nursing tips Tag

Nurse of the Month: Laura

We’re excited to introduce our Nurse of the Month, Laura! Laura is a PACU nurse that just began her travel journey. We chatted with her while she is absolutely shining in her first placement in Raleigh, North Carolina. Learn more about our Nurse of the Month:

What has it been like working during the pandemic?

It was a hard year with a lot of changes in healthcare and the world. My decision to do traveling nursing just made sense. The pandemic was the catalyst I needed to make some serious changes in my life.

What placements have you had in the past?

I chose a hospital in Raleigh, NC bc it all fell into place. I saw an opportunity to be in a new part of the country and I was excited for the experience.

All-time favorite placement?

Raleigh was the first of what I hope will be many others.

Dream Placement?

Hawaii

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

I have been a nurse for 26 years. I worked in the ER for 7 of those years and then got a job in PACU where I have been for over 15 years.

What inspired you to become a travel nurse?

The pandemic made me want to see what the rest of the world was like. I figured there was no time like the present to do something I have always wanted to do and not to put off what I could do now until later.

What is your nursing specialty?

PACU is where I love to be and working there just came naturally to me. It was a good fit.

Favorite hobbies outside of work?

I love to bake and cook. I stay active by going to Zumba classes and training to run races.

Best travel nursing story?

It’s no secret traveling nurses aren’t always welcomed in the unit they choose. But the PACU at the hospital in Raleigh made me feel like I was part of the team from the start, and that meant the world to me.

What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?

All expectations were communicated and if I had any questions or concerns, I felt comfortable asking and Stability helped any way they could.

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

I am easy going and I adapt to new situations quickly. As a traveler that is important.

Any advice for future travelers?

If you aren’t sure you want to do it, don’t be afraid. If the pandemic taught me anything, it is that life is too short to put things off until later. The money is great, but the opportunity to see and do new things and meet new people, is what it was really about for me. My assignment surpassed all of my expectations and then some.

8 Tik Tokers You Need to Follow

This may come as a surprise, but one of the best ways to get a look into the life of a travel nurse is to, well, go on Tik Tok! Tik Tok gives a platform to anyone to create any kind of content, and there are plenty of travel nurses that make videos about their experiences. Here are a few of our favorites:

@sibsrn

If you’re interested in becoming a travel nurse but don’t really know where to start, @sibsrn is your kind of Tik Toker! She makes videos that are direct and to the point – like the benefits of applying to jobs you think you may not be right for, how to handle a long-distance relationship while being a travel nurse, and skincare basics for a nurse. She makes videos for things you wouldn’t even think of right off the bat, but as soon as you watch them, you’re glad you did! Every so often she gives updates on where her position is, how she’s liking it, and where she’s going next. 

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

@byerneston

@byernestion is one of the most well-followed travel nurses on Tik Tok. He’s a strong advocate for Black rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and for being yourself! He’s one of Tik Tok’s travel nurses that posts most regularly, so you can always have new content to see. He is also very blunt when he answers commenters’ questions, so you get an honest viewpoint on his feelings pertaining to being a travel nurse. 

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

@laughingbabe

Courtney Maree (@laughingbabe) shows the adventure-filled lifestyle that travel nurses can live and shares all of her tips and tricks so you can do the same. Her content is the perfect mix of relatable, educational, funny, and also serious. Her positive energy and content creates a welcoming and supportive place for nurses of all levels to enjoy.

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

@courtneyzanee25 

Most of @courtneyzanee25’s Tik Toks delve into the benefits of being a travel nurse, but with a humorous twist! You can watch her pick out which scrub cap she’s going to wear for her shift, see her use memes to illustrate the monetary benefits of being a travel nurse and learn about some of the activities she does where she’s stationed. She injects plenty of her personality in each Tik Tok, making the content more relatable, even for those who aren’t nurses! It’s a good mix of classic Tik Tok dances and funny, informational videos. The comment sections are great to read because they’re often filled with input from other travel nurses or people who are interested in becoming a travel nurse. 

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

@reesesRN 

@reesesRN is a travel ICU nurse. Her Tik Toks chronicle why she wanted to be a travel nurse, how she became one, and what she typically does on her shifts. Her content is very relevant and mirrors today’s social issues. Some videos help expel myths about the COVID vaccine, some advocate for human rights, and some are more lighthearted, like giving insights into what different parts of a hospital smell like. She also often answers questions about travel nursing that other users comment on. All of her videos are informative and important and are up to date with modern medical and social issues. 

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

@charley1969

@charley1969 is an ICU travel nurse. There are plenty of great, humorous Tik Tokers, and although @charley1969 is funny, they also have more serious videos thrown in that deal with the hard, emotional sides of being a travel nurse. They provide a realistic side of being a travel nurse that many don’t often see. However, despite the somber tones of some of their Tik Toks, @charley1969 often still offers a positive, encouraging outlook that sheds light on how important travel nurses are. 

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

@travelnurseoftiktokaf

@travelnursetiktokaf uses Tik Tok as a platform to help staff nurses transition to travel nurses. With a plethora of information on travel nursing out there, it is awesome to see the ins and outs of travel nursing from a travel nurse. This account gives a look at the money side of things and how to navigate the profession, but also shines a light on the experiences, the people, and the fun parts of travel nursing. Her videos have you thinking, “who wouldn’t want to be a travel nurse?”

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

@mackyoustoopid

@mackyoustoopd is another great example of a Tik Toker who creates hilarious bits that not only give you a good laugh but give you first-person thoughts on being a travel CNA! Although most of his content is pretty specific to being a travel CNA, they’re still funny overall and are certainly appealing to anyone who already works in a medical field. Since he posts so many videos on a regular basis, his content spans from the typical occurrences of a night shift to what it’s like working with patients (in his case, specifically for patients in the Psych ward).

Some of our favorite Tik Toks: One | Two | Three

Are these Tik Toks inspiring you to hop on the travel nursing train? Find open positions and set up an interview today for your next placement with Stability.

Keep Your Feet Healthy with These Compression Socks

Nurses are on their feet, all day, every day—especially travel nurses who are always going. With demanding work, long shifts, and working to get everything done, feet can suffer. Painful feet, swollen ankles, varicose veins, and even blood clots can arise from the stress. So it’s critical to take good care of your feet. A good pair of compression socks can help tremendously.

Compression socks work to alleviate the issues that nurses face being on their feet all day. The tight fabric can assist circulation in the feet and legs and help reduce pain and swelling—immensely important for the busy travel nurse. They also work to increase blood flow and oxygen, not just in your feet and legs, but in your whole body. Next to your nursing shoes, compression socks are one of the best purchases you can make for the longevity of your feet and legs.

How to Pick Compression Socks

No doubt nurses will be familiar with this unit as a measure of blood pressure through millimeters of mercury. Compression socks are categorized in strengths using this same unit—the higher the mmHg, the thicker and tighter the sock. Not including prescription-level, compression socks come in three degrees of strength: mild, medium, and firm.

Mild compression socks provide only a slight level of compression and will have an mmHg of between eight and 15. For busy travel nurses, this may not be strong enough to fight pain and poor circulation.

Medium level compression socks are what most nurses use and measure between 15-20 mmHg. This level of compression should provide a good amount of relief from long periods of standing and walk.

Lastly, a firm-level of compression measures between 20 and 30 mmHg and should be reserved for the most intense workers who need an extreme level of compression support. They can relieve moderate to intense swelling, orthostatic hypotension, and even deep vein thrombosis.

The Best Compression Socks for Nurses in 2021

Now that you know the differences and details of compression socks, you can start shopping for a good pair—or two! Below are a few of our favorites for 2021.

Figs Compression Socks

Figs is renowned for their healthcare attire, and along with their scrubs and shoes, they also make some fantastic compression socks that are functional and very stylish. Whether you’re looking for a simple single color or some socks with snazzy prints, Figs has you covered—literally and figuratively. Figs compression socks are reasonably priced too. A tall pair will run you around $30, while a plain pair of ankle-highs will set you back just $12.

Nurse Mates Compression Socks

Nurse Mates is known for making great nurse shoes. Their expertise extends into the realm of compression socks too. Their socks run the gamut of plain and professional to quirky and fun, offering nearly 100 options to choose from, including tie-dye, polka dots and stripes. Regardless of your style preference, Nurse Mates has something to fit. Nurse Mates has a huge selection of compression socks, and they start at around $9 per pair and go up to around $35.

Poppy Scrubs Compression Socks

Poppy Scrubs is another clothing company for nurses that you’ve probably heard of. They make incredibly comfortable shirts, scrubs, and, of course, compression socks. Poppy Scrubs doesn’t offer the same selection as Nurse Mates or Figs, but their socks are incredibly high-quality and durable, offering yarn-based compression socks in the firm level of compression. And at around $25 per pair, they’re affordable too!

Keep Your Feet Happy

Whether you’re a travel nurse or one of the at-home heroes, you know all too well how demanding your field is. You’re always on the go, day in and day out, and sometimes your feet can pay the price. Do yourself a favor and invest in a pair of compression socks to keep them happy.

And if you’re a travel nurse that’s on the lookout for your next assignment, don’t hesitate to search for your next position with Stability Healthcare—we’re happy to help you find the perfect position!

Top Spring Travel Nursing Placements

Being a travel nurse has a lot of perks – one being the opportunity to travel across the country and land yourself in an exciting city! Here’s a view of the best places to visit (and work in!) this spring. 

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Los Angeles is one of the United States’ biggest cities with some of the best weather. Less than an hour drive away from the oceanside, you can try your hand at surfing, swimming, or, for those less adventurous, relaxing on the beach! For those with a more artistic palette, there’s plenty of music venues, galleries, or art sight-seeing across the city. Our favorites:

Gold Diggers – As it says on their website, Gold Diggers is “a bar, boutique hotel and recording studios all within a single campus.” If you need a staycation during your time as a Los Angeles travel nurse, Gold Diggers is one of the most unique hotel experiences you can get. Occasionally, there’s secret live shows and events. Plus, they have a killer bar and some of the most stylish rooms in LA. 

Celebrity Home Tours – Your feet might be tired after working long shifts – give them a break by booking a bus tour that visits celebrity homes across LA. Although this activity may seem a little gimmicky, it’s a good way to view the city and catch a break at the same time. One option is Starline tours, who claims to be the original celebrity home tour!

Find open positions in LA. 

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

Milwaukee is a vibrant city nesting on the coast of Lake Michigan. Milwaukee tends to have more mild springs, which leads to plenty of artistic communities taking advantage and hosting galleries and art walks. Although Wisconsin is mostly known for their cheese, there’s a ton of great restaurants for carnivores, omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike. There’s also plenty of hiking options (like the beautiful Kettle Moraine) within driving distance for those looking for something more adventurous. Our favorites:

Milwaukee Art Museum – According to their website, the Milwaukee Art Museum has over 30,000 works of art. Famous artist Georgia O’Keeffe is a native to Wisconsin, and the Milwaukee Art Museum has one of the largest collections of her work. 

Cactus Club – When live shows become a thing again, Cactus Club is one of the best places to catch a drink and set from a local (or nationally touring) band. While the wait is still on, Cactus Club is currently offering a special Airbnb stay that allows you to drink, eat, and sleep in the venue’s decked out green room. 

Vanguard – Milwaukee’s Vanguard has the best of all worlds when it comes to eating. Vegan hotdog? You got it. OG hotdog? On the menu! With an emphasis for hot dogs and sausages with uniquely curated toppings, Vanguard has something that will have everyone’s mouths watering. We recommend the schnitzelwurst!

Find open positions in Milwaukee.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

Chicago is a Midwest gem. You get the best of a large city, plus a beautiful lakeside with plenty of beaches to relax on. The spring is the best time to visit Chicago, not only because you can avoid the dreadful winters, but because there’s a ton of food festivals, music festivals, good weather, welcoming block parties, and pretty neighborhoods to walk around in. Our favorites:

Montrose Dog Beach – Get some vitamin D while being surrounded by dogs. Need we say more? 

Pick Me Up Cafe – After walking around the quirky Uptown neighborhood on north side Chicago, grab a meal at the eccentric Pick Me Up Cafe. We recommended the buffalo wrap + a spiked milkshake. 

Wicker Park – This neighborhood is the perfect place to shop. Brimming with a mix of well known brands like Adidas, small book shops like Myopic Books, and great coffee shops like Brü, Wicker Park has the kind of shopping that would appeal to anyone. 

Find open positions in Chicago.

DENVER, COLORADO

There’s a reason why people have been flocking to Colorado – it’s simply one of the best places to visit! It’s a great option for those who are more nature oriented, or who enjoy consistently scenic views. If you take on a travel nurse position here, bewarned, you might love it and not want to leave! The city boasts sports (like the Broncos & Nuggets), a ton of microbreweries, coffee shops, and plenty of activities like hiking, skiing, and tubing! Our favorites:

Illegal Pete’s – Although Illegal Pete’s is a favorite amongst the college crowd, it’s also the perfect place to grab a margarita with another fellow travel nurse after a long shift. They also have affordable mexican food that tastes great, plus you can watch the latest sports game as you enjoy their queso. 

Landmark’s Mayan Theatre – A movie theater is one of the best places to get your entertainment fix. Snack on some popcorn and soak in the elegant architecture of the theater before turning your phone off and enjoying a film!

Blue Moon Brewery Tour – This is a good fit for, well, people who like to drink beer! See exactly where and how the magic happens that creates one of Colorado’s most recognizable beers brands. 

Find open positions in Denver.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Nashville isn’t just for country music lovers. The city is a great fit for anyone who likes music, good food, and southern charm. Nashville’s food scene is most notably known for hot chicken, BBQ, and biscuits, but there’s also great roasteries, pastry shops, veggie options, and more! There’s amazing landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Our top three:

Local Honey – Self-care is an important aspect of being a travel nurse. After a few weeks of long arduous shifts, getting a fresh haircut is a great way to feel good. Local Honey is a salon that specializes in color and unique haircuts, so you can really develop your individual style. 

Country Music Hall of Fame – As mentioned in the above paragraph, you can’t go wrong with a little country music. The Country Music Hall of Fame catalogues the history of country music through galleries, archived music, and more. Plus, you can learn more about all the artists who have earned the honor of being in the Country Music Hall of Fame!

Find open positions in Nashville.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

Seattle has a bad rep for balmy weather, but it’s a fantastic place to visit. Nestled on the water, Seattle has an eclectic history with music (Nirvana, anyone?), the arts, and coffee. Plenty of movies have been filmed in Seattle, like the iconic 10 Things I Hate About You. To be frank, Seattle is a cool city, and one of our top cities to visit in the spring. Our favorites:

University of Washington Campus – As a travel nurse, you’re likely not a college student anymore. This doesn’t mean you can’t take a trip to University of Washington’s campus to catch in the beautiful views and campus architecture. In the spring, the campus is dotted with beautiful Japanese cherry blossom trees. Plus, the campus has a breathtaking view of Mount Rainier. 

Spooked in Seattle Tours – Not for the faint of heart, the Spooked in Seattle tours offers a look into the city’s paranormal misadventures. It’s the longest running ghost tour in the area, and is run by people who are classified as actual paranormal investigators. You might want to make sure you don’t have a shift the next day, you might get spooked out of sleeping!

Find open positions in Seattle.

Head to Stability to see to see what open positions we have in these cities and set up an interview today! Make the most out of your role as a travel nurse by exploring the world at the same time.

Follow us on Instagram for updates!

10 Reasons Why You Should be a Travel Nurse

Travel nurses are skilled professionals who take assignments in facilities with short-term staffing needs. They have the opportunity to provide patient care and get to see exciting places at the same time. But there’s more to becoming a travel nurse than meets the eye. Below are reasons why you should to become a travel nurse.

1. Great Pay

Our travel nurses earn good hourly rates on top of Day 1 insurance through United Healthcare including dental and vision, automatic life insurance policy, extra shift bonuses, guaranteed stipend, and 401K for travel nurses who have traveled with us for at least a year. Most importantly, we offered PTO for all of our travel nurses.

Getting a travel nursing job is not difficult although it’s best if you have about 24 months of acute care experience.

2. You Can Take Your Family With You

You don’t have to travel alone. If you have a spouse or children, you can always take them with you. Travel nurses can even bring along their pets to pet-friendly cities. We can also help you arrange for your housing and we reimburse travel expenses up to $600. You may also be eligible for a housing subsidy if you manage to secure your own housing. If you love your assignment, you also get the option to extend your contract.

3. Demand for Travel Nurses is High

The demand for travel nurses continues because of Covid-19. It hit its all-time high last year during the pandemic and the demand is still expected to rise. In fact, the forecast is bright for the nursing profession in the next four years. The travel nursing profession can give you more financial stability and flexibility as you can work anywhere. If you are committed to your profession, there is no shortage of job opportunities for you.

4. More Freedom and Flexibility

One of the benefits of being a travel nurse is having the freedom to choose wherever you want to work. You can pick your own location and if you are flexible with shift times, it’s easier to connect you with more travel nursing assignments. Travel nurses also get to take time off in between their assignments, to either go on a vacation or spend quality time with their family or friends. Most jobs do not offer this freedom and flexibility — you basically have full control of your life when you become a travel nurse.

5. Professional Growth

Working with a range of different healthcare facilities from outpatient care to Level 1 trauma center enables you to broaden your skill sets and enhance your current expertise. More experience coupled with a strong background and a commitment to your profession will help you succeed.

6. Live in New Places

If you want to see more of the United States and discover exciting places to live in, then travel nursing is for you. Nursing assignments are available in all 50 states from the busiest cities to quaint towns. If you want to explore a new state, we can always help you with how to apply for a new license.

7. Find Your Dream Place to Settle Down

By working as a travel nurse, you get the option to work anywhere you want to. You can take advantage of this opportunity to find an ideal place to settle down. By working in a different location, you get to test the waters and see what life is like in that place. You get to compare living in different towns or cities and decide where you want to permanently live.

Being a travel nurse provides you with a rare opportunity to live in any place that you want. And the more experiences you have working in different places, the more likely you are to get new travel nursing assignments. Most importantly, you can broaden your skills and can adapt to any working environment.

8. You Get to Relax

Most of our travel nurses stay on for a minimum of three assignments and then they take time off to relax or travel with their family. Compared to working as a permanent nurse, being a travel nurse lets you avoid burnout. You always have the option to take a break after your assignment. As soon as you have recharged, we can connect you again with more travel nursing assignments.

9. No Workplace Drama

One advantage of being a travel nurse is you don’t get caught up with any workplace politics or drama. You only need to show up every single day and focus on providing the best patient care. By being a travel nurse, you get to avoid having to deal with long-term management or co-worker issues. Your only commitment is to get the job done properly and improve your skills.

10. Experience More Adventures

Traveling lets you experience life differently. You can explore new places, try new cuisines, learn new cultures, discover new interests or hobbies and meet new people. You get to do all these by becoming a travel nurse. This profession can give you the opportunity to try new adventures, something that you may never find in your own city. So long as you are open to new experiences, the options are endless.

Begin Your Journey as a Travel Nurse

We are a travel nursing agency that can assist you with travel nurse jobs. We can help you find your next assignment and it’s easy to get started — simply search for open jobs and compare high-paying travel jobs, set an interview and book an assignment. Our team will assist you every step of the way including helping you arrange for your housing. Apply 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!

Best Shoes For Nurses in 2021

Nurses are on their feet for hours on end, so having a good pair of shoes is essential. Too much time in the wrong shoes can lead to back issues and knee problems and no one wants that. The market is filled with options so we’ve put together some of our top picks based on what nurses need most.

Before we get to our favorites, let’s look at what the most important factors are when picking the perfect pair. We asked five nurses working in different units what was priority for them in a solid pair of work shoes. Here are their top concerns in order from most mentioned to least:

• Comfortable
• Good arch support
• Non-slip
• Easy to clean
• Breathable
• Water-resistant
• Durable

With these things in mind, here are our picks for the best shoes for nurses in 2021.

Dansko Clogs

Of course, you can’t have a list of the best shoes for nurses without including Dansko clogs. For years, these have been a staple in most nurses’ closets and for a good reason. Danskos provide an incredible amount of support and comfort for long shifts on your feet.

Clove

Clove is more of a newcomer in the world of nursing shoes. Clove was created for people on the front lines of healthcare, and it shows. Seemingly, these shoes do it all: comfort, strong grip, odor-fighting, easy to clean, and even fluid resistance.

Vessi

While Vessi’s Cityscape sneakers weren’t made specifically with healthcare workers in mind, that can be hard to believe with all of their key features. They’re 100% waterproof, breathable, stretchy, lightweight, and comfortable. The multiple layers in the shoe are each developed with a different goal in mind, all to keep you feeling your best. On top of all of that these shoes are made with a sustainable goal, buying these versus a competitor saves over 880 gallons of water and reduces every pair’s carbon footprint by 600%.

Brooks

Brooks Ghost 13 running shoe offers super smooth transitions plus soft cushioning so your run is the only thing on your mind and the same applies for you 12 your shift. You’ll be able to spend time focusing on your patients and not worrying about your feet. These shoes provide maximum support but still feel breathable and light. And Brooks and DICK’S Sporting Goods will donate USD $10 for each pair of shoes to go towards a charity that supports girls running programs.

Nike

The Nike Revolution running shoes might be the most stylish option that encompasses all day (or night) comfort. This shoe is made with a lightweight knit material that wraps your foot in breathable support. The flexible rubber sole will keep you walking and not sliding to your patient’s room. While these may not have the water-resistant features of some of our other top choices, they do come with a lower price point, making them a solid option if you’re on a budget.

Sketchers

Sketchers Sure Track shoe may not be the most stylish option, but with incredible benefits and a great price point, these had to make the list. They are light on your feet and provide comfort for long hours on your feet. The leather exterior also makes them easy to clean and take care of.

Keen

The Kanteen Clog is the ideal shoe for spending hours on your feet. This pair features a slip-resistant outsole and a custom PU footbed for all-day comfort and support. The exterior of the shoe is waterproof, which makes it easy to clean and keep looking good as new. This is a great choice for nurses with custom foot insoles as the footbed is removable and can be replaced with the sole of your choice. The best part? Keen uses a technology called CLEANSPOTY NXT for natural odor protection, your coworkers and patients will be grateful.

Ready to spend some long hours on your feet? Find youar next placement at Stability today.

Passing the NCLEX: 5 Effective Studying Strategies That Work

Have you just graduated from nursing school? If you have then congratulations! There’s just one more small but significant hurdle to overcome- the NCLEX exam.

Just hearing about the NCLEX exam can put fear into many young nurses, but it shouldn’t. Of course, it’s a major exam, but many people have passed it and you can too. If you’ve already graduated from nursing school, then you’ve proven that you know your stuff.

You’re already on the home stretch and once you finish, a rewarding career is waiting for you. You just need to put in that last bit of effort so you can hit that home run.

Studying for the test doesn’t need to take over your life. There are some simple tips you can follow to create a balanced study plan which suits you. This plan will help identify your strengths so you can get the most out of study sessions. You’ll then feel confident as you walk into the exam.

So what are some great study tips and how can you install them?

In this article, we’ll share 5 effective study strategies that work so you can pass the NCLEX exam the first time.

Read on for more information.

1. Make a Study Plan and Stick to It

Most people don’t write out schedules but we highly suggest you create an NCLEX study guide/plan.

A big mistake you can make in the beginning is to make a vague schedule in your head. You may decide to study on a certain day and time, but other things can easily get in the way or you could forget.

Instead, you should sit down with a diary or at your computer and work out a study schedule.

First, you should write down your daily routine. This would include when you’re at work, at the gym, looking after the children, etc. These are usually the times in which you cannot study at all.

Next, you should identify any future plans you may have such as vacations, parties, and medical appointments.

Finally, write down any weekly chores such as cleaning, shopping etc. You should also put aside time to meet up with family, friends and to chill out.

Once you have the schedule in front of you, start to identify suitable times in which to study. Ensure that you can stick to these and identify any hurdles you may face. For example, it may not be the best idea to study after a long gym session.

Once you have your study plan finalized, keep it somewhere you can easily access it.

2. Identify Your Study Style

You probably know by now how you study best, but if not then don’t worry.

Just think back to how you previously prepared for exams and what you focused on. For example, if you prefer watching and listening to lectures, then there are loads on Youtube to help. In fact, there are now even some great podcasts so you could listen to some in the car or whilst exercising.

Alternatively, you may have enjoyed being in a study group so you could discuss topics. If so, reach out to fellow graduates who are also preparing for the exam. You could hold weekly skype sessions or meet up for a coffee.

Whatever you choose to do, make sure it’s helpful and beneficial to you.

3. Take the Test Not Long After Graduating

Ideally, you want to take the test within a few months of graduating if possible.

After you have graduated, you’re usually full of confidence and in the right frame of mind to pass the exam. You also will still have a lot of information fresh in your head. If you wait a year or more, you’ll likely forget important things and have to spend longer studying.

It’s ok to take a few weeks off for a vacation just after graduating but be clear on a return date to studying. If not, you could end up procrastinating and weeks turn into months.

4. Take Practice Exams

Before you enter the real exam, you want to know how it works and the type of questions you could be asked. Therefore, sitting practice exams should be at the top of your to-do list.

A practice exam will help you to understand what the invigilators are looking for in your answers. You’ll also be able to practice your time management skills.

Once you have completed a practice exam, you should go back and look at your answers. Focus on the questions you didn’t get right and research the correct answers.

Try to take as many practice exams as you can so it becomes a small habit. You’ll feel more confident on the day as you’ll know the structure of the exam.

5. Take Some Time For You

Whilst some people find it hard to start studying, others find it hard to stop. This may sound rather beneficial but it can negatively affect their exam results.

Stress and anxiety can be very damaging to our physical and mental wellbeing. So, you need to learn how to relax and know when to switch off from studying.

Eating healthy and exercising regularly will help you to stay calm and focused. The last thing you want to do is turn up to the exam a nervous wreck. If you do, you set yourself up to fail.

Ensure you take time out for yourself to just relax. This way, you’ll pass the exam in no time. You may even decide to gain advanced qualifications to further your career even more.

Helpful NCLEX Study Tips

We hope you have enjoyed reading our article and have found these NCLEX study tips useful.

As you can see, by being prepared you set yourself up to pass. You’ll also find studying a breeze and most likely enjoy it.

Finally, check out the benefits of being a travel nurse and why you should consider it once you pass the NCLEX exam.

What To Know About the COVID-19 Vaccines

With a COVID vaccine being made available, it’s starting to look like there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. There’s a lot of confusion and misinformation when it comes to the safety and the efficacy of the vaccine and why you should get it, who can get the vaccine, and where to get the vaccine. Below, you can find more basic and general information. However, the vaccine rollout can be dependent on state/city, and as Biden comes into office, the rollout may change even further. As a travel nurse, you likely will be in the first few rollout phases (or maybe, you’ve already been vaccinated)! It’s best to consistently check local state regulations and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the most updated and accurate information. 

What are the effects of the COVID vaccine and is it safe?

If a vaccine is effective, it helps prevent the person from getting sick if they’re exposed to the virus. For COVID specifically, it’s very important to note that you must continue to remain socially distant until enough people have received the vaccine. There is not enough information to determine whether or not a vaccinated person can pass and transmit the virus to others, hence the importance to remain socially distant (Hopkins Medicine). 

The FDA approved vaccines (which you can see below) are safe and encouraged. As BBC states, “there is no evidence that any of these ingredients cause harm when used in such small amounts. Vaccines do not give you a disease. Instead, they teach your body’s immune system to recognize and fight the infection they have been designed to protect against.” If you think you may have any allergies or reactions to the vaccine’s ingredients, it’s always best to consult the CDC website and your doctor before receiving the vaccine. 

What COVID vaccines are out there?

As of now, there are two COVID vaccines that the CDC recommends: the Pfizer vaccine and the Moderna vaccine. Each has their own requirements and eligibilities:

Pfizer

• Recommended for those 16 years and older. 
• 2 shots in the upper arm. There should be 21 days between the initial and second shot. 
• According to the clinical trials, “the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine was 95.0% effective… in preventing symptomatic laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 in persons without evidence of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection.”
• Mild to moderate symptoms following vaccination can include: pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site, and chills, tiredness, and headaches. This is normal, and these are common symptoms with many safe vaccines. 

Moderna

• Recommended for those 18 years and older. 
• 2 shots in the upper arm. There should be 28 days between the initial and second shot. 
• According to the clinical trials, “the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine efficacy after 2 doses was 94.1%…in preventing symptomatic, laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 among persons without evidence of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, which was the primary study endpoint.”
• As with the Pfizer vaccine, mild to moderate symptoms following vaccination can include: pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site, and chills, tiredness, and headaches. 

Who can (and should) get the vaccine?

• Currently, eligibility to receive the vaccine differentiates between states. For example, Illinois is making the vaccine available to certain groups in different phases. Travel nurses would be in Illinois’ first phase, because it includes healthcare personnel (hospital settings and non-hospital healthcare), long-term care facility staff and all residents, and other identified congregate care staff and residents. The second phase includes people 65 years and older, frontline essential workers, and inmates. Then the rest of the phases move accordingly to who is deemed at a higher risk of contracting and suffering from COVID. Often, you register ahead for the vaccine, but this also varies by location. Webmd has a good, collective list of links to states’ different rollouts. 
• Overall, the COVID vaccine rollout across the United States will likely change when Joe Biden takes office. NPR reports that Biden has a five-part plan to speed up national vaccinations: “To bring the virus under control, it proposes hundreds of billions of spending for a national vaccination program and public health measures such as testing and contact tracing; new jobs for public health workers; and expanded U.S. manufacturing for protective gear.” The full five-part plan can be found here. 

Why should a travel nurse especially get the COVID vaccine?

• First and foremost, getting vaccinated for COVID will help keep you healthy, and greatly lower the risk of serious complications of COVID. Travel nurses typically have a higher COVID exposure than non-healthcare workers. Getting the COVID vaccine will not only give you peace of mind but will also allow you to continue to work and help those in need. 
• The CDC points out that “Healthcare personnel who get COVID-19 can also spread the virus to those they are caring for—including hospitalized patients and residents of long-term care facilities. Many of these individuals may have underlying health conditions that put them at risk for severe COVID-19 illness.” Getting vaccinated not only protects yourself, but it helps protect the people you’re working with. 

As always, please refer to the CDC for the most updated information regarding COVID and the COVID-19 vaccine.

Top Benefits of Travel Nursing

Travel Nursing is a career that offers a unique set of perks. It’s one of the only jobs that gives you the opportunity to check off all of the places on your traveling bucket list. If that alone isn’t enough, keep reading to learn why you should be a travel nurse.

Live Anywhere You Want

As we mentioned before, travel nursing will have you checking places off of your bucket list left and right. With short placements, you’ll be able to experiences for just the right amount of time before you head to your next placement. If you near the end of your placement and realize you aren’t done exploring, it’s easy to extend.

Not only can you live in any city or town you want, but you can also live in any living arrangement you want. Live alone in an apartment, a house, a trailer, a treehouse, anywhere. Or even find a roommate or two! Travel nurses often times find a place together during their stays. You can learn more about finding a place to live on our blog. 

Have Professional Flexibility + the Ability to Experience Different Work Environments

Being a traveler is great because it creates more opportunities to experience different areas of the hospital and work in different types of hospitals! As a traveler, you’ll be exposed to all types of practices and ways of doing things. Hospitals across the country vary in policy and rules but don’t worry they will fill you in and you won’t be left confused. With different hospitals requiring nurses to do things a certain way or have certain knowledge in a specific area – you’ll be growing your skills every day. If you ever return to a full-time stationary role, hospitals love seeing travel nursing roles on your resume for this exact reason.

In terms of flexibility, being a travel nurse is ideal because you can plan your placements whenever you want to. Once your placement ends at one hospital, you can wait however long you’d like until you pick up your next one. This makes it easier for scheduling off for big life moments and vacations.

Increase Your Earnings

Travel nurses typically see higher pay than the other nurses in the units, this is because a traveler is filling a role that NEEDS to be filled. On top of higher base pay, travelers will still receive the benefits that go along with being a full-time staffer.

Not only do travelers get paid for their work, but they also receive a housing stipend to go towards their living situation.

Job Security

When a hospital is looking for a travel nurse, it is because they need a spot to be filled. That’s right, travelers are always needed. This ensures that as long as your a rockstar in your role, you’re all set and don’t have to worry about facing layoffs or staff cuts. Who doesn’t love job stability 😉

Meet New People

One of the greatest gifts of travel nursing is the people that you meet along the way. Working in different hospitals and living in different places, the opportunities are endless for making new connections. Many travelers will grow out their communities and networks to sizes that they never thought possible leaving them with lifelong professional and personal relationships.

Some travelers will even form a pod and pick up assignments in the same cities so they can all live and experience new cities together.

Finding a Job is Easy

Finding a job is simple at Stability Healthcare. Stability offers an extensive list of travel nursing jobs. All it takes is one click on our website to get started!