We love sharing Provider stories from our travelers. Your passion for patient care and love of adventure gives us a boost. Your stories inspire others in their journey, and help professionals see the possibilities for their career. Last time we spotlighted Travel Nurse Sarah. In this article we’re talking to Emergency Department (ED) Travel Nurse Natalia.
Hello, Natalia and thank you for taking time to share your story. Tell us about yourself and your decision to become an ED travel nurse.
Thank you for having me! I am originally from Colombia, South America. I live in North Carolina now and am married to a police officer. I have been in the United States for more than 20 years and have been a Registered Nurse (RN) since 2015. For most of my career, I have been an ED travel nurse. I have also worked in an outpatient setting, and plastic and reconstructive surgery. My experience includes Indian reservations, critical access facilities, and Level 1 trauma centers.
I love the outdoors and my passion for culture and nature. My amazing journeys have taken me to exploring the Amazon jungle and hiking the beautiful Himalayas in Nepal. I have been delighted by the incredible landscapes in different countries around the world. I enjoy my profession and the opportunity of traveling and serving different communities!
What made you want to be a healthcare professional?
I had a bad car accident years ago and the exceptional care I received inspired me to become a nurse with the ambition of caring for others the way someone cared for me during those difficult days. I believe our actions can make a difference and nursing gives me the opportunity to use my skills to help others improve their quality of life or end it with dignity.
Why did you want to start traveling?
I wanted to start travel nursing to be exposed to different healthcare settings and practices. I wanted to learn about different communities and explore this beautiful country, and why not get paid for it!
Where is your current contract?
Currently, I am working at an Indian Health Center in western Arizona. Then I will be working in working in the northern part of Alaska.
How many other travel contracts have you had and where were they?
I lost count! I have been traveling since 2016 and have worked in many different states from the East coast to the West, including an amazing adventure of three months at Havasupai Indian Reservation in the bottom of the Grand Canyon. I am licensed to work in CA, OR, MA and hold a compact state nursing license.
What attracted you travel nursing?
I have traveled since I was a child and when I learned about travel nursing, I was totally determined to do it! The opportunity to better myself and my family financially was also a key factor in my decision to start traveling.
Which location was your favorite?
Every place is special and unique, but I’ve enjoyed Oregon, California and Arizona the most. These states are incredibly beautiful!
What do you like most about your job?
My autonomy! I love to be able to choose the location, the time I want to work and take off. To me, being able to do those things is priceless.
What do you like least about travel nursing?
Having to leave after falling in love with a place! Every assignment gives us the opportunity to make new friends, explore various places and provide care to different communities. Some people simply earn a special place in our hearts, and it is sad when we move on to new adventures.
What advice would you give someone thinking about taking a travel position?
If you are thinking about it… try it! Traveling is fun, but it also has its challenges. It is not for everyone, but you won’t know if it is for you unless you try.
- Start close to home to see how you adjust to the changes and being away from family.
- Have an open mind… leave the judgment at home and be a team player!
- Advocate for yourself and never do anything you are uncomfortable doing.
- Embrace the change and have fun as you explore the country and can be financially compensated for doing it!
What advice would you give someone thinking about working at an IHS Facility?
DO IT! I have found out that serving Native American communities is where my heart is! Not easy but overall, a very grateful community and IHS has very cool jobs at great locations.
What kinds of activities do you do there outside of work?
Being outdoors is my happy place. I love to hike, kayak, and just simply go outside and take a deep breath. It makes me feel alive and it is a great stress reliever! I also like to practice yoga and go to the gym.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us about your ED travel nurse experience?
I am grateful for my family and their support. I couldn’t do what I do if it wasn’t for their amazing love and encouragement. My husband, sister and mother are my everything and I want to make them proud by building a solid nursing career. Life is about taking chances and making decisions and travel nursing has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life!
It sounds like you’re having an amazing experience, Natalia! Thank you for sharing your story.
If you are interested in learning more about travel opportunities as a medical professional, please visit our Job Board and contact us. We’d love to talk to you.
