As a travel nurse, it's important that you stay active in the healthcare community. There's always plenty to learn on the job and from your colleagues. This may be as simple as learning how to deal with errors you've witnessed, becoming more involved or keeping in the loop with changes to care practices. In any case, make sure that your ambitions don't fall by the wayside as you get comfortable on a new assignment.
Study sessions
Whether you're working on a unique case or just looking to brush up on your skill sets, it's important to read educational materials revolving around new research findings. This will help you to be more informed and provide top quality care to patients. Perhaps you can get a study buddy to make it more interesting – you could even make a game out of it. You can read during your downtime on the job, your lunch break or while commuting to and from work – as long as you aren't driving!
Checklist
One great method to ensure that you expand your skills as a travel nursing professional is to create a to-do list for yourself. This is a good way to outline the goals you have for specific assignments or time periods. There's something extremely satisfying when a checklist has been completed, and you'll have learned something along the way. Plus, you can ensure that your resume is constantly being updated with new skills and abilities.
Volunteering
If you have spare time, why not spend it by giving back to the community? There are so many ways in which you can offer your assistance volunteering. Perhaps a free clinic could use your help, or you might want to give back at a food kitchen. If you are short on time, that's OK! There are still plenty of ways to help those in need. Bring a box to place in the nurses' lounge for collecting canned goods for the needy. Or, during the holidays, you might want to adopt a family with your unit.
Have fun
Work will be much more enjoyable if you are spending time with individuals you get along with. So, try to reach out to your co-workers and connect with them on things that are not related to the job. Creating friendships will ensure a positive environment for both colleagues and patients. Plus, it's always easier to ask a friend for help when you're in need of assistance.