Does a travel nurse need a vehicle? It’s a good question to ask, and it raises even more questions surrounding the advantages of buying vs. leasing. Every travel nurse will need to make the decision for themselves, since every situation is different. There are pros and cons to owning vs. leasing, or even having a vehicle at all. Consider them all before you make a decision, and have confidence that it’s the right decision for your situation.

The development of a COVID-19 vaccine has been nothing short of a medical marvel. It’s so unbelievable that, in fact, many people are having a hard time believing it. They’re suspicious of the vaccine and hesitant to get it. Nurses and other medical professionals are now faced with the arduous challenge of not only vaccinating the general public, but also dispelling the incorrect notions and misinformation that’s making people resistant to inoculation.

While we’re learning more about COVID-19 every day, what’s still unknown are the long-term, lasting effects of the virus. As we enter year two of the pandemic, physicians are beginning to warn about possible complications from “long COVID,” a protracted bout with the virus that takes its toll on the immune system. As patients find themselves seeking medical attention months after a positive diagnosis, nurses need to consider the effects of long COVID.

While a huge number of healthcare workers have already received their initial dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s only the beginning of a massive rollout. There are hundreds of millions who still need vaccination, and it’s going to take a monumental effort to administer the vaccine at-scale. Hospitals are calling on travel nurses to prepare for the influx. To understand just how spectacular this effort is, it’s worth looking at the timeline for coronavirus vaccine administration.

Thinking about becoming a travel nurse this year? It’s a great career track and one that can open many doors. As with any new adventure, the first step is the hardest. Here are a few tips to help get you ready for your first assignment.

Specialization is a great way to set yourself apart as a nurse — especially as a travel nurse. In the years ahead, demand for specialized nursing professionals will continue to rise, which means now is the time to think about choosing a specialty and following that career track. As you do, consider the benefits and opportunities that come with it. Are there any specialties you’re interested in, specifically? 2021 is the year to pursue them!

What’s the difference between a VMS and an MSP facility? Hospitals and healthcare facilities fill open staffing positions in different ways, and they rely on agencies to help them. For travel nurses seeking open positions, it’s worth knowing what goes on behind the scenes and how each procurement method affects contracts.

Self-care is more than a buzzword. It’s more than a treat. It’s something every person should practice each and every day. For nurses especially, it’s vital to reduce stress, tension, and anxiety, and treat your mind and body right. The quality of care you’re able to provide is directly tied to your own wellbeing. Here are a few tips for practicing self-care at work, in little doses throughout the day.

The more we learn about COVID-19, the more it becomes increasingly apparent that healthcare workers face a much higher risk of exposure — even with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Travel nurses and other medical professionals need to stay diligent in their self-evaluations and make sure they’re not coming to work if they’re showing symptoms of the virus. Travel nurses must safeguard their own health before they can deliver life-saving care to others. Sometimes, that’s as simple as staying home when symptomatic.

It’s amazing how much anxiety is lifted when you don’t have to worry about where your next paycheck is coming from. Even better is having an emergency fund you can rely on for unexpected struggles. For travel nurses especially, it’s important to have an emergency fund to support you between assignments and in the event of an early termination. Here’s what you need to know about building an emergency fund the right way.