Finding the right travel nurse housing can be a tricky business.

From searching on Airbnb to checking local listings, you want to make sure you're in an area where there are plenty of jobs for you, but you also need to make sure that the area is safe and comfortable enough for you to live in.

It's a balancing act—you need to be somewhere that has everything you need but also somewhere where you feel comfortable and like you belong.

Of course, there are other things to consider, too: do the people around me speak English? Is there good public transportation? Is the neighborhood safe enough for my family and me?

Let's take a look at seven tips to find the right travel nurse housing: 

1. Find out your options

2. Do you research

3. Find the location near your work

4. Look at the neighborhood 

5. Ask about the utilities included in the rent

6. Consider short term rentals as compared to hotels and apartments

7. Check for pet policies

8. Avoid scams

1. Find Out Your Options

You have several options when it comes to housing for travel nurses:

• Agency-provided housing: This is the most common option for travel nurses. The agency will set you up with a place to live and often includes utilities. However, this option can be pricey and may force you to live farther away from work or other amenities.
• Rental or apartment: You may want to go this route if you want more freedom or less expensive options. You'll also need to do your own grocery shopping and transportation. But you'll be able to choose where you live and how much you spend on rent.
• Roommates: Many travel nurses will find roommates because it's cheaper than living alone and can be an excellent way to meet other people in the area.

2. Do Your Research

You want to ensure you're getting a good deal and not paying more than you should be for your travel nurse housing. 

There are many websites out there that can help with this, including:

Airbnb

Airbnb is a popular short-term rental site, allowing people to rent their homes or rooms to guests worldwide. It's a great way to find cheap accommodation when traveling abroad! 

Most travel nurses use Airbnb to find the right travel nurse housing for their needs. 

You can search by location or price range to find something suitable for your needs. 

The host will usually provide photographs of their property and reviews from previous guests who have stayed there, so you can get an idea of what kind of accommodation it is before booking it yourself.

Craigslist

Craigslist is a great place to find affordable furnished apartments and travel nurse housing for rent. You can also check out other classified ads sites such as Backpage, Kijiji, and Gumtree for more options.

Furnished Finder

Furnished Finder is another excellent resource for finding an apartment or house that's already furnished with all the amenities you need. This site has listings from across the country and can help you find exactly what you're looking for at a price that fits your budget.

Facebook

Explore Facebook Marketplace too! 

You might be surprised by how many people are renting their homes, which can help to find the right travel nurse housing. 

Homestay.com

One good resource for finding affordable travel nurse housing is housestay.com. This website has listings for available rooms in homes across the country for people who are looking for roommates. 

You can search by location and get an idea of what kind of room will fit your budget before making any commitments.

Zumper

This site lets you search for apartments by city or neighborhood and filter by price range, amenities (like parking or laundry), number of bedrooms, and more. It also has reviews from previous renters—which is always helpful when finding suitable housing!

3. Find The Location Near Your Work

Location is an essential factor in finding traveling nurses housing for your travel nurse position. 

You want to be close enough to work, so you don't waste time commuting, but far enough away that you can find affordable housing that fits your budget and meets your needs. 

If you're working at a hospital, consider looking for apartments near the hospital instead of trying to find them in the city center or downtown area, where there are more expensive options available.

4. Look At The Neighborhood

The quality of the neighborhood where your rental property is significantly located impacts how safe your stay will be.

You want to make sure that any apartments or houses that you consider are well maintained and clean, with plenty of parking available nearby and good access to public transportation options if needed (like buses and trains).

5. Ask About Utilities Included In The Rent

Utilities are one of the most significant expenses for renters; they include electricity, water, and gas. 

Some landlords include these costs in their rental price, while others charge individually based on usage (which can be hard to track).

 Ask about this before signing anything official!

6. Consider Short-term Rentals As An Alternative To Hotels And Apartments

If you don't want to commit long-term to a place, consider short-term rentals like Airbnb or HomeAway/VRBO as an alternative to hotels and apartments. 

Many owners use these sites when they are out of town, so they can make some extra cash from their homes while they're away. 

If the owner has good reviews from other travelers, this could be an excellent way for both parties to save money!

7. Check For Pet Policies

Some travel nurse housing agencies allow pets, but others do not allow them at all. 

If you have a pet, it is essential that you get a property where pets are allowed because it will be difficult for you to find a new home if your current property does not allow pets in the community or area where it is located. 

You should also check what pet fees are charged by different properties because these fees vary from one property to another depending on their terms and conditions.

8. Avoid Scams

There are many people who will try to scam you by offering travel nurse housing services without any real estate license or experience. 

They may offer you a room that doesn't exist or charge a deposit without providing any documents regarding the property. 

Make sure to check out the reviews before signing up with anyone. If possible, ask for references from previous clients and make sure they are legitimate ones.

Do Travel Nurses Get Free Housing?

Yes, many travel nurses get free housing. Most agencies will offer free travel nurse housing to their nurses. 

It's usually a room in a shared apartment or house. The rest of your expenses are covered as well, including food and transportation.

Housing stipends are often paid out in the form of an hourly rate or daily rate, although some employers offer lump-sum payments. 

It’s up to employers to decide whether they want to reimburse travel nurses for housing costs or provide them with free housing.

Ending Thoughts

When you're traveling, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of your new adventure. But don't forget to take the time to find an apartment that will make your stay comfortable and enjoyable!

If you follow these steps and consider the advice we've provided, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect travel nurse housing for your next adventure.

FAQs

How Does Travel Nurse Housing Work?

Travel nurse housing is an option for travel nurses who do not have a permanent living situation. 

Most travel nursing companies offer this service, which is handy when moving from assignment to assignment. 

The housing is usually furnished, so you can focus on work and enjoy your free time.

Can Travel Nurses Buy a House?

The short answer is yes. But it will be very difficult and expensive.

Travel nurses are usually paid by the hour or by the shift, so they have a limited time frame in which to make their money. That means they need to spend as little time as possible in one place and move on to another location as soon as possible.

Because of this, most travel nurses don't settle in one place for more than a few weeks at a time. This makes buying a house difficult because it's hard for lenders to verify your income when it's not consistent or steady.

Where Do Travel Nurses Look For Housing? 

Travel nurses are often unfamiliar with the area they're working in, so they look for housing where they can easily find it.

Many look at apartment listing websites like Craigslist and Apartment Guide, which allow them to search by location and amenities.

Some use other services that specialize in connecting tenants with landlords. Zumper is a popular option, as is RentHackr.

The best way to find a place to live as a travel nurse is to ask your recruiter or agency about their preferred housing options.

Where Do Most Travel Nurses Live?

Most travel nurses live in agency-placed housing. This is because most travelers are on temporary assignments and need to move around frequently. 

The agency will help find you housing in the area you'll be working, so all you have to do is show up with your bags ready for the move!

The history of travel nursing tells us that this field was beginning to fulfill the crisis needs and the shortage of nurses. It still works like that; however, many benefits are added overtime now.

Travel nursing allows nurses to work for either a travel agency or staffing agency, with the opportunity to work in different locations across the country—or even the world. The role of a travel nurse is to provide patient care in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

Are you considering travel nursing as a career change? If so, you'll want to read up on the pros and cons of this unique field. 

We'll outline the good and the bad, so you can decide whether or not travel nursing is right for you. Keep in mind that everyone's experience may differ, so take everything with a grain of salt and do your research before making a final decision. 

Ready to get started? Let's go!

Before we get into the pros and cons of travel nursing, let us tell you a little bit about how this career actually works.

What Is Travel Nursing?

Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who take short-term contracts in hospitals and medical facilities across the country. They are employed by staffing agencies who find them jobs based on their preferences and qualifications.

Travel nursing isn't meant to be permanent. The RNs usually sign contracts for 6 to 13 weeks, after which they can decide whether they want to sign another contract at the same hospital or go somewhere else instead.

Every field and job has its benefits and drawbacks, so travel nursing has its own pros and cons, which you should always consider.

Many travel nurses enjoy the flexibility and freedom that come with this type of nursing, as well as the opportunity to see new places and meet new people.

Some of the downsides to traveling nursing include being away from home for long periods and feeling like a transient worker. However, for many nurses, the pros of being a travel nurse outweigh the drawbacks, making travel nursing an appealing option.

Travel nursing is a career that offers the opportunity to travel and see new places. It can be a fantastic experience, but before you dive in, it's essential to know the pros and cons of this career choice.

I've been a travel nurse for 11 years now and have seen many people begin their careers in this way — some very happy with their decision, others not so much.

What Are The Pros Of Being A Travel Nurse?

Travel nursing is one of the fastest-growing fields in the country. It's an excellent way to take control of your life and make a difference in other people's lives.

But it can be a challenge for those who don't know where to start or fear that taking on such a big job could cost them everything. Here are some benefits of travel nursing:

1. The freedom to see new places and explore different cultures

One of the pros of travel nursing is the freedom to see new places and explore different cultures. As a travel nurse, you'll have the opportunity to work in hospitals and clinics all over the country, which means you'll have the opportunity to visit new places and meet new people. This can be an exciting and rewarding experience, and it's a great way to see the world while also helping others.

2. The opportunity to learn and grow as a nurse

As a travel nurse, you will have the opportunity to learn and grow as a nurse. You will be exposed to new equipment, clinical procedures, treatment plans, and much more. Every hospital is different and provides unique experiences for every travel nurse.

Travel nursing allows you to build your résumé as you go. As a traveler, you can choose where you want to work. This means that if you want to gain experience in the ER, you can work in an ER and vice versa if you have experience in that department specifically. 

Travel nursing allows you to get the hands-on experience needed to obtain a job directly with a hospital eventually, if that’s what you prefer.

Travel nurses are not subject to the same politics as staff nurses are. You do not have a boss breathing down your neck because of budget cuts or staffing changes. Travel nurses work for an agency and focus on nothing but patient care.

3. The chance to make new friends and connections with other nurses

Travel nursing means that you'll be working in a hospital far away from your home. That can be scary at first, but it's also an opportunity to meet new people you would have never met if you hadn't tried travel nursing.

You'll have the chance to connect with a whole new set of healthcare professionals in a completely different setting.

4. Lucrative benefits packages with competitive pay rates

Travel nurse salary is high compared to other registered nurses working in hospitals. Travel nurses often receive competitive pay rates with benefits packages that include free private housing, health insurance, paid time off, and other lucrative stipends that make the job even more appealing.

As an added bonus, they also offer tax advantages by reimbursing travel expenses and license fees along with other amenities such as relocation costs which can make the job even more worthwhile.

5. The excitement of a new adventure waiting around every corner

It’s hard to beat the excitement of travel nursing! Sure, you probably won’t be zip-lining through the jungles of Costa Rica on your day off, but there will always be something new and exciting to discover in your new surroundings.

Cities like San Francisco and New York City offer incredible attractions and landmarks, while smaller towns are often full of hidden gems you may never have known about had you not been there!

6. The satisfaction of knowing you're helping people in need

Travel nurses often work at facilities with a shortage of nursing staff. Taking on these assignments will help fill vital healthcare roles and aid patients who might otherwise go without care.

Given the current state of the U.S. healthcare system, there's no shortage of opportunities for travel nurses to make a difference.

What are the cons of being a traveling nurse?

Travel nursing might seem like a dream job. You get to see new places, make great money, and do what you love. But it’s not all roses. And if you’re considering travel nursing or are starting your first travel nurse assignment, it’s essential to be aware of the negative side to travel nursing. Below are some of the travel nurse disadvantages:

1. The potential for long hours and shift work

Travel nursing is often a quick way for nurses to burn out because of long hours and grueling schedules. Of course, it doesn’t have to be this way. If you are an agency nurse, you can turn down assignments that don’t suit your needs. 

However, if you want to get the most out of your assignment and build solid relationships with your colleagues, it’s best to go in with an open mind.

2. The fact that you're often away from home

You're often away from home. Sure, it's possible to get assignments near your hometown. But if you really want to see the country, that means spending most of your time in other cities and states — sometimes for weeks and months.

That can be difficult for people with families or close friends in their hometowns. And even if family members don't immediately miss you, they'll probably want you back home eventually. However, it is still possible to do travel nursing with a family.

3. The possibility of working in high-pressure situations  

Travel nurses are often called in for emergencies, so be prepared to work in high-stress situations that involve not just the patient but also their families, coworkers, and the community at large.

These situations can be emotionally taxing and require a high level of professionalism from you as an employee and caregiver. Be sure you’re up for the challenge!

4. The need to be adaptable and flexible

Sometimes travel assignments will be canceled due to staffing changes or issues with a specific unit. If this happens, you may be asked to switch your contract to another facility in the area or take a short break while another assignment is found for you.

You will have no control over where you go or what type of unit you work on, so flexibility is critical. 

Even if you like to know exactly what's going on and can't stand last-minute changes to plans, this might be a good opportunity for you to learn how to roll with the punches!

5. The possibility of being placed in a less-than-ideal location

Many people look forward to traveling during the summer months. However, there's nothing we can do to prevent the weather from being less than ideal, which can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.

One of the most significant factors that make this job so challenging is that it's often not the weather that causes problems but the people you work with.

It's one thing to be stuck in a difficult situation when someone else is driving you crazy, but it's another to be stuck in a difficult situation when you're the one causing it.

For example, many people are afraid of being placed in an area where they don't speak the language or cannot get around easily.

Others have concerns about getting lost in an unfamiliar city and not being able to communicate with others who can help them find their way out. 

When you're a travel nurse, your job is to make sure your patients are safe and happy. But on the other hand, there's nothing like getting deposited into a hospital by a unilingual taxi driver with no idea where he's taken you after a long night working.

6. The challenge of staying organized and keeping track of everything

When you're in a regular nursing job, you know where your paychecks and tax documents are being sent.

You know what day your checks will arrive (usually), how much money is in your direct deposit and which bank your money is going into. Your health insurance, car insurance, and other benefits stay the same.

However, with travel nursing, you have to keep track of all this moving around yourself - unless you go through an agency that takes care of this for you.

Some agencies will help you keep track of all your spending while traveling. They'll give you an allowance for food per diem every week or month so that you don't have to spend your own money on these expenses.

However, it's not always clear what deductions are made from your paycheck - or if any deductions are being made at all!

Now you know the pros and cons of travel nursing, it is crucial to understand if it's really worth it and is it the right field for you.

Is Travel Nursing Worth It?

I'm not sure if I'm writing this and sharing my experience with travel nursing to convince you to become a travel nurse or to warn you not to.

Travel nursing can be stressful, lonely, and exhausting. But it can also be the most rewarding experience of your life. It took me several years of nursing before I finally made the decision to become a travel nurse. 

After working for several years in one facility, I was ready for a change. I loved my job as a nurse, but I felt like I had hit the ceiling and wasn't growing as much as I would have liked.

My friends were starting new jobs in other states, so it seemed like the perfect time for me to leap too. 

The first time I signed up with a travel company, they sent me on an assignment in Hawaii — all expenses paid! It was a fantastic opportunity and one that definitely would not have been possible if I had stayed in my previous position.

And don't get me wrong, there are definitely days when I am thankful for my decision to become a traveler. The flexibility, the adventure, the experiences — it all makes it worth it sometimes!

So, if you are up for facing all the challenges, travel nursing is going to be an enriching field for you, but if you are someone who cannot leave her family and friends behind, you need to think twice before choosing this field.

Why Do Travel Nurses Make So Much?

Travel nurses often earn more than their full-time counterparts, and they can earn even more by picking up extra shifts or working in higher-cost areas. But why do travel nurses make so much?

It starts with the fact that hospitals need travel nurses. There's a severe shortage of nurses in the United States, and it's expected to worsen in the coming years as baby boomers age and require more health care services. 

The demand for travel nurses is exceptionally high because it's challenging to attract qualified doctors and nurses from overseas to work full-time positions in the U.S.

Travel nurses are more than willing to go where they're needed most, which is why hospitals are willing (and sometimes even eager) to pay them so well. $2,267 per week is the average salary of a traveling nurse.

If you're a nurse who wants to increase your earning potential, then you owe it to yourself to learn more about travel nursing.

Summary - Pros And Cons Of Travel Nursing!

We have listed some of the pros and cons of travel nursing. As you can see, travel nursing can be an exciting and rewarding experience.

Just remember that it comes with its own set of challenges as well. Are you ready and willing to face them? If so, then travel nursing may be right for you.

So, after years of hard work, you have finally landed in your dream nursing school, but what next? It’s only natural to fear the unseen. You must be worried about your clinicals; when do they start? And how to get the most out of them? 

Fear not, for we are here to answer all your questions and remove your doubts, so let's get started!

What are clinicals in nursing schools?

Gone are the days when books were enough to study any subject. It is as important to get practical knowledge as to get theoretical knowledge in modern times. 

Most nursing schools start giving clinical education to their students during their first or second semesters, where they continue to study both theoretical and practical education side by side.

Nursing education is divided into three main types:

• Theoretical education takes place inside the classrooms.
• Clinical or hands-on education in professional settings, where the students shadow a senior nurse.
• Simulation lab education where the students face real-life problems but in a controlled and safe manner.

What is the importance of clinicals in nursing schools?

Hand-on experience is very beneficial for nursing students, where one wrong move can be the difference between life and death.

Theoretical education without practical knowledge is incomplete, and therefore nursing students are required to join hospitals and other institutions for their clinicals. Since students are exposed to different specialties within the health care facility, they can decide whether nursing is the right choice for them and which sub-category they wish to start their professional career.

Here is the list of various options for them to choose from:

• Emergency
• Psychiatric
• Medical-surgical
• Pediatrics
• Geriatrics
• Psychiatric
• Labor and delivery
• Critical care

What happens during the Clinicals in nursing schools?

Since not all of the students go to the same kind of health care facility, we can’t generalize the outcome of their experiences. Nursing students may go to hospitals, nursing homes, or mental health institutions, providing them with enough options to choose their future careers.

Most of the time, students are an aide to a registered nurse who has to supervise them while the students try and learn the art of nursing from them. Students during their clinicals learn the art of physical assessment, administering IV medications, giving the patients a proper dosage of drugs, critical thinking skills, and other basic and advanced nursing skills.

Tips and tricks for clinicals:

It is perfectly alright to be nervous during the starting days of your clinical rotations, but you should quickly get comfortable in your role so you can get the most out of this learning opportunity.

Here are a few tips that may help you during your clinical education in the nursing school

1- First impression matters:

2- How to conduct a complete patient assessment

Conducting a full-body assessment for the first time can be quite an intimidating task, and therefore, we are here to guide you through this.You will be starting your patient assessment from head to toe. This is why it’s popularly called a head to toe assessment.

There’s no better way to do a head to toe assessment than to actually see it done. Attached below is a great resource to learn how to perform a good assessment on patients. Take a look and learn to get yourself prepared before your first clinical rotation. 

3- Learn your surroundings:

Most hospitals are gigantic, and losing your way while walking around them is not an unusual thing. You need to get familiar with the whole setup right from the start, which can be done by asking for a map or walkthrough of the entire place and asking for help when required. But remember to be friendly and polite, and you will quickly get from point  A to B in no time.

4- Don’t be afraid!

Most of the students are afraid either because they are too conscious of what others might think about them or they just don’t like to ask questions. Don’t be such students if you want to make the most out of this learning opportunity.

 Always be confident whether you have a question or simply don’t understand a concept. You must speak for yourself and clear all your doubts, and this will improve your skill level and help you in your grade assessment. 

If you think someone is a little short on staff, volunteer! Even if you don’t want to, this is the time to stand out from your batch mates and make a name for yourself. You must develop good connections, and they will surely help you in the later stages of your professional career.

3 Things you must always have in your nursing bag:

Your nursing bag is your primary source of supplies inside the hospital, and since you can’t carry everything literally inside it, you must carefully choose the items.

Here is the list of must-have items in your bag:

Note pad

You must never forget the old fashion note pad, which can be very handy from time to time. Its services might be required while jolting down important points, which one can easily forget by the end of the day, any specific instruction by your supervisor, or note some questions running through your busy mind.

If the patient is suffering from a wound, you must document all the details in your note pad such as the size, location, color, odor, and bleeding status.

Multiple pens

Always carry your own pen and avoid the risk of missing important details just because you forgot to bring your pen that day. You might be wondering why not note down the points on your mobile phone. You can’t always have a mobile device with you, and it is also considered impolite.

Medical coursebook

In the age of the internet, you may think that you are good to go without any physical book but let me tell you, nothing helps like your books, which you can always rely on and look for help.

 The whole point of clinical education in nursing schools is to mix theoretical and practical knowledge. Still, if you can’t remember the theory, you must at least carry your book to refer to if you come across a new term or want to revise your concepts.

Penlight

A penlight is very useful as medical professionals use it to check small body parts such as the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. It is commonly utilized for the pupil test, a physical examination method that determines whether pupils constrict or remain dilated in response to light. You must carry a small penlight because you never know when you might need it.

Stethoscope

The stethoscope is one of the most integral parts of any health care worker's gear, and you can’t deny its importance. It is always better to invest in a high-quality stethoscope once and live a tension-free life.

Your favorite snacks

You might have enough energy at the start of the day, but the long tiring day of work running from one corner of the hospital to the other can be very exhausting. Be sure to add some good snacks such as cookies or chocolate bars in your bag to never run out of energy. 

Scissors

One of the most used instruments by any nurse is a scissor, and you must always have one in your bag ready to cut whatever hurdle that may come your way.

Summary of Clinicals in Nursing school:

Clinicals in the nursing schools provide the students with a chance to get hands-on education and also have one final opportunity to rethink before they embark on their professional journey. They get a birds' eye view of how things are done in a health care facility and what are the duties of a professional nurse. The world is full of competition, and If a student wants to stand out from his peers, he must follow the tips and tricks shared in this guide.

Nursing has its own share of stress. No matter your level of experience, there will always be tough days on the job. Here's a little secret: travel nursing is no exception!

If anything, it can be even more stressful than permanent nursing positions for several reasons.

As a travel nurse, you likely face unique stressors that other nurses don't. From constantly moving to work long hours, the job can be demanding and overwhelming at times.

However, by employing some simple techniques, you can reduce your stress level and enjoy your work much more by using some simple methods.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best ways to deal with stress while traveling. Read on to learn more!

How Do Travel Nurses Deal With The Inevitable Stress That Comes With A New Job?

A recruiter is the best ally to have in a travel nursing career. They’re a knowledge keeper, stressing the importance of honest communication. A good recruiter will get you in front of the hiring manager while also getting your foot in the door with a resume that you may not have written yourself.

But what happens when they relocate? Well, they’ll let you know! Recruiters are there to field questions and connect travelers with their next opportunity. After all, no one wants to sit behind a screen for hours scouring job postings looking for their next gig. When people think about applying for jobs online, they picture endless frustration and hair loss from pulling it out. But with a recruiter at your side, this isn’t an issue!

Apart from it, there are a few more tips that will help you to cope with the stress of the new job:

1. Understand what your job entails

Before taking a new travel-nursing assignment, make sure you fully understand the job's demands. You will want to know your schedule, how many patients you'll be responsible for, and what patient population or specialty the assignment requires.

Be sure to read the job description thoroughly. If there is anything that seems unclear to you, ask questions! You can ask questions of human resources (HR) representatives at the facility (they're often called "travel coordinators" or "staffing coordinators").

Finally, contact your recruiter with any additional questions and, if necessary, speak with their supervisor; they are there to help guide you along each step in your journey as a travel nurse!

2. Get to know your co-workers

One of the most daunting parts about becoming a travel nurse is having to work and travel with many different people. You may be new in their hospital, or they may be new in yours! It's totally fine if you're not comfortable with working alongside strangers.

When this happens, it's especially important to get to know your co-workers before you start working together. You can do this by talking via phone or text message or meeting up in person.

FaceTime is also another great way of getting familiar with who you'll be spending time with on the job!

3. Develop a rapport with your manager or supervisor

You might want to get to know the people you will be working with and for. If you are lucky enough, your recruiter may have inside information on them.

They may have worked with this manager or supervisor before, but they can also share personal details like what they like and dislike, their management style, etc.

Take advantage of social media such as LinkedIn, where you can find out a lot of valuable things about people by just checking out their profiles. A little bit of Googling can turn up interesting tidbits about a person that would help break the ice if you meet them in person.

4. Get an understanding of your work schedule

A good understanding of your work schedule will help alleviate some stress when starting your new job. Ask as many questions as you can before accepting the assignment.

You don't want to find yourself in a situation where there are mandatory overtime or weekend shifts because you didn't ask questions prior to accepting the job. Keep in mind that schedules can change during the assignment.

If you've made plans for yourself or your family, make sure that you can adjust to the new schedule.

5. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle

Is travel nursing stressful? One of the most fantastic tips for dealing with stress is prioritizing a healthy lifestyle. To maintain a healthy lifestyle while working as a travel nurse, you must exercise.

A simple way of doing this is by going for walks around the hospital or running with other travel nurses in their spare time! You should also eat well and sleep enough so that your body has enough energy throughout each day- don't forget about getting "me" time, too--it's crucial if we want our mental state ready for anything else life throws at us.

6. Maintain a good relationship with others

One of the most important things you can do to cope with the stress of being a travel nurse is to maintain a positive relationship with others. A positive personal relationship is a critical component of happiness, but maintaining a good professional relationship at work is also essential for healthy well-being.

It's best to keep your relationships as separate as possible; don't try to mix your personal and professional lives. It's fine if you enjoy chatting with some of your coworkers during downtime, but it's not advisable to become too close too soon. First and foremost, you're on assignment for work, not leisure.

When dealing with coworkers and new friends, make sure you set boundaries early on about how much time you'll spend together or will be available in case they need anything outside of work hours—and stick to those boundaries! If things ever start getting stressful between people in any context, focus on being positive and looking at the bright side.

You should try your best never to let any interpersonal problems grow into something bigger than they have to be.

7. Have balance in your life

As a travel nurse, you'll be working long hours and going through a lot of different situations. So it is even more vital that you get enough time to relax, unwind and recharge. If you can't balance your professional life with your personal life, you risk burning out or having health problems.

Don't skip vacation time. Most travel nurses are contract workers, but that doesn't mean they have to work all the time. Don't be tempted to stay in one place for longer than the contract period because there is no PTO (paid-time-off).

Take your vacation days and make sure you allocate some downtime for yourself every once in a while. Don't let your job take over your life!

A New Nursing Position Often Brings Stress

We could have named this section “the stress is coming,” but we figured you'd get enough of that from your travel agent. We'll be honest; there's no way to avoid the stress of a new position entirely -- you're going to be working with a new team and moving to a new city or even country. You may also not know much about where you're going and who you'll be working with.

The best thing you can do is prepare for the inevitable stress by doing whatever it takes to make yourself feel comfortable in your surroundings. If moving somewhere new overwhelms you, ask your travel agent for tips on doing things in the area. They've been there, done that!

If getting used to new equipment stresses you out, research what kind of technology will be available at the facility and explore how it works beforehand.

Asking questions and looking into the things that can make life more manageable while away from home will help reduce uncertainty (which contributes significantly to stress) before it arises!

Summary - Is Travel Nursing Stressful?

Stress is a natural part of life, but it can become overwhelming if we don’t have healthy coping mechanisms. Hopefully, the tips we shared will help you manage your stress levels and maintain your sanity while being a traveling nurse.

What are some of your favorite ways to deal with stress? Leave us a comment below and let us know!

A lot of people are torn on how to afford nursing school. Nursing school is expensive. There’s no way to sugarcoat that. But it’s also an investment in your future that will pay off in the long run.

Are you a nursing student struggling to find ways to afford nursing school? You are not alone. Many students are in the same boat as you, and it can be tough to find ways to cover the expenses of tuition, room, board, books, supplies, and other related costs.

However, don't give up just yet! There are a few things that you can do to help make your money go further and make nursing school more affordable.

Check out these tips below for some helpful ideas. You may be surprised at just how much money you can save!

And while nursing may seem like a 24-hour profession, nurses are people too! They need time for rest and relaxation in order to give their best at work.

As a nurse, you must know that the self-care of nurses is vital and it's also recommended by the American Nurses Association in its code of ethics. 

But with everything else on your plate, it can be tough to find the time or energy to really take care of yourself.

According to the survey report of 2012, Out of 2,500 registered nurses, 71 percent were suffering from musculoskeletal pain, and 18 percent experienced depression. A few causes were found behind this result, and one of them was a lack of self-care. This actually demonstrates how a lack of self-care of nurses can lead to self-destruction, and it will definitely affect professional life.

That's why we've put together this list of life-changing self-care strategies specifically for nurses.

From taking mini-breaks throughout the day to investing in a good pair of shoes, these tips will help you take better care of yourself both physically and mentally. So read on, and start improving your self-care routine today!

But before we jump into self-care strategies, let's first learn about what exactly is self-care and why is it important.

What is Self-care? Why Self care is important for nurses?

According to the World Health Organization, "self-care is the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease and maintain health and well-being without depending on health care services."

In other words, self-care is anything you do to maintain your physical, mental, and emotional health. And while some self-care activities may seem like common sense (eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep), others may be less obvious (scheduling time for yourself, setting boundaries with patients and colleagues, taking breaks during your shift).

Nurses are often responsible for the well-being of others, but they often neglect their own needs. This can lead to nurses feeling burned-out, stressed, and overwhelmed.

Self-care is important for nurses because it allows them to take a break from their responsibilities and relax. It also allows nurses to recharge their batteries so that they can be more effective in their jobs.

Life-Changing Self Care Strategies For Nurses

If you're looking for some self-care inspiration, check out these 11 life-changing self-care strategies for nurses:

Set aside time for yourself every day

Set aside time for yourself, even if it's just 10 or 15 minutes. During that time, do something that relaxes you and makes you happy. Whether it's reading, taking a walk, listening to music, or taking a bath, make sure to take some time for yourself every day.

Connect with the nature

Nurses who connect with nature often report feeling more relaxed and at ease. Nature can provide a sense of peace and tranquility, and it can also help to clear the mind. Spending time in nature can also boost your mood and reduce stress levels.

If you're looking for a way to connect with nature, consider going for a walk in the park, taking a hike in the woods, or visiting a botanical garden.

Nurture a hobby or passion

Nurses are constantly under stress. One way to manage that stress is to nurture a hobby or passion. This can help to take our minds off of work and allow us to relax. Some nurses use their hobbies to relieve stress, while others use them to stay energized and focused.

Find something that you enjoy doing and make time for it every day. Whether it's painting, hiking, cooking, or playing music, make sure that you're taking time to do what you love. No matter what your hobby is, it is important that you find time to enjoy it.

Spend time with loved ones

One of the best self-care strategies that nurses can use is to spend time with loved ones. This can help reduce stress and promote healing. 

Exercise

Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it can also do wonders for your mental and emotional wellbeing. Taking some time to move your body and get your heart rate up can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and give you more energy.

Eat healthy foods

It is crucial for nurses to eat healthy foods in order to take care of themselves. Eating nutritious foods helps boost energy levels, promote better mental health, and improve overall physical health. Nurses who are eating unhealthy foods are more likely to experience fatigue, depression, and health problems.

Some great options for healthy foods include fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Self-care is important for nurses in order to maintain their own health and well-being. Eating healthy foods is one important aspect of self-care that nurses should not neglect.

Hydrate adequately

Nurses are responsible for their own well-being as well as the well-being of their patients. This means that nurses need to make sure they are taking care of themselves in order to be able to take care of others. One way to do this is by making sure you have hydrated adequately.

Dehydration can cause a number of problems, including fatigue, headaches, and other health issues. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider carrying a water bottle with you so that you can stay hydrated while on the go.

Get enough sleep

Nurses need to get enough sleep in order to be effective and alert on the job. Fatigue can lead to mistakes, which can potentially jeopardize patient safety. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should get at least seven hours of sleep per night.

Nurses who are short on sleep are more likely to make errors and experience health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is the awareness that arises through paying attention to purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally to the unfolding of experience moment by moment.

When nurses are mindful, they are more able to take care of themselves both physically and emotionally. In fact, mindfulness has been shown to be an effective way of reducing stress and improving one’s overall well-being.

There are many ways to practice mindfulness, but one simple way is to focus on your breath. Simply sit or stand in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Then, simply pay attention to your breathing. Notice the sensations of the air moving in and out of your nose and mouth.

Don’t try to control your breathing, just let it happen naturally. If your mind starts to wander, simply bring your attention back to your breath. You can do this for a few minutes or for longer periods of time if you like.

Laugh often

Laughing is a great way to reduce stress and promote positive emotions. It's also good for your health! Laughing can help improve your immune system, increase oxygen levels, and release endorphins.

So, try to find things that make you laugh often! Watch funny movies, read funny books, or spend time with friends who make you laugh. Laughter is the best medicine!

Don’t be ashamed of seeking help

I know we nurses are notorious for being self-reliant and for not wanting to ask for help. However, it is important for all of us to realize that we cannot take care of others if we are not taking care of ourselves.

If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it is ok to ask for help. There are many resources available to nurses, including support groups and counselors. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. Talking to someone who can help you manage your stress and mental health can make a world of difference.

What Are Some Barriers To Self-Care For Nurses?

Some barriers to self-care for nurses include time constraints, emotional exhaustion, and guilt. nurses may feel that they do not have time to take care of themselves or that they are too busy taking care of others to focus on their own health.

They may also feel guilty about taking time for themselves when there are patients who need their care.

How No Self-Care Can Affect Professional Life?

When as a nurse you're not taking care of yourself emotionally and physically, you're more likely to be tired, stressed, and anxious. And that can lead to decreased productivity, inadequate patient care, and difficulty focusing.

In addition, when you're not feeling your best it's harder to make good decisions or maintain healthy relationships.

So not taking care of yourself can have a ripple effect on your professional nursing life in terms of your emotional state, your work performance, and your interactions with patients and others.

Summary- Self-Care Strategies For Nurses

Don’t forget, nurses are human beings too! We all need to take care of ourselves in order to be effective in our jobs. Self-care is not selfish, it is essential. So, make sure you are taking care of yourself both physically and emotionally.

By incorporating some or all of these self-care strategies into your life, you'll be on your way to a more balanced, happier, and healthier nursing career.

So follow these tips and if you think you need help, we are just a message away!

FAQs

Why is self-awareness important in nursing?

There are many reasons why self-awareness is important in nursing, but here are a few key points:

First and foremost, self-awareness allows nurses to have a clear understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses, which in turn allows them to be more effective clinicians. 

Secondly, self-awareness helps nurses to be more effective communicators, both with patients and with other members of the health care team. 

Finally, self-awareness fosters empathy and compassion, which are essential qualities for nurses working in the field of patient care.

How can I improve myself as a nurse?

The best way to improve oneself as a nurse is to always be learning. Whether that means taking on new challenges at work, reading nursing journals, or attending continuing education courses, nurses should never stop growing and developing their skills. 

Additionally, mentoring other nurses and sharing one's own knowledge can help create a stronger nursing community overall. Finally, it is important to advocate for oneself and for the profession of nursing—both inside and outside of the workplace.

What is the therapeutic use of self in nursing?

Therapeutic use of self in nursing is the intentional and professional use of one's self (including one's thoughts, words, and actions) to promote health and healing. It is based on the premise that nurses can create therapeutic relationships with their patients that can facilitate health and healing.

How do nurses maintain a high self-awareness?

Nurses maintain a high self-awareness by constantly reflecting on their own actions and words, and considering how they might affect patients. They also seek feedback from colleagues and patients to ensure that they are meeting the highest standards of care.

What is basic self-care?

Basic self-care is about tending to your most important needs. Whether it's taking a break, getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, or spending time with loved ones, these are all things that can help you feel good mentally and physically.

Self-care doesn't need to be complicated or expensive. In fact, some of the best self-care activities are free or very low cost. Just taking a few minutes each day for yourself can make a big difference in your overall well-being. So if you're looking for ways to improve your health and happiness, start with basic self-care practices.

To get more resources from Nursepective- Read our other blogs to find the get the best tips dealing with nursing school along with managing your debt repayment and side hustles that you can do as a nurse.