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Renewing Your Nursing License Before Expiration: 5 Key Points

Nurses have to periodically renew their credentials, if they want to keep practicing. Specific renewal requirements and periods will differ, depending on state laws, but pretty much every nurse in America has to go through this process.

This is not a requirement you want to cram. Before your license expires, every document, requirement and payment must be in order. 

Before you find yourself scrambling for your right to practice, here are 5 must-know facts about nurse licensure renewal. 

Look up your state’s licensing requirements 

How many Continuing Education Units (CEUs) do you need to fulfill? When does your license expire? How much do you need to pay, upon renewal? 

There is no universal answer, because each state has their own specific requirements. As soon as possible, you want to familiarize yourself with state-specific requirements. 

You can often find these details on your state nursing board’s official website or nursing portal. Failing this, contact them directly via email or telephone. 

Verify your licensure status 

If you are not already aware of your renewal window, there is a small chance that your license is already expired.  Even if it is active, if you incur certain infractions, this could further complicate the renewal process.

To ensure your license is active and in good standing, you want to verify it before proceeding any further. Thanks to NurseSys, this process can be completed on your local nursing board’s official website or an official nursing portal 

Complete your continuing education requirements 

Every state has different CEU requirements. Most states will make you fulfill a certain number of contact hours, which is 60 minutes of an educational activity. 

In many places, a portion of the requirement can be completed with bedside nursing hours. Other times, you will have to complete  state-approved lectures, webinars or workshops. If your license was suspended or expired, you may be forced to take full courses if you want to practice again. 

Once you are finished, you will be provided with documented proof of CEU completion. You have to submit this in the next step, so be sure to keep it in a safe place. 

Get your documents and payments in order 

Your State Nursing Board will ask you to provide a number of signed documents, before they can process your renewal. Be sure to answer every field with accurate and up-to-date information. This will include (but is not limited to) your legal name, current billing address, social security number and documentation that verifies the completion of your CEU requirements. 

They will also ask you to pay a licensing fee. While the exact amount will depend on the state, it will always go up if you are trying to renew an already-expired license. 

Get everything done as soon as possible 

Cramming your nursing license renewal can lead to unwanted stress and anxiety, in the future. That is why most states let you apply for renewal well in advance. 

Find out when your license expires, as soon as possible. When you know exactly when your license expires, you will know how much time you have to fulfill your requirements.

With this knowledge, you can plan ahead of time. This will let you complete your requirements at a reasonable time, with none of the hassle or stress associated with cramming. 

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Facilities HCP

Must-Have Working Shoes for Male and Female Nurses

Nurse shifts can be long, demanding and physically taxing. As you walk around fulfilling your daily tasks, you want functional and comfortable work shoes to ease some of the burden.

In fact, the shoes that nurses wear can have a huge impact on their long term foot health. 

With so many brands and models available in the market, it can be difficult to find the right pair for you. Before you commit to anything, consider these nursing shoes we highly recommend. 

Why are nursing shoes so important? 

Nursing takes a large physical toll on you. Over the course of a shift, HCPs find themselves constantly on their feet, with little rest in between. It is estimated that nurses take over 9,000 steps per shift. 

As if that was not enough, nurses are commonly assigned various menial tasks. During a shift, they can expect to carry patients and all sorts of medical equipment, from room to room. 

If you are not careful, the physical toll can add up in a very real way. HCPs commonly deal with all sorts of foot pain and problems, such as callouses, minor deformities and more. 

How often should I replace my nursing shoes? 

Nurses tend to wear out their work shoes pretty quickly .Because of all the distance you will cover, most work shoes do not last longer than 6 months or 350-500 total miles.

Walking with worn out sneakers can lead to foot pain and minor complications, down the line. To protect your feet, you want to get a new pair of shoes at least every 6 months. 

How often should nurses replace shoes? 

You do not want to wear the same pair of shoes, every nursing shift. This will speed up the inevitable wear-and-tear, and will cost you more overall. 

Most nurses have multiple work shoes that they rotate between every other day. This lets your shoes last longer, and even lets you vary your style and appearance. 

Having a pair of shoes for every work day might be excessive and practical. In most cases, 3 work shoes will more than suffice. 

What kind of shoes am I looking for? 

Nurses want to look for comfortable shoes with form functionality. You have to make sure the supportive soles are thick enough to support your weight. Quality arch support is also key for foot and ankle stability. 

If possible, find shoes with a wipe-off surface. You are going to expose yourself to a lot of bodily fluids and miscellaneous substances that could stain your sneakers. 

In summary, the best shoes for nurses standing all day are comfortable, functional and stylish. With all this in mind, here are some nursing shoes worth considering: 

Best shoes for female nurses

Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2  ($75) 

The Women’s Devotion Plus is another fitness shoe that happens to be perfect for nursing. For years, Ryka has tailored their designs to the unique needs of women’s feet. 

The mesh is engineered to be light and breathable, without being brittle. The rubber outsoles are durable and supportive, while the insoles are soft and cushon-y. 

BALA Twelves ($150)

The BALA shoe line was specifically tailored for female nurses. With active arch assist, a liquid-resistant and machine washable surface, and comfortable cushion, the BALA Twelves will keep you comfortable throughout your entire shift. 

On the BALA website, HCPs can choose between several colors, including (but not limited to) Nocturnal Black, Shade Gray and Flow White. 

Dansko Paisley Sneakers ($149.95)

The Paisley Sneakers are everything an HCP could ask for. The slip resistant soles prevent any clumsy workplace accidents, while the waterproof surface wards off any unwanted stains. 

These shoes may not be explicitly designed for nursing shifts, but they boast the comfort, durability and functionality that HCPs desire.

Naples – Black Smooth ($144.95)

Klogs’s shoes for nurses provide the perfect intersection between style and comfort. With contoured outsoles and dual elastic side goring, their shoes stay on your feet while maintaining a comfortable fit. 

We recommend the Black Smooth model, as it is the simplest and sleekest design they have to offer. If you are feeling more adventurous, however, Klogs provides a variety of different styles worth checking out. 

Best shoes for male nurses

FIGS New Balance 327 Unisex ($128)

With a 70’s inspired look, the FIGS New Balance 327 is a winner. It blends old-school aesthetics with modern form functionality from shoes that nurses wear. The entire shoe is waterproof, which is invaluable in a healthcare setting.

The antimicrobial insoles help with preventing foot odor while the lightweight design lets your feet breathe throughout the day. 

Brooks Men’s Run Merry Levitate 6 Running Shoes ($149.95)

Originally designed for runners, Brooks shoes are one of the best shoes for male nurses. The creel mesh material and specially-designed midsole foam are designed to be comfortable and breathable. 

At the same time, the pair boasts runner-level shock absorption, which only helps with demanding physical tasks. It is the perfect shoe for nurses standing and walking all day. 

Gales Men’s Frontline Shoes  ($89.95)

Gales shoes were designed, from the ground up, to support nurses. The fluid resistant surface can be cleaned with just a wipe-down. The insoles provide sturdy and sufficient protection, for those long nursing hours. 

Between Pink, Charcoal and Navy, HCPs can choose the color variant that fits them best. Compared to some of the items listed, Gales is also one of the more affordable brands. 

If you are in the market for slip on shoes for nurses, it does not get better than this. 

Men’s Arahi 6 ($140)

With a specially-molded footbed, the Arahi 6 provides the kind of protection nurses are searching for. The model is light and comfortable, without compromising on the sturdiness and durability nurses need. Among the shoes for mens nurses, this is one of the best. 

Customers can choose between 9 colors, regular and wide-sized fits.

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HCP Facilities

Key Takeaways from the 2023 State Of Nursing Survey

The 2023 State of Nursing report was published not too long ago. Surveying over 2,000 nurses, it provides a vivid snapshot of how nurses in America feel about their position and the industry at large. 

These findings speak volumes about both the consequences of the recently-ended lockdown, and what the future of nursing may look like. It is a lot of data to sift through, so we have gathered the key takeaways for your convenience. 

More and more nurses want to leave traditional roles 

Bedside nursing is steadily falling out of favor, in recent years. Although traditional nurses are essential to any healthcare facility’s success, these HCPs often found themselves at the center of the pandemic’s worst effects. With that in mind, it is no surprise that more nurses have considered transitioning to non-clinical roles.

For reference, the 2021 report had 29% of correspondents expressing interest in leaving clinical nursing. This year, that figure spiked up to 35%. Among other roles, nurses have looked towards nurse education, clinic/outpatient, home care and self-employment. Most popular answer was retirement, which is cause for some concern. Losing too many bedside nurses could have dire consequences, in the future. 

That begs the question: what would it take to retain them? According to the survey, the top three answers are as follows:

  • Improved working conditions (41%)
  • Higher pay (63%)
  • Better staffing ratios (71%)

Staffing shortages continue to be a problem

That 71% of nurses replied with “better staffing ratios” is no surprise. The results of the survey indicate that the nursing shortage continues to plague HCPs and facilities alike. A staggering 79% of correspondents believe that their units are understaffed. Nurses are commonly taking on more patients and longer hours than are reasonable. 

Per the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, around 275,000 nurses are needed between 2020 to 2030, in order to address the nursing shortage. As of the most recent census, America is currently on pace to produce 195,400 new nurses from 2021 to 2031. This is about as fast as average for most professions, but not quite enough to fill the gap. 

For the time being, it looks like staffing shortages will continue to be an issue for years to come. The culprits are who you would expect: up to 75% of nurses attributed these problems to widespread burnout. Working conditions and pay issues were the only two responses that reached higher than 50%. 

Nurses feel underpaid 

55% of correspondents saw a pay raise in the last year or so. Despite this, as much as 75% of nurses feel like they are being underpaid. The survey found that nurses will earn $61,000 to $80,000 a year, on average. Certain departments feel stronger about this than most. In particular, a staggering 83% of emergency nurses feel like they were not properly compensated. Surgical, pediatric, acute/critical care and long term care nurses (among others) also felt significantly underpaid. 

You can see where the HCPs are coming from. Nurses already worked long and grueling hours, but the pandemic brought this to a boiling point. Even in a post-pandemic setting, nurses are still covering for inadequate staffing ratios and significant shortages that are challenging to fill, longterm. 

The path forward 

To say that nurses have “been through a lot” would be a gross understatement. In spite of everything, a whopping 60.3% of correspondents still love their jobs as nurses. There are still outstanding HCPs who want to remain in the industry, one way or the other. 

The nurses want to stay. They just want better compensation and conditions in return. Facilities and healthcare companies have a duty to care for the exceptional workers in their payroll. If we do not look out for our healthcare heroes, healthcare in the future will have a far bleaker outlook than any numbers would suggest. 

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HCP Facilities

HCP of the Month March 2023 – Alexander

VitaWerks is proud to work with the best HCPs that America has to offer. That is why we take the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the finest healthcare professionals on the VitaWerks app, every month. These exceptional individuals deserve to have their inspiring stories shared to a wider audience.

This time, we are happy to name Alexander as our HCP of the Month!  With over 21 years of experience, he has touched the lives of countless patients and facilities over the course of his career. It does not matter where he works or what responsibilities you assign him. In any setting, you can expect the highest quality of care. 

Without fail, every facility he has worked with has nothing but the kindest words to say about him. “We love working with Alex. His performance is always outstanding.” one anonymous supervisor lauded. “He never complains and he takes every assignment eagerly, and with a smile. He is a team player and always takes initiative to get things done.” Every partnered facility he has worked with would echo these sentiments. 

In his free time, Alexander is a very active and sporty young man. You can often catch him crossing over his friends, at a nearby basketball court. He will also enjoy a couple games of soccer or a round of pool, with his best friends. Whether he is taking care of the patients in need or shooting hoops with his friends, Alexander is a team player through and through. He naturally radiates endless levels of kindness, sincerity and approachability. 

VitaWerks is proud to offer support to Healthcare heroes like him who make the industry a better place. Every day, our healthcare heroes sacrifice a great deal to protect and support their communities. This is why we work to provide them more career flexibility, and work-life balance, while matching them with facilities that match their preferences. All this, while offering the highest rates in their area. Alexander’s commitment to high quality healthcare and overwhelming kindness to everyone he meets cannot be understated. 

We are even happier that the admiration goes both ways.  “VitaWerks looks out for all nurses,” he lauded. “Fantastic customer service, every step of the way.” 

Thank you Alexander for allowing us to share his experiences as an HCP. The healthcare world is better, with caretakers like you around. Hopefully this is just the beginning of a fruitful career partnership. 

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Uncategorized

Top 4 Cities for Per Diem Nurses

Working per diem as a nurse gives you the opportunity to work where you want to work. Provided their certifications are recognized or the correct paperwork is done, nothing is stopping you from choosing any facility within your area.

Between rates, professional opportunities, and specific experiences certain cities undoubtedly have a lot to offer for HCPs. How does per diem work for nurses in each city? How much do per diem nurses make, depending on the city? What is there to experience off the clock?

To get you started on your travel nursing experience, we have listed a handful of the best cities for travel nurses.

(All the rates listed below are credited to Vivian Health.)

Los Angeles, California

Average Annual Pay: $2,779

The Greater LA Metropolitan Area is one of the top cities for travel nurses. It boasts some of the best healthcare facilities in the world. HCPs who take shifts here will get to work directly with cutting-edge nursing technology and will get to learn from some of the best nursing professionals in the nation. Between the UCLA Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UCI Medical Center and more, you will not have to look hard for exciting nursing opportunities.

Whenever you are not working per diem as a nurse, you can enjoy LA’s countless attractions. Between the scenic beaches, tourist attractions like Universal Studios and a bustling nightlife filled with clubs, restaurants and bars, you will find no shortage of things to do in the City of Angels, Just be sure to party responsibly!

Boston, Massachusetts

 Average Annual Pay: $3,036

Boston is another top city for travel nurses. The city boasts some of the best research facilities, hospitals and medical universities in the country. UMass, Harvard Medical School, and Tufts are just a couple of institutions ranked at the upper percentile of medical schooling. You will not have a difficult time landing a shift at some renowned, advanced healthcare facility, like the UMass Memorial Medical Center or Boston Children’s Hospital.

When you are off the clock, the city is rich with historical landmarks and attractions. In baseball season, sports fans can enjoy a game at the iconic Fenway Park, which houses the Boston Red Sox and the infamous Green Monster. Taking the “Freedom Trail” will take you through 16 iconic landmarks: from Park Street Church to the Granary Burial Ground, to the Massachusetts State House and more.

Seattle, Washington

 Average Annual Pay: $2,513

Even when it rains (and it rains often), Seattle provides endless opportunities for those working as per diem nurses. The University of Washington Medical Center is one of the most nationally well-regarded facilities, but there are many other great hospitals. HCPs can expect rich professional experiences at Swedish Medical Center, Virginia Mason Medical Center and more.

No matter how cloudy things get, there are still many sights to see. The iconic Space Needle observatory provides a gorgeous (if vertigo-inducing ) birds-eye view of the entire city. Seattle is also the centre of a constantly-growing tech industry, with companies like Amazon and Microsoft basing their headquarters there. For organic foods and fresh, locally sourced produce, Pike Place Market stands as one of the oldest farmer’s markets in all of America.

San Francisco, California

Average Annual Pay: $3,185

 Northern California is no less stacked than Southern California when it comes to high-end facilities. The San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center (SFGH) provides almost 20% of all of San Fran’s inpatient care. The UCSF Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center and Sequoia Hospital also stand at the forefront of medical innovations.

SF is not just a top city for travel nurses. Between the scenic bayside view of Pier 39, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and countless fantastic restaurants, there is much to do in the Bay Area. During baseball season, you can stop by Oracle Park which houses the San Francisco Giants and McCovey Cove.

One major downside is the steep price of housing in San Fran. As long as your agency is assisting you, or you are availing of cheaper short-term housing solutions, you should be fine.

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Uncategorized

7 Must-Listen Nursing Podcasts

Female doctor enjoying music with headphones, holding mobile phone in blue uniform front view.

Podcasts are excellent entertainment for nurses on the go. You can put one on on the trip to work, during downtime, or lying in bed.

From news podcasts to more lighthearted affairs, the right podcasts can provide you with insight, perspective and even a couple of laughs. 

With this in mind, we have gathered a short list of excellent podcasts worth your time. 

Shift Talk

Many people fall into the trap of “depersonalizing” nurses and healthcare workers; reducing them to mere figures in the chart or statistics in a report. Shift Talk buckles this notion by exploring the challenges faced by nurses both on and off the job. 

The podcast tackles heavy topics, such as the burnout and depression induced by COVID-19 to harassment in the workplace. In season 2, the host interviews nurses working tirelessly to provide equitable healthcare to those in need.

Shift Talk can provide much-needed solidarity and perspective for nurses going through tough times. It reminds us that every nurse faces similar challenges and with the right approach these obstacles can be overcome. 

Nurses on Fire 

With updates twice weekly, Nurses on Fire is a podcast for nurses “ready to build wealth but who may not know where to start.”

From recognizing signs of money fraud to paying off debt to creating intelligent side hustles and more, nurses can enjoy 100+ episodes of relevant financial tips, advice and tricks. 

We live in challenging times, financially. Building wealth, investing and planning for the future has never been harder than it is now. For nurses looking to secure their financial future, Nurses on Fire is a podcast well worth listening to. 

Nurse Speak 

From the minds of the popular Instagram account Nurselifern, Nurse Speak tackles the silly, everyday tales from nurses around the world.

 No matter where you come from, you can relate to the first-year struggles and quirky patient interactions relayed here. 

The podcasts mentioned so far have been fairly serious affairs. If you are looking for more easy, lighthearted listening, look no further than Nurse Speak. 

The Nursing Podcast 

2 or 3 times a week, The Nursing Podcast answers questions from students and offers preparation tips for NCLEX examinees. This is supplemented with general career advice and perspectives from multiple guests. 

For freshly-graduated RNs, the NCLEX-RN may seem like an intimidating endeavor. With sufficient preparation and the right materials, however, anyone can pass this certification exam. 

This podcast may not be the most useful for active nurses. If you are preparing for the NCLEX or know someone who is about to take the certification test, however, it is well worth listening to. 

The Art of Emergency Nursing

Emergency nursing is one of the most important and challenging departments in nursing. Kevin MacFarlane makes it his mission to let their stories be heard. 

The Art of Emergency Nursing takes listeners through the turbulent day-to-day challenges of Emergency Nursing. The podcast is a loving tribute to the men and women who save the lives of countless people, as a matter of course. 

You can expect numerous guest speakers from various backgrounds, on each episode. MacFarlane himself offers his unique insights as a 15-year Emergency Nurse Veteran. 

Nursing Uncensored 

Cut from a similar cloth to Nurse Speak, Nursing Uncensored is equal parts informative, hilarious and heartwarming. Host Adrianne Behning provides valuable information and actionable tips, packaged through humorous stories and an informal tone.

Nurses from various ethnic, racial and gender backgrounds often chime in to provide their raw and relevant nursing experiences. From activism to bigotry, to student debt, no topics are off the board with Nursing Uncensored. 

Public Health On Call

Nursing is in a constant state of flux. Between medical technological advances and legislation changes, it is hard to keep track of where the industry is heading and what it currently is. 

Public Health On Call is a quality health news podcast, for the nurse who wants to stay plugged in. From the latest COVID information to public health access, the podcast provides all the latest news in a quick and digestible manner. 

Categories
Facilities

7 Excellent Money Moves for Nurses in the Recession

pleased young female doctor wearing medical robe and stethoscope sitting at desk with medical tools and laptop holding money looking at side isolated on white background

We are staring at the face of a massive recession. Everyone is about to feel the monetary consequences and nurses are no exception. 

While you still have a stable salary, you want to secure your future as soon as possible. Before things get out of hand, consider making these 7 forward-thinking money moves. 

Plan for an emergency fund

Surprise expenses can be gutting. If your car breaks down, you suddenly come down with an illness or your home needs immediate renovation, that could completely derail your plans for the future.

If you have space, you want to allot some of your salary money for an emergency fund. This ensures that you will have a cushion for a rainy day. 

If you have an account for your emergency funds, you can set it up so that your bonuses, tax refunds and other windfalls are directly deposited into it. Be sure to place it in a high-yield savings account and make sure that you are only accessing it in case of emergency.

 Pay off your student debts

Nursing students commonly face sizable tuition debt. It is estimated that the average student has to deal with $40,000-59,000 in debt, fresh out of college. If you slack on paying your student loans, the interest can snowball uncontrollably.

Consider aggressively repaying as much as possible, once you get a job and settle in. It will hurt in the immediate future, but this approach can save you a lot of cash in the long run.

Refinancing your student loans is also an option. Contact your loan provider, and discuss alternative repayment plans that best suit your timeline. 

Do not forget your credit card debts

There is also the matter of credit card debt. High-interest credit card debt can be crippling if you are not careful. 

or credit card fees, moving to a lower-interest account or availing of a new credit card offers help with saving on interest, which pays dividends in the long run.

Create a smart budget plan

Between work-related expenses, necessities and luxury spending, it is easy to lose track of where your money is going. For smarter spending and better financial habits, you want to create a budget plan that is smart and forward-thinking.

Prioritize monthly fees that are non-negotiable. This is housing costs, food, electricity and other expenses along those lines. From there, you can cut down on luxury spending, whenever you see fit.

If you are still not meeting your financial goals, consider cutting down on your fixed expenses. Changing providers can be a dramatic lifestyle change, so resort to this at your discretion.

Have emergency plans for your career

Unfortunately, anything can happen during a recession. Companies commonly cut costs and staff to save money, and you might get caught up in these layoffs

While you are employed and salaried, you want to be prepared for the worst. Have a resume and portfolio on hand that you update regularly, whenever you have to go job hunting. 

Build and maintain a strong professional network, while you are at it. These connections are invaluable when you are looking for new jobs. 

Work on a side hustle 

On the subject of emergency plans, side hustles are a fantastic option if you have the bandwidth. With a personal business, you get to secure additional revenue on top of your regular income. 

A side business is not the only way to earn extra money on the side. You can pick up additional per-diem shifts with other hospitals, in addition to your regular salaried hours. VItaWerks will help you secure the best temporary rates in your area, in the best healthcare facilities. 

Try to better your credit score

There may come a time when you have to borrow money, amidst this recession. To deal with the short-term financial strain, you may have to avail of a loan, a refinanced mortgage or huge credit card spending. 

A good credit score is essential if you want to qualify for bigger and better loans. With this in mind, you wanna do your best to make sure that you are paying your bills on time, correcting any errors on your credit report and learning more about how your credit score is determined. 

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HCP

The Best Apps for Per Diem Nursing Shifts

Per diem shifts have changed healthcare staffing, as we know it. Gone are the days when you had no choice but to work full time, and on the terms of your employer. Nurses can now pick up shifts from their mobile phones, in an extremely convenient and hassle-free way. This has afforded HCPs a level of professional freedom and flexibility that is unprecedented in the history of nursing. Effectively, HCPs have become their own boss and can dictate their own hours accordingly.

What if you are new to per diem staffing, however? Maybe you heard of it from a friend, and you do not know where to start. There are so many HCP staffing apps available to you that it can be a bit disorienting. It goes without saying, that not all these apps are created equal. You do not want to choose indiscriminately either since you will be trusting these companies with sensitive documentation and personal information. For your convenience, we have listed some of the best nursing shift apps on the market. In these write-ups, we will outline their prominent strengths, and notable weaknesses, and offer our final recommendations. 

VitaWerks

Without a doubt, VitaWerks is the best nursing shifts app available. In no time at all, nurses can find hundreds of shifts in reputed healthcare facilities near you with rates that are 25% higher than the market.

The app boasts a variety of different features and perks. 

  • Search for a number of high-quality facilities in your area.
  • AI matchmaking instantly pairs you with the highest rates available in the market. 
  • Set your own work schedule. View and choose the shifts you take, any time you want. There are no minimum hours! 
  • Take advantage of 24/7 customer support. Contact us anytime you have any inquiries, clarifications, or concerns regarding our apps and services! 
  • Enjoy flexible scheduling. Set your work week based on your current needs or preferences. 
  • Avail of countless rewards. Earn VCoins for each shift completed and successful referral. Redeem your VCoins for cash, once you have collected enough. 

VitaWerks strives to provide HCPs with unmatched freedom and convenience. Regardless of what level of HCP you are, there is something for everyone. 

We are constantly searching for skilled, qualified HCPs who are also driven and passionate about healthcare work. Do you fit the description? Are you ready to take your career to the next level? If all this is applicable, click here to sign up with us. Get to that next step today, and start your journey with VitaWerks! 

Nursa

Nursa is a decent, free nursing app for work. RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and other HCPs first have to complete a W-9 per-diem worker form on their app, before adding their banking information. When you finish your application, you can begin selecting shifts from a number of facilities in your area.

Nurses are required to submit reports on these facilities after they finish their stint. As you browse through the shifts listed on the app, nurses can use filters. This lets you tailor the results based on your specialty and location preferences. Nursa is a customizable HCP staffing experience that lets you find the best facilities for you. 

Customers have reported a handful of issues, however. The filter system can sometimes be reliable and difficult to use. For example: you can only search for shifts by facility, instead of looking for open gigs within a particular city. Users have also reported a handful of glitches. Luckily, the developer team is constantly taking and considering feedback from their users. 

Intelycare

Intelycare is a powerful staffing solution for HCPs who are in search of a flexible nursing shift app. The on-demand platform simplifies the process of matching qualified healthcare providers with facilities within their close proximity. HCPs can take contract work, per diem nurse shifts, and even full-time offers, depending on what the facilities are offering. The app provides comprehensive information regarding where you will work, what your role will be, your compensation, and more. 

It still has its share of issues. Users have sometimes complained about an unresponsive support team, which can make resolving potential issues difficult. Other users have had issues with a lack of options at times, especially compared to other platforms. Although these concerns are worth considering, Intelycare should still be considered as a worthy option in the see of staffing apps. 

ShiftKey

ShiftKey is dedicated to empowering HCPs with the freedom to choose where they want to work. In particular, they serve PTs, CNAs, RNs, and more. HCPs can flexibly pick up gigs from this nursing shifts app at a number of different facilities. To top it all off, the app lets you keep track of and update your HCP credentials whenever needed, making your HCP work life even easier. 

Though a renowned app, the user experience is not perfect across the board. Some users have remarked about last-minute shift cancellations. New documentation requirements may also appear, without any prior warning or heads-up. In general, users may run into a lack of communication, although it is not a universal experience.

ShiftMed

ShiftMed is a powerful, all-in-one staffing app for HCPs of various levels. To qualify, you need to be either a GNA, SNA, LPN, RN, or CNA. Once ShiftMed has verified your credentials, you can start searching for open per diem positions from a number of facilities within your proximity. The app lets you customize your search based on your shift preferences, including (but not limited to) preferred rates, distance to your house, facility preferences, and more. ShiftMed also lists you as a W2 employee instead of a 1099 contractor. You can avail of certain benefits, although they are not listed on their website. 

Unfortunately, the App does have its fair share of drawbacks. Communication can be inconsistent, and users have complained about the documentation submission process. Changing your work location has also been a hassle, which is inconvenient for HCPs looking to move temporarily or change their residence outright. Ironically, this can also be an inconvenience for nurses who actually travel As with most of these applications, the dev team regularly takes feedback

Pick A Shift

Uniquely, Pick A Shift only partners with nursing homes and residential communities. Once you download and sign up on the app, you can start registering with nearby healthcare facilities. Pick A Shift sends the important information to the facility, and if they approve, the nurse will be notified whenever there are available slots. Notably, Pick A Shift provides lucrative short-notice opportunities. Facilities can post listings for sudden vacancies or gigs, and HCPs are notified on the other end. As with all these other apps, you will not be forced to pick up any hours against your own will.

 If you do not want to shift your schedule around a suddenly available gig, there is no need to do so. For healthcare professionals who thrive under pressure, this is a great opportunity to earn extra money. Pick a Shift is a good nurse staffing application if you are interested in the kind of work they specialize in. 

NurseIO

NurseIO is another prominent staffing app well worth considering. HCPs can find a number of open per diem shifts at nearby facilities. You can browse through a number of nearby available shifts that are posted by the facilities themselves. From there, you can build and curate your work schedule, based on facility preference or current circumstances. NurseIO offers a host of different shifts for various levels of HCP: from RN to CNA, LVN, caregivers, and more. When it comes to flexible per diem staffing apps, NurseIO is as good a choice as any. 

Like any other app, NurseIO is not perfect. There are a handful of bugs and glitches that still need ironing out. Certain users have complained about less-than-favorable behavior from their employers and support staff. Thankfully, the development team is active in taking feedback and iterating on the app as it stands. 

Go out there! 

Healthcare staffing is currently at an exciting place. Staffing apps continue to improve, while HCPs get to enjoy a host of different employment opportunities. Healthcare heroes are no longer bound and constricted by a single facility, where they work exclusively for the rest of their lives. They can try different facilities, with different systems and co-workers. They can dip their toes in settings outside their comfort zone. In doing so, they discover more about who they are, and what they look for in their nursing careers. This would not be possible without the flexibility and freedom that are provided by HCP staffing apps. Although they surged in popularity, following the pandemic, it is clear that these options are here to stay 

The best staffing app will ultimately depend on your preferences. Do you have a certain specialty that you want to focus on? What are the features that you value in your staffing app? Are you open to spontaneous, short-notice opportunities that pay more as a result? Your answer to these questions will ultimately determine what works best for you. As long as you put your best foot forward, (and diligently complete all the shifts that you take) we know that you will succeed as a per diem HCP! So go out there and start booking your next shift. 

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5 Excellent Scrubs for Nurses

Portrait of a smiling nurse or doctor in green uniform showing thumbs up. High quality photo

Nurses are in their scrubs for 8 to 12 hours daily, every workday. For their sake, we made a list of the top scrubs providers for nurses and their best models. 

Our healthcare heroes deserve functional work outfits that seamlessly blend comfort and style.

Wonderwink

For women nurses looking for comfortable form-fitting nurse outfits, have you covered? Since the scrubs are cut closer to your shape, nurses can enjoy a flattering, form-fitting look without sacrificing comfort. Their polyester, spandex and rayon fabrics were designed to provide nurses with comfort throughout the day.

WonderWink Women’s Origins Bravo Scrub Top is listed with a respectable 4.1 stars with 15,000 reviews. Customers have praised the brand for the quality of the product relative to the price. 

Cherokee

When it comes to scrub brands, Cherokee is easily among the most popular out there. This is for a good reason, as the company consistently releases high-quality nursing outfits for both men and women.

The fabric blend produces a light-breezy feel that still remains stretchy and durable in a washing machine. Their scrubs blend a combination of comfortability, utility and durability. 

On Amazon, the Cherokee Women Scrubs Top Workwear Revolution V-Neck WW620 boasts a 4.6 rating over 28,000+ reviews. 

Figs

Though Figs is a smaller company, relative to the ones previously mentioned, this does not mean that they cheap out on quality. This up-and-coming brand follows a direct-to-consumer approach to blend form functionality with sleek designs. For the style-inclined nurse, it does not get any better.

FIGS Chisec Scrub Top for Men is rated a respectable 4.4 stars over 1,716 reviews. Users rave about the quality of fabric and how it softly stretches to fit your form, compared to other brands. 

The major catch is the price tag, which sits at $48.00. If you are willing to pay extra for higher quality that will last, Figs is at least worth considering. 

Jaanuu

With a job that can get as stressful and demanding as nursing, at the very least you want scrubs you will feel comfortable in. Jaanuu consistently provides some of the most comfortable, flexible scrubs in the market, thanks to their FUSEryx technology. 

None of the comfortability compromises on quality in other areas, as Jaanuu scrubs are wrinkle and fade-resistant.

Jaanu’s Women’s 3-Pocket Scrub Top is among the most highly rated in their cataloge. Users can even customize their outfits, based on their preferred colors. 

Dickies 

On top of Jeans and other casual apparel, Dickies is also one of the leading providers of professional-quality nursing scrubs. 

With its four-way stretching fabric, athletic styling reminiscent of workout gear and machine-friendly fabrics, there is a reason Dickies is one of the most popular brands for male nurses 

Users all over have raved about the Dickies Dynamix Scrubs for Men. With a 4.6 rating on Amazon and a $31.98 price point, this is a great choice for HCPs looking for quality scrubs. 

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How Foreign Nurses Can Start Working in the US

Beautiful nurse using digital tablet in hospital corridor

On paper, America provides tantalizing opportunities for registered nurses (RNs) abroad. With the US nurse shortage in full swing, there should be no lack of work openings for foreign-born HCPs.

The reality is more complicated than that, however. Thanks to current immigration policies, foreign nurses have to jump through numerous hoops before they can even practice.

To make life easier for aspiring overseas nurses, we have made this guide. Provided that you fulfil every requirement and go through the right channels, your dreams of working in America will eventually come true.

Meet the basic requirements

As mentioned earlier, there are numerous education requirements for nurses.

At the most basic level, all nurses have to meet the following professional and educational standards:

  • Graduation from an accredited nursing program in your country of origin (Associate’s Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
  • An RN license
  • At least two years of RN experience

In most states, you will also be required to take A Foreign-Educated Nurses (course) that is split between 120 hours of clinical rotations and 120 hours of lessons.

Take an English proficiency test

Most foreign-born nurses also have to take an English proficiency exam. Depending on where your country of origin, you may have to take one of the following:

  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC)

The only exceptions to the rule are nurses who come from primarily-English speaking countries, such as:

  • United Kingdom
  • New Zealand
  • Ireland
  • Canada, sans Quebec
  • Australia

Fulfil NCLEX requirements and pass the exam

 To become a US nurse, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN, which is the certification test for registered nurses. To take this, foreign nurses must fulfil a number of different requirements. This includes the aforementioned education requirements for a nurse.

You have to submit an application to take the test to a State Board of Nursing, along with the required documents and related fees. Afterwards, you have to verify your foreign nursing license, and educational history and you have to fulfil a criminal background check.

Keep in mind some states have specific requirements you also have to fulfil. On a related note, how much your nurse salary is will also depend on which state you work in.

While waiting for your application, take the opportunity to study for the test. At least two months will give you ample time to study and prepare. Luckily, there are many reviewers available online.

Once the State Board of Nursing approves of your application, you can register for the NCLEX-RN at Pearson Vue and schedule your exam at an approved testing centre. After you take the test, you will receive your results in 48 hours.

If you pass the test, then congratulations!

Link up with a reputable nursing agency

If you cannot be directly recruited by a hospital, you want to refer to a reputable nursing agency. Good agencies can sponsor your VISA application and help you find work. Refer to reviews or input from your nurse friends, to find the best agency for you.

Acquire your VISA

Even after you secure your certification and employment, you still need a VISA. Green card holders enjoy full citizenship rights, which include the ability to live and work in America permanently.

With the right endorsement from an employer or your agency and a VisaScreen certificate, naturalization can be sped up.

The application process ends with an interview with the US embassy. After a few days or weeks, you will find out if you passed. If you did: congratulations! You can now practice as a US Nurse.

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