healthy work-life balance, taking care of yourself, and fostering positive relationships within and outside the hospital. With the help of these tips, you can navigate the challenges of travel nursing by making your experience enjoyable.