nursing Archives

6 Tips for a First Time Travel Nurse

August 29, 2022

I have spoken to many nurses who want to travel but don’t consider letting go of their staff positions and jumping into the world of travel because of fear. Surprisingly, some have way more experiences than the average nurses, however still hesitant to travel and have a lot reasons why they don’t want to give it a try.

I usually get statements like: “I’m afraid the contracts will be too complicated and demanding”.

“I don’t want to do all the licensing requirements and Onboarding exams”.

“I’m afraid the housing situation will be horrible and hard to find.”

“I’m scared to travel by myself and wont’ make any friends”.

In all honesty, all these are valid questions because if you’re gonna make a decision to leave home or family and go to a new environment, you need to know all the details to make your travel experience a good one. For that, I will list about 6 important tips if you are a new traveler or plan on getting into travel nursing.

First thing first.

Do your research

Travel nursing is not for everyone because some people don’t like changes and there still opportunities to leverage your career in your staff position. It is necessary to research on where you want to travel, local or out of state, research about the different agencies , pay packages etc…

Why this is important? Being a first time traveler, you may not want to travel out of state, so starting a local travel position within an hour or two away from home is a great option. Also, try being in flex/float pool within your hospital in order to get a feel on travel nursing since you might get floated to different units during your assignment.

Second, you want to research the different agencies simply because they don’t operate the same or they don’t offer the same pay package. Then, add your number and make sure it’s worth traveling by doubling or tripling your income.

When you’re traveling, you are duplicating expenses; therefore, you want to make enough to cover both expenses, at home and out of state. It simply makes no sense to leave home and to earn the same income .

Get Organized

As travel professionals, once you contact a recruiter, he/she would want you to send everything related to your career: licensing information, certifications, health and up to date immunization records and references. It also means that you’re 100% prepared to submit your application and ready for those phone interviews.

One thing I do, is creating a file where I add all my updated documents and be able to attach them to my email in quick second. Lastly, be familiar with the different prices you have to pay for your certifications and licenses especially if you don’t live in a compact state.
The great thing about about you living in a compact state is to be able to travel in more than 30 states with that one nursing license. Isn’t that awesome?

Be Flexible

The more flexible you are with location, facility and pay grade (I’m not telling you to cut yourself short), the more jobs will be open to you. Just have have a range on what’s the highest and lowest pay you would want, that will make your search easier for both your recruiter and yourself.
Travel nursing want you to be so flexible that if there’s an emergency, you will be able to hop on a plane within 24-48hrs. Meaning, you may not even know what’s your next contract is within a week of you starting. By now, I just keep a small carry on bag with all the essentials I need.

Plan Your Housing

If your travel nursing assignment is far away from home, you would want to secure your housing before you get there. Not all agencies provide housing and if they do, you may not even like what they provide.
There are many other factors to consider when looking for housing. Do you want to live in the center of town, or you rather drive 30+ minutes to work? Do you want roommates? Do you have a furry friend? By asking yourself all these questions, your search will be much easier.

Me personally, I have tried Airbnb, Extended stay with kitchen areas as well as short term rental. I honestly don’t have any problem with any of them as long as it’s less than 15 drive to work.

Keep in touch with your recruiter

A good recruiter will be available to you when you need them. There’s nothing worse than having questions and concerns at work and no one is available to answer.

It doesn’t matter if you just started travel nursing or on your 15th assignment, you will have questions in the beginning, and during the process. Your recruiter works for you and if you don’t have the best one, you can always call your agency and switch recruiters if you have to.

Explore and Make New Friends

And please don’t forget to make new friends, explore the new city and eat some good food. You will be away from home for a period of 4-13 weeks and the last thing you want to do is to stay locked up in a hotel room or your Airbnb. Don’t do that !!!

Eight Fruits You can Find Vitamin C From.

March 28, 2020

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When most people think about vitamin C, they inevitably think oranges. But what if I told you that this fruit has just a little bit of vitamin C compared to some other fruit pick ? No lie. While oranges contain respectably 70 milligrams of vitamin C per fruit , some other fruits and vegetables contain more per serving.

What is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that’s found in many foods, particularly fruits and vegetables.

It’s well known for being a potent antioxidant, as well as having positive effects on skin health, connective tissue, teeth and immune function.

Since the human body can’t produce or store vitamin C, it’s important to consume sufficient amounts. The current daily value (DV) for vitamin C is between 75-90 mg.

There are loads of vitamin C benefits. The nutrient is known for its capacity to protect cells from the damage caused by things like pollution, and UV light from the sun. On the other hand, It’s deficiency symptoms include bleeding gums, frequent bruising and infections, poor wound healing, anemia ect… This is why it’s good for your body.

Here’s a list of where you can find vitamin C.

Pineapple

Fresh and tropical. A pineapple contains 79 milligrams of vitamin C per cup. Soooo, bring on the piña coladas.

Orange

One medium-sized orange provides 70 mg of vitamin C, which is about 78% of the daily value. Not to mention that other citrus fruits can also help you meet your vitamin C needs. For instance, half a grapefruit contains 44 mg.

Mango

This is literally one of my favorites, after orange. Mango is an antioxidant that helps keep your eyes healthy, lower cholesterol and clear your skin. It also contains folate, B6, iron, zinc and vitamin E. One fun thing I like about eating Mango is that you don’t need a knife!!! Just rince your fruit and start peeling with your teeth while the juice is dripping down your fingers. Ohhh My… This is THE best feeling ever! if you don’t find fresh mangoes, the frozen bag can still make great smoothies.

Bell pepper

Growing up, I knew peppers were vegetables, but it’s considered to be a fruit. A green pepper has about 45 milligrams of vitamin C while Just one-half cup of yellow peppers provides 137 mg. No wonder why the price is different at the supermarket! They are perfect snack and can be used in your favorite homemade dish.

Kiwi

A medium Kiwi has about 71mg of vitamin C and known for high level of serotonin and make you sleep better.

Papaya

Papaya and strawberry smoothies are usually my favorite combination for family dinners. One cup (145 grams) of papaya provides 87 mg of vitamin C. Papaya contains the enzymes such as papain and chymopapain, which reduce inflammation. In addition , papaya also known to give you glowing skin.

Tomato

Vitamin C per cooked tomato cup is 55mg. Tomato also contains about 21 percent of the day’s vitamin A, and 15 percent of the day’s potassium.

Strawberry

One cup of strawberry (152 grams) provides about 89 mg of vitamin C which is 99% of the DV. Strawberries are great to keep blood sugar stable.

It is safe to consume the recommended daily value because high dose (2-3000mg) of Vitamin C can cause side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, gastritis, fatigue, headache and more. If you have a chronic kidney conditions, gout, or a history of calcium-oxalate kidney stones, you should talk to your provider about your normal intake a day.

And remember to be cautious about where you buy your fruits because many of the fruits listed above can be pesticide-loaded items.

What to Eat to Improve Your Digestion.

February 12, 2020

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There are more than 2 million doctor visits for constipation in the USA each year, and hundreds of millions of dollars are spent on laxatives yearly. Lifestyle choices, medications or medical conditions are known to be the leading factors. In my opinion, it’s important to know the causing factors because that will push you to change your lifestyle and get a second opinion from a healthcare provider in case of a medical condition.

Constipation from lifestyle factors may include: poor diet which includes too many rich and fatty foods and too little fiber, dehydration, stress, not going enough or trying to hold stools in.
In addition , it can be a result of certain medications and supplements such as: opioids, anti-inflammatories, anticonvulsant, iron supplements, antacids and much more.
Sometimes, chronic constipation can be related to gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, and these medical conditions include: irritable bowel syndrome or IBS, pregnancy and giving birth, diabetes, intestinal tumors, anxiety, rectal prolapse, stroke, spinal cord injury, dementia, etc…

Now, what can you do? Honestly, I can suggest two things. First, change your lifestyle if you notice anything different and talk to your provide if the cause is a medical condition.

Here’s a list of things you can eat/drink to improve your digestion.

Water
I personally know people that just hate drinking water. Well, HATE might me a strong word but if you’re not drinking, you’re dehydrated, constipated and much more. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, it is recommended for men to drink about 15 cups (3.7L) of water and women 11.5 cups (2.7L). Many people would prefer to drink sodas for their fluid intake but the amount of sugar that can be found in these drinks can definitely lead to other health issues in the future.

Dehydration is a common cause of constipation since the intestines cannot add enough water to the stools. As a result the stools become lumpy, hard and lead to constipation, so make an effort to drink your water.

Prunes
Prunes and prune juice are a time-tested home remedy for constipation in different parts of the world and they work wonderfully. Prunes contain fiber and sorbitol compounds, elements known to ease and speed up bowel movements, improve stool consistency and provide other gastrointestinal benefits.

Broccoli
As much as I don’t like broccoli, I’ll eat it from time to time because of its health benefits. Broccoli contains sulforaphane which is a substance that may protect the gut and ease digestion; therefore more trip to the bathroom.

Yogurt
Many dairy products, including yogurt and kefir, contain microorganisms known as probiotics. Probiotics are often called “good” bacteria, and they may help to improve gut health and soften stools.

Whole wheat breads, cereals, and pastas
I am personally in love with bread and pastas. I can’t go weeks or days without them. So, I usually choose whole wheat breads that also contain nuts and seeds which pack even more fiber into each serving.
Whole wheat products are an excellent source of insoluble fiber, which adds weight to stools and speeds up the flow of materials through the intestines.

Apples and pears
Apples and pears contain several compounds that improve digestion, including fiber, fructose, high levels of water, which can help to ease digestion and prevent constipation. It is recommended to eat them raw with the skin intact in order to get the most benefits from them.

Kiwi

On average, 100 g of kiwi contains around 2–3 g of fiber, which can add bulk to stools and speed up the intestinal flow.

Takeaway from this post
Remember to not skip meals, avoid processed or fast foods on regular basis, drink at least 8 to 10 cups (2 to 2.5 L) of liquids every day, particularly water. Moreover, call your doctor if you: have not had a bowel movement more than 3 days, if you are bloated or have pain in your stomach, have nausea or throw up or have blood in your stool. Also, talk to your doctor about a personal regiment because everyone has a different dietary needs.

References:Koyle MA, Lorenzo AJ. Management of defecation disorders. In: Wein AJ, Kavoussi LR, Partin AW, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 144.

Camilleri M. Disorders of gastrointestinal motility. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 136.

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Health

Here’s Why Eating Sweet Potato Is Good For You!

February 2, 2020

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Hello dolls, today’s topic is ” Sweet potato”!!! I will be sharing a few reasons on why it should be part of your diet and when you should eat it moderately. Personally, sweet potatoes are always part of my grocery list; I boil and fry them, but my favorite way to eat them is baked.

What are sweet potatoes? Sweet potatoes are a rich source of fiber and potassium. They also contain tons of vitamins and minerals including iron, calcium, selenium, and they’re a good source of most of our B vitamins and vitamin C.

Why sweet potatoes are important !!!

Vision

One of the key nutritional benefits of sweet potato is an antioxidant known as beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A once consumed. Vitamin A deficiency can damage vision leading to clouding of the front of the eye. Therefore, correcting vitamin A deficiencies with foods high in beta-carotene can restore vision.

Have Beautiful Skin

Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamin C and Vitamin E, both are very important in keeping the skin healthy and glowing. Vitamin C helps boost collagen, which tightens your skin. Sweet potatoes are also a rich source of anthocyanins that help with blemishes and dark spots.

Blood pressure.

Sweet potatoes are also high in potassium, which works in balance with sodium in your body . Moreover, the high fiber content of sweet potatoes can lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels which can help to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Cancer

Another thing I have learned is that Sweet potato peels, particularly those of the purple varieties, may be powerful when it comes to cancer prevention. Sooo, but I have to eat it more often.

According to this study, Up to 80% of the protein in sweet potatoes is a type of storage protein known as sporamin. This distinctive protein has been known for its anti-cancer ability and can be found to be effective in several disease types such as gallbladder, and colorectal cancers.

When you need to moderate your intake.

Sweet potatoes contain oxalates which bind calcium and other minerals. Having too many oxalates in your diet may result in kidney stones. You should take it in moderation if you have existing kidney stones or if you are at risk. For necessary precautions, contact your healthcare provider.

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Inspiration, Lifestyle, My Dedication Planner

Mental Health & Mimosa / Vision Board Party

January 31, 2020

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Our First Mental Health & Mimosa Event was a huge success.

Where do I begin? I met Anim, Licensed Mental Health Therapist over Facebook couple months ago while we were both planning our moves to Atlanta. We are part of different Facebook groups together and somehow share similar interests.

We were hesitant at first because we were both new to Atlanta but we made it happen. We connected, chatted, exchanged numbers, and planned our first event.

For the very first time, we met in person the day of the event and it felt like we’ve known each other for a very long time. Anyways, we could not be more thankful to everyone that came out to support us.

We hosted “Mental Health & Mimosa” while working on our vision board because we cannot imagine a good year without focusing on our MENTAL WELL-BEING.
Setting our intentions allow us to focus on who we are and what to do next; however, setting our intentions while we’re in a positive state of mind will raise both our emotional and physical energy. It gives us zest, motivation, and more reason to get up in the morning.

Special thanks to Cindy from shotsbypriiincesss for covering this event. You’re loved.

Until next time…💛 Xoxo

Stay in the loop and subscribe to Presiii.com for next event, sales,b posts and love letters.

Understand the medical and psychological aspects of PCOS ( polycystic ovarian syndrome)

January 20, 2020

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First of all, what is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) ?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS, is a condition in which a woman’s body secretes extra male hormones, called androgens. As a result, the excess in androgens can cause her ovaries to produce too many egg follicles each month, “polycystic ovaries” responsible for the name of the condition. Excess androgens are also responsible for many of the other symptoms which will be discussed below.

For instance; in a normal menstrual cycle, hormonal changes result in the maturation and release of an egg during each cycle. Due to the excess androgens, the follicles in a woman’s ovary don’t mature fully and are not released, leading to the development of small ovarian cysts which can be seen on ultrasound. Since ovulation often fails to occur, the shedding of the uterine lining (the menstrual period) often fails to occur as well. This is when common symptoms of irregular periods, and often infertility occur.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Women with PCOS tend to have symptoms related to the elevated androgen levels and also the effects these hormones have on the body or various organs.

Common symptoms include:

* Irregular periods (oligomenorrhea) or absent periods (amenorrhea)
* Acne
* Oily hair and skin
* Abnormal hair growth (hirsutism)
* Recurrent miscarriages
* Pregnancy induced hypertension
* Higher risk of preterm birth, adverse health outcomes for the babies
* Postnatal hospitalization
* Obesity
* Insulin resistance, with an increased risk of developing diabetes
* High blood pressure
* High cholesterol
* Anxiety
* Irritability and mood swings
* Depression

With all these listed, many women may have only a few of these symptoms, which can create difficulties in making the diagnosis.

The diagnosis response:
A friend, family member or partner may be frustrated if she’s only recently been diagnosed with PCOS, and you may be wondering how this could happen. But, when you start adding 1+1 , you understand all the conditions she may be scared of having in the long run. You quickly realize how the news can affect someone.

Self-esteem:
Though not fatal or deadly, having polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is still difficult for many women who suffer from it. Based on the signs and symptoms like acne, weight gain, hair loss and infertility, there could be a million thoughts going through someone’s mind on how she’s not good,beautiful enough or how she would never be a mother.
For that, you have to work on the mental part during this journey. I am not saying that it would be easy, but doing the things that bring you joy and make you feel better physically and mentally will greatly help in the long run.
Some of the things you can do physically.
Exercise: jogging, cycling or swimming. They are all great activities that can help you with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) because these types of exercise increase body sensitivity to insulin which reduces the risk of type 2 diabetescardiovascular disease.

Mentally:
Empowerment: By educating others, you are breaking the stigma. You are helping someone to talk more about it. You are empowering someone to be more than a diagnosis. And there is so much joy in helping others.

There could be a financial burden:
Whenever you are diagnosed with a new disease, it is recommended to get as much information as possible. Your doctor is an important source of knowledge and treatment options if you have PCOS. Sometimes, some women may fail to see a doctor to get a second opinion because they don’t have any resources. Therefore, if you know any resources or programs for women, it will be greatly generous of you to refer a friend or family member to that particular program. Not having financial stabilities or health insurance can be such a burden to some women and can cause an increase in depression and anxiety as well.

Long term Management:
While it can be scary to hear that your friend, partner has the medical condition of (pcos), please know that she can live a full, healthy and happy life, if it is well managed. Most importantly, if she has the mental support. Soooo, talk it out, give as much support and bring as much awereness.

Spirituality:
Sometimes, we try everything else, but prayers. I want you to remember that God gives us the power to overcome even the most daunting circumstances. You are more than a diagnosis and PCOS doesn’t define you. Isaiah 40:28, 31 ” Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. You will find the strength, you did not know you possessed. Chin up 💛.

Take away from this post.

What are your approach on PCOS? Did you know anything about it? Have you noticed a change in a friend or family member suffering from PCOS? If yes, how does it affect your relationship? If you just learned about PCOS, will you bring more awareness by educating others? (People can be harsh sometimes).
P.S Anyone that is going through something needs a friend or family member to talk to. So, pray for them, talk to them and educate them.

Until next time darlings…

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nursing

6 Tips for a First Time Travel Nurse

Eight Fruits You can Find Vitamin C From.

What to Eat to Improve Your Digestion.