Whether it’s to a big city or a small town, your first or your thirty-first, every healthcare travel assignment takes time to adjust.
If you’re feeling stressed about your next assignment, we’re here to help with five tried and true tips for adjusting to your new assignment and location.
Do research
A beautiful part of the internet is that you can “travel” somewhere even before stepping foot in the place, agreed?
There are a few types of research you can do to ensure a smooth transition:
What do you like to do? What helps you unwind after a long week? Make a list of three things you love and would love to discover while in that location. For example, do you like a particular type of cuisine? Coffee? Dessert? Research the best spots, try them all, and find your fave! Like to hike or bike? Find the community within the area and join events!
On a similar note, investigate the neighborhood you’ll be in and where the essentials are that you’ll need (grocery store, pharmacy, bodega, general store, etc.). Doing this can help you feel less isolated because it creates a sense of familiarity with the space before you get there.
Unpack immediately
Plan to unpack your suitcase as soon as you can. Put your belongings away in drawers, closets, and cupboards. Set up the bathroom how you like it. If you bring any sentimental items with you, such as photo frames or keepsakes, display them in prominent areas where you’ll spend time in. If you’re living out of a suitcase, you may never feel at home— which can manifest in many ways, especially in poor mental health. Having your things set up from the very start will also allow you to create routines earlier, which can benefit a busy schedule.
Put yourself out there
We know that this can be easier said than done. But try. Find out where your coworkers like to hang out. Is there a favorite restaurant or bar that’s often recommended? Is a coffee shop popular with the people in the area? Maybe there is a farmer’s market on the weekend. Go out with your new coworkers when you can. Not only is this a great way to find any hidden gems you wouldn’t find during your research, but it’s also a great way to get to know the people you’ll be working with and build a network for future assignments.
Get comfortable with exploring alone
That said, don’t waste those precious first few weeks waiting to meet someone else to explore with. Instead, learn to be comfortable by yourself. Again, we know, easier said than done. It might be uncomfortable initially, but the more you do it, the less awkward it will feel (but of course, always keep safety in mind.) The last thing you want is to leave your assignment and think, “I never got to do XYZ because I was too scared to do it alone.” Part of the allure of travel nursing is having opportunities to see and do new things, meet new people, and grow professionally and personally. If you feel embarrassed – nobody has ever died from embarrassment, so you’ll get over it eventually, or it’ll be a funny story later (remember being a teenager?).
Ask questions
On the more facility-based side of tips, never hesitate to ask questions early on. As a traveler, you’re expected to hit the ground running, sure, but it’s better to know right away than stumble trying to catch up to speed later.
Some crucial questions to ask when starting a new assignment include:
- What are the standard methods of communication?
If not explicitly stated, determine what method of communication your supervisor prefers. Some would rather get a call or text, while others would like to meet face-to-face. Additionally, you can learn about whom to contact for scheduling, emergency, and call-in inquiries. This information will help with efficiency and knowing who to reach when needed.
- Are there procedure resources available for reference somewhere?
Policies and procedures can vary drastically from facility to facility. Therefore, it’s essential to find and familiarize yourself with them immediately. If a cheat sheet is available, grab one or create one of your own, if possible.
- What computer charting system do they use?
You may have to learn how to use a new system during each assignment— sometimes in a matter of hours. Ask coworkers for tips and tricks on the system in use so you can figure it out quickly. Keep the IT department’s number on hand in case you need help.
Be kind to yourself
Perhaps the most important thing to remember as a traveler, new or old, is that you’re doing the best you can. But be kind to yourself, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself to love every location or assignment. Celebrate what you learn from each experience, good or bad, and use it for next time.
Find your next assignment with Blu Med
As corny as it sounds, being a healthcare traveler is not just a career— it’s a lifestyle. It’s not for everyone, and y’know Blu Med’s not for anyone— it’s for the get-sh*t-done travelers who work hard and play harder. If you’re taking the time to invest in us, we want to invest in you. Because we focus on each traveler individually, we can provide our specialized expertise and proactively tailor our services between assignments.
Contact a Blu Med recruiter today, and let’s find that next assignment for you!
