While your clinical skills got you hired, it's your soft skills that will determine whether you thrive or just survive each assignment. These interpersonal abilities (communication, adaptability, teamwork) often make the difference between a nurse who struggles through 13 weeks and one who gets asked back for an extension.

Discover the 10 most common mistakes healthcare facilities make when partnering with staffing agencies, from unclear job requirements to poor onboarding, and learn proven strategies to improve fill rates, reduce turnover, and build stronger agency relationships that deliver reliable, high-quality healthcare talent.

Healthcare facilities today are navigating a complex landscape of staffing challenges that affect both patient care and operational efficiency. One of the most pressing issues is the nationwide nursing shortage, which has intensified in recent years due to an aging workforce, increased patient demand, and burnout among healthcare professionals. Many facilities are struggling to fill open positions quickly, resulting in staffing gaps that place additional pressure on existing staff.

Travel nursing salaries are expected to remain strong throughout 2026, with competitive pay across most specialties and regions. Continued staffing shortages, rising patient volumes, and an increased need for specialized care are all contributing to steady demand for qualified travel nurses.

Choosing the best state for a travel nursing assignment is a highly personal decision. While some states are known for high pay, low living costs, or appealing lifestyles, the right choice depends on your unique goals and priorities.

Unlike a traditional staff nursing position, travel nurse recruiters often have only seconds to review each application. They’re scanning for specific details — licensing, certifications, specialties, and proof of flexibility. A resume that’s concise, keyword-optimized, and structured for quick reading can make all the difference between being overlooked and getting that first call from a recruiter.

As hospitals grapple with staffing shortages and fluctuating patient demands, two alternative nursing paths have emerged as increasingly attractive options: per diem nursing and travel nursing.

Burnout in the healthcare profession is more than just feeling tired; it's the emotional and physical exhaustion that builds after countless long shifts, missed holidays, and the unrelenting pressure to do more with less. For nurses, respiratory therapists, and allied health professionals, this strain often comes at the cost of personal well-being and professional fulfillment.

Burnout is an all-too-familiar experience for nurses. Defined by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of personal accomplishment, nurse burnout often stems from long shifts, staffing shortages, and the nonstop emotional demands of caring for others.