Foodie Guide: Your Travel Assignment in Austin, TX

Tex-Mex and barbecue may be the traditional culinary draws in Austin, but the food scene is constantly evolving and expanding. Alongside classic dishes, you can now find a variety of cuisines and flavors from all over the world. We’ve rounded up the top bucket list restaurants in the city. Get ready to have your taste buds dancing with delight!

Franklin Barbecue

Franklin Barbecue is an authentic Texas experience. The restaurant has won numerous awards and accolades, including being named the best barbecue joint in America by Bon Appétit magazine in 2015. With their famous ribs and brisket, alongside their mouth-watering sides like potato salad, slaw, and beans, you won’t be leaving hungry. The wait can be long, but it’s part of the experience. People start lining up outside the restaurant hours before it opens, so be prepared to wait. If you’re in a hurry, don’t worry! Franklin’s Barbeque offers pre-orders for whole briskets and other meats. You won’t want to miss out on this iconic spot on your travel assignment!

Veracruz All Natural

If you’re in the mood for some amazing tacos while working your travel assignment in Austin, look no further than Veracruz All Natural. This family-owned business started as a food truck in Austin and has grown to several locations around Austin, so you’re never too far away from delicious tacos. Their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients has earned them a loyal following. In addition to their legendary breakfast tacos, their menu offers various vegetarian and gluten-free options. Veracruz is a must-visit spot for taco lovers.

Elizabeth Street Café

If you’re in the mood for a light meal, look no further than Elizabeth Street Café. The café’s unique blend of French and Vietnamese flavors will satisfy any craving. Elizabeth Street Café is a great spot for a casual lunch or a weekend brunch with friends. The menu offers a range of delicious options, but their fresh salads and spring rolls are a must-try. If you’re after a sweet treat, their French pastries and macarons are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Elizabeth Street Café is the perfect place for something light!

Uchi

Uchi has received numerous awards for its innovative and high-quality cuisine. It has been named one of the best sushi restaurants in the country by various publications. The restaurant offers a wide selection of sushi and sashimi, including traditional and more creative contemporary dishes. Some of their most popular menu items include the “Machi Cure” (smoked yellowtail), “Walu Walu” (oak-grilled escolar), and “Madai” (Japanese sea bream). The restaurant has an elegant and modern atmosphere, with a large bar area and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work. It is an excellent spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner while working your travel assignment in Austin.

Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden

If you’re looking for a fun and casual dining experience with great food and drinks while working your travel assignment, Banger’s Sausage & Beer Garden is worth checking out. Banger’s is known for its wide selection of house-made sausages and craft beers. They offer over 30 different types of sausages, ranging from classic bratwurst to unique flavors like rabbit and rattlesnake. In addition to sausages and beer, Banger’s has a full menu of other dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The restaurant has a large outdoor seating area in its beer garden, which is excellent for enjoying events and live music. Enjoy great food, beer, and entertainment at Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden.

LeRoy & Lewis

This local favorite started as a food truck and has since expanded to a brick-and-mortar location. In true Texas fashion, LeRoy & Lewis is known for its creative barbeque dishes, which often incorporate unexpected flavors and ingredients. Their menu features a variety of meats, sides, and desserts, including brisket, pulled pork, smoked turkey breast, mac and cheese, and banana pudding. If you’re in the mood for classic Texas barbeque, LeRoy & Lewis is the place to be.

Austin’s culinary scene has something to offer no matter what your taste buds crave. From classic Texas barbecue and beers to innovative Asian cuisine, you will find something delicious in Austin.

Get a taste of Austin, TX, on your next travel assignment with RTG Medical. With RTG Medical as your traveling partner, you can have it all— a fulfilling travel assignment and an unforgettable experience in one of the most exciting cities in the country. Contact us today or visit our job board to plan your travel assignment in Austin.

Night Shift: Tips for First Time Travelers

Working the night shift presents unique challenges to your daily routine, even when you’re not traveling. On average, night shifts for healthcare travelers are between 8 to 12 hours long. Taking a night shift assignment as a first-time traveler can be intimidating unless you take steps to thrive during those long night shifts.

Stick to a Schedule

To make sure your first night shift as a medical traveler goes as comfortably as possible, you must prepare yourself for mental, emotional, and physical change. Night shift preparation begins long before the day of your assignment. It is vital to plan ahead, so your mind and body can adjust to your new schedule. In the weeks leading up to your travel assignment, gradually change your sleeping patterns to reset your circadian rhythm.

Maintaining a sleep schedule during daylight can be difficult, so you may want to invest in a few items to ensure restful sleep. Since exposure to sunlight tells your brain that you should be awake, blackout curtains or a sleeping mask can make it easier to sleep during the day. It may also be helpful to try using white noise apps to help block out any noise that might wake you. 

The bottom line is that sleep is even more important when you work nights. Your success working the night shift depends on sticking to a sleep schedule. Inconsistent sleep patterns can lead to a weak immune system, poor memory, and a lack of concentration.

Maintain a Consistent Meal Schedule

It can be disorienting to change your sleeping and eating habits, and like sleep, your body has a rhythm for hunger. However, good nutrition is non-negotiable when working nights. Preparing healthy, balanced meals and snacks helps maintain your energy levels and support your overall health. 

A well-balanced diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These superfoods will help you stay energized during your night shift assignment. Try to avoid the temptation of vending machine snacks at the facility. While these high-sugar, processed foods may give you a quick burst of energy, they will eventually lead to a crash.

Prioritize Self Care

It is important for medical travelers (especially night shift workers) to prioritize self-care when tackling a new schedule, particularly when it comes to your mental health. As you fall into your new routines, be sure to add “you time” to your schedule and enjoy your days off.  When your night shift travel assignment starts, be sure to focus on self-care.

Everyone loves caffeine, but moderation is key. Water increases focus and enhances energy without a caffeine crash. In addition, water is essential for optimal brain function and overall health. The amount of water you should drink varies based on several factors, like diet and exercise. But the general guideline for adults is between 9 and 13 cups of water per day. 

It’s inevitable that you’ll have a fair amount of downtime while working the night shift but resist the temptation to sit down floor too long. It might take some creativity, but there are many ways to exercise during your night shift travel assignment. Walking around the unit, taking advantage of stairways, or doing some light cleaning are all great ways to stay active and help fight fatigue. 

Don’t be afraid of night shift travel assignments. While it may seem overwhelming, planning and preparation can help you transition smoothly into your ever-changing schedule.

Ready to work your first night shift travel assignment? Check out our job board or fill out our contact form. Your adventure with RTG Medical awaits! 

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!

Preparing for Tax Season as a Healthcare Traveler

As tax season approaches, traveling healthcare professionals must be prepared. Here’s what you need to know about your taxes for the upcoming year.

WHAT IS YOUR TAX HOME?

Many travelers confuse their tax home with their permanent home. While that is the case for most people, traveling healthcare professionals fall into a special category of people earning money outside their tax home. To qualify for non-taxable wages, travel nurses must have proof of their tax home. It is important to note that the IRS may reassess tax home if you spend too much time in another location. A general rule is to only stay at one travel assignment for up to 12 months to maintain your tax home.

TAX ADVANTAGES

There are considerable tax advantages to be aware of as a traveler, primarily stipends and reimbursements. These reimbursements are business-related expenses your employer pays you back to cover travel expenses like hotels, transportation, and other necessary fees. Additionally, stipends are delivered to you periodically to cover the costs of similar expenses, like lodging and meals, while on an assignment. For healthcare travelers, these stipends are tax-free and do not have to be reported as taxable income. 

BEWARE OF AUDITS

While there is a very low chance, the expense-to-income ratio for healthcare travelers makes them more likely to be audited by the IRS than the average person. Therefore, it is essential to keep track of these documents as proof that you are maintaining and permanent home:

  • Mortgage or rent payments
  • Gas, electric, and internet bills
  • Receipts for transportation to assignments (rental cars, flights, etc.)
  • Mileage logs for traveling to and from assignments
  • Copies of all your assignment contracts

To avoid an audit, find a certified tax professional for advice when filing your taxes. In addition, several apps and websites can help you organize expenses and records, like Google Drive, Expensify, and Turbo Tax. 

FILING YOUR 2023 TAXES

Tackling your taxes can be intimidating for both seasoned and new healthcare travelers. But with the proper preparation and the help of a tax professional, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Use this helpful checklist to give you a good start on your 2023 taxes:

  1. Gather all W-2 and 1099 forms from your employer(s).
  2. Keep track of all receipts for travel-related expenses, like lodging, meals, and transportation. Remember, these may be tax-deductible.
  3. Keep documentation for continuing education courses, professional development training, and renewed licenses or certifications.
  4. Keep records of any state taxes paid throughout the year.
  5. Review tax forms or instructions from your tax preparer or the IRS.
  6. File your taxes by the deadline, April 18, to avoid late fees or penalties.
  7. Check the status of your refund and contact the proper authorities if an error is found. 

Don’t be discouraged by tax season. It only comes once a year! Preparing yourself with good expense-tracking habits and document organization can make your taxes easier to manage. Remember to partner with a trusted CPA who understands healthcare travelers’ challenges! 

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!

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! 

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!

Top brands for healthcare travelers

From shoes to scrubs to stethoscopes, healthcare travelers need several tools to do their best work. It’s important to invest in a good brand so you’re ready to go for the long run. Below we highlight some of the top brands that have proven themselves time and time again!

Shoes

Two of our favorite shoe brands for healthcare travelers are Hoka and On-Running. The majority of your shift will be spent on your feet, so you should wear shoes that are comfortable. We also appreciate the waterproof elements since feet can get sweaty while walking up and down halls and around hospitals.

Shoes from Hoka are designed to provide support for those who are on their feet for long periods of time. During your shift, your feet will remain cool and comfortable thanks to their breathability. Their many colors and styles also make them trendy.

On-Running shoes have tons of support, making them super comfortable for all-day wear. For healthcare workers, we recommend the Cloudflow series because they’re cushioned. Furthermore, they’re consistently ranked among the best shoes for healthcare professionals.

Scrubs

There are so many scrubs to choose from, which can make it hard to choose the best, especially if you’re just beginning your career in healthcare. Ideally, you want something that is comfortable, fashionable and fits well. FIGS scrubs were voted the best scrubs for healthcare workers.

The material is quick-drying and breathable. There are tons of colors available, so you can pick the one that suits you best. They also have a gorgeous new hunter green color. It is common for scrubs to wear out over time, but these ones are known to last longer than others.

Bags

A tote bag will help you carry your essentials to work. You want a bag that has both internal and external compartments, and maybe even one that can fit two pairs of shoes. Healthcare workers often change into their scrubs and shoes at work and wear a different outfit to work.

We recommend the Pocket Rocket Pocket Tote Bag and CalPak’s Luka Duffel. The Pocket Rocket Pocket Tote Bag comes in a variety of designs and has six external pockets, as well as inside compartments. It is perfect for those who love organization. The Luke Duffel is good for carrying things to your job each day, but is also great for traveling. It is waterproof, has nine pockets and even a compartment specifically for shoes.

Water bottles

Investing in a good reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated throughout your shift and it’s better for the environment. The Stanley Cup can be filled with 40 oz of water, it stays cold for over 12 hours, it has a handle to carry, they’re dishwasher safe and they fit in your car cup holder. Because TikTok made them viral, they sell out fast, but keep checking for restocks and you’ll be able to get one.

Socks

Along with good shoes, you’ll want good socks. Compression socks are especially good for healthcare workers. While you’re ordering FIGS scrubs, you can add on some FIGS socks. There are a variety of patterns to match any personality, and the toes and heels are cushioned. Another great brand of socks is BOMBAS, they provide support and keep your feet warm in the colder months.

Stethoscopes

Your stethoscope is one of the most used pieces of equipment for your job. Littmann Stethoscopes are at the top of the list. The company has been in the game for six decades and their stethoscopes have amplification and filtering systems. No matter what your specifications are, they have a variety of models and colors to choose from.

Join other healthcare travelers working with RTG Medical!

Team up with RTG Medical to begin your traveling career. We connect healthcare professionals to job opportunities all across the country. We pair you with one recruiter who can help you find your dream traveling job and assist with any questions you have along the way. Contact us today to get started!

7 top-paying specializations for healthcare travelers

If you’re a healthcare professional who loves travel and adventure, you should know about these jobs within the profession that pay well! RTG Medical is one of the best healthcare staffing agencies in Omaha, NE, and we offer a variety of locations, great compensation, benefits and one recruiter to personally help you find your dream job!

Below are some benefits of traveling healthcare jobs, followed by some of the top-paying specializations.

Benefits of high-paying traveling healthcare jobs

There are several benefits to becoming a healthcare traveler, high pay included. You can explore new cities and places and have an abundance of job opportunities. Before we get into the highest-paying specializations, we wanted to provide you with some of the benefits of being a traveling healthcare career!

The ability to choose when and where you work

Healthcare staffing agencies in Omaha, NE, typically have a list of places you can work, but will also ask where you want to go. Your recruiter will work with you to find the right position in the perfect destination. You can also choose how long you take off time in between contracts

A variety of career experiences

With every job you have, you’ll gain new skills and experiences. Visiting different hospitals and facilities gives you a lot of experience doing similar tasks. By applying these insights, you will be able to consistently improve your performance.

Earning a generous income

Healthcare professionals who travel are well compensated. Annual salaries for some exceed $130,000! In addition, many medical staffing agencies provide a stipend to cover housing and other expenses.

Job security

Whether you work at a healthcare facility or hospital, your skills make you a desirable employee. As a nurse, you are in a good position to fill any gaps in the nursing workforce.

Less burnout

Burnout can still happen, but it’s less likely when you’re switching up where you work after every 13 or 26-week contract. Experience new people and places, all while doing something you love!

Top-paying specializations this year

There are many different high-paying jobs for traveling healthcare professionals, but we wanted to give you the top seven. These jobs are in demand right now in 2023.

1. Telemetry

Telemetry nurses provide care for patients at risk of cardiac failure. They monitor vital signs and cardiac functioning. They have higher rates because you need a high level of education and skill, and their patients have fragile conditions that can change at any moment.

2. Cardiac ICU

Patients who have critical heart issues and conditions get care from Cardiac ICU nurses. They monitor their cardiac status, administer medications and provide any emergency care. Their patients can take a turn for the worse at any moment, which is why they’re paid so highly.

3. Obstetrics Gynecology

These nurses help care for expecting mothers. They assist with prenatal care, educate them, assist with delivering babies and monitor the mother and baby after birth. Their skills are a valuable part of the healthcare delivery team and they are compensated likewise.

4. Cardiac Catheterization Lab

These lab techs care for patients undergoing or who have had cardiac procedures. They monitor before, during and after. They help diagnose and treat those with mild to severe cardiac conditions.

5.  Pediatric ER

These nurses help children who arrive at the emergency room with an injury. They monitor vitals, administer medications, start IVs and perform wound care. These nurses need a skill set that includes babies, children and adults, and they never know what injury will come through the ER doors.

6. Step-Down

Sometimes patients are stable enough to not be in the ICU, so they’re placed in step-down where these nurses give them frequent assessments and close monitoring. They have to be able to identify progress, notice changes and calculate and administer medications for various conditions.

7. Neonatal ICU (NICU)

These nurses provide care for newborns experiencing illnesses or complications. Their job description includes diapering, feeding, inserting and maintaining IVs, administering medications, providing 24-hour care, assisting with any procedures and educating the parent or family. They care for the most vulnerable patients, which contributes to their high pay.

Work with healthcare staffing agencies in Omaha, NE

No matter what specification you’re considering, RTG Medical can help place you where you want to be. We help nurses, radiologists, therapists, pharmacists, lab techs, cardiologists, LPNs, physical therapists, occupational therapists, CNAs and more. Contact us today to begin your adventure!

Things to consider when packing for your assignment

As you prepare for your next adventure, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need. It is common for healthcare travelers to pack at the last minute, so you will want to cover some basic essentials regardless of when you decide to pack. Start by making sure your home away from home will have what you need. Check the weather and assess your clothing needs, think about your work and life essentials and be sure to pack any necessary documents.

RTG Medical has helped tons of healthcare professionals find traveling healthcare jobs across the country. If you ever run into any questions when packing, especially if this is your first time, don’t hesitate to reach out. We hope this short list helps get you started!

Your temporary home

Many medical staffing agencies give you housing options or a housing stipend. Your new home should have everything you need, no matter where you live. Healthcare travelers may be able to find fully furnished housing options. Ideally, you’ll want every basic amenity that you use at home. A refrigerator, microwave, TV and stove are usually provided in a rental, but it’s good to double-check before moving in.

Clothing

The average contract lasts 13 weeks, which is a little over three months. If you’re traveling to a specific location, you’ll want to pack clothing appropriate for that region. For example, if you’re traveling to a state that has one of the National Parks, you’ll want clothing you can hike and explore in. Think about the season and check the weather ahead of time. Always prepare for temperature fluctuations.

Essentials

Does your hospital or facility provide scrubs or do you need to bring your own? Recruiters can assist you in finding this information. You may also need to bring your own mask and stethoscope. Bring shoes you know are comfortable to work in, and any helpful technology you may need. Other essential items may include pens, scissors, lab coats and a planner.

Other important things

You’ll want to make sure you have all of the important work documents that you need and any certifications or licenses you have. Since you’re going to be away from home for quite a bit, it’s necessary to have your mportant paperwork on hand; you might need things like your health insurance cards, your banking information, driver’s license and social security card. If you’re traveling with a pet, be sure to have their medical records too. 

Find your dream traveling healthcare jobs with RTG Medical

Nailing down what you need for your temporary home, whether it be clothing, work essentials or any important documents, before you head out for your traveling healthcare jobs will ensure you’re ready to go. The more contracts you complete, the more comfortable you’ll be each time you pack for your next assignment. If you’re ready to become a healthcare traveler, contact us today to get paired with a recruiter and discuss your options!

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