Nurses use different tools depending upon where they work in a hospital or healthcare facility
. As a travel nurse, you will be responsible for learning the different tools used at specific hospitals and the methods for different procedures.
You may be placed in sections of healthcare facilities where you have worked in the past, or you might be exposed to an entirely new world of health care. Whatever the case, below are a few tips for understanding the tools a travel nurse uses on the job.
Research different areas of nursing on the Internet, using sites such as Discover Nursing, Nursing World and Nursing Center. These websites will give you a basic overview of the tools used by travel nurses.
No matter where you work in a hospital as a travel nurse you need to ask questions and take notes. Inquire about further training if you will be using equipment you haven't never used before. Sometimes you will getting any additional training from designated nurses in the specific department you will be assigned to.
Technology changes constantly, so the travel nurse isn't expected to know every piece of equipment they will come across in their travels. You can always do your own research on the various types of equipment and tools you may be confronted with. A lot of hospitals will have developed their own handouts and charts on their specific equipment. And in many cases have designated trainers for new staff and travel nurses.
Something else to be aware of is the fact that different hospitals may use different shorthand or codes by different doctors, so be aware of this.
Don't get panic stricken if you find that there is equipment or tools in your new assignment that you have not used before. The hospitals know this already.
The travel nursing agency you work with will help guide you through the learning curves of a new assignment. So relax, and go have some fun as a travel nurse!