What are the Most In-Demand Travel Nursing Specialties for 2023?

The demand for travel nurses continues to grow in 2023. While every nursing specialization is important, some are currently in higher demand than others for filling positions. This can vary depending on factors such as location, healthcare needs, and population demographics. Whether you’re a newbie traveler looking to pick a specialty that best suits you or an experienced traveler searching for the best specialty, it is important to learn about the most in-demand travel nursing specialties.

ICU (Intensive Care Unit)

Job Demand: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Intensive Care Unit nurses specialize in caring for patients who have experienced a serious accident, suffered life-threatening injuries, or traumatic experiences, or have recently undergone major or complicated surgical procedures.

ICU nurses take care of the most vulnerable patients, so they must have self-assurance and confidence to make split-second decisions.

ER (Emergency Room)

Job Demand: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Emergency Room nurses work in a demanding environment. Between allergic reactions, injuries from accidents, broken bones, and chest pain, ER nurses must be skilled at working in unpredictable situations.

Working in the ER is perfect for nurses that thrive in high-pressure environments and enjoy the intensity associated with this specialty.

L&D (Labor & Delivery)

Job Demand: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Labor & Delivery nurses care for the mother and baby before, during, and after birth. Labor is mentally, physically, and emotionally draining. As an L&D nurse, you support your patients to ensure a safe delivery for both mother and baby.

L&D nurses need a diverse skill set to start IVs, run drips, insert catheters, perform cervical checks, monitor both mother and baby, and so much more.

PCU (Progressive Care Unit)

Job Demand: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Progressive Care Unit nurses care for patients that don’t require the level of care found in the ICU but need more than traditional bedside care. The recovery of a patient in the PCU relies heavily on their treatment.

PCU nurses monitor and evaluate patients to communicate even the slightest changes to the patient’s care team.

OR (Operating Room)

Job Demand: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Operating Room nurses are essential to the surgical team. OR nurses provide care for patients before, during, and after operations and procedures.

OR nurses typically perform pre-operation assessments, maintain a sterile environment, and monitor vitals during surgery.

Are you looking for a travel nursing assignment? Our recruiters are ready to help you find the perfect position in the perfect place. We offer a variety of locations, compensation, benefits, and 24-hour service. Check out the job opportunities at RTG Medical or contact us today to start your next adventure!

March 14, 2023 0

Managing Different Time Zones as a Healthcare Traveler

Stay on Top of Time Change During Your Next Travel Assignment!

As a healthcare traveler, you are no stranger to the hustle and bustle of traveling for work. Between coordinating transportation, scheduling housing, and managing your workloads, the last thing you want to worry about is what time it is in the area where you are working. With different states come different time zones, and if you’re not prepared, this can cause confusion and stress. Let’s look at some tips on how to manage different time zones as a healthcare traveler on assignment within the United States.

The First Step Is To Know Your Time Zone(s)

Before you start your next travel assignment, make sure that you know what time zone that area is in. This information should be provided by the contracting agency prior to arriving at your assignment. Knowing the time zone ahead of time allows you to plan out your days more effectively. For example, if you know when daylight savings time begins (or ends) in an area before arriving for your assignment, then you can plan accordingly with simple practices like changing all of your clocks before leaving home or being aware of how long it will take to arrive at each location during certain times. You can also use this knowledge to plan ahead of important meetings that may conflict with other scheduled events or obligations back home.

Prioritize Self-Care & Setting Boundaries

It’s important not only to stay organized but also prioritize self-care while traveling between different time zones. Part of this involves setting boundaries around how often and when you’re available for work. As your top healthcare travel agency, we want to ensure your needs and availability are properly communicated to your new facility. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to please everyone but it’s equally as important to take care of yourself first so that when it comes time for work, you’re able to give it your all!

Take Advantage Of Technology & Apps

Fortunately, there are many tools available today that make managing multiple time zones easier than ever before! Take advantage of apps like World Clock Pro which enable users to sync their devices across multiple locations in order to ensure accuracy when scheduling appointments and meetings across multiple states (or even countries). Additionally, many digital calendars now offer features such as auto-timezone detection which help prevent issues related to crossed wires between parties due differences in local times from one location versus another – all without ever having to leave the comfort of your own home!

Navigating multiple time zones as a healthcare traveler doesn’t have to be stressful! By taking advantage of technology tools such as apps like World Clock Pro and digital calendars with auto-timezone detection features, managing different locations with varying times becomes much simpler than ever before! Traveling with RTG Medical will give you a single point of contact, a recruiter who can help you every step of the way. Interested in more information? Contact us today, we would love to get you started on your next travel assignment!

March 1, 2023 0

Top Travel Destinations for Summer 2023

Six Must-See Cities for Your Summer 2023 Healthcare Travel Assignment

The winter season is coming to an end, so it’s time to start thinking about your summer 2023 travel assignment. Travel assignments with RTG Medical might just be what you’re looking for if you’re a healthcare professional who loves exploring new places. Take a look at these six must-see cities for your summer assignment in 2023.

Wilmington, Delaware

Located on the Delaware River, Wilmington is just a short drive from Philadelphia. With plenty of museums and historic sites to explore, it’s a great destination for history and culture lovers. You can also take a stroll through the beautiful Brandywine Park, which is home to several gardens and a zoo. Wilmington also has great food, with lots of local restaurants and breweries.

Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and is known for its scenic views, outdoor activities, and wildlife. With long daylight hours during the summer months, you’ll have plenty of time to explore and enjoy everything Anchorage has to offer. Get a taste of Alaska by taking a scenic drive along the Seward Highway, fishing for salmon, hiking to a glacier, or watching for whales. Anchorage also has a great food and drink scene, with plenty of local breweries and restaurants that serve fresh seafood.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

In northern Wisconsin, Bayfield sits on the shores of Lake Superior. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Take a boat tour to the Apostle Islands, a group of 22 islands with pristine beaches and unique rock formations. Bayfield also has several wineries and orchards, so make sure to try some fruit and wine from the area.

Boston, Massachusetts

Sports teams, museums, and universities make Boston a popular tourist destination. Summertime is the perfect time to walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking path that takes you through some of Boston’s most historic spots. Check out the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the country, or catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. The food scene in Boston is also thriving, with a lot of seafood restaurants and local eateries.

Telluride, Colorado

The town of Telluride is nestled in the mountains of southwestern Colorado. With plenty of hiking, biking, and rock-climbing opportunities, it’s a popular outdoor destination. You can also take a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountain, where you’ll have stunning views of the surrounding area. Telluride is also known for its music festivals, so be sure to check the schedule and catch a show during your visit.

Nomad, Washington

The town of Nomad is on the eastern side of Washington state. You’ll find plenty of hiking and fishing options nearby, so it’s a great destination for outdoorsies. Nomad is also famous for its wineries, so be sure to take a tour and taste some local wine. If you’re visiting in August, make sure you check out the North Central Washington Fair, which has live music, rodeos, and carnival rides.

Join other healthcare travelers and partner up with RTG Medical

These six cities are a must-see for your summer 2023 RTG Medical assignment. Each of these cities has its own unique attractions and culture, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your interests. These amazing destinations have something for everyone, from the stunning scenery of Anchorage to the historic sites of Boston. We have helped tons of healthcare travelers find jobs in locations they’ve always wanted to travel to! If you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime, reach out to RTG Medical today!

February 21, 2023 0

Safety Tips for Healthcare Travelers

Traveling in healthcare allows you to continue doing what you love, while exploring places you’ve always wanted to visit! You’re more likely to stay safe while on your assignments if you’re comfortable and prepared. Here are some safety tips for healthcare travelers!

Plan ahead

As you prepare for your next adventure, it is imperative that you plan ahead. Finding safe and affordable housing is one of the most important things you can do. There are several things you can do to avoid housing scams, including knowing what fake ads look like, being aware of red flags, and reporting scams when you see them. Another thing you can use is areavibes, which gives you a livability score based on nearby amenities, the cost of living and crime rates. Familiarize yourself with the area you’ll be working and living in before you go.

Get an AAA membership

If you are going to be driving to your destination, you should definitely invest in AAA. An AAA membership aids you with 24 hour roadside assistance including tow trucks, jump starts, vehicle lock-outs, flat tires, and more. It’s nice to know that you can call for help if you encounter car problems along the way. You can also get member-only discounts on hotels and restaurants.

Keep in touch

This one probably goes without saying, but keep in touch with your friends and family back home. Also, update your emergency contact information before leaving just in case. Be sure someone knows your travel schedule, and update them along the way. Let them know where you’ll be working and living, and when you get there. It’s important to let them know you’re safe, but also share your experiences. If anything goes awry while on assignment, know that your recruiter is here to help, too!

Travel in groups

It’s understandable that you want to explore a new area, but you should try and travel in a group or with a buddy. You’ll make new friends while on assignment, and it can be fun to take on the new area with them. Plus, if they’re from there, you can experience living like a local. You can also ask your coworkers some of their favorite spots and places to eat, grab a drink, or a cup of coffee at. Keep your wits about you and always know it’s better safe than sorry.

Join other healthcare travelers and partner up with RTG Medical

We have helped tons of healthcare travelers find jobs in locations they’ve always wanted to travel to! It’s important to know the essential safety elements that come with being a traveling healthcare professional. We want you to have fun and be safe, and if you ever feel unsafe at your facility while on assignment, contact the local authorities or your recruiter right away. If you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime, reach out to RTG Medical today!

February 15, 2023 0

Mental health tips for traveling healthcare professional

Although we celebrate Nurses Week this month, May is also Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is all about raising awareness on the importance of mental health and breaking the stigma behind it. A recent report has found that nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness, that is about 52.9 million.

This astounding number includes our healthcare workers. Due to the high demand for these workers, they can develop anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of healthcare workers struggling with mental health issues increased drastically. During this period, 86 percent of healthcare workers reported experiencing anxiety, and 76 percent reported exhaustion and burnout.

As one of the best traveling healthcare companies, RTG Medical wants to share some important tips on how to maintain your mental health while working as a traveling healthcare professional.

Stay connected with friends and family members

One of the perks of being a traveling healthcare professional is having the opportunity to see the country on your own. However, sometimes there can be a downside, spending periods away from your family and friends, which can lead to feelings of isolation.

This is why it is important to stay connected with your friends and family while traveling. Carve out time from your busy schedule to connect with the important people in your life through Facetime, Skype and other forms of digital communication.

Disconnecting from social media

Although social media is a powerful tool for connecting with friends and family members, it can also lead to anxiety and stress. A report has found a strong link between social media use and depression, anxiety and loneliness.

If you are feeling overwhelmed after scrolling through your timeline, consider taking a break from social media or limit your social media consumption. You can limit your social media use by;

Turning off your phone during certain times of the day
Not bringing your phone to bed with you
Removing social media apps
Using apps that limit your social media use

Make exercising a part of your schedule

Exercise is a great way to help improve your mental health. Staying active can boost your mood, concentration and alertness. Being overly inactive or sedentary can lead to developing mental illnesses like anxiety and depression.

It is so important for healthcare professionals to make time for exercising. You can stay active by using the gym at your workplace facility, apartment or working out outdoors. Consider joining a fitness group if you are looking for a fun yet active way to make friends on your assignment as well.

Work with one of the best traveling healthcare companies!

Be sure to connect with RTG Medical! We help health professionals, like CNAs, nurses, pharmacists, and physical therapists, find travel job opportunities around the country. We have a unique approach in that we pair healthcare professionals with a single recruiter throughout their entire journey. Contact us to learn more.

May 16, 2022 0

Tips on the best way to save money when on assignment

The perks of becoming a traveling healthcare professional with RTG Medical are exploring new cities and meeting new people. With so many things to do, you might spend more money than you planned.

Luckily, there are ways that healthcare professionals like you can save money while traveling. As one of the best healthcare travel companies, our team wants to share some valuable ways you can save money on your next traveling assignment.

Create a budget

First, before you start a traveling assignment, you should create a budget according to your income and expenses. You can jot down your expenses in a notebook or app. Some good budgeting apps include Mint, Goodbudget, YNAB, EveryDollar, PocketGuard, Honeydue, and Fudget.

When creating a budget, be sure to be as realistic and accurate as possible about your living expenses. These expenses should include housing, food and transportation. Do not forget to also budget for any lifestyle expenses like getting coffee, visiting places or eating out.

Pack smart

One travel tip that healthcare professionals should consider following is to pack smart. You want to bring enough scrubs that you can alternate throughout your workweek. Try also to pack versatile clothing for out-of-work activities and special occasions. Packing these kinds of clothes can save you money and helps you avoid shopping for clothes every time you go to a new city.

Cook meals at home

When visiting a new place, it can be tempting to want to try all the new restaurants. However, if you are looking to save some money, you should get into the habit of cooking meals at home as often as possible.

A study has found that eating out is five times more expensive than cooking at home. However, you can start by meal prepping for the week and then saving the weekend to go out and eat. By taking this step, you can save extra money but still enjoy healthy meals throughout the week.

Look for deals or use coupons

The best healthcare travel companies suggest you can save extra money is looking for deals. Before you visit your next attraction, you should look online first to see if there are any discounts or free activities you do. For example, local travel guides and Groupon are excellent resources. Do not forget, you can save a little bit of money by using coupons to buy your groceries.

Use different forms of transportation

Sometimes traveling healthcare professionals have to drive to their assigned destination. However, having a car while on your traveling assignment can sometimes be inconvenient. It can also be expensive, especially when using it every day to drive to work.

Before your next traveling assignment, double-check the city’s transportation options. See if the city you are traveling to has a reliable public transportation system like buses or subways. If you live close to your workspace, consider biking or walking to work.

Partner up with one of the best healthcare travel companies!

Let RTG Medical become your traveling partner! We recruit and place professional healthcare travelers in nursing, radiology, therapy, pharmacy and laboratory in all 50 states. Our process is unique because you are partnered with one recruiter throughout your entire traveling career with RTG Medical. Contact us to learn more today!

April 21, 2022 0

How to choose a healthcare travel agency

Have you decided that becoming a traveling healthcare professional is the right career move? Then, your next step should be starting your search for a travel healthcare agency. When you Google for travel healthcare companies, you’ll get many choices.

With so many options, picking a healthcare travel agency can be overwhelming, especially if you are new to this industry. Our team wants to share some advice on choosing a travel healthcare agency and why you should choose RTG Medical as your traveling partner.

Research their experience and reputability

When looking for a healthcare travel agency, the first step you should take is doing research. You want to look for an agency that is reputable and experienced. Choosing an experienced healthcare travel agency will ensure your travels go as smoothly as possible.

Do not just base your decision on what is on their website. It would be best to expand your research to what other people have to say. Here are some things you should include in your research:

Check to see if they are accredited by the Better Business Bureau
Read their online reviews on Google and Facebook
See what awards they have won

Check out which locations they offer

A primary reason many people decide to become traveling healthcare professionals is to travel. They want the opportunity to explore new cities and meet new people. So when looking for a healthcare agency, make sure to see which locations they offer.

It is important to note that not all agencies offer the same opportunity. The best travel healthcare companies, like RTG Medical, will have a wide variety of locations. At RTG Medical, we specialize in working with large and small facilities, ranging from critical access to university hospital settings.

Consider what the recruiter and traveler relationship is like

When working for a healthcare agency, the recruiter will be your main point of contact, career navigator, and give you travel tips for healthcare professionals.

So when you start contacting agencies, consider how the recruiter treats you. It would be best if you asked yourself these questions:

Does the recruiter make a personal connection?
When you call, are they friendly and caring?
Are you being switched between recruiters?

Look at their benefits

When looking for a healthcare travel agency, you should consider the benefits and packages. Make sure that they provide the benefits that fit your needs. Not getting the benefits you need will cause you anxiety down the road. You want to make sure to ask:

If you will get assistance with housing?
Do you get paid leave?
Will you get travel insurance?

One unique thing about RTG Medical is that you get one recruiter through your entire traveling journey. This recruiter will become your main point of contact for everything from traveling assignments to payroll. Our agency follows this method to ensure your whole travel experience goes smoothly.

Are you ready to work for one of the best travel healthcare companies?

Then, let RTG Medical become your traveling partner. We recruit nursing, radiology, therapy, pharmacy and laboratory professionals to work in facilities in all 50 states. Contact us to get started today.

April 15, 2022 0

Four travel tips for healthcare professionals

One of the reasons people decide to become traveling healthcare professionals is to explore new places. Healthcare staffing agencies, like RTG Medical, provide healthcare travelers from different fields traveling opportunities to fill temporary vacancies across the country.

But before you hit the road or board the plane to your next destination, you need to pack. Since you will be away from your home for a certain amount of time, you need to make sure you have the necessities. Whether it is your first or tenth traveling assignment, use these travel tips to make your next assignment as stress-free as possible.

Four travel tips for healthcare professionals

Do some research about the location

Healthcare travelers with RTG Medical have endless travel options! We have a variety of locations that range from both small and large facilities, ranging from critical access to university hospital settings. Once you get confirmation about your next location, you should do some research before you travel there. Doing a little research will help you adjust better to that new location for the period you are traveling there. Be sure to check out what activities you can do after work, what the climate is like and more.

Stay connected with your recruiter

At any time during your assignment, if you have any questions, you should talk to your recruiter. At RTG Medical, we pair you with one recruiter through your whole traveling job process. This recruiter will become your single point of contact for everything. Our recruiters can assist you with everything from navigating the assignment contract to housing questions. This process is aimed to make your whole experience easier.

Avoid overpacking

Travel assignments can last anywhere from 13 weeks on up. Whichever works best for you, you should pack accordingly. It is advised that you pack smart and light. You should only bring what you cannot live without for the duration. Avoid bringing along large items, like TVs. Here are some items you should consider bringing with you during your next travel assignment:

Important documents
First aid kit
Versatile clothing and shoes
Prescription medicines
Comfort home items
Tech like headphones and a laptop

Make connections with your coworkers

It can be scary starting a new position but even more when it’s in a new city. One way to make yourself more at ease is by getting to know your coworkers. Get to know the people you work around while on your assignment. Invite them out for coffee or to hang out. This can help you network, build friendships and get recommendations of new things to do while on your traveling assignment.

Contact your traveling partner today!

Come work for one of the best healthcare traveling agencies in the nation! At RTG Medical, we are a veteran-owned medical staffing agency focused on contracting travel and permanent healthcare professionals. We recruit and place professional healthcare travelers in nursing, radiology, therapy, pharmacy and laboratory in all 50 states. Contact us to get started today.

April 6, 2022 0

RTG Medical Travel Nurse Loses 100 Pounds On Assignment

“It’s the best thing I ever did in my life.”

Meet Steve Stang! He’s an EP Nurse from Omaha, Nebraska.

RTG Medical recently got to interview him about his inspirational travel journey!

Last year, Steve celebrated 32 years working at his home hospital. After building a strong foundation of critical care experience, he decided to take a leap of faith and become a travel nurse.

“I wanted to focus on myself.”

And he did just that.

In December of 2019, Steve landed in Atlanta for his first assignment.

“It was amazing,” he said, “I was the new guy for the first time — the new kid on the block.”

He said it was fun to prove himself and learn new approaches to procedures. He said loved it so much, he accepted a second assignment at the same facility.

During his two contracts in Atlanta, Steve found a passion for the outdoors and photography.

When he wasn’t working, he was hiking…

Climbing…

Snapping photos of everything that caught his eye…

And eating well.

With his new found lifestyle, he dropped more than 100 pounds!

“It turned my world around,” he said, “[traveling] was a great vehicle [for me] to focus on myself.”

Steve was so motivating that one of his coworkers in Atlanta followed suit and lost 75 pounds, too!

So what’s next?

After completing his first two contracts, Steve is back home in Nebraska woodworking in his garage…

spending time with family…

and gearing up for his third assignment with RTG!

His advice to future travelers?

“It’s definitely worth the risk, and I’m all for it,” he said, “Everything you want is on the other side of fear. Don’t be afraid! It was the biggest blessing in my life.”

Want to start traveling? Your new adventure starts here!

July 15, 2020 5

6 Steps To Becoming A Travel Nurse

Caught the travel bug?

You’re in the right place.

You may be graduating next year, experiencing a life change, or just wanting to find your new #adventureswithRTG.

At RTG Medical, we’re here to help you go there — and we’ll be there every step of the way, as your personal travel guide.

If you’re excited and inspired by travel nursing, read on! One of our senior recruiters will tell you everything you need to know in taking the leap.

1. Commit

This is the hardest step! Once you decide to travel, your recruiter can get the ball rolling. You will have the most preparation before your first assignment; so, it’s good for you and your recruiter to know that you are 100 percent ready for your #adventureswithRTG.

2. Keep Your Current Position

You’ve decided to travel. Awesome! Now, don’t get too ahead of yourself and quit your current position. Take a breath. Your recruiter will give you the green light when you’re ready to be submitted for traveling positions.

3. Brush Up On That Resume!

Make sure your experience is on paper. Also, explain any gaps of employment; this may be a chunk of paid time off or a gap where you took time to raise a family. Whatever that may be, elaborate! Also, gather all of your immunization records.

4. Find Your “Why”

Why are you traveling? Is it for more compensation or for more adventure? Whatever it may be, communicate your “why” with your recruiter. Then, they can tailor assignments just for you!

5. Apply For Licenses

If you know you want to travel to specific states, go ahead and apply. Sometimes, this can take a while. That’s why it’s best to start the process now, so when your assignment is ready for you, you’re off to the races!

6. Ask Questions!

At RTG Medical, we want what’s best for you. It’s YOUR career! Ask us anything, because we’re happy to help and guide you on your #adventureswithRTG.

Ready to start traveling? Click here for more information.

November 22, 2019 0