Being a travel nurse is a job like no other! Here’s our top ten tips for this unique role:
1. Research Your Location
Before you go, be in the-know. What kind of climate will you be in? What’s around nearby? Will you still be able to find your favorite regional soda? Researching your new location beforehand will give you a better idea of what to expect and help with the adjustment.
2. Talk To Your Recruiter
The best part of working with Barton is the built-in support. Your recruiter is here to answer any questions you have! We can help with licensing, transportation, housing, and any other issues that arise. If you have a concern, don’t hesitate to ask.
3. Don’t Overpack
Take what you need, but don’t panic and bring enough deodorant for six months. Even the most rural areas have access to shampoo and toothpaste. When in doubt, you can probably find it on Amazon.
4. Connect With The Community
For a real feel of your new locale, go deeper than the tourist spots. Hit up family-owned restaurants or check out small stores. Keep an eye on the newspaper or online community pages for events around town. Every place has something special and unique- make sure you don’t miss it!
5. Plan Activities For Your Free Time
Nurses work hard, and it’s not surprising that you’ll want to rest and relax when you can. But the greatest perk of being a travel nurse is, well, traveling! Don’t miss out on exploring. Plan some things you’d like to do during your time off in advance, and you’ll have something to look forward to during any difficult work days.
6. Share Your Experience
Social media is a great way to connect with loved ones back home and meet new people nearby. Search for posts in your location to see what other people are getting up to. If you tag Barton Healthcare Staffing in your posts, we might share them with our network of clinicians and providers!
7. Keep In Touch
Although travel is fun, it’s normal to miss home now and then. Figure out a way to stay in contact with friends and family, whether through texts, emails, or video calls. If you can, try to set aside some time each week to talk and update everyone back home.
8. Be Prepared
Traveling can be complicated, and sometimes things go wrong. Make copies or take photos of your passport, licenses, and other important documents. Speed dial is great, but it doesn’t work if you lose your phone. Write down a list of phone numbers and contact information- especially for your recruiter!
9. Stay Active
We don’t need to tell you how important physical activity is, you work in healthcare! Activities like yoga, jogging, or aerobics are easy to do in any location. If you prefer hitting the gym, invest in a membership at a national chain so you can stay fit wherever you go.
10. Let Us Handle It
There’s bound to be some unexpected hurdles in any new job or living situation. If issues arise, rest assured that your recruiter is there to help. Everyone at BHS wants you to have the best experience possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out!
When you work with Barton Healthcare Staffing you get a dedicated contact available 24/7 to assist you, travel and lodging facilitation, back end support (licensing, credentialing assistance, etc.), malpractice insurance, competitive rates, and more!
Ready to try travel nursing? Check out our open positions!
