Thankful Thoughts for Travel Nurses

5 Tips for a Happy Thanksgiving

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, we want to emphasize how grateful we are for our dedicated travel nurses. The entire team at Go Healthcare Staffing wishes you a joyful and healthy holiday. We also realize it can be challenging to be in a new city, away from family and friends, or even working a long shift during this celebratory time. Take a minute to explore a few ways to make some great memories and enjoy the day.

1. Share the joy with patients – It’s amazing how rewarding it is to bring a smile to someone else. And empathy can be very healing. Make an even bigger effort to cheer up your patients caught in the hospital for Thanksgiving. And, take some time to share stories. Exchange favorite memories of your families, friends, pets, traditions, and dishes. It’s always exciting to learn new things and everyone feels the love.
2. Organize a pot luck – You won’t be alone if you find yourself working a holiday shift. Ban together with others in the same boat and organize a pot luck meal, or agree to bring in a variety of treats to share. It’s a great way to explore new recipes, get to know each other, and savor some tasty foods.
3. Create your own special time – Don’t focus on the calendar, you can celebrate anytime that fits with your schedule. Plan ahead if you prefer to have a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Carve out the time needed to shop and prepare your favorite classics and then sit down and enjoy. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time, search out local restaurants that often offer turkey dinners beyond Thanksgiving Day. 
4. Connect with loved ones – Take advantage of technology! Let your friends and family know your availability and set up a time to call or Facetime. Video chats, or even Zoom calls, can offer a great way to feel part of the festivities even when you are miles away.
5. Treat yourself – Your shift may feel never ending when you know others are enjoying a home cooked meal. But, you can get through it easier if you are looking forward to your own special indulgence. Schedule a spa day, dinner out, extra class at the gym, or get a stash of decadent chocolate and your favorite wine.

Whether you’re uplifting your patients or connecting with your fellow coworkers, holidays at work can still yield happy memories. Look for the silver lining with perks that may include extra pay or even a free meal from the cafeteria. Fly home to visit loved ones afterwards and save money with off-peak fares. Focus on the positive; your health, your family, your employment and paycheck, even the weather—then share a smile with others.

Thank you to all the travel nurses from coast to coast for your daily sacrifice and commitment to improving lives. You are the heart of our organization; may you and your loved ones have a very happy Thanksgiving.