Tag: travel

5 Skills Every Traveling Medical Professional Should Have

As a traveling medical professional, certain skills can make your job easier and more effective. Here are five skills that every traveling medical professional should have:

#1 Adaptability

Traveling medical professionals often work in new and unfamiliar environments, which can be challenging. Having the ability to adapt to new situations is essential to success. In addition to adapting to new environments, several aspects of adaptability are necessary for traveling medical professionals:

–       Flexibility: Being able to adjust to changes in schedules, patient needs, and healthcare protocols is crucial.

–       Open-mindedness: Keeping an open mind to new ideas and approaches can lead to better patient care and more effective teamwork with colleagues.

–       Resilience: Medical professionals often face difficult situations and high-stress environments. Being able to bounce back from setbacks is an important part of adaptability.

By cultivating these skills, traveling medical professionals can thrive in their work and provide the best patient care possible.

#2 Clinical Expertise

Of course, having strong clinical skills is essential for any medical professional. As a traveling medical professional, you should be confident in your ability to provide quality care in a variety of settings.

As a traveling medical professional, you’ll encounter a diverse range of patients, each with a unique medical history, cultural background, and language barriers. By improving your clinical expertise, you’ll provide better care and build stronger relationships with your patients.

To provide quality care, you’ll need not only excellent clinical skills but also strong communication skills.

#3 Communication

Effective communication is crucial in any healthcare setting. As a traveling medical professional, you’ll need to communicate not only with patients, but also with other healthcare professionals. Having strong communication skills is especially important in the healthcare industry, where clear and concise communication can be a matter of life and death. As a traveling medical professional, you’ll encounter a diverse range of patients and healthcare providers, each with their own unique communication styles and needs. Here are some tips for effective communication in a healthcare setting:

  • Listen actively: Take the time to truly listen to your patients and colleagues, and ask clarifying questions when needed.
  • Be clear and concise: Use simple language and avoid medical jargon when speaking with patients. When communicating with other healthcare professionals, be precise and use appropriate terminology.
  • Use nonverbal communication: Body language and tone of voice can convey just as much information as words. Make eye contact, use appropriate facial expressions, and pay attention to your tone and pitch.
  • Be respectful: Treat everyone with respect and empathy, regardless of their background or circumstances. This includes patients, their families, and your colleagues.
  • Use technology wisely: With the rise of telemedicine and remote work, it’s important to be comfortable using technology to communicate. Make sure you understand how to use any communication tools you’ll be using and be mindful of privacy and security concerns.

By practicing these communication skills, you’ll be better equipped to provide quality care to your patients and collaborate effectively with your colleagues, no matter where your travels take you.

#4 Time Management

As a traveling medical professional, you may work in multiple locations and with different schedules. Good time management skills will help you stay organized and meet deadlines. Here are some tips to help you manage your time effectively as a traveling medical professional:

  • Use a planner or calendar to keep track of your schedule and deadlines. Make sure to include travel time between different locations.
  • Prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. This will help you focus on the most important tasks and avoid procrastination.
  • Try to minimize distractions while working. This could mean turning off your phone or finding a quiet workspace.
  • Take breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout and increase productivity. Use this time to stretch or take a short walk.
  • Stay flexible and adaptable. As a traveling medical professional, unexpected changes may occur that require you to adjust your schedule or priorities.

Implementing these time management strategies help you stay organized and efficient in your work as a traveling medical professional.

#5 Emotional Intelligence

As a traveling nurse, it’s important to be aware of cultural differences that may impact patient care. Patients from different backgrounds may have different expectations and beliefs, which could influence their reactions to medical interventions. Learning about a patient’s cultural background and beliefs can help you provide respectful and culturally appropriate care.

Additionally, it’s important to remember that patients may be feeling vulnerable or anxious, especially if they are in an unfamiliar environment. Taking the time to explain procedures and treatments clearly and compassionately can help put patients at ease.

As a traveling nurse, you may also encounter patients with complex medical histories or conditions that require specialized care. In these situations, working closely with the patient’s healthcare team is essential to ensure the patient receives the best possible care.

As a traveling nurse, it’s essential to approach each patient with empathy and a willingness to learn about their unique needs and circumstances. By doing so, you can provide high-quality care that meets the physical and emotional needs of your patients.

Traveling medical professionals should have adaptability, clinical expertise, strong communication skills, time management, and emotional intelligence. These skills will stand out on your resume and help you make the most out of each assignment.

Contact us today or visit our job board to plan your next travel assignment.

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5 Tips to Survive Allergy Season as a Healthcare Traveler

Springtime is here! And that means warmer weather, blooming flowers, and… seasonal allergies. Although allergies can’t be prevented entirely, preparation is crucial in preventing symptoms from ruining your travel assignment this spring. Here are five tips to help you survive allergy season as a traveling healthcare professional:

#1 Know your allergens.

Allergies and their symptoms vary from person to person, so identifying your allergens can help you enjoy spring anywhere. Seasonal allergies typically occur in the spring, summer, or fall and have several triggers. Common allergens include:

  • Trees (Birch, Oak, Cedar, Walnut, & Hickory)
  • Grasses (Timothy, Bermuda, & Kentucky Blue)
  • Weeds (Ragweed, Sagebrush, & Pigweed)
  • Dust mites
  • Mold spores
  • Pet dander

Allergies affect everyone differently, but here are the most common symptoms:

  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy eyes
  • Congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Scratchy throat
  • Rashes
  • Hives
  • Breathing problems/wheezing
  • Asthma attacks

#2 Know the pollen count in your assignment area.

Depending on your allergens, pollen count can affect the severity of your symptoms. Because pollen is the most common trigger of seasonal allergies, it is essential to understand the pollen levels where you’re traveling to. Research the local news stations in your assignment area before you arrive to prepare and pack your allergy essentials adequately.

#3 Prepare before you go.

If you know your allergies will flare up, you should start taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications a few days before you leave for your travel assignment. OTC decongestants and antihistamines can help reduce allergy symptoms, and saline nasal spray can aid in keeping nasal membranes moist in dry conditions. In addition to getting a head start on your allergy medications, you should ensure they are easily accessible while driving or flying to your assignment.

#4 Limit outdoor activity.

Avoiding pollen altogether is unlikely, but steering clear of the outdoors during peak pollen hours (5:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.) can reduce allergy symptoms. If you can’t avoid being outside, wearing hats or other head coverings and glasses/sunglasses can help keep pollen out of your hair and eyes. Be sure to shower and rinse away pollen that attached itself to your clothes, body, and hair throughout the day.

#5 Focus on your well-being.

Allergy symptoms can be severe, so focus on your well-being and take a break if you’re not feeling well. If your allergy symptoms don’t improve, you should visit your medical provider to help you get back to feeling your best.

Allergy season doesn’t have to prevent you from picking up a springtime travel assignment; these tips can help you make the most of it! Being proactive with your allergies and their symptoms can make a big difference. Find your spring travel assignment with RTG Medical! 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!

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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.

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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! 

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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!

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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!

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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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Driving vs. flying to your next assignment

After you have all your ducks in a row for your next assignment, you will need to decide whether you want to drive or fly. There are pros and cons to both driving and flying. You should consider whether you will be traveling with a pet, where you will be going, the amount of money you will be receiving in your travel stipend and your own personal preferences when choosing a destination. Travel medical staffing agencies, such as RTG Medical, can help you decide which is best!

Driving to your assignment

Healthcare professionals most often prefer to drive over flying when working for travel medical staffing agencies. Here are some pros of driving to your assignment:

You’ll have your car with you to get around. There will be no worries about getting to and from work, the grocery store or the bank. You will need a way to get around on your own, especially if you are going to a small town without public transportation.

You can take more things with you. Most contracts are 13 weeks, and some find it difficult to fit that many weeks worth of clothes and necessities in their carry-on or checked bag. When you drive, you have your whole car to fill with things you might want or need with you.

You can make a fun road trip out of it. Have you always wanted to visit a National Park? Driving to your destination gives you the option of stopping at all sorts of interesting places along the way.

You can bring company. If you’re interested in bringing somebody along on your next assignment, whether it be your family, a friend, significant other or pet, driving could be the right choice. Driving together could make for a fun adventure with your family or friends, and it’s much easier to travel with pets in a car. Plus, having someone to accompany you on the trip is always nice.

Flying to your assignment

Although there are many benefits in driving to your assignment, there’s also plenty of good that can come from flying. Here are a few pros of flying to your assignment:

Flying gets you to the destination quicker. Flying is faster, especially if road trips aren’t your favorite thing. With driving you have to be wary that a flat tire or another roadside problem could occur, and you don’t have to worry about any of that if you are flying. Flight delays and cancellations are most of the time easier to handle than car trouble.

Many places have public transportation. Rather than having to rent a car or ship your car, many big cities offer public transportation. Plus, you wouldn’t want the burden of your car being with you in a big city like New York.

You can still enjoy day trips. When you drive, you can stop and see places along the way, but when you fly, you can still take a day off to visit somewhere you’ve always wanted to. You can take an Uber or rent a car for a day, if needed.

Begin your adventure with RTG Medical

Whether you choose to drive or fly, your adventure awaits! If you still need help deciding, we’re here to help. Feel free to ask your recruiter at your travel medical staffing agency their opinion on which might be best for this assignment, especially if you’re new to being a traveling healthcare professional. If you have any more questions, contact us today!

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Considering van life as a traveling healthcare professional

Lots of people are intrigued by the nomadic aesthetic of van life and become interested in giving it a try themselves. Van life has grown in popularity recently, as living in a van gives you freedom unlike anything else. You’re able to travel freely, be in nature, live more simply, unplug from social media and even save money.

As a traveling healthcare professional, you’re always on the go traveling from one state to another. With all of your healthcare traveler jobs, you’re constantly finding new housing options, temporarily changing your mailing address and adjusting bills. Travel nurse van life might be something you consider when you’re in a new place after every 13-week contract.

How van life can work for your career

If you decide to take on living in a van, you’ll likely need to downsize and begin living a more minimalist lifestyle. It’s a big decision, but a major benefit is that your entire life and house will be with you for every assignment. As a healthcare traveler, you’re already diving into new places and building new friendships. In the same way, travel nurse van life will open up a plethora of opportunities for you.

Even if you have pets that you consider a part of your family, it’s possible to take them along on this wild ride with you. You and your pet will both have to adjust, but getting to explore the new sights together will be worth the while. It takes a bit of work upfront to convert a van into a home that can be lived in, but many find the benefits far outweigh the cons.

Pros and cons of van life as a healthcare traveler

The pros of van life include flexibility, fewer expenses, taking part in a minimalist lifestyle, enjoying nature right up front and in person,and less time spent scrolling meaninglessly through your phone. If you have a love for adventure and a traveling career, it can be a great way to let go of some of the things aren’t necessary and live a more free and open-minded life.

With all of the pros, come some cons as well. One thing about van life is that everything is smaller. Maybe you’ve lived in a studio apartment before, but van life can be even more confining than that. You will have to consider the amount of time you’ll be cleaning, using dump stations and public bathrooms a lot more than you do right now. You also need to find a safe site every time you park overnight. The final negative is that cell service and Wi-Fi can be hard to find sometimes.

Begin your traveling adventure with RTG Medical

Maybe you’re already comfortable in your traveling career and you’ve begun thinking about van life, or maybe the first step for you is to find your traveling partner and start searching for healthcare traveler jobs. RTG Medical has helped many nurses, therapists, physicians, lab techs and more find their perfect niche in the world of traveling healthcare. If you’re interested in working with us, reach out today to begin your adventure!

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First assignment travel guide

Your first assignment can be nerve wracking, but also exciting. If you’re an organized and flexible individual, you’ll have no problem adapting. Your first healthcare traveling assignment might also benefit from choosing a place that you’ve always wanted to visit so you’ll already have plans for your days off.

RTG Medical is one of the best travel healthcare companies, and we wanted to give you some tips and tricks to surviving your first travel assignment. From finding the right housing to packing and arriving on your first day to making friends, we’re here to support you through it all.

Tips for a first-time traveler

Take care of everything back at home, including pets

Do you need to forward your mail while you’re out of town? Do you have packages getting delivered you need to place on hold? Consider these things when going on assignment for 13 weeks. If you have a pet, you should also consider if you’re going to have a family member or friend take care of them while you’re gone, house them at long-term daycare or travel with your pet. Either way, make sure they don’t have an important vet visit coming up, and that they have all the necessary immunizations.

Find housing

The next step is to find somewhere to live in your new place. You likely have the option to find your own or to rely on what your travel healthcare companies recommend. Do you want to live in a suburb in close proximity to your job or do you want to be a distance away in the city?

Pack smart

Since you’re going to be gone for 13 weeks, think about what you need and don’t need. Are you flying or driving, and what room does each permit? Some things you can buy when you get there. Once you do a few assignments, you’ll be a pro at knowing what you need and don’t. Be sure to make note of anything you forgot or wish you had on your first assignment.

Take a test drive

One way to take the stress away from starting your first day on assignment is to do a practice run. Wake up, get ready, drive to your job’s location and pay attention to how long it takes. Make sure you know where to park and then determine if you need more or less time.

Arrive early on your first day

To avoid feeling rushed, arrive early on your first day. That way, you have plenty of time to orient yourself around the facility and find where you’re supposed to be. Be prepared for some sort of orientation. Being on time is also a great way to make a good first impression.

Be ready to show your talent

You got this job for a reason; the facility wanted your unique skills and talents. Make yourself invaluable in your new workplace by jumping in when needed, going above and beyond your job description and learning all you can.

Be positive

Even though it can be tough at times, it’s important to stay positive and have a good attitude. As a result of your hard work attitude, your coworkers will appreciate you. Don’t be afraid to step back and take a deep breath. It will all be okay.

Stay connected to recruiter

Staying connected to your recruiter will help them find you the perfect contracts time after time. Let them know what’s going well and what could be better for you. Continual communication helps build a good relationship, and the better your recruiter knows you, the better they can assist.

Make friends with your new team & explore where you are

Your first assignment is likely to lead to some great friendships. If you need any assistance in adjusting to the new town, they might be able to show you around or give you some local recommendations. Maybe you’ll even meet another traveling healthcare professional.

Begin your adventure with travel healthcare companies

Your first assignment may be a tough one, but once you complete it you’ll be on your way to becoming a great traveling healthcare professional. Think about your love for traveling and why you love your job if you’re ever struggling. RTG Medical wants to be your traveling partner, so if you’re ready to begin your traveling career, contact us today!

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