by Cup Of Nurses | Aug 26, 2023 | Travel Nursing
Why Nurses Become Travel Nurses
These days many nurses are leaving bedside nursing to pursue travel nursing. With the many perks and benefits of travel nursing, we can’t blame them too. Travel nursing allows nurses to explore and experience diverse practices and new environments.
It is also a great way to connect and work with nurses in different nursing communities. With great pay, free housing, and many more, it is no wonder nurses are packing up their bags to become travel nurses.
As a travel nurse, you can work in all 50 states as your assignments vary and can be as long as 13 weeks. You also have the liberty to choose which assignment works for you based on many factors. These factors include:
- Climate
- Nursing opportunities
- Payment and incentives
- Location
- Proximity to friends and family
- Activities to do
- Compensation
Besides having this option, there are also many pros to travel nursing, which makes it more favorable. Among these include:
- There are fewer nursing responsibilities.
- Many assignments have higher pay.
- You have free housing or housing options with bigger discounts.
- There is flexibility to work as much or as little as you want.
- You get to explore different work cultures.
- All your travel expenses are reimbursed when moving from one contract to another.
- You get to explore different places.
- There are work bonuses.
So Many Reasons Why
Another good reason why many nurses pack up and leave the bedside is stress. There are many reasons why nurses are stressed at work. It could be due to nursing shortages, unfair nurse-to-patient ratios, workplace politics, and exhaustion. If you are a nurse yearning for better pay and a less stressful environment, this could be a great opportunity to grab.
The idea of working in a different place is also awesome. You get to explore new places, and if you’re the adventurous type, you can explore so many places as a travel nurse. Activities like hiking, camping, trekking, and even going to the beach are only among the recreation you can do as a travel nurse. Depending on where you are assigned, adventure awaits many travel nurses!
You can also choose the nursing specialty or unit you want to work as a travel nurse. There are many special areas that you can apply to. If you have experience as an ICU nurse, you can look for assignments that allow travel nurses to work in ICU. The same goes for those with experience in PICU, ER, and many others.
It is no secret that many travel nurses are paid more than staff nurses. Most of your travel nurse salary is tax-free simply because you travel more than 50 miles from home. However, hourly wages are usually non-negotiable. But you will be given bonuses and benefits as it fits.
Conclusion
We can’t blame nurses who are packing up to become travel nurses. Many reasons may affect their decisions too. Whether for their clinical experience, money, or adventure, it is a good way for nurses to get some weight off their backs and see the world.
Travel nursing offers adventures, reliable income, and flexibility; as a nurse, this sounds like the freedom you’d want to get your hands on.
Looking for more nursing and travel nursing information? Check out these helpful links!
by Cup Of Nurses | Aug 25, 2023 | Podcast
Navigating the Ups and Downs: Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Its Treatment
Bipolar disorder, often referred to as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition that involves extreme mood swings, ranging from periods of intense highs (mania) to deep lows (depression). This enigmatic condition affects millions worldwide, disrupting lives and challenging the understanding of mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore the prevalence, causes, and treatment options for bipolar disorder.
The Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder: A Global Perspective
Bipolar disorder is more common than one might think, affecting approximately 2.8% of adults in the United States alone. This translates to millions of individuals worldwide grappling with the challenges of managing their emotions, behaviors, and daily lives. It can strike anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, highlighting the urgency of raising awareness and fostering a supportive environment.
Understanding the Causes: Unraveling the Complex Factors
While the exact cause of bipolar disorder remains elusive, it’s widely believed to be the result of a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors:
- Genetics: Research indicates a strong genetic component in the development of bipolar disorder. Individuals with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk of experiencing it themselves.
- Neurochemical Imbalances: Chemical imbalances in the brain, particularly involving neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, play a significant role in bipolar disorder. These imbalances can contribute to mood fluctuations.
- Brain Structure and Function: Studies have shown structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with bipolar disorder. These differences can affect mood regulation and emotional processing.
- Environmental Triggers: Stressful life events, trauma, substance abuse, and major life changes can trigger or exacerbate episodes of mania or depression in those predisposed to bipolar disorder.
Treatment Approaches: Finding Stability and Relief
Treating bipolar disorder is a multi-faceted endeavor that often requires a combination of therapies, medication, and lifestyle changes. Here are some key approaches to managing the condition:
- Medication: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and antidepressants are commonly prescribed to help manage the highs and lows of bipolar disorder. Finding the right medication regimen often involves a trial-and-error process under the guidance of a mental health professional.
- Psychotherapy: Various forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychoeducation, can help individuals understand and manage their symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall quality of life.
- Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a stable routine, managing stress, getting regular exercise, practicing good sleep hygiene, and avoiding alcohol and drugs can contribute to symptom management.
- Support Network: Building a strong support network of family, friends, and mental health professionals is crucial for individuals with bipolar disorder. Having a reliable system to lean on during challenging times can make a significant difference.
Shining a Light on Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that demands understanding, compassion, and effective treatment. By shedding light on its prevalence, underlying causes, and available treatment options, we can work towards reducing stigma and creating a more supportive environment for individuals living with this condition. If you or someone you know is struggling with bipolar disorder, remember that help is available, and seeking professional guidance is a courageous step towards a brighter, more balanced future.
To watch the interview with Steven Wilson, click the watch the full episode link.
Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/1VR3pSk74Wo
by Cup Of Nurses | Aug 19, 2023 | Nursing Student
4 Main Roles of a Student Nurse
The roles of a student nurse may be limited but essential at the same time. Many student nurses help in many clinical areas. They help promote, maintain, and restore patients’ health after a procedure to gain practical experience. They must follow the clinical instructor’s instructions to execute these duties properly.
Being a student nurse offers you to practice what you’ve learned in nursing school. It may be challenging but all worth it.
Main Roles of a Student Nurse
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 3 million registered nurses are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, long-term facilities, clinics, and other nurse-related work environments.
As a student nurse, your role is not limited to your campus alone but also in a hospital setting where you will be caring for patients too. And as you help your patients to heal, you are also tasked to promote their privacy, dignity, and safety.
Get your patient assignment
Before you start your nursing clinical rounds, your clinical instructor will assign your patient assignment. This assignment has your patient’s name that you’ll be assigned for the day.
Your clinical instructor will also expect you to understand your patient’s diagnosis. You must know about their medical condition and the treatment they need.
Nursing care
As a student nurse, you’ll be responsible for assisting your patients whenever they need help, particularly when eating or bathing. You will also help in keeping your patients warm after their baths. Also, when bathing your patients, you must always keep their beds dry.
Placing a towel under your patient does the trick. Always ask for consent when caring for your patients because some of them are uncomfortable when there are student nurses around.
Administer medications
Part of your clinical rotations as a student nurse is to give or administer medications after determining the effects of the medication on them. Of course, this will only be done with the supervision and approval of your clinical instructor.
To prepare, ensure you have the right dose and administer the medication at the right time. As you do this, call the patient by name as you administer the meds. Another way to confirm their identity is by checking their patient ID.
Charting
One of the most common sayings used in the medical field is, “If you didn’t chart it, it never happened.” It is why you must provide all the information or procedure you did to your patient in their chart. It will serve many purposes in terms of caring for your patients.
Charting means you must document all the medical procedures done. It includes your patient’s condition, medication list, treatment plan, and symptoms experienced by your patients. A patient’s chart also includes the patient’s medical history and diagnosis provided by the physician.
Always Know the Roles of a Student Nurse
Your clinicals are the best time to gather nursing experience. It is also an excellent time to get a hands-on experience with many nursing procedures and observe how a nursing unit works. Knowing your main roles as a student nurse will make your nursing clinicals easier.
Of course, it will be a little intimidating to be surrounded by professional and seasoned nurses already equipped with skills and knowledge regarding patient care. But with careful planning and guidance from your clinical instructor, you will also be an excellent student nurse.
Looking for more student resources? Check out these helpful links!
by Cup Of Nurses | Aug 18, 2023 | Podcast
Exploring the World of Registry and PRN Nursing: Flexibility, Pay, and Considerations
Navigating Nursing’s Flexible Path – Registry and PRN Nursing
In the realm of nursing, there exists a lesser-known yet highly sought-after avenue: registry and PRN nursing. These terms might sound unfamiliar to some, but they represent a unique approach to nursing that offers both flexibility and the potential for higher pay. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of registry and PRN nursing, exploring how they work, the benefits they offer, and the considerations that nurses should keep in mind.
How it Works: Understanding Registry and PRN Nursing
Registry nursing and PRN nursing share a common thread – they both involve providing nursing care on an as-needed basis, without committing to a fixed schedule. However, there are some distinctions between the two:
1. Registry Nursing:
Registry nursing involves signing up with a nursing agency, which acts as a intermediary between nurses and healthcare facilities. Nurses on the registry list make themselves available to fill in staffing gaps in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. When a facility needs extra help due to staff shortages, they can request nurses from the registry.
2. PRN Nursing:
PRN nursing, which stands for “pro re nata” (as needed), is a direct arrangement between a nurse and a healthcare facility. PRN nurses are scheduled on an as-needed basis, often filling in for staff vacancies or during peak periods. Unlike registry nursing, PRN nurses typically establish a relationship with a specific facility.
Shifts and Hours: Finding the Balance
One of the most appealing aspects of registry and PRN nursing is the flexibility they offer. Nurses can decide when they want to work, allowing for a better work-life balance. Shifts can range from part-time to full-time, with some nurses even choosing to work sporadically to accommodate other commitments.
Pay: The Financial Upside
One of the major draws of registry and PRN nursing is the potential for higher pay compared to traditional full-time or part-time positions. Healthcare facilities often pay a premium to registry and PRN nurses to entice them to fill in when staffing is low. This can translate to a more attractive paycheck for those willing to take on these roles.
Benefits: Beyond the Paycheck
While the pay might be higher, it’s important to note that registry and PRN nursing roles often do not come with benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off. Nurses considering these roles should carefully weigh the financial benefits against the potential lack of job security and benefits.
The Appeal: Why Nurses Choose Registry and PRN Nursing
Flexibility: For nurses with families, other commitments, or simply a desire for a more adaptable schedule, registry and PRN nursing can offer the flexibility they crave.
Variety: Working in different healthcare settings provides a chance to gain a wide range of experience and exposure to various medical specialties.
Higher Pay: The prospect of higher earnings can be a major motivator, especially for nurses looking to maximize their income.
The Considerations: Downsides of Registry and PRN Nursing
Lack of Benefits: The absence of benefits can be a significant drawback, particularly for those who rely on employer-sponsored healthcare or retirement plans.
Job Insecurity: The unpredictable nature of registry and PRN nursing means that there might be periods of low demand, leading to potential gaps in income.
Limited Connection: As a registry or PRN nurse, you may not develop the same level of camaraderie or familiarity with colleagues and patients as full-time nurses.
Balancing Flexibility and Stability
Registry and PRN nursing offer an alternative path for nurses seeking greater flexibility, higher pay, and a diverse range of experiences. However, the decision to pursue these roles should be made with careful consideration of the potential downsides, including the lack of benefits and job security. Ultimately, finding the right balance between the allure of flexible schedules and the stability of traditional nursing positions is a personal choice that each nurse must make.
Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/bGHJdK49IGE
by Cup Of Nurses | Aug 12, 2023 | Travel Nursing
Travel Nurse Contracts: Crisis vs. Rapid Response
As a travel nurse, you will find yourself in different places and scenarios all the time. It is why learning about travel nurse contracts is essential.
While it is part of your job as a travel nurse to be assigned to different parts of the country, there will come a time when you need to answer a crisis or rapid response call.
That said, you must know the difference between a crisis and a rapid response contract so you can choose which one works well for you.
The Difference Between Crisis and Rapid Response Travel Nurse Contract
A contract is vital in a travel nurse’s job, but a few differences exist between a crisis and a rapid response contract. Knowing them both can help you identify which one is more favorable for you.
What is a Crisis Contract?
Travel nurses are usually the first people who respond to any crises across the country. A crisis contract is given to nurses when a geographical location or hospital is confirmed to be under an emergency.
As a nurse, you must understand that this contract will put you in high-risk conditions, so reading it thoroughly is necessary.
If the crisis is urgent, this contract may also become a rapid response contract. If the problem is urgent, you may get higher wages for both contracts.
A crisis can be anything alarming or overwhelming. The best example of this case is the Covid-19 pandemic that we are experiencing right now. Another good example is when the crisis is an isolated case.
It means the issue is only specific to a particular hospital or area. For example, when natural disasters like hurricanes, flooding, etc., hits a location, travel nurses are given crisis contracts to answer the call for help.
The payment of a crisis contract varies depending on the nature of the crisis at hand [1]. The amount may also differ according to these factors:
- The hospital’s budget.
- The agency’s ability to negotiate the terms and conditions of your work.
- Your skills as a nurse – if you have skills in specialized areas like ICU, OR, DR, and others, the better the pay you will get.
As you go through your contract, you will see that it outlines the specifics of your crisis pay. It may include both a higher base wage, additional stipends, and your bonuses, and overtime pay.
A crisis contract may also be shorter than a regular travel nurse contract. Your assignments are often short-term, while the standard travel nurse contract is around 16 weeks.
Many hospitals opt to hire nurses under this contract on shorter terms because they’re paid higher than others. So it would be wise to hire them for a short period than hire them for a long time and pay at higher rates.
What is Rapid Response Contract?
A rapid response contract is when a healthcare facility hires travel nurses to fill in the job. The situation may not always be a crisis. But nurses are needed if there is a:
- New software upgrade
- An internal occurrence
- An influx of non-emergency patients
Travel nurses must stay close to the facility and be ready if the hospital calls them on short notice.
As a rapid response nurse, you may also receive bonuses, higher base wages, and more stipends [2]. It will also depend on the following:
- Education and certifications.
- The number of years you are working as a rapid response nurse.
- Nursing skills that you have.
Housing stipends are also included in your compensation. It is because finding housing near the facility on short notice is difficult.
Expect to work right away when you accept this kind of contract. It means you don’t have to go through lengthy briefings.
In case you find yourself in this situation, being ready is always a good thing. Be sure to work with your agency in every step, so you have everything you need before working.
Choose the Right Contract
Whether you work as a crisis or rapid response nurse, be sure to choose the work where you will be happy working as one. Both positions are well compensated and need you to travel. If this makes you happy, go ahead and take the offer. Make sure to read your travel nurse contracts well for your security and safety.
Looking for more nursing and travel nursing information? Check out these helpful links!
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