How to Handle Concerns During Your Travel Assignment 

While we hope that every travel assignment our healthcare pros take is the perfect assignment, we know life isn’t perfect. That’s why we’re always honest about assignments before you sign a contract. But what happens if you get to an assignment and realize that there’s something unexpected for both you and your recruiter? Maybe there are some personality conflicts on the floor, or you’re concerned about patient safety? Or, what if you have a family emergency pop up during your assignment and have to go home in a hurry? We’ll outline a few situations and help you determine who’s your best contact during each one so you can easily resolve it. 

When to Talk to the Floor Manager 

Depending on the issue, your floor manager can be your first line of defense. For instance, if your contract guarantees block scheduling, but you’re being scheduled for days one at a time, a simple conversation with the scheduler can fix this. Go in without assuming ill intent—it’s likely that the person putting the schedule together just didn’t know. If you state facts without emotion, chances are good that you’ll get your issue fixed quickly and easily, no matter what it is.  

This is also true if you have a no float clause in your assignment (though, we encourage being a part of a travel nurse float pool!). If you’re continuously being floated to a higher acuity that you’re not comfortable with, the manager may be the first step. If possible, offer an alternative, especially if you’re comfortable floating to a different unit instead.  

When to Talk to Your Recruiter 

You should always stay in contact with your recruiter. They want your assignment to go well because if it doesn’t, you likely won’t give them a second chance. There may be times when a conversation with the floor manager doesn’t fix your problem. If that’s the case, your recruiter is your next step. For instance, if your contract has specific days listed as off, but the facility is scheduling you to work and isn’t budging, your recruiter can step in to make sure that your contract is followed.  

Family emergencies pop up from time to time, especially when you’re far from home. If you have something come up that requires you to head home, the first call is to your recruiter. Your recruiter can help you determine whether you should call the entire contract quits or if there’s opportunity to go home for a week or two and return once things in your personal life calms down.  

When to Talk to the Clinical Manager 

If you have concerns about the safety of your assignment, the Triage clinical team is here to help. The clinical team is made up of nurses and even former travel nurses. They’ll be able to help you navigate nearly any situation. Chances are that they’ve seen your situation before and can help guide you. Also, give your recruiter a heads up that you’re talking to the clinical staff. They may be able to connect and find the right plan for your situation. 

We know life isn’t perfect and that’s why your Triage recruiter and the clinical team are here to help. If you’re looking for allied or travel nurse jobs, visit our job board or connect with a recruiter today.