Healthcare Traveler - September 2008 - (Page 24)

but I was still concerned and expressed my thoughts to the physician on duty. He ordered a CT scan and it turns out the woman had a subdural hematoma.” On his current assignment, the local population represents all ages, but also varied ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. “There are rather substantial Russian and Muslim groups here,” says Rey. “Traditions and culture can affect how you care for your patients. For example, if I have a female Muslim patient, I know to direct my instructions to the male family member because that is what is acceptable in that culture. You have to do whatever is most comfortable for each particular patient.” Rey describes the individuals he treats as being exceptionally polite. “People here say ‘thank you’ when you give them their medication.” He has noticed seasonal influences in the ED, too, such as an increase in road rashes and injuries from motorcycles in the summertime. “I learn something with each assignment and I’m able to take that with me to the next location. I just keep adding to my knowledge base.” Part of the reason that Rey has concentrated most of his contracts in the West and Southwest is because of the climate and recreational outlets. “I like being able to play golf all year round,” he jokes. “It can get hot, but the humidity is less than what I was used to in the Midwest. Also, I like that I can go hiking, mountain biking, and backpack camping in different seasons.” He also selects his assignments based on specific facilities’ nurse-to-patient ratios. Rey recommends that if you are considering a travel career, start off slowly to determine if you are well-suited for the lifestyle. “Maybe try to find a local opportunity or go with a fellow nurse traveler so you can feel more comfortable at first. Then you can go off on your own.” Added value Regional characteristics certainly can affect the health of a community and help determine what types of patients come through an emergency department’s doors. Geographical conditions, climate patterns, natural events, and patient populations are unique attributes that add value to your experience as a traveling healthcare provider. HT Anne Baye Ericksen is a freelance writer based in Simi Valley, California. Circle Career Card No. 633 24 Healthcare Traveler September 2008 www.healthcaretraveler.com http://www.nursefinderstravel.com http://www.nursefinderstravel.com http://www.healthcaretraveler.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Healthcare Traveler - September 2008

Healthcare Traveler - September 2008 Editor's Desk Contents In a Flash Paws for Thought Field Notes Regional Differences in the ED Joining Together Drug Update Clinical Tips Cityscape Advertiser's Index Name It Travel Tips Big Deals Tax Facts Dot.com Contest Rules Allied Corner Going the Distance Classifieds Tales from the Road

Healthcare Traveler - September 2008

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