by Nicole Phelps | Aug 4, 2023 | Uncategorized
Are you taking care of yourself? As dedicated travel healthcare professionals, it’s easy to focus on providing care to others while neglecting our own mental health and well-being. The demanding schedules and long work hours can take a toll on our personal self-care. This blog serves as a reminder to take care of yourself, prevent burnout, and feel great throughout the day!
Here are seven tips to consider implementing that will boost your mental health and combat burnout:
1: Exercise or Movement
This allows you to get blood flow throughout the body and brain, increasing energy and clarity to get the day started. Also releases BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor) which improves thought, memory, and learning! This is especially important as you make vital decisions throughout your day. Find movement that brings you and your body joy! This doesn’t have to be the traditional gym method. The possibilities for joyful movement are endless!
2: Cold Shower
Cold exposure has been shown to boost your immune system, elevate your mood, improve circulation, increase metabolism, reduce inflammation, and combat symptoms of depression. A simple way to do this is by taking the last 20-30 seconds of your morning shower under some refreshing cold water. (Start with 30 seconds at a time and work your way up to 2-3 minutes!)
3: Nature Walk
Nature has a calming and rejuvenating effect on the mind and body. Nature walks have been shown to improve physical, emotional, and mental health. This includes reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, and increased overall well-being. Nature has also been linked to improved cognitive function and creativity! You can do this in a few small ways throughout your day. You could take a 15-minute walk before you hop in your car before your morning commute. If your busy day allows, you could enjoy your lunch on the move with a lunchtime walk. Another really great way to wind-down from your long day is to decompress in the evening with a walk! Nature gives us a great gift of relaxation.
4: Nourishing Breakfast
Eating a nutritious breakfast has been shown to improve energy levels, reduce risk of type 2 diabetes, reduce risk of heart disease, and powers your brain for the day. Studies have shown that a high protein and low sugar breakfast will keep you feeling satiated throughout the day and provide improved concentration. Some great ways to do this could be through protein smoothies (with added chia seeds, avocado, blueberries, and Greek yogurt), Greek yogurt and fruit bowls, eggs, and avocado toast. The possibility for meals is endless, but what’s important is giving your body the energy it needs to keep you going through your busy day. You are worthy of a great start to your day!
5: Embrace Continuous Learning
Learning something new every day is a great way to keep your brain sharp, gain confidence, improve concentration and memory, improve problem solving skills, and improve your mental health. Just 15 minutes a day will do all of this and more! You can fit this habit into your daily routine during your commute, walks, or while cooking dinner. Or give yourself a moment to read a few pages of your favorite book to get your brain going before you jump out of bed in the morning.
6: Journal Your Thoughts
Journaling is an extremely effective way to reduce stress and gain clarity. Journaling deepens self-discovery and allows you to process emotions and help figure out your next step. If you feel like you’ve been “stuck” or are experiencing a lot of negative emotions, try to journal those thoughts out instead of keeping them in your head and see the clarity you receive on the other side!
Get started! – Journal Prompts for Medical Professionals
7: Practice Meditation
Take a few minutes each day for meditation. Even just 5 minutes of daily meditation can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and blood pressure while enhancing emotional well-being and self-awareness. Use guided meditations to ease into the practice and focus on a place, color, or object to calm your mind.
Try this! – Happiness Break: A Mindful Breath Meditation with Greater Good Science Center.
Helpful tips for implementation 
This may sound like a lot to try and implement all at once, especially if you already feel like your schedule is too full to add anything else, so start small and build from there:
Tip #1: Choose 1 of the 7 options above to implement. Allocate just 20 minutes (or even 5 minutes) earlier in your morning routine for one of these self-care activities.
Tip #2: Double Dip! If you want to do multiple of these but don’t have the time, try combining them. For example, read for 15 minutes while on the treadmill or listen to a podcast during a nature walk. Do what works best for you and you can continue to do!
Tip #3: Don’t overthink it. Every new habit starts with a single action step. First cold shower? Try 15 seconds and improve 5 seconds each day. Never meditated? Find a guided meditation or just simply breathe with your eyes closed for 5 minutes. Never journaled? Start with 3 things you’re grateful for and build from there. Don’t forget to be patient with yourself as you find what works for you.
A final word…
Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of others.
By Nathan Estergaard, Nurse Recruiter
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Explore job opportunities available with Uniti Med or have one of our recruiters reach out to you!
by Nicole Phelps | Jul 25, 2023 | Uncategorized
Want to start traveling? We’re breaking down the compliance requirements that you need to get started!
The rush of traveling begins the minute a contract is signed. From organizing travel plans, to scoping out must-see attractions in the area, travelers could have a lengthy honey-do list. Let’s go over a few of the must-have compliance items to get you better prepared and start your assignment off on the right foot!
Importance of Licenses and Certificates
Dust off the diplomas, certificates, and accreditations because we’ll need those licenses! Licensure is one of the most important components in compliance. This covers both modality-appropriate licenses and BLS/CPR certifications. Your license will need to be active (not expired) and in good standing to be accepted.
Keeping Your Health in Check
While you’re gathering your license, be on the lookout for those immunization records your parents have been holding on to “just in case.” We will need documentation of Hep B, MMR, Varicella, and Covid vaccinations. Depending on your modality and facility, some of these immunizations can be declined, but it never hurts to over deliver. Along with immunizations, we will get you set up at your local clinic/doctor’s office for a couple other housekeeping items.
Evaluating Your Competency
A third, and very important, compliance item is competency exams. Your compliance specialist will assign these to you based off your modality. These exams will help sharpen your skills on Joint Commission mandatories, healthcare ethics, and your role as a healthcare provider. Don’t stress! These exams are quick and painless!
On the outside looking in, compliance can seem like a big task. But with determination and the help of a rockstar Uniti Med compliance specialist, your compliance file will be complete before you know it. We are ready to help you get compliant and stay compliant throughout your entire time with Uniti Med!
If you want to learn more about the job opportunities available, have one of our recruiters reach out to you!
By Ellen Collins, compliance specialist
by Beth Harner | Jul 18, 2023 | Uncategorized
Uniti Med is absolutely thrilled to announce that they have clinched an impressive #2 ranking on BluePipes’ highly coveted Best Travel Nursing Company list for 2023! Outshining over 420 competitors in the travel nursing industry, Uniti Med has truly proven their excellence in providing top-notch nursing services. This remarkable achievement is a result of an exhaustive evaluation process, which involved meticulously scrutinizing reviews from six different platforms. By carefully tallying review counts and assessing review scores in comparison to the previous year, BluePipes has crafted an exclusive top 20 list that showcases the absolute best in the field. Discover the methodology behind calculating these rankings and delve into the details of the Best Travel Nursing Companies list here. Join us in celebrating Uniti Med’s well-deserved recognition as a leading force in the travel nursing world!
What Making the BluePipes 2023 List Means to Uniti Med
“This recognition is so meaningful.” Said Chad Crawford, VP of Sales, “Our recruiters strive to not only create the best experience for the travelers we work with but to also to make a positive impact in their lives. This is done by offering up our expertise in the job market and fostering genuine friendships that remain even after traveling is complete. This award validates so much of what we strive to be and the care that we have for all those that we work with.
President and COO, Chris Sund added, “This recognition means a lot to us, because it’s based on the incredible feedback from our healthcare professionals. Their trust and satisfaction are what drive us to continuously improve and provide exceptional experiences. They are the reason why we work so hard and why we love what we do!”
What is BluePipes?
BluePipes is a travel healthcare website dedicated to the industry that connects healthcare professionals with travel agencies to aid them in finding a position. BluePipes.com has a wealth of valuable insights, resources, and can help travelers with document, pay and relationship management. To learn more about BluePipes see our BluePipes blog post.
Uniti Med
Uniti Med is a medical staffing company founded in 2021 that is dedicated to placing travelers in premier locations around the United States. Starting in the heart of Omaha the corporate office has grown to over 100 employees. Uniti Med is proud to be recognized as a Best of Omaha employer, certified as a Great Places to Work For, Clearly Rated Best of Staffing Talent, SIA’s Best Staffing Firms to work for and is a Best Places to Work in Omaha. For more information on Uniti Med visit: unitimed.com.
by Jamie Zarlingo | Jul 11, 2023 | Informational, Uncategorized
Are you intrigued by the idea of starting your healthcare adventure? Maybe you’re looking for insights and inspiration from experienced travel nurses who have traveled the country while making a positive impact on people’s lives. Well, you’re in luck! We are excited to announce that we are collaborating with the Gypsy Nurse on a travel nurse webinar. This webinar brings together a panel of three travel nurses (one of whom is also a recruiter), all with unique experiences and stories to share.
Webinar Details
What: Travel Nurse Panel
When: July 20th @ 3:00 PM EST
Where: Gypsy Nurse + Uniti Med Webinar
Meet Our Travel Nurse Panel:
Megan Emmerich, RN
With over 15 years experience in the healthcare industry, Megan made the bold decision to become a travel nurse just over a year ago. She has since embarked on assignments in North Dakota, Arizona, and Colorado! Megan’s adventurous spirit extends beyond the hospital walls as she loves backpacking escapades through national parks. Join the webinar to hear about her experiences and learn how to begin your travel nursing adventure!
Holly Hartgrave, RN, BSN
For more than 5 years, Holly has dedicated her expertise to bedside nursing. However, her thirst for adventure led her to embark on her travel nursing path alongside her husband and two cats. Holly’s vibrant personality is matched by her preparedness, as she carries an umbrella even on the sunniest of days. Tune in on the 20th to hear Holly’s insights on managing a nomadic lifestyle and being a travel nurse!
Mackenzie Fischer, RN, BSN
Mackenzie has traversed both sides of the travel nursing world, first as a dedicated travel nurse and now as a nurse recruiter with Uniti Med. Armed with insider knowledge and a passion for supporting fellow nurses, Mackenzie is an invaluable resource for those navigating their own travel nursing journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to tap into her expertise and gain invaluable insights into the world of travel nursing.
Join Uniti Med and Gypsy Nurse as we bring together a dynamic panel of travel nurses who have walked the path you aspire to tread. Discover the secrets to success, learn how to balance work and adventure, and gather the inspiration you need to embark on your own rewarding travel nursing career.
Mark your calendars for July 20th at 3:00 PM EST and secure your spot at the webinar. Come prepared with questions, an open mind, and a genuine eagerness to learn from these remarkable individuals who have embraced the nomadic lifestyle of travel nursing.
To register for the webinar and secure your spot, visit the Gypsy Nurse. We look forward to seeing you there and helping you set off on an incredible journey as a travel nurse!
by Jamie Zarlingo | Jul 10, 2023 | Uncategorized
Travel nursing has increased in popularity over the past few years and for good reason. Being a travel nurse offers many benefits and opportunities staff nurses do not normally receive. The profession attracts a variety of people; however, if you are passionate about nursing, adventure, and exploring new horizons then travel nursing might be right for you! Imagine immersing yourself in different regions, experiencing breathtaking landscapes, and meeting new people, all while advancing your career as a healthcare professional. Keep reading as we discuss the top 10 reasons why it has become an amazing choice for adventurous nurses seeking both personal and professional growth.
1. Higher Pay
It is no secret that many people are drawn to travel nursing because of the opportunity for higher pay compared to full-time nursing positions. According to Indeed, RNs earn an average of $91,000 per year, while travel nurses can earn an average of $120,000 per year.
Travel nursing offers the opportunity to earn a higher income due to the demand for specialized skills in different regions of the country and their willingness to take on temporary assignments. The higher earning potential for travel nursing affords you the flexibility to pursue your financial goals more rapidly, such as saving more for retirement, a down payment on a home, or investing in your future. Travel nursing can be a strategic choice for many nurses who seek professional growth and financial success.
2. Flexible Schedule
When it comes to achieving a work-life balance and enjoying a greater sense of freedom, travel nursing shines as a career choice. As a travel nurse, you have the freedom to choose where and when you want to work. Unlike full-time nurses who are bound to a specific healthcare facility, travel nurses have the freedom to select their assignments from a wide range of opportunities across different cities, states, or even countries. This flexibility enables you to curate your professional journey and explore diverse healthcare settings while pursuing your passion for travel and adventure.
Travel nursing allows you to achieve a more harmonious work-life balance. By selecting assignments with specific durations, you have the flexibility to plan your personal life around your work commitments. Whether you desire extended periods off between assignments to recharge and spend quality time with loved ones or prefer a continuous flow of assignments to maximize your income, travel nursing grants you the autonomy to design your schedule according to your unique needs and priorities.
3. Travel Opportunities
Have you ever dreamt of exploring breathtaking landscapes, immersing yourself in vibrant cultures, and embarking on unforgettable adventures? As a travel nurse, you have the unique privilege of turning these dreams into reality. You could be surfing on the beaches of California in the Summer and exploring the windy city of Chicago in the Fall!
Travel nursing brings adventure to your fingertips. From hiking majestic mountains to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or exploring historic landmarks, each destination offers its unique blend of adventure and excitement. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, travel nursing allows you to indulge in thrilling activities and create unforgettable moments during your downtime. With each assignment, you have the chance to embark on a new adventure and make lifelong memories, like Justin who was able to build a cabin in Alaska because of travel nursing!
4. Ability to Work in Different Healthcare Settings
One of the greatest advantages of being a travel nurse is the exposure to various healthcare settings and environments. You can gain invaluable experience by working in different hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or even specialty centers. This breadth of experience not only enhances your professional growth but also enables you to adapt to different work cultures and healthcare practices. The ability to embrace change and thrive in diverse environments is a highly valued skill that travel nursing nurtures.
5. Opportunity to Learn New Skills
As a nurse, it is important to understand the value of being a lifelong learner to better assist your patients. In the world of travel nursing, you are given the opportunity to acquire and refine a diverse set of skills. Each assignment will immerse you in a new environment, exposing you to different healthcare practices, technologies, and patients. This exposure enhances your adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. As you navigate these varied settings, you develop the versatility to excel in a range of healthcare scenarios, making you a valuable asset to future employers.
Due to the nature of travel nursing, you will learn to be independent and self-reliant, which can develop your leadership skills. Your varied experiences will offer valuable insight for leadership roles in the future.
6. Chance to Pad Out Your Resume
It is always important to have an eye-catching resume when advancing your career. As a travel nurse, you possess a unique advantage: diverse experiences and skills. Travel nursing allows you to work in a multitude of healthcare settings, from bustling urban hospitals to rural clinics and everything in between. Each assignment adds a new entry to your resume, showcasing your adaptability and ability to thrive in different work environments. Employers value candidates with a range of experiences, and travel nursing provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your versatility, making your resume stand out from the crowd.
7. Meet New People
Nursing, like every career, benefits from having a strong network of people. You will work alongside people with different backgrounds, building connections that will help you advance your career in the future. More experienced travel nurses are often willing to share their wisdom and insights with those starting their journey. By connecting with seasoned travel nurses, you can benefit from their experiences, advice, and guidance. These mentorship relationships can be instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities that travel nursing presents, helping you make informed decisions and accelerate your personal and professional growth.
8. Less Burnout and Better Mental Health
Part of being a travel nurse is being able to travel and experience different regions of the country. As you embark on exciting assignments in various cities and regions, you gain firsthand experience of different environments, cultures, and lifestyles. In this section, we will delve into how travel nursing empowers you to find your ideal destination, allowing you to make an informed decision about where you want to establish your roots and build a fulfilling life and career.
Travel nursing offers you the chance to test-drive different cities, towns, and regions, immersing yourself in their unique atmospheres and lifestyles. Each assignment allows you to experience the day-to-day life in a particular area, exploring its neighborhoods, engaging with the local community, and discovering its hidden gems. This firsthand experience provides you with valuable insights into the culture, amenities, climate, and overall vibe of a place, helping you assess whether it resonates with your personal preferences and long-term goals.
9. Take Breaks Between Contracts
Being a nurse is not easy. The long hours face paced and stressful work environment, and healthcare shortage have all contributed to an increasing burnout rate for nurses. Burnout is a serious issue in the workplace and can have multiple consequences. From being exhausted physically and mentally to poorer job performance and medical mistakes, burnout needs to be addressed to keep you at your best.
Traveling can boost your mental health and your physical well-being. A study from the Journal of Vacation Marketing found that people who are about to travel are much happier with their life as a whole, and experience fewer negative feelings. Being able to travel to new places allows you to change your scenery and avoid feeling stagnant.
10. Discover Where You Want to Settle Down
Imagine the possibilities as a travel nurse, where you are free to shape your work according to your preferences and aspirations. Seeking financial growth? Take charge by lining up back-to-back contracts, paving the way for incredible earnings. Need a breather to recharge and explore new horizons? Feel empowered to pause and relish those precious moments between contracts. As a travel nurse, you hold the reins to your work-life balance, allowing you to savor a fulfilling career while maintaining control over your personal journey.
Conclusion
Embarking on a travel nursing journey can unlock a wealth of personal and professional rewards. If you love exploration, crave new experiences, value work-life balance autonomy, and seek higher earnings, then travel nursing is your ticket to fulfillment. Start an adventure where your passion for travel and healthcare intertwines harmoniously. To kickstart your travel adventure with a reputable agency, be sure to explore BluePipes’ list of the best travel nursing agencies!
If you want to learn more about the job opportunities available, have one of our recruiters reach out to you!
by Beth Harner | Jun 12, 2023 | Awards, Uncategorized
Uniti Med is proud to announce that we have won the Best of Staffing Talent Award for providing superior service to their candidates. Presented in partnership with presenting sponsor Indeed and gold sponsor Talent.com, ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Award winners have proven to be industry leaders in service quality based entirely on ratings provided by their candidates. On average, job seekers who work with winning agencies are [1.8 times OR 80%] more likely to be completely satisfied with the services provided compared to those placed by non-winning agencies. Uniti Med received satisfaction score of 9 or 10 from 88.8% of their placed job candidates, significantly higher than the industry’s average of 45%. Uniti Med also received a Net Promoter® Score of 86.6%, more than 4.5 times the industry’s average of 19% in 2022. Thank you to all the travelers that took the survey.
“We are extremely proud to announce that Uniti Med has been awarded the Best of Staffing – Talent Satisfaction accolade by ClearlyRated. This recognition holds immense significance for us as we continuously strive to ensure an exception experience for our healthcare travelers. Our success is a result of the strong relationships we cultivate, which in turn enhance the quality and value of the services we provide. This achievement motivates us to continue our efforts in improving and enhancing our overall experience.” Said President and COO, Chris Sund.
“I am pleased to introduce the 2023 Best of Staffing winners alongside their validated service ratings on ClearlyRated.com,” said ClearlyRated’s CEO, Eric Gregg. “These firms have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to delivering amazing experiences, despite another year of upheaval and macroeconomic uncertainty. Hats off to these service leaders – it’s truly an honor to recognize and celebrate their achievements.”
About Uniti Med
Uniti Med is a medical staffing company founded in 2021 that is dedicated to placing travelers in premier locations around the United States. Starting in the heart of Omaha the corporate office has grown to over 100 employees. Uniti Med is proud to be recognized as a Best of Omaha employer, certified through Great Places to Work for 2023. For more information on Uniti Med visit: unitimed.com.
About ClearlyRated
Rooted in satisfaction research for professional service firms, ClearlyRated utilizes a Net Promoter® Score survey program to help professional service firms measure their service experience, build online reputation, and differentiate on service quality. Learn more at https://www.clearlyrated.com/solutions/.
About Best of Staffing
ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Award is the only award in the U.S. and Canada that recognizes staffing agencies that have proven superior service quality based entirely on ratings provided by their clients, placed talent, and internal employees. Award winners are showcased by city and area of expertise on ClearlyRated.com—an online business directory that helps buyers of professional services find service leaders and vet prospective firms with the help of validated client ratings and testimonials.
Proud winners of ClearlyRated Best of Staffing Talent Satisfaction for 2023!
