A traveling nursing assistant is a healthcare professional who provides patient care. It can be done on a contract or temporary basis in patients’ homes or various healthcare facilities around the country.
With that in mind, here is the essential packing list for traveling nursing assistants to ensure they are equipped with everything they need on the go.
Top 5 Essentials in Packing List for a Traveling Nursing Assistant
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Clothing and Personal Items
When it comes to garb and packing personal items, one of the first things you should do is factor in where you’ll be staying. For example, if there is a beach nearby, you’ll probably want to bring a swimsuit and sunscreen. If it’s going to be chilly, bring your traveling nursing assistant cold-weather scrubs.
You’ll also want to consider bringing casual clothing for downtime plus workout gear, in addition to a dressier and business casual outfit. After all, there may be work orientation or an unexpected high-end dinner.
Regarding toiletries, if you favor a special hair product you can’t find everywhere, be sure to tote some in a small bottle and put it in your checked baggage. If you wear contacts, bring an extra pair, along with a case and lens solution.
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Medical Supplies and Equipment
These jobs always require a watch or some other timekeeping device, as well as pens, a pen light, and your stethoscope. You might also need bandages and small medical equipment such as thermometers, tweezers, and safety pins. A medical equipment bag would serve you well to contain these essentials.
If you’re flying, be sure to check with the TSA regarding clearance for necessary gels, liquids, and aerosols.
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Documentation and Professional Gear
A traveling nursing assistant should also bring along important paperwork and documents in case you need them to, say garner a hospital ID badge. You also may need to rent a car, which will require your driver’s license and possibly your auto insurance certificate.
You also may want to bring your passport and nursing-related certifications. Your insurance card and Social Security card may come in handy as well. These jobs also require professional workwear such as scrubs, nursing shoes, compression socks, etc.
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Travel Essentials
A traveling nursing assistant really should pack safety items such as:
- a flashlight with additional batteries
- a first aid kit.
- phone chargers and power banks
- sneakers or comfortable shoes
- an umbrella
- a mini-iron and small laundry bag
In addition to important documents, you’ll want to have on hand emergency contact information, including for your doctor and dentist.
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Safety and Comfort
For downtime, and in case of an airport layover, headphones, a cell phone, a device charger, and a magazine could come in handy for music or other entertainment. A traveling nursing assistant may also want to consider bringing their tablet, loaded with films, games, and reading material.
Tips for Efficient Packing
In addition to considering the weather, you’ll want to factor in the duration of your traveling nursing assistant assignment. After that, ask yourself whether you’ll really need it. Either way, do everything possible to pack it efficiently. Rolling clothing can help save space. Pro tip: pack the first outfit you’ll want to wear on top. Note that, in lieu of a locker that hospitals don’t always provide, you’ll need to bring a backpack or carrying case for work.
Well, that was a lot about traveling nursing assistant’s guide for packing essentials. Before we conclude our article, let us introduce you to a job role that offers benefits much similar to a traveling healthcare professional – an RN PRN job.
PRN is derived from the Latin phrase “pro re nata,” which means “as needed.” This term is used interchangeably with “per diem.” These shifts typically last six to twelve hours, just like regular nursing shifts – days, evenings, or nights. You can choose where you work, what shifts you want to choose, and the location of the facility to apply for.
Here are some benefits of applying for RN PRN jobs:
- The first and most significant benefit of opting for RN PRN jobs is the flexibility they offer. Unlike traditional full-time positions, per diem roles provide the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to call the shots and choose when and where you work.
- With per diem roles, you can say goodbye to rigid schedules. In these roles, you decide your shifts, allowing for a better work-life balance.
- Work more or less as per your financial goals. Utilize the flexibility to optimize your earnings without compromising on your personal life.
- With such roles, adaptability becomes second nature as you navigate diverse patient populations and healthcare scenarios.
- Per diem RN jobs often offer higher hourly rates and additional bonuses. All these perks contribute to a more lucrative income stream.
Enjoy a Work-Life Balance with the Best Nursing Jobs
The traveling nursing assistant leads something of a nomadic life. If you have yet to go on the first travel nurse assignment and aren’t sure what to bring, this resource will help. You certainly don’t want to overpack, but you also want to make sure you have everything you need. Make the most of this guide to pack efficiently.
If you want to secure the best travel nursing jobs, explore our revolutionary platform. Wanderly is known for helping nursing professionals secure the best nursing assignments available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How much is a traveling nursing assistant paid?
It varies from place to place, but a traveling nursing assistant generally makes as much as $22 an hour.
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How long are traveling nurse assistant or RN PRN jobs?
On average, traveling nurse assistant or RN PRN jobs are 13 weeks long. It can translate to about four times annually for those who work continuously.
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Is it necessary to pack medical supplies as a traveling nursing assistant?
While facilities typically provide medical supplies, having a small stash of essential items like gloves, a stethoscope, and a thermometer can be beneficial for your convenience and hygiene.
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How can a traveling nursing assistant ensure a smooth transition between assignments with their packing?
Plan ahead by organizing a standardized packing list, keeping a travel-sized toiletry kit, and having a designated bag for work-related essentials, streamlining the packing process for each assignment.