Author: Sam Keeler

Nursing Advocacy for LGBTQ+ 

Since 1969, we have designated June as Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall Riots and pursue equality for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community. However, the LGBTQIA+ community faces ongoing discrimination and stigma in our society, even in healthcare. The American Nurses Association (ANA) “condemns discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or expression in health care and recognizes that it continues to be an issue despite the increasing recognition and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ populations.” It’s an important month to remind healthcare providers of the health disparities in the LGBTQIA+ community and educate ourselves on ways to be better advocates. 

Health Care Challenges 

Everyone who needs medical care should receive it without being mistreated, discriminated against, or denied access. Yet, researchers have found inequality in health care, which endangers and affects the mental health of the LGBTQIA+ community. This impact can discourage people from seeking health care. The ANA is continuously spreading systemic awareness and creating a safe and inclusive health care environment for everyone. As a healthcare professional, there are ways to advocate for this marginalized community on an individual level. 

Recommendations

Educate + Advocacy 

It is crucial to stay up-to-date on basic LGBTQIA+ terms, language, and definitions as a health care professional. Staying knowledgeable creates a closer bond with your patient, identifies potential mental and physical health risks, and creates a generally more inclusive and safe environment.

Take advantage of the many resources and hotlines to further your knowledge: 

• Trevor Project: leading organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25 
• American Medical Association: Creating an LGBTQ-Friendly Practice
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: LGBT Health Services 
• Nurses Health Education About LGBT Elders 
• The World Professional Association for Transgender Health: Standards of Care 
• National LGBT Health Education Center

Create an inclusive space 

We all want to feel comfortable, and it is difficult when the space is unknown or uninviting. And years and years of discrimination doesn’t help either. Create a safe place in the hospital, whether that be in the waiting room or medical facility such as: 

• Unisex restrooms
• LGBTQIA+ flags or other symbols that represent inclusiveness
• Anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies 
• Preferred contacts and support systems (LGBTQ+ community more likely to create a chosen family) 
• Establish pronouns prior. Always include your pronouns as well. 

Respect

Putting in the time to educate oneself and creating an inclusive space isn’t enough. Ultimately, a nurse must respect every one of their patient’s gender identity and sexual orientation. This means settings aside one’s personal and religious beliefs in the process. The best strategy is to be unassuming and gender fluid in our language, ask open-ended questions and maintain a non-judgmental behavior. Therefore, creating an enjoyable and safe experience for LGBTQIA+ patients, so they can continue seeking medical attention. Share your pronouns on your name tag or in your introduction to open up a safe and welcoming space. 

All in all, this is an important topic that takes time, patience, and continuous knowledge to stay informed. As nurses, it’s your professional responsibility to ensure all patients are provided with medical care. As the Code of Ethics For Nurses states, “the nurse practices with compassion and respect for every person’s inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes. 

Any advice we’re missing? Let us know!

Nurse of the Month: Anna

Anna is a Telemetry/Medical-Surgical who became a travel nurse when the pandemic started. She’s spent time in California and Arizona. Learn more about Anna below:

What has it been like working during the pandemic?
I was not a travel nurse when the pandemic started but the unit that I was working on became a Covid 19 unit. It was very tough and very frustrating because I see patients getting worst each day instead of getting better. But because my heart is to serve as a nurse I need to have a strong spirit to take care of patients who are sick.

What placements have you had in the past?
I started as a travel nurse last year 2020, in the midst of a pandemic. My first placement was in Arizona in a Medical-Surgical unit in a Neuroscience Hospital for 8 weeks. I also have placement in California, Bay area which I still currently holding placement.

All-time favorite placement?
Alameda, California

Dream Placement?
Hawaii

What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?
I started my career as a healthcare worker in Louisiana as a CNA for 7 years. While working nights I went back to school and finished LPN in a community college. After a year as an LPN on a Medical-Surgical floor, I went back to school and transition to BSN. At this time, I have 6 years of experience as an RN. I’m very adventurous and like challenges. I also had experience in home health services, infusion clinic, trauma unit, but mostly medical-surgical. So I decided to try travel nursing which took me a year to have the courage to pursue it. I talked to a lot of agents until I found Chad (my recruiter) and gave confidence that I can be a travel nurse.

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
What inspired me to become a travel nurse is the challenges of being a flexible nurse and it also inspired me to go see different places in the US.

What is your nursing specialty?
My specialty in nursing is Telemetry/Medical-Surgical.

Favorite hobbies outside of work?
I liked the outdoors. My favorite things to do are walking, hiking, and spending time at the beach.

Best travel nursing story?
One of my best travel nursing experiences is during my placement in Arizona. The hospital is huge and had more than 600 beds in several buildings. I got the chance to be assigned to different floors each day that I work, meet new faces, and learned a lot of nursing stuff.

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?
My favorite part of working with Stability is the consistency. My recruiter followed me in each and every step from assignment to assignment. I felt comfortable talking to them and very professional.

What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?
Since I loved driving, I just brought my blue mini cooper with me. I was amazed that it fits all the things I need.

Any advice for future travelers?
It took a lot of courage for me to be a travel nurse but since I found the right recruiter, I became confident & liked traveling. My advice to future travelers is to find the agency and recruiter the fits your needs will guide you and have open communication.

Top 5 summer placements

As a travel nurse, you have the luxury to choose your next placement location, and what better time than in the summer. There are many options to choose from, like a warm beach town or a city surrounded by mountains. Also, our list comes with sites to visit, restaurants, and things to do while working in the city. Here are our top five locations to choose from this summer: 

New York, New York 

New York City is a prime adventure spot for travel nurses this summer. Not only does this destination offer the highest paying travel nursing jobs, but the city is officially opening back up in July! That is why the summer season is the perfect time to work in this fast-paced metropolis with easy access to subway lines and bus stops. 

While in New York, plan on visiting landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building, and Central Park. During the warm summer days, take advantage of the beaches just a subway or ferry ride away.

Professionally, New York City hospitals were ranked as the best in the country in 2020-21, including New York-Presbyterian’s Columbia and Cornell hospitals ranked fourth in the nation. The attractions, nightlife, and well-ranked hospitals make this destination a must for travel nurses this summer. 

La Jolla, California

Although not a city of its own, La Jolla is a beautiful seaside community in San Diego County. This thriving down-to-earth village is second on our list for many reasons. Despite the fact La Jolla is small, there is a ton to do. This beach town is famous for its outdoor activities, including surfing, tide pools, hiking the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and visiting the sea lion caves. 

Average temperatures in La Jolla range from 50-77 degrees – great for those nurses who want to avoid the heat. In addition, the gloomy clouds dispel during the summer months, making it the perfect season to visit! In addition, Scripps La Jolla Hospitals ranked as a top hospital in San Diego County for the third year in a row. 

Wilmington, North Carolina 

The port city of Wilmington is third on our list for travel nurses this summer. Victorian architecture, historic homes, and brick streets transport you back in time. Voted “America’s Best Riverfront,” Wilmington’s riverwalk features top-rated restaurants, boutiques, and dynamic nightlife. For historical enthusiasts, take a tour of the World War II Battleship NORTH CAROLINA or the many historical homes preserved from the Civil War. 

Wilmington’s travel nursing opportunities include New Hanover Regional Medical Center, which was rated high performing in seven adult procedures and conditions. 

Seattle, Washington

Calling all coffee lovers, foodies, and adventurers. Seattle is a superb place for travel nurses in the summer. Planted right in the Pacific Northwest, this place has many things to do, and not to mention top medical hospitals such as the Swedish Memorial, Virginia Mason, and the University of Washington. 

Explore the famous Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, the first-ever Starbucks, and Pike’s Place Market. On your days off, visit the Pudget Sound, hike Mount Rainier, or scour the countless waterfalls only an hour outside of the city. Seattle has it all! 

Anchorage, Alaska 

Last on our list to travel to this summer is the gateway to Alaska. With long-lasting daylight, wildlife viewings, and temperatures ranging from 60°F – 80°F, summer is the perfect time to visit Anchorage.

Take a day trip to Denali National Park and visit the highest peak in North America, Mt. McKinley. Not only does Alaska have fishing, hiking, glacier-exploring, and amazing wildlife, but it is home to one of the best medical centers, Alaska Native Medical Center. 

Summertime is a great season to explore different cities. To find out what travel nursing opportunities are available in these five cities or other destinations, check out Stability for open roles and check off your bucket list today!  

7 Summer recipes to meal prep for your shift

Warmer temperatures are on the horizon, which means summertime is in full swing! The last thing nurses want to do is spend hours in the kitchen over a hot stove. So, we have you covered with seven meal-prep options that require little to no effort. 

Summer Cobb Salad

Take advantage of seasonal veggies by incorporating them into your meal! A Summer Cobb Salad is a simple dish that takes less than ten minutes. Add in the spring mix of your choice with avocados, berries, corn, and your favorite meat. Sprinkle goat cheese, and top with a balsamic vinaigrette, and you are ready to go!  

Ahi Poke Bowl

A classic Hawaiian dish that tastes like summer. If you enjoy sushi but don’t have the time to make it, this is the next best option. A refreshing, healthy bowl of raw tuna mixed with green onions, sesame, and soy sauce, makes for a great lunch! Here is the recipe for Ahi Poke Bowl. We recommend greens like avocados and cucumbers on the side. 

Caprese Pasta Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and noodles, what more could you want? Caprese pasta salad takes less than twenty minutes and yields a week of servings. Just add olive oil, salt, garlic, pepper to enhance your dish. This meal is great because you can serve it warm or cold. Enjoy! 

Summer Veggie Quesadillas

Summer Veggie Quesadillas require a stove, but it’s a perfect and easy meal for those summer months. Grill up some zucchinis, summer squash, bell peppers, and onions, sprinkle in the cheese of your choice, and add pesto on top! If you make too much, you can freeze them up to four months! 

Watermelon Basil Feta Salad

Watermelon is a huge staple this summer and a must in your next meal. Watermelon Basil Feta Salad is a great option during those hot summer months. Add cucumbers, red onion, feta, basil, and watermelon to make this crisp, simple dish. On the plus side, it’s healthy, so it won’t have you feeling sluggish during those long shifts. 

Cold Chicken-Cheese Kebobs

You heard it right, chicken you don’t have to grill! Chicken-cheese kebobs only requires eight ingredients. Just marinate the chicken overnight to maximize flavor and wallah you have an effortless meal for your next shift. 

Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Chickpeas are the perfect basic for a hot summer day. It takes twenty whole minutes to make a chickpea salad sandwich, and they are great for the entire week. Spice up this dish with your favorite protein, and you are ready to eat. 

Meal-prep is a game-changer – especially for busy nurses! And there are countless benefits to meal-prepping, such as eating healthier, saving on costs, and spending less time in the kitchen. These are just seven recipe options; however, these ingredients are versatile – instead of a chickpea salad sandwich, you can make a chickpea rice bowl! This summer be creative without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ready to plan your next travel nursing placement? See open roles and get started today at Stability.

Tips for Summer Skincare for on the Road Travel Nurses

Taking Care of Your Mental Health as a Travel Nurse

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. During this time, organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) “fight stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.” For travel nurses, this last year (and beyond) were particularly stressful why they were combatting the pandemic. Travel nurses were forced to face more isolation and stress than usual and were often working incredibly long, arduous shifts. This month is a great time to reset your mental health and prioritize adding healthy practices into your daily routine. There are other Stability articles, like “Stress Reducing Tips for Travel Nurses,” that can be used as references and guides, but look below for further tips on how to take care of your mental health as a travel nurse. 

The Stats

Firstly, it’s important to know that people who suffer from mental health issues like depression and anxiety are not alone. According to NAMI, at least 21% of all adults in the United States are affected by some type of mental illness. The two that seem to affect the most people across a 12 month span are anxiety disorders (19%) and depression (8%). NAMI offers plenty of infographics that relay information on estimates of how many people are affected in the states. 

Why is Taking Care of Your Mental Health Important? 

According to a study found on the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health website, “mental illness-related stigma, including that which exists in the healthcare system and among healthcare providers, has been identified as a major barrier to access treatment and recovery, as well as poorer quality physical care for persons with mental illnesses. Stigma also impacts help-seeking behaviors of health providers themselves and negatively mediates their work environment.” Not only does poor mental health affect your ability to take care of yourself, but as a travel nurse, it can affect the quality of care you give your patients. 

Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses

Use talk apps like BetterHealth. 

It might feel hard for a travel nurse to find a counselor or therapist to talk to regularly while on assignment. However, modern technology provides licensed therapists via apps, like BetterHealth. Each counselor on BetterHealth are licensed professionals and must provide proper documentation to work through BetterHealth. There are a few different ways people can speak with BetterHealth professionals, including messaging, phone calls, and video conferencing. Cost varies from $60-$80 a week. 

Journal as much as you can.

As the University of Rochester Medical Center points out, journaling can “[help] you prioritize problems, fears, and concerns,” “[track] any symptoms day-to-day so that you can recognize triggers and learn ways to better control them,” and “[provide] an opportunity for positive self-talk and identifying negative thoughts and behaviors.” Across many medical studies and reputable sources, journaling time and time again has proven to be a beneficial practice. Journaling can be tailored to the specific person – it can be daily, weekly, freeform, structured, etc. If you receive counseling through a talk app like BetterHealth, they may give you prompts to get you started. 

Pamper yourself!

Each person has a different way of pampering themselves, but here are a few ideas: 1) Take an epsom salt bath. This is particularly good for tired muscles, which a lot of travel nurses have after working long shifts. As Healthline points out, epsom salt is “thought to soothe tired muscles and reduce swelling.” 2) Plan a special night in. A day off can be a mini stay-cation including favorite foods, rented movies, a glass of wine, or a good read. 3) Get a massage. Like epsom salt baths, getting a massage from a professional masseuse can help relieve tension in the body, which can help alleviate mental tension. 4) Exercise! This doesn’t have to be lifting weights at a gym (although that is great, too). Exercise is found in many forms, like brisk walking, sports, swimming, etc. 

Stay connected. 

As demonstrated throughout the pandemic, staying connected with friends, family, and loved ones is extremely important. According to the American Psychological Association, there’s evidence linking social isolation “with adverse health consequences including depression, poor sleep quality, impaired executive function, accelerated cognitive decline, poor cardiovascular function and impaired immunity at every stage of life,” all of which can lead to mental health issues. It might seem difficult to do for travel nurses because of long shifts, some of which last through odd hours, but it’s very important to schedule time to chat with people. Luckily, the world is in a modern age, which is helpful to stay socially connected. 

If you’re struggling, speak with a doctor. 

Travel nurses are no stranger to those struggling mentally. There’s an unfortunate stigma surrounding mental health issues, but it is okay, and highly encouraged, to seek out medical care if you feel like you need help. Websites like Psychology Today offer free databases of therapists and psychiatrists that can be reached out to. There are plenty of online resources to get someone started if they’re seeking out care for their mental health. 

All in all, Mental Health Awareness Month is a great time for a person to reset and refocus on themselves. Small steps can lead to big changes and can be beneficial for a person’s overall mental health. Being a travel nurse can be stressful, especially on the outskirts of a pandemic, so it’s especially important for people to remember to prioritize their own health. 

Everything You Need to Know About Postpartum Nurses

Postpartum nurses are a critical player in the process of the birth of a newborn. Their unique set of skills prepares them to work in various medical environments to provide care to mothers and babies. A career as a postpartum nurse is gratifying, rewarding, and filled with opportunities. If you’re interested in a nursing career in this field, keep reading to learn more about becoming a postpartum nurse.

What is a Postpartum Nurse?

As their name implies, postpartum nurses are medical professionals that specialize in postpartum care. They tend to mothers and newborns during the days following the birth. Postpartum nurses have the basic skills of any other specialty, but they also watch out for complications and emergencies. Postpartum nurses also help new mothers learn how to care for their infants and practice self-care during the postpartum process. 

National average salary: $100,695 per year

Job outlook: 16% increase by 2024

Where Do Postpartum Nurses Work?

As you’d imagine, postpartum nurses work in the postpartum and maternity unit of hospitals. However, they can also find jobs in birthing centers. Clinics and private practices may also hire postpartum nurses on their staff. They often work alongside OBGYN doctors, labor and delivery nurses, nursery nurses, lactation consultants, and other specialized practitioners that handle mother/baby care. 

What Kind of Patients Are in a Postpartum Care Unit?

The postpartum care unit receives healthy mothers and babies after delivery. They spend their time in this recovery unit until they’re discharged, usually one or four days later. This unit will not receive postpartum patients that need critical care or emergency care, as it’s not equipped to treat severe health complications. 

What Does a Postpartum Nurse Do?

Postpartum nurses provide quality healthcare to mothers and newborns. They educate new moms on self-care practices and watch out for signs of postpartum depression. Postpartum nurses work in tandem with lactation consultants to assist with breastfeeding. A large part of their role is to provide physical and emotional support to the mom in any way needed. 

Most responsibilities include:

• Assess and monitor the new mother to ensure proper recovery and healing
• Monitor the newborn baby
• Check and clean cesarean incisions if applicable
• Dispense medications as needed
• Educate new parents on infant care
• Help the new mother with the emotional aspects of birth and recovery
• Help the mother establish functional breastfeeding by collaborating with lactation specialists

How Do You Become a Postpartum Nurse?

Before you become a postpartum nurse, you first have to become a registered nurse by obtaining either an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. This will provide you the necessary education to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse. 

As a registered nurse, you can obtain work in various medical settings. Ideally, you’d want to find experience in the maternity unit of a hospital if you’re looking for a career in postpartum nursing. In addition, you should consider advancing your career by seeking specific certifications that relate to postpartum and maternity care.

Common certifications:

• Maternal Newborn Nursing Certification
• Electronic Fetal Monitoring Certification

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Postpartum Unit Nurse?

Postpartum nursing involves a great deal of responsibility. These nurses often handle between three and six patients at a time; thus, organizational skills are critical. An eye for detail is also essential and extensive knowledge of mental health assessments to notice any signs of postpartum depression. 

The most common skills of postpartum unit nurses include:

• Exceptional interpersonal communication skills
• Compassion and patience
• Teaching skills
• In-depth clinical and critical thinking skills
• Mental and emotional strength 
• Assessment capabilities
• Ability to work well as part of a larger care team 

Starting Your Postpartum Nursing Career

A career as a postpartum nurse is emotional, rewarding, and filled with opportunities. It’s important to maintain all certifications up-to-date and seek experience in maternity units to position yourself as the best-qualified candidate. If a nursing career in postpartum care interests you, these steps will help you set yourself as a great candidate. 

At Stability Healthcare, we place nurses in hospitals across the United States, helping them find tremendous opportunities in various fields, including in the postpartum care unit. If you’re ready to kickstart your career, search for your next placement and set up an interview today. 

Nurses Week Highlights

This year for Nurses Week, we’re highlighting the nurses that make Stability Healthcare so special. Take a look: 

Read our full interview below:

What has it been like working during the pandemic?
It was very stressful in the beginning especially because no one really knew what to do but it’s become normal now.

What placements have you had in the past?
Seneca, South Carolina

All-time favorite placement?
Seneca!

Dream Placement?
Hawaii

What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?
I’ve been a nurse for a while. I always wanted to get into travel nursing. I put that thought on hold when covid started, but I realized it wasn’t going anywhere, so here I am.

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
I love to travel so becoming a travel nurse is a great way to do what I love while exploring and having fun.

What is your nursing specialty?
Med Surg

Favorite hobbies outside of work?
Travel and the outdoors

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?
Communication is a big deal for me so I love that I can reach my recruiter and she responds in a timely manner.

What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?
My blue blanket, it gives me a homely feel.

Any advice for future travelers?
Nursing is the same everywhere so don’t stress the little things. Enjoy your time on the road, explore, make friends and make the best out of it.

Read our full interview below:

What has it been like working during the pandemic?
I started out working in a pediatric hospital at the beginning. We hadn’t seen many positive cases affect that population. I then decided to leave my permanent position to travel nurse and help out with the pandemic in the adult population, which was hit much harder, than the kiddos I used to care for.
Once, I relocated to my travel assignment, I had a huge sense of relief and excitement. I was so excited to be in a position to be able to help care for people affected the most by the pandemic.
When I arrived to my hospital in august 2020, I was nervous for the unknown of what I would experience. I had been hearing constant horror stories in the news and social media about hospitals not having supplies and ventilators, that staffing was awful, and patients were dying faster than anyone could process.
Thankfully, that was not my experience! I was welcomed with open arms by a unit of nurses who are kind and supportive. I have never felt so appreciated for all my hard work, as I did when I came to this assignment. We have all worked together to make it thru this year, and I can say it wasn’t as bad as all the horror stories. I truly believe that is only because of the dedication of the amazing nurses who have become my family!

What placements have you had in the past?
I started travel nursing in 2004, and worked throughout the Bay Area and lived every moment! So much that I took a permanent position at a local hospital.

All time favorite placement?
Marian Regional Medical Center

Dream Placement?
Northern California

What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?
I am Canadian born and raised. I went to nursing school in Canada and obtained my BSN, at a time when it wasn’t required or frequently obtained. In the early 2000’s, due to the nursing shortage the USA was experiencing, I was recruited to come and work at a hospital in the Bay Area California. I worked as a travel nurse for a few years, and then loved the area so much, I decided to accept a permanent position, and stayed for 13 years! Then when the pandemic hit, I decided it was time for me to leave and travel nurse to help with the pandemic.

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
See above. As well as, the flexibility it provides, and the value I feel as a travel nurse is much more than when I’ve been on staff permanently. Traveling, allows you to have a life and be a nurse, and you don’t get caught up in unit or manager issues since it’s a short time at any given hospital. However, if you love a place, there is always an option to extend an assignment. It’s truly the best of both worlds. I have had nothing but positive experiences.

What is your nursing specialty?
I started out as a orthopedic/neuro post op nurse for adults. Then spent some time working all areas with pediatrics. I now am working as a medical/surgical telemetry nurse

Favorite hobbies outside of work?
I love the outdoors, talking walks with my dogs and fiancé. I love trying new foods and experiences, but also love to Netflix and chill! Cuddles with my pup are the best way to recover after a long stretch of shifts!

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?
From the moment I reached out on a possible job opportunity, my recruiter Chad, has been amazing! I have felt so supported and encouraged throughout the entire process and throughout my entire assignment. Anytime, I have had questions, or concerns, the response has always been efficient and knowledgeable. I love working with Stability!

What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?
My dog!

Any advice for future travelers?
Take the leap and do it! You won’t be disappointed!

What has it been like working during the pandemic?
Covid-19 era made me realize how crucial it is to spend quality time with our loved ones, there’s nothing certain about life, I’ve been taking care of Covid patients since it started, it was very challenging and overwhelming, it breaks my heart witnessing patient deteriorate without their family at bedside, requesting to speak to their loved ones over the phone during the last moments of their lives was heart-wrenching but you still need to keep going. RN life is challenging but fulfilling being able to help and support the patients at their lowest point of life.

What placements have you had in the past?
I have worked in different areas of nursing from newborns, critical care, to a skilled nursing facility.

All-time favorite placement?
NICU and ICU

Dream Placement?
ICU

What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?
I’ve been traveling since 2006 to different parts of the world to help other countries in need of nurses (Asia, Middle East and Western country).

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
It helped me mold my profession. I have learned a lot from my clinical experiences, met a lot of people, and learned about their cultures – all very rewarding. And of course, being able to travel and work at the same time.

What is your nursing specialty?
Medical/Surgical (most recent)

Favorite hobbies outside of work?
Travel and explore with my family

Best travel nursing story?
Everything!

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?
Being paid on time! 😉 and certainly, their prompt replies to my queries and being proactive most of the time.

What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?
Essential things such as credit cards, cellphone and charger, vitamins, and moisturizers!

Any advice for future travelers?
Be flexible, lower your expectations, be more patient, ask if in doubt! And always have the initiative to help your fellow healthcare providers.

What has it been like working during the pandemic?
Working in a pandemic has challenged me mentally, emotionally, and physically.

What placements have you had in the past?
I am currently working at Dodge County Hospital in Eastman, Ga. This is my very first assignment, which I extended.

What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?
I have been an ER nurse for 3 years. I became a travel nurse because I wanted to travel, meet new people, and make money while doing it.

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
I love being a nurse. I also, love to travel and experience different places. So I decided the best way to incorporate all of the things I love to do was to become a travel nurse.

What is your nursing specialty?
I am an Emergency Room nurse.

Favorite hobbies outside of work?
I love to read, shop, and spend time with my family.

Best travel nursing story?
Being that I have only been on one assignment have nothing to compare. But, I can say that the staff at Dodge County Hospital is the best of all the places that I have been a staff nurse. From my first day at work up until now, I am treated like family. A few days ago we were really busy. I’m talking about can’t go to the bathroom or drink water busy. I knew I wasn’t gonna get a chance to order anything to eat, so, I was prepared to raid the vending machine once I got a chance. But, out of the blue, one of the registration clerks called me and said she was gonna go get me something to eat because she didn’t want me to go without supper (as they call it). That made me feels so special and a part of their family.

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?
My favorite part about working with Stability is the communication. I love how everyone on my team checks in on me frequently. I love how whenever I have a question it is answered promptly.

What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?
I bring books with me everywhere I go. I love to read s I-go novels. So, where ever I go I have a book.

Any advice for future travelers?
The advice I have for future travelers is just be yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t be afraid to make new friends.

What has it been like working during the pandemic?

My first travel assignment was to New York right when the pandemic began. To say the work was not easy would be an understatement. It was a defeating and heartbreaking experience, but to see nurses unite from all over the world while trying to save the lives of Covid patients was uplifting and something I’ll never forget.

What placements have you had in the past?

New York was my first travel assignment.

Dream Placement?

Jamaica

What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?

I’ve been a nurse for 17 years. I wanted to travel to help during the pandemic.

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?

The pandemic

Favorite hobbies outside of work?

Fishing

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?

Money helps put food in my belly 🙂

What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?

Humor

Any advice for future travelers?

Have an open mind, be flexible, and try to soak in the experience

What a year it’s been….a letter to nurses

Reflecting on the year

What a year it’s been. Since last year at this time, we’ve battled a pandemic, created a vaccine, and begun administering it to millions of people. We’ve worked so many shifts that we couldn’t tell the difference between our apartments and the breakroom. We’ve made relationships and formed bonds that will last a lifetime. But most of all, we’ve done our best and made a real difference.

Travel nurses have never been needed more than they were over the past year. For frontline nurses, the trials and tribulations from this past year aren’t over, we’re still in the midst of a pandemic and no one knows where that will take us. But that’s why we have to stop and remind ourselves that it’s okay to take a moment to reflect on how hard the last year was. To recognize how strong and brave the healthcare community is. To give ourselves a little pat on the back for all of the hours we’ve spent at the hospital instead of spending time with our own loved ones. To send some extra love to our chosen families that we’ve found in the late hours of the night in the breakroom battling over the last slice of pizza. To buy ourselves some new compression socks because we deserve it (and let’s face it this is a sign it’s time for some new socks). To take that leap of faith and make the career shift you’ve always wanted. When you really think about it – it’s pretty crazy how much nurses are capable of.

Looking ahead

If anything, this past year has filled us with hope. There is no better time than now to do the things you’ve been saying you want to do. Live in the moment. Take a chance and interview for that placement you can’t stop thinking about. Don’t forget to take care of you and do what makes you happy along the way.

If the last year has proved anything it’s that there are endless opportunities for nurses out there. Ready to take the leap? Head to Stability to browse jobs or talk to one our Nurse Advocates.

Nurses Week Highlight: Shekita

This year for Nurses Week, we’re highlighting the nurses that make Stability Healthcare so special. Meet Shekita. She just got started as a travel nurse, and is loving it so far. You can find her reading, shopping, and spending time with her family in her free time. Learn more about Shekita below: 

What has it been like working during the pandemic?
Working in a pandemic has challenged me mentally, emotionally, and physically.

What placements have you had in the past?
I am currently working at Dodge County Hospital in Eastman, Ga. This is my very first assignment, which I extended.

What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?
I have been an ER nurse for 3 years. I became a travel nurse because I wanted to travel, meet new people, and make money while doing it.

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
I love being a nurse. I also, love to travel and experience different places. So I decided the best way to incorporate all of the things I love to do was to become a travel nurse.

What is your nursing specialty?
I am an Emergency Room nurse.

Favorite hobbies outside of work?
I love to read, shop, and spend time with my family.

Best travel nursing story?
Being that I have only been on one assignment have nothing to compare. But, I can say that the staff at Dodge County Hospital is the best of all the places that I have been a staff nurse. From my first day at work up until now, I am treated like family. A few days ago we were really busy. I’m talking about can’t go to the bathroom or drink water busy. I knew I wasn’t gonna get a chance to order anything to eat, so, I was prepared to raid the vending machine once I got a chance. But, out of the blue, one of the registration clerks called me and said she was gonna go get me something to eat because she didn’t want me to go without supper (as they call it). That made me feels so special and a part of their family.

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?
My favorite part about working with Stability is the communication. I love how everyone on my team checks in on me frequently. I love how whenever I have a question it is answered promptly.

What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?
I bring books with me everywhere I go. I love to read s I-go novels. So, where ever I go I have a book.

Any advice for future travelers?
The advice I have for future travelers is just be yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t be afraid to make new friends.