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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 Highlight: Donnabelle

This year for Nurses Week, we’re highlighting the nurses that make Stability Healthcare so special. Meet Donnabelle. She has traveled all over the world working as a nurse to help in different countries with needs for nurses. Read more below: 

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.

Ready for your dream travel nursing job? Find your next placement at Stability Healthcare.

How to Make & Keep Friends as a Travel Nurse

Moving to a new city is always exciting, especially when you have a new assignment lined up. But, it also means leaving the friends and acquaintances you’ve made behind. It can be challenging to make new friends as a travel nurse every time you change locations. We all know it. It’s not relatively as easy as it was when we were younger. 

In-person connections are essential for your mental health and to help you experience new things in the neighborhood. Here are some tips on how to make (and keep) friends as a travel nurse. 

1. Join Groups

Nowadays, you can easily find groups of people who share your interests. A popular one is Meetup, where you can check out available groups near your zip code. You can find people who play sports, love the outdoors, explore new restaurants, and more. Once you join these groups, you’ll receive details of meeting times so that you can connect with members in person. This is an excellent idea if you’re a bit introverted and have difficulties being outgoing at work. 

2. Leverage the Power of Social Media

Social media can be great for keeping up with new friends. Not to mention, Facebook is a great place to find events in your new neighborhood. Another awesome new feature is Facebook groups, so you can see what people living in your area are up to, or choose a group of people who share your interests. It’s easy to find specific Facebook groups for travel nurses in different states. Here are some Facebook Groups to consider:

• Travel Nurse Housing
• NICU Nurses & Travel Nurses
• Passports and Preemies Travel Community

3. Ask Coworkers for Advice

You’re probably not the only one with this problem. Ask your new coworkers for advice on how to meet new people outside of the hospital. It might be a good idea to ask them about their favorite activities, the things every tourist should experience, or maybe their favorite restaurant in the area. This conversation gives you the perfect opportunity to engage with them and even invite them along for your plans. 

4. Be Outgoing at Work

It goes without saying, but being outgoing at work is the best way to make new friends as a travel nurse. If you don’t try to make friends with the people you spend most of the day with, it will be hard to meet people elsewhere. You might not like everyone, and not everyone will love you back, but keep trying and put yourself out there making plans with others as much as you can. 

5. Join a Class

Depending on your schedule, you might or might not have to find a class. If you have a hobby, whether it is painting or exercising, consider joining a local class. This is a great option to treat your body and mental health while also meeting new people. Most of the time, you can find someone that aligns with your values in this class and try some activities afterward. 

6. Visit Coffee Shops

Independent stores, coffee shops, bars, and even libraries are great places to catch up and learn about local groups and events. They’re also great places to make new friends, as most of the time, these places host events and gatherings. 

7. Consider Apps

Not dating apps, but friendship apps. Many apps are designed to help people make friends, and these are great for travel nurses always moving around. You can find people, very much like yourself, looking to make new friends and explore their city together. Apps like Bumble BFF, Code Happy, Supper Club, and Nextdoor are great options to start looking at. You might even find your next roommate! 

Once you make new friends, don’t neglect them. Even with your busy schedule, do your best to keep up with them. Nowadays, it’s easy to send someone a text, schedule a video call, or comment on their social media posts. Don’t forget that a good, classic phone call is always a great way to connect.

Yes, making friends and keeping friends as a travel nurse can be challenging. But don’t lose hope. Once you’re settled into your new place, consider throwing an old-fashion house-warming party and invite your coworkers and neighbors. Making friends can be easier for some nurses than others. It depends on your personality. Hopefully, these options will give you some guidance on how to put yourself out there and start making friends. 

Ready to make some new friends!? Find your next placement at Stability Healthcare.

Most Beautiful Places to Travel – Earth Day Edition

Happy Earth Day! In honor of Earth Day this year, we thought it would be fun to put together a list of some of the most beautiful places in the US that you can visit while on a travel nursing placement. Get your pen and paper out, you’re going to want to add these to your bucket list.

via @jess.wandering

Havasupai Falls, Arizona

You know those places you see photos of and they just don’t even seem real? Havasupai Falls is one of them. The falls are located in the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Due to the high volume of people that want to visit the falls, you must buy a pass to hike there in advance for select dates. So if you’re looking to see the falls, make sure you’re planning it out, but trust us it’s well worth it! Planning your adventure to Havasupai Falls? Try a placement in Northern Arizona.

via @franckreporter

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, California

The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park is home to the world’s largest tree – the giant sequoia. Wandering through the park reminds you of how small we really are in the grand scheme of things. The best part? There are campgrounds so you can camp or stay in a cabin amongst the glorious sequoia trees. If you’re looking to spend your days amongst the trees, try a placement in Fresno.

via @neohumanity

Death Valley National Park, California

If the name doesn’t say enough, Death Vallery National Park is the hottest, driest, and lowest National Park in the country. The park lies on the border of California and Nevada, making  Scaling Zabriskie Point will leave you with unmatched views like you’ve never seen before. Try a placement in Las Vegas for some extra fun and easy access to the park. 

via @themandagies

Glacier National Park, Montana

One of the biggest draws to the park is the going-to-the-sun road. It spans 50 miles and goes through the mountains and over the Continental Divide. One at the top of the road, you’ll have your pick of hiking trails that all lead to their own hidden gems like Avalance Lake. Ready to see what other hidden gems are waiting to be discovered in Glacier National park, try a placement in Montana.

via getty images

The Palouse, Washington, Idaho, and Oregon

The Palouse is a lush sprawling rolling green hills located in Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. According to The Seven Wonders of Washington State website, “The hills were formed over tens of thousands of years from windblown dust and silt, called ‘loess.'” The hills are mostly an agricultural area of wheat and legumes, but it makes for a stunning view. Check out any PNW placement if you’re looking for views of the Palouse.

Want to explore one (or maybe all) of these incredible scenes? Stability Healthcare has got you covered. Check out open positions and apply for your next role today!

Everything You Need to Know About Post Anesthesia Nurses

Post-anesthesia nurses are highly popular and needed in almost every medical environment. They’re specialized nurses providing care for patients who have gone under anesthesia. This is particularly important since sometimes patients can experience side effects of anesthesia or have trouble regaining consciousness. Post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurses can enjoy a long and rewarding career in their field, often finding employment in many settings. If a career as a PACU nurse intrigues you, keep reading to learn about what you need to know to start your path toward becoming one. 

What is a Post Anesthesia Nurse?

As their name states, post-anesthesia nurses care for patients who have gone under anesthesia. They observe and treat patients post-operation to make sure they safely awake from anesthesia. PACU nurses care for vital signs, measure consciousness levels, and ensure sedation is wearing off properly. 

Unlike operating room nurses, PACU nurses take care of patients once they leave the operating room. Similarly, PACU nurses are not mistaken with nurse anesthetists, who have specialized and advanced nursing degrees. 

National average salary: $94,966 per year

Job outlook: 12% increase by 2028

Where Do Post-Anesthesia Nurses Work?

Post-anesthesia nurses work in the post-anesthesia care unit in hospitals. While this is a critical care unit, patients here have gone under anesthesia but do not need close monitoring like in an ICU. Sometimes PACU nurses can find employment in other medical facilities that provide treatments that require anesthesia, such as testing facilities and ambulatories. 

What Kind of Patients Are in a Post-Anesthesia Care Unit?

Patients in the post-anesthesia care unit aren’t in any danger. These patients have gone under anesthesia and are transferred here for close monitoring until they’re fully awake. These patients haven’t undergone any major surgical procedure that requires intensive care. Otherwise, patients would be transferred to the ICU instead. 

What Does a Post-Anesthesia Nurse Do?

PACU nurses work in the recovery room, becoming one of the first people they see after a procedure. Because some patients experience side effects such as nausea, fear, agitation, and difficulty breathing, post-anesthesia nurses are there to care for and monitor their progress. Sometimes, PACU nurses may also be responsible for helping patients stand and completing the discharge process. 

Post-anesthesia nurses provide comfort and assurance. They explain to family members the anesthesia side effects and answer any potential questions. This close connection to patients and families means PACU nurses need to be understanding and compassionate.

Most responsibilities include:

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make quick critical decisions
• Respond to complications administering medications and assisting in other procedures as needed
• Monitor post-operative patients’ levels of consciousness
• Measure and record patients’ vital signs
• Treat pain, nausea, and other post-operative symptoms of anesthesia
• Provide comfort and reassurance to distressed patients
• Educate patients and family members on post-surgery care

How Do You Become a Post-Anesthesia Nurse?

Like other nursing specializations, the journey to becoming a PACU nurse starts with getting certified as a registered nurse. Gaining experience in the post-anesthesia care unit is enough to start carving a career in this field. However, you can also further your education by becoming a certified post-anesthesia nurse (CPAN). 

Common certifications:

• Certified post-anesthesia nurse (CPAN)
• Certified ambulatory perianesthesia (CAPA) nurse
• Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Post-Anesthesia Unit Nurse?

Most PACU nurses handle between one to two patients at a time, so it’s considered a less stressful nursing job. Still, it is paramount that good PACU nurses have strong nursing skills and make quick decisions about their care. Compassion, communication, and collaborative skills are crucial in this position. PACU nurses often are part of a larger team and must work in a group environment. 

Most common skills or post-anesthesia unit nurses include:

• Experience in intensive care unit or post-anesthesia care unit
• Proficiency in electronic hospital management systems
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills 

Starting Your Post-Anesthesia Nursing Career

Many consider a post-anesthesia nursing career the stepping stone to reach more highly specialized positions. Obtaining experience in the post-anesthesia care unit can prep nurses to assist in the operating room or even become anesthetic nurses in the future. If a nursing career in post-anesthesia care interests you, these steps will help you position 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 post-anesthesia care unit. If you’re ready to kickstart your career, search for your next placement and set up an interview today. 

Everything You Need to Know About Burn Unit Nurses

Burn unit nurses are specialized healthcare professionals with experience in burn trauma. Nurses are part of a larger team of practitioners that help patients who’ve suffered burn injuries. Burn unit nurses practice what we know as critical care since most of their patients arrive from emergencies. If you’re interested in a nursing career with a high degree of specialization, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about burn unit nurses, their career path, salaries, and more. 

What is a Burn Unit Nurse?

A burn care nurse specializes in caring for patients who suffer burn injuries and other kinds of trauma. They treat and monitor burn wounds, assess emotional trauma, and offer critical care and trauma recovery assistance. A burn care nurse helps trauma doctors evaluate burns, clean wounds, administer medication, and assist in the early rehabilitation stages. 

National average salary: $68,250 per year

Job outlook: 16% increase by 2024

Where Do Burn Care Nurses Work?

It’s not surprising to find out that most burn care nurses spend most of their shifts in the Burn Care Unit (BCU) or the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of hospitals. However, they can also work in a hospital’s Emergency Room (ER) and their trauma center. Sometimes, burn care nurses also work in outpatient facilities providing support and rehabilitation services for patients recovering from burn injuries. 

What Kind of Patients Are in a Burn Unit?

The burn unit is a specialized area that’s almost hosted within the ICU. Here, you’ll find patients who’ve suffered burn injuries from contact with fire, chemicals, electricity, or oil. However, you’re also likely to find trauma patients and anyone in critical conditions requiring immediate trauma assistance. 

What Does a Burn Unit Nurse Do?

A burn care nurse has a multifaceted role that provides assistance where and when needed. They can help with triage, stabilization, fluid balance, and pain management. However, they can also help in the rehabilitation process by offering emotional support. Overall, burn nurses treat patients suffering from burn injuries. They clean, bandage, and monitor wounds, as well as educate patients about their ongoing treatment. 

Most responsibilities include:

• Assess, dress, and monitor burn wounds
• Stabilize burned patients
• Maintain patient’s comfort and assist in pain management
• Administer medications
• Monitor the patient’s psychological state and emotional well-being
• Educate the patient and the family about burn wound care, rehab procedures, and how to seek emotional support

How Do You Become a Burn Unit Nurse?

The journey to becoming a burn unit nurse starts like many other nursing careers, with a nursing degree and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Most nurses are looking for a job in burn care to get professional experience in the trauma unit or ICU. Overall, education requirements and preferences will vary by employer. However, certifications in Advanced Burn Life Support and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support can help position yourself as a valuable candidate.

Common certifications:

• Advanced Burn Life Support
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
• Critical Care Nursing (CCRN) for Adult Patients Certification
• Certified Wound Specialist (CWS)
• Wound Care Certified Certification (WCCC)
• Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Certification (WOCC)
• Trauma Nursing Core Course
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

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

Burn nurses’ role is an advanced one that requires clinical and technical skills that allows them to provide comprehensive care to patients. They need to be knowledgeable in various treatments to assess the different types of injuries they treat. 

Due to its nature, burn care is one of the most challenging specialties in nursing. This position calls for sharp critical thinking alongside specialized clinical skills. 

Most common skills or burn unit nurses include:

• Triage experience
• Fluid balance experience
• Trauma recovery and rehabilitation experience
• Excellent communication skills
• Emotional stability and coping skills
• Critical problem-solving
• Compassionate
• Technical ability to utilize medical equipment 

Starting Your Burn Care Nursing Career

A career as a burn care nurse is thrilling, challenging, but also extremely rewarding. If a nursing career in this specialty interests you, there are a set of steps that can help you position yourself as a great candidate. At Stability Healthcare, we place nurses in hospitals across the United States. You’ll earn high compensation, premium health benefits, PTO, guaranteed stipends, 401(k), paid compliance, and more. Search for your next placement and set up an interview today!

Top 5 Travel Nursing Podcasts of 2021

You are one of the elite group of about 25,000 that can call themselves traveling nurses. And, there are podcasts made just for you!

Podcasts for traveling nurses help to provide an outlet for information to stay current and updated with changes in the profession, and also to stay entertained. Have you tuned in to some of these nursing podcasts already, or are you just starting your search? Let’s check out the top 5.

Play That Podcast

Why podcasts? Nursing is a challenging profession, and when you add in the issues of traveling it becomes even more difficult. But, it’s our lives, and we wouldn’t change it for the world.

Podcasts are a way to become educated, informed, and even unwind with content that we can tune into, pause, and restart whenever we have time. Audio allows us to listen in as we travel by plane, train, automobile (or on foot.)

Do you have stories/experiences that you would like to share? Many of these podcast hosts would love to hear from you!

Good Nurse Bad Nurse

If you are going to get hooked on a podcast, at least let it be a long-running one. Good Nurse Bad Nurse podcast host Tina describes her work as educational and encouraging material for nurses. Episodes are long (30 mins-90 mins) which is great for those days when you have the time to relax and enjoy, or for long travel days.

Your Next Shift: A Nursing Career Podcast

With almost 200 episodes, this “cutting edge” podcast informs and educates nurses so that they can show up as their best self on their next shift- as host Elizabeth Scala claims. More than just another informative podcast, Your Next Shift is thrilling and entertaining with guest nurses from all over the world telling their stories about their nursing jobs.

This podcast gives you the strength to go on when you wake up feeling like you can’t. Remember why you chose this profession, and what the benefits of traveling nursing are.

Cardium

Their motto is “getting to the heart of travel healthcare,” and they cover not only travel nursing culture but all types of traveling healthcare workers. Relatable content from professionals and fellow travelers. Hosted by former healthcare workers, Sunny and Mark.

There are about 30 episodes with a lengthy write up describing the material that is covered in each episode so that you can read through and decide if you want to listen or skip to the next one.

Nursing Uncensored

Do you want to hear real people talk about real problems? Nursing Uncensored deals with the mental and physical health issues of nurses, and tons of other subjects surrounding the realities that nurses personally face every day.

This podcast is unique in that it covers some controversial topics, not just the vanilla stuff. There’s more to love about Nursing Uncensored with Adrienne’s blog, and videos on her website.

The Happy Traveler

Nurse Kelley talks about self-care, traveling with your family, working as a nurse during the Covid-19 pandemic, and much more. Episodes are short and sweet ranging from 8 minutes to about half an hour, available on Apple podcasts.

Nursing Podcasts

To take care of others, you must first take care of yourself. That’s what nursing podcasts are there for! Tune in, and tune out.

If you are looking for a new agency or just getting into the travel nursing field, look no further than Stability Healthcare. Start your next adventure now.

Ways to Find a Roommate as a Travel Nurse

Nursing is physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging work. No matter where your job as a travel nurse takes you, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to land at the end of the day.

But finding cozy, affordable travel nurse housing can be difficult. Before you commit to an assignment, it’s important to explore the area’s housing options. Make sure there are living spaces available that suit your taste and budget.

Finding a roommate is a great way to expand your choices, save money, and enjoy built-in companionship. Luckily, the internet makes it easy to connect with others who want to share housing.

Are you ready to meet your next travel nursing roomie? If you answered yes, read on for our guide on how to find a roommate as a travel nurse.

The Benefits of Living With a Roommate

Cutting costs isn’t the only benefit of living with a roommate. There are many reasons to share your space when you’re travel nursing.

Making friends in a new city doesn’t happen overnight. It can be hard to have a healthy social life when you move every few months. Finding a roommate means you’ll have immediate company.

Loneliness is a real bummer, and it comes with health consequences. You’ll be grateful to have a support system while you learn to live in your latest location.

It’s even better if you can room with a fellow travel nurse. They will be able to relate to the ups and downs of your transient career. Other travel nurses won’t be bothered by your unpredictable schedule and long hours.

With a roommate, it’s often possible to upgrade your accommodations. A space you wouldn’t be able to afford alone becomes an option when you split the rent. Keep in mind that your housing can make or break the travel nursing experience.

Additionally, if you rent a room from a homeowner, you won’t have to worry about maintenance. Your landlord will be your roommate and your property manager, so you can focus on work and recreation.

Now that you know why roommates are great while travel nursing, here’s how to find them.

Use Your Networking Skills

Many travel nurses find roommates through word of mouth. Do you know someone in the city you’ll be visiting? Ask them for tips.

You’ll be surprised to find out how much people love to help travel nurses find housing. Friends, family members, and friends of friends often have rooms to rent. Sometimes they are even looking for a housesitter.

Stay Social on Facebook

Facebook is a great place to look for accommodations. Search for a travel nursing group specific to your destination. These pages are full of helpful information from nurses who have successfully worked there before.

Someone might even be looking for a roommate. Post about yourself and let everyone know you need a place to live. Keep an eye on the comments for ideas and advice.

You can also look for rentals on Facebook Marketplace. Browse the Property Rentals section for shared, short-term apartments. This is a great tool for international travel nursing assignments.

Negotiate an Airbnb Stay

Travel nursing jobs are often located in places with thriving Airbnb communities. If you find an Airbnb listing you love, ask the host if they will negotiate an extended stay. You might be able to move into their extra bedroom for the duration of your contract.

It’s also possible to reserve an Airbnb for a week or two when you arrive. This will give you time to explore other rentals without worrying about where to sleep.

Browse Craigslist for Hidden Gems

There are hidden gems to be found in the shared housing section of Craigslist. We have heard from plenty of travel nurses who found great roommates this way.

Stay safe by meeting with potential roomies in a public place before you visit the house. Alternatively, bring a friend or co-worker along when you view properties.

Check Furnished Finder

Furnished Finder is a favorite among travel nurses. Landlords on the site are familiar with the domestic travel nursing schedule, and they often cater to nurses. You can request to be connected with potential roommates.

They even offer a travel nurse stipend calculator to help you budget for your next location.

Ask Your Agency for Ideas

If you’re still stuck, ask your agency for help. Travel nursing companies assist nurses with housing questions all the time. If they can’t answer your question directly, they will tell you who to contact.

You might be scheduled to begin your assignment with a group of other travel nurses. If that’s the case, your agency can put you in touch with them to coordinate shared housing.

Before You Sign on the Line

Did you find a roommate? Before you commit, talk about your habits and priorities to avoid future conflict.

Your roommate will need to know if you have pets. They will also want to know if they should expect frequent visitors.

Are you a smoker, a neat freak, or a night owl? Be upfront about these things.

You should also discuss how you will share responsibilities. Who will clean and who will call the landlord when something needs to be fixed?

There are no right or wrong answers, but good communication leads to happier living.

A Roommate Can Improve Your Travel Nurse Experience

Looking for someone to share your housing with can feel overwhelming at first. These tips will make the process smoother and faster. Keep in mind that you can always ask your agency for help if you need it.

Finding a roommate can make your experience as a travel nurse more enjoyable and more lucrative. You’ll gain a friend while saving money for adventures and experiences.

Even if your roomie doesn’t become your best friend, you’ll have a valuable support network in your new city. Over time, you’ll develop a network of contacts all over the world.

If you are interested in starting a travel nursing career, Stability Healthcare can help. Check out our open jobs today to get started.