Carry this stack of papers with you that first day. Bear in mind that nursing, human resources, and payroll departments, as well as other areas, may want to see and copy these documents.

Getting to work

To avoid problems when you report for work, do exactly as your contract specifies. Follow its directions for when and where to arrive (on or off campus) and how to dress.

Your orientation process will vary radically from hospital to hospital. If you want to know more about your orientation, call the number listed in the contract and ask.

Whatever information you receive, your orientation as a travel nurse will be shorter than a staff employee's. Because you won't receive an employee benefit package, you'll skip any time devoted to that topic. Instead, you'll be engaged in "accelerated acclimation" to your new surroundings. In fact, you may visit your unit the first day of orientation.

Experienced travel nurses know one big secret that helps with orientation. Before orientation, take an hour or two during the shift you'll be working to tour the unit alone and undistracted. This is your edge against distractions and mistakes when the time comes to work in the unit. Just be sure to introduce yourself to the nurse-manager and get permission to tour the unit.

A matter of attitude

Although as a travel nurse you may work in unfamiliar environments, your nursing skills and professional attitude remain the same. Stay confident and inquisitive and rely on your native abilities to guide you through any rough times. In travel nursing, your skills and your calm, positive attitude are the ultimate essentials