The Nurse Reference

A Gift for Teaching

2012-02-08T13:12:00.002-06:00

During the last week of January, Jackson Nurse Professionals held a one-week rush to collect new, packaged pairs of underwear and socks to fit elementary-age children for A Gift for Teaching.

There are an estimated 6,500 homeless students attending public schools in the tri-county service area of Central Florida. In addition to the children who have periodic accidents, there are students whose feet are soaked because they walked to school in one of Florida's downpours. For these students, laundry may be done infrequently and hygiene becomes an issue.

A Gift For Teaching works to ensure that underprivileged students in the Central Florida community have the basic tools necessary to succeed in school and life by collecting and distributing the community's surplus supplies and merchandise and distributing it to students in need through the free store for teachers. A Gift For Teaching is an independently operated 501(c)3 non-profit organization solely funded through the community, including corporations, foundations and individuals.

Why Social Media is a Valuable Tool in an Emergency

2011-07-21T15:39:00.005-05:00

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ – Natural disasters are hitting the U.S. and abroad more often, it seems. In an attempt to connect after disasters hit, family, friends, rescuers, relief agencies, healthcare workers and others have turned to social media – which one expert says is the right tool for the job.

Glen Gilmore, principal at Gilmore Business Network, a social media marketing firm, an adjunct professor of social media law and digital marketing at Rutgers University and an adjunct instructor at Texas A&M University's National Emergency Response and Rescue Training Center, shared 30 reasons why it pays to use social media in an emergency.

1.It's real time
2.It's self correcting
3.It instantly connects you to millions of people around the globe.
4.It never sleeps.  
5.It connects you to hundreds, if not thousands, of relief agencies.
6.  It connects you to thousands of emergency response professionals.  
7.It's almost always at the scene of an emergency when it happens – or it's there moments afterwards.
8.It lets emergency responders monitor actual conversations at the scene of the emergency in real time  
9.It provides numerous, real-time reports on the effects of the emergency.
10.It provides real-time photos of the effects of an emergency.
11.It provides real-time videos of the effects of an emergency.  
12.It provides numerous, real-time reports on the success or failure of relief efforts.  
13.It provides real-time photos of the success or failure of relief efforts.  
14.It provides real-time videos of the success or failure of relief efforts.  
15.It takes away much of the guesswork of emergency response.  

For the the full top 30 reason to use social media, please view the full story at:
Healthcare IT News

Nurse Left $34 Million for Years of Service

2011-07-11T13:57:00.004-05:00

In 1991, Hadassah Peri was randomly chosen to look after copper-mining heiress Huguette Clark (pictured right), who chose to live as a recluse for decades at New York City's Beth Israel Hospital.

Clark died at the age of 104 in May, leaving Peri, a private nurse from Brooklyn, a rich woman -- $34 million to be exact, in addition to a valuable doll collection.

Legal papers filed in Manhattan's Surrogate's Court this week showed Clark's fortune to be $400 million, $14 million of which went to a god-daughter, but none to distant relatives. In her will. The heiress cited her longtime nurse as a "loyal friend and companion."

An inheritance like this can be the kiss of death -- or not -- for those who have always lived humble lives, say psychologists.

Those who have been able to anticipate eventual wealth or those like Peri, who have been devoted caretakers, may fare best.

She was rewarded for faithful service to Clark, and there are other examples of those whose inheritances could positively change their lives.

To read full story from ABC news, Click Here

National Nurses Week

2011-05-13T16:12:00.003-05:00

National Nurses Week has just rounded up for 2011 giving us the opportunity to show how much we appreciate all the hardwork and dedicated hours they put into the profession.
So just how did Nurses' Week come about?
Check out this insert from the American Nurse Association on the origin of National Nurses Week.

http://www.nursingworld.org/FunctionalMenuCategories/MediaResources/NationalNursesWeek/NNWHistory.aspx

Are Hospitals Adequately Staffed for Public Health Emergencies?

2011-04-29T10:19:00.003-05:00

With the recent tornado disasters in the southern states this week, thousands of injured residents have flooded local and state hospitals. DCH Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, AL saw over 600 patients within hours of the tornado and Cullman, AL Regional Medical Center saw over 100. UAB hospital in Birmingham took in some of the over flow of patients surrounding areas could not accommodate. With all the recent hospital intake, it raises a question "Are hospitals adequately staffed to handle public health emergencies such as natural disasters?"
In an article published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services this month indicates there is a concern that long-term nursing shortages may present a challenge for hospitals to be prepared for emergency intake.
Dr. Matthew D McHugh from the University of Pennsylvania stresses that there needs to be a national commitment to the nursing workforce to ensure emergency preparedness.
The challenge is many hospitals have little flexibility for unanticipated overflow in patient acuity and demand on a daily basis.
Studies show in order to address the shortage of nurses and keep pace with the future demand, nursing schools need to graduate 25% more nurses each year for hospitals to be equipped with enough nurses to cover public health emergencies. This reason is why, Dr. Hughes suggests a federally funded incentive program offered to nursing schools and hospitals who help educate and produce nurses to the workforce.
To read the full article from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, visit their website at:
http://www.ahrq.gov/research/apr11/0411RA14.htm

Nurse Sleep Strategy Damaging?

2011-04-19T11:20:00.007-05:00

Nurses prepare themselves to take on stress, long days and night shifts as part of the profession; however the lack of sleep they experience could be damaging to their health.
A recent study has shown at least 25% of nurses go 24 hours without sleep in order to adjust to working the night shift.
This lack of sleep has proven damaging to the body's sleep cycle by re-setting their natural night-time circadian clocks.

The study was taken from about 400 nurses who work at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center to examine strategies nurses use to adjust between night and day shifts.

A number of previous studies have found that repeated incidences of circadian misalignment is unhealthy because it creates an out-of-sync sleep/wake pattern from an individual's natural biological clock. Circadian misalignment has been found to contribute to the increased risk of developing cardiovascular , metabolic and gastrointestinal disorders.

To read the full story and other results from the study, please visit the Innovations Report artcle:
http://www.innovations-report.com/html/reports/medicine_health/sleep_strategy_night_nurses_throws_circadian_clocks_173853.html

Registered Nurse Still Kickin at 81!

2011-04-12T10:38:00.005-05:00

RN Peggy Morris is a very special individual who takes pride in her work ethic and caring for others. You wouldn't guess the nurse who works 12-hour shifts 3 days a week is actually 81 years old! After Peggy's husband retired and she gave up her first job as a waitress, Peggy's monotonous life led her to a decision to be a nurse and work again. So at the age of 57, Peggy entered nursing school and graduated in 1991 at the top of her class. You can now find Peggy on her feet in the oncology ward at Carson Tahoe Regional in Carson City, NV. She's come to expect patients asking her for her age. "They question me all the time, " Morris said. "They're curious, they know I'm older." "I don't mind telling anybody," she said "Why not? I don't have anything to hide, it's not going to affect my job any." Peggy is one of many Americans working later in life. The reasons for the increase in older workers are varied, including strained pensions and longer lifespans that are stressing personal savings for retirement. The trend is only expected to increase with 2011 marking the first round of Baby Boomers turning 65. Although the nursing field still experiences growth in a younger demographic (24-28), older nurses above the age of 70 are increasingly staying in the profession not only as a financial necessity, but also a social one. For Morris, her job at Carson Tahoe Regional is more than a paycheck, it's contact with people. To read the full article from The Nevada Appeal, please go to: http://http//www.nevadaappeal.com/article/20110329/NEWS/110329584/1070&ParentProfile=1058

Update on Healthcare Staffing Growth

2011-04-04T08:56:00.003-05:00

Tony Gregorie - There have been a number of key findings regarding the growth pattern of healthcare staffing. The healthcare staffing market has seemed to have bottomed overall due to hospitals' unwillingness to cut contract labor. However, as high unemployment is expected to linger, hospitals should continue to experience high levels of uninsured admissions and lower levels of commercial admissions. Hospitals will continue to have an easier time finding employees unlike before the recession. A recent study shows signs point to a mild recovery through 2011 and an accelerated recovery in 2012 as the unemployment rate and housing market improve. The healthcare reform is expected to bring to light the unpopular, cost-cutting measures like the Accountable Care Organizations and therefore helping create a healthcare staffing boom.

Social Media: A Healthcare Decision Factor

2011-03-28T09:32:00.007-05:00

You must be living under rock if you didn't know that social media has changed the face of marketing all over the world. However, did you know that many people use it as an important factor in making healthcare decisions? A recent consumer study by the National Research Corp. indicates that 1 in 5 Americans use social media as a source of healthcare information.

The survey found that 94 percent of respondents have used Facebook to gather information on healthcare, 32 percent used Youtube and 18 percent used Twitter and MySpace.

When asked about social media's influence, 1 in 4 said it was "very likely" or "likely" to impact their future healthcare decisions. When asked for their level of trust in social media, 32 percent said "very high" or "high" and only 7.5 percent said "very low." Respondents still indicated the main hospital website as the number one source of information; however 14 percent of those preferred an integrated approach with the website and social media to gather information.

Whatever the future of healthcare may hold, one thing is for sure, social media will continue to be a major communication tool for hospitals and other healthcare organizations.

article published by Healthcare IT News. To learn more about this story and others, please visit: http://www.healthcareitnews.com/news

Study Shows Nurse Understaffing Creates Risk for Patients

2011-03-22T14:37:00.003-05:00

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that when nurse staffing levels fall below target level, more patients have died.

The finding may provide guidance in a era of nursing shortages and cost-cutting, in that the focus should shift from cost to patient safety, said the authors of the research study.

According to Jack Needleman, a professor of health services at the University of Los Angeles, "Hospitals need to know what their nursing needs are for their patients, and they need to bring staffing into line. Patents are entitled to be safe in the hospital and to have care delivered reliably and to have nurse with enough time to make sure they aren't developing avoidable complication with permanent consequences."

For this study, the authors looked at almost 200,00 admissions and about 177,000 nursing shifts at 43 patient units.

To read the outcome of the study, please view the complete article from Healthday at:
http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=650936

Sharing New Life

2011-03-17T09:10:00.006-05:00

"After 30 years, I'll earn my get-out-of nursing free card," that's what Karen Buley, an RN, BSN for 32 years thought. However, when it came down to leaving the profession she had known for so long, she couldn't.
Karen was creating a collection of nurse essays for a book to help lessen her guilt of leaving nursing, when at a 2005 education conference, she was struck by the question " Who will answer the call lights?"
Now, instead of using the book to exit her nursing career, she is now using it to inspire it.
With an overflow of essay submissions, Karen has remembered what first brought her to the nursing field; sharing new life.
According to the U.S News & World Report, "registered nurse" is one of the top 50 careers for 2011. This is due to the expected growth in the profession in the next decade.

Therefore, if you are considering leaving the nursing field, think twice!

To view this full story and see Karen's advice to all RNs go to:

http://www.nursetogether.com/tabid/102/itemid/2344/Rethinking-Nursing-Think-Twice.aspx

Potassium Iodide in High Demand

2011-03-15T10:54:00.006-05:00

With the nuclear disaster this week in Japan, there has been an enormous demand for potassium iodide which helps prevents radiation poisoning in the the thyroid gland.
The demand is so high that major pharmaceutical companies across the U.S are having a hard time supplying the product not only oversees, but also to frantic Americans who fear the radiation might reach the U.S.
Anbex, one of the leading suppliers, sold out of nearly 10,000 tablet packages on Saturday.
Fleming Pharmaceuticals, another supplier is getting dozens of calls an hour and is expected to run out of the liquid form of potassium iodide this week.
Although it is predicted the risk will be low for any dangerous levels of radiation reaching the U.S., the incident has Americans taking extra precaution.

To Read this full story from Fox News, visit:http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/03/15/potassium-iodide-runs-low-amid-fears-radiation-sickness-japan/

The New Age Nurse-Inventor for the Future

2011-03-08T09:46:00.007-06:00

In modern medicine, nurses have the ability to be innovators. In a recent article published by the American Journal of Nursing, nurses from Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, MA have invented a fall-prevention tool kit. A combination of health information technology and the assessment of patients' risk of falling, the kit is projected to significantly reduce the fall rates of hospitalized patients, particularly to those 65 years and older. On average, the kit will be able to prevent about 8 falls a week and 90 a year for short-term patients. To read the full article, please visit the link to the AJN:

http://journals.lww.com/ajnonline/Fulltext/2011/03000/Preventing_Falls_in_Acute_Care_Hospitals.9.aspx

Missouri Nurse License is Now Compact

2010-06-01T11:58:00.000-05:00

Missouri's Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) became effectve today, 6/1/2010. The NLC is an agreement between states to recognize each other' licensees. Missouri follows 23 other states that are compact status: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah,Virginia and Wisconsin.

Official 10 Day Notice Given For Minnesota Nurse Labor Action

2010-05-28T21:40:00.000-05:00

Official 10 day notice has been received for the Minnesota nurse labor action. Emergency Medical Solutions (EMS) will move forward with staffing preparations. The strike date is 6/10 with travel dates on 6/6-6/9. EMS nurses already with contracts are asked to call their recruiters to confirm availability for the dates mentioned. OR, PACU, Cath Lab, IR, EP and ENDO positions are actively being recruited. More information can be found at http://www.emergencymedicalsolutions.com/. Connect to the EMS facebook and twitter sites for up to the minute updates. Much more information is to come.

Minnesota Nurse Labor Action Update

2010-05-28T12:40:00.001-05:00

Go to www.emergencymedicalsolutions.com for the latest Minnesota recruitment updates. Also, the Minnesota Nurses Association is streaming a live press conference where a "major announcement" will be revealed at 1pm central. You can view the stream here: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mnnurses .

New OR and GI RN jobs in Atlanta, Georgia

2010-05-27T09:02:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a great OR or GI travel nurse job in Atlanta, Georgia--Give a TNS recruiter a call today! The OR positions are paying $34.50hr with paid Housing and Travel while GI is offering $33.50hr with paid Housing and Travel. These positions can start ASAP! 888.300.5132.

Lawsuit Fear Hinders Physician Adoption of Medical Innovations

2010-05-19T15:36:00.000-05:00

TNS parent company, Jackson Healthcare today released another series of press releases based on the survey of physicians on the practice of defensive medicine. This release address the fact that the fear of a lawsuit has delayed the adoption of medical innovations. According to the survey more that half (53%) of the physicians reported the delayed adoption of medical innovations such as new pharmaceuticals, procedures and use of medical devices due to fear of litigation. The complete release can be found by clicking on the following link http://bit.ly/LawsuitFearsHinderPhyscian.

An e-book at the end of the month will be published to summarize all of the results including some interesting physician comments.

Happy Nurses Week

2010-05-06T08:43:00.001-05:00

Happy Nurses Week!! Thanks for your service, dedication and all that you do. You are much appreciated!

Don't forget to run by Cinnabon and get a free Cinnabon Roll. They have run this promotion the last couple of years. Just show your RN badge to get a free yummy!

www.cinnabon.com

EMS Recruiting for Potential Minnesota Nurse Labor Action

2010-05-04T15:50:00.000-05:00

EMS (TNS strike division) is currently recruiting for the potential nurse labor action in Minnesota. The advantage of working with EMS on the MN labor action is that once you are confirmed and have satisfied the QA requirements including MN licensure, you are guaratneed $2080 (the equivalent of $52/hr for 40hrs).

Once you sign the labor action contract and the client has in return approved your assignment you are guaranteed $2080, even if the labor action settles before you work a shift. TRAVEL IS NOT REQUIRED, NOR IS A 10 DAY NOTICE FOR YOU TO EARN THE PAY GUARANTEE.

Please visit the EMS website (click here) for further details on:

$52hr pay ($5,512/wk based on 7 days)
$78hr OT pay after 40hrs
June 1 projected start date
May 27-31 travel set dates
Referral bonus
Licensure reimburesment
Travel
Housing
and more

Connect to EMS on Facebook and Twitter for up the minute MN strike information.

Congrats to Gabe and Lauri for 1/2 Marathon Finish!

2010-04-29T11:32:00.000-05:00

Congrats to Gabe and Lauri for finishing the Country Music 1/2 Marathon in Nashville, TN this past weekend. Gabe finished with a time of 1:52 while Lauri was just behind at 2:25. The running conditions were cool and they were able to finish just before the rain fell. There was around 35,000 pre-registered runners for the event. Great job guys! All your training and preparation paid off.

TNS & American Heart Certifications Policy

2010-04-27T14:57:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder as certifications come up for renewal and/or new assignments are being taken... that TNS made it a policy in November to require all life support cerifications (ACLS, BCLS, PALS) be from an American Heart Association Affiliate. This policy is designed to ensure that our nurses are appropriately trained to manage medical emergencies. There are many companies offering certification training and they often try "to look like' American Heart Affiliates. Although some of these training programs may be very good programs we have no way of assuring the quality of the certifications. We have therefore made it a policy to require AHA certifications, even if the hospital of assignment would accept certifications from other sources. There are AHA on-site classes available within a reasonable traveleing distance of most nurses.
There is currently only one on-line provider approved by the AHA, Mobile Training Solutions (no relation to Travel Nurse Solutions). This provider has approval from AHA to do telephone clinical simulation check-offs as a part of their training. They just got approval to offer PALS. The second link will give the nurse a discount on ACLS.

http://www.mobiletrainingsolution.com/home.html
http://www.aclstechnology.com/specialorder.htm

Thank you in advance for adhering to this policy.

We Have a Coach Bag Winner.....

2010-04-23T14:17:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Orla Brandos, CNO of Morton Hospital & Medical Center in Taunton, Massachusetts for being the lucky winner of the AONE Coach Bag! Thanks again to all who stopped by our booth during this year's AONE convention in Indianapolis. Hope to see everyone next year in San Diego!

Tell Us How You Are Helping to Lower Your Carbon Footprint

2010-04-22T11:18:00.001-05:00

Happy Earthday! Tell us how you are helping to lower your carbon footprint and we will reward the nurse with the best response a TNS reusable bag and coffee tumbler. Either comment here on this blog or go to the TNS facebook page by clicking (here) . We will pick a winner tomorrow and announce.

Stay Connected to Hot Jobs at LinkedIn

2010-04-21T17:25:00.000-05:00

If Linkedin.com is your social media of choice, we now have a TNS Hot Jobs Group to stay connected with the latest travel nurse opportunities. Just go to the www.linkedin.com site and search TNS Hot Jobs under "Groups". While you are there, go ahead and connect with some TNS members or join the TNS linkedin page. See ya there.

Defensive Medicine Drives Wedge Between Patients/Physicians

2010-04-21T15:37:00.000-05:00

TNS parent company Jackson Healthcare launched a major national campaign arond the physician research on defensive medicine practices. Just released is the third phase which focuses on the human costs of defensive medicine beyond the economic costs. The first two phases focused on physician attitudes on healthcare reform and the economic impact of defensive medicine practices. Click "defensive medicine" to read the results.

Interesting Article...

2010-04-20T15:17:00.000-05:00

Here is an interesting article about a study on the impact of California's state-mandated minimum nurse to patient ratios by University of Pennsylvania researchers. Click (here) to reach the article.

EMS Looking for OR and PICC Line RNs

2010-04-20T13:41:00.000-05:00

We are in need of OR nurses for Ambulatory Surgery and in need of PICC Line RNs for the potential California labor action. Pay is $63hr OT after 8 for both specialties. To sign up or to get more information, call 888.300.5132 or visit www.tnsnurse.com or www.emergencymedicalsolutions.com.

Tax Day Freebies and Discounts

2010-04-15T10:25:00.000-05:00

Everyone loves Freebies! On this tax day, check out some of the freebies we found --and take advantage! If you know of another place, please share. Click on the links below...

Rumor is...you can get a free cookie today.

Cinnabon

Free bites of cinnamon rolls from 6 to 8 pm (limit 2 per person)

Starbucks
Free cup of coffee when you bring in your won reusable mug today!

Whole Foods

Today they are offering a tax free shopping day! Stores in AL, GA, NC, SC and TN are participating.

P.F. Changs
Get 15% off your meal tab today when you sign up for teh Warrior Card (it's free)!

Connect To TNS With New Black Berry App

2010-04-14T14:45:00.000-05:00

TNS has made it easier to stay connected by releasing its new smart phone app for Black Berry users. The new Black Berry app will allow nurses to search, apply and forward travel nurse jobs, refer friends and connect to recruiters. The best part is that it's free to download and use. This is the second smart phone app following the Android release in January/February of 2010. Next on the horizon is the iPhone application in beta testing now. Click (here) for instructions on how you can download to your Black Berry phone.

AONE 2010 a great TNS Success!

2010-04-13T10:45:00.001-05:00

This years AONE conference held in Indianapolis, IN was a huge success for the TNS team. The exhibitor hours were bery busy as the Nursing Executives were interested in our Patient Care Survey, Plinko! and our staffing solutions. We gave out a lot of free goodies for everyone that stopped by and had a nice meet n' greet after hours at our host hotel the Columbia Club. We always look forward to events such as AONE as it gives us a chance to see our clients and meet new people who we call upon everyday. We are in the process of summing the survey results and will share here along with the winner of our Coach bag. Pictured above from left to right is Joanna, Michael, Keith and Rob.

Start Spreadin' The News...

2010-04-07T21:19:00.000-05:00

We are finalizing the finishing touches for TNS' America's Best Nurse Assignment (ABNA). You will have an opportunity to work in New York, New York with one of TNS' best clients for 8 weeks. You will be set up in premium housing, get tickets to Broadway, City Tours, Sporting Events, Concerts, a $hopping $pree....and much much MORE! Stayed tuned for further details.

AONE Conference

2010-04-07T20:52:00.000-05:00

We are packed and ready for the road trip to Indianapolis to attend the 43rd annual AONE Meeting & Expo. If you will be there April 9-12, stop by booth 814 to say hello. Joanna, Michael, Keith and Rob will be there to greet you. While there, pick up a goodie and don't forget to enter for the Coach bag giveaway. You also have an open invitation to our meet and greet April 9th 6:30p-8:30p and April 10th 6p-8p at the Columbia Club's Harrison Lounge, 121 Monument Circle. Call if you need the exact location, its only walking distance from the convention center. Have safe travels and we'll see 'ya there!

Explore Your Career Options Week is April 5-10

2010-04-05T15:04:00.001-05:00

Does your current nursing job make you want to throw in the towel? Maybe you're dreaming of a new nurse career or just interested in more opportunities in your present career. Get a fresh start by calling Travel Nurse Solutions, LLC (TNS) to investigate your nursing career as a travel nurse. During the week of April 5-10, TNS recruiters will be working extended hours to take calls and answer questions about travel nursing and the benefits that come with it. Be sure to ask how being a TNS travel nurse can bring you all the benefits of a full time position plus more. Travel Nurse Solutions offers the best Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance day one, weekly direct deposit, 401K, AD&D, liability coverage and a portable AFLAC policy-just like your regular staff job might. In addition, TNS nurses experience higher pay, flexible hours, opportunities in all 50 states (where you may find yourself closer to family, friends or that "place" you have always wanted to live or visit). Also, there are extension bonuses of $1000, loyalty bonuses, vacation bonuses, referral bonuses and much more. Call a recruiter today @ 888.300.5132, we will be in our offices 7am-7pm central standard time so that you can 'Explore Your Career Options'. If these hours don't meet your needs, go to the Travel Nurse Solutions website at http://www.tnsnurse.com/ or find us on Facebook (by clicking here) or on Twitter (by clicking here). Be sure to also RSS TNS blog here. Thanks, we look forward to speaking with you!

2010-04-01T12:30:00.000-05:00

We have some great news to share with our travel nurses. Effective May 1, 2010 Travel Nurse Solutions will be offering our healthcare providers an option to enroll into our Short Term Disability supplemental insurance DAY ONE through Allstate.

Contact your Recruiter today at 888.300.5132.

TNS Recognizes Medication Safety Week

2010-04-01T11:01:00.000-05:00

Medication Safety Week is April 1st - 7th this year and Travel Nurse Solutions is pausing in our daily routines to recognize its importance.

Medication safety continues to be a major concern for all of us who provide patient care. Errors can occur even when we are careful. Sometimes the best way to prevent mistakes is to learn from the mistakes of others.

This link will take you to the Institute for Safe Medicine Practices. They do a quarterly report of medication safety problems with recommendations for how to prevent future errors. Nurses can receive FREE Continuing Education Units (CEU) for reviewing the articles and completing the corresponding test.

During this special week devoted to medication safety take a few minutes to review some medication safety concerns and earn a few free CEUs in the process.

Thanks for caring about the safety of the patients we serve!

Debbie Cleckley, MSN, Director of QA

http://www.ismp.org/Newsletters/acutecare/articles/A1Q10Action.asp

$500 Strike to Travel Bonus

2010-03-30T14:24:00.000-05:00

For all RNs who work the labor action in PA, Travel Nurse Solutions is paying a $500 Strike to Travel Bonus. Commit to TNS for an 8-13 week travel nurse assignment within 7 days of your departure date from PA and you qualify.

Call your Recruiter today at 888.300.5132 or email us at recruitment@tnsnurse.com.

AONE Conference April 9-13, 2010 in Indianapolis

2010-03-17T13:14:00.000-05:00

It sounds like the attendance has increased at AONE this year by a few hundred people and we are excited to see this, especially in the current economy.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone again and hopefully meeting a few new faces. We are at Booth 814, so be sure to stop by and say hello. We will be in our traditional and crowd favorite blue shirts, as well as, handing out fun goodies to take back to special ones at your hospital.

And, enjoy appetizers, drinks and southern hospitality with the TNS Team!

Come and unwind with the TNS Team at our laid back and non-formal After Hours Event. We are meeting in The Columbia Club's Harrison Lounge on Friday and Saturday evenings. The address is 121 Monument Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46204 and their phone number is 317.767.1361.

Friday, April 9th from 6:30-8:30pm
Saturday, April 10th from 6:00-8:00pm

We look forward to seeing you in Indianapolis!

The TNS Client Development Team

CA Labor Action

2010-03-12T12:04:00.000-06:00

Emergency Medical Solutions (EMS), a division of Travel Nurse Solutions, LLC (TNS), is seeking over 150 CA licensed nurses for a labor action in Northern California.

If you possess Ante Partum, CVOR, ENDO, ER, LD, Mother/Baby, NICU, OB, ONC with Chemo Certification, OR, Post Partum or Special Care Nursery skills, call your Recruiter today at 888.300.5132.

The current start date is April 1st with travel dates set for March 26th-27th.

The pay is well above average and overtime is paid after 8 hours with doubletime paid after 12 hours for each shift. All shifts are 12 hours with a 48 hour minimum guarantee. Airfare, local transportation and housing are provided as well as a daily per diem on the days worked.

Follow us at the following links or call us at 888.300.5132.
www.emergencymedicalsolutions.com
http://twitter.com/emsupdates
http://twitter/com/TNSnurse
www.facebook.com at Travel Nurse Solutions
www.tnsnurse.com

Poll: Nurses Spend a Quarter of Shift on Non-patient Care

2010-03-09T15:00:00.000-06:00

Be sure to check out a recent survey conducted by Jackson Healthcare at www.jacksonhealthcare.com where results found that 25% of the nurse's shift at the hospital is spent on indirect patient care.

Visit Travel Nurses Solution on LinkedIn, join the Travel Nurse Solutions discussion group and leave a comment at www.linkedin.com/in/tnsnurse.com.

RICHARD L. JACKSON NAMED AMONG ATLANTA’S TOP 100 IN HEALTHCARE

2010-02-17T16:01:00.000-06:00

Stop by www.JacksonHealthcare.com to read the latest press release about our President, Richard L. Jackson being honored as a member of the Top 100 Leaders in Atlanta's Healthcare Industry.

Quick Licensure Process Approved by Governor Crist

2010-01-27T08:12:00.000-06:00

Florida Governor Charlie Crist has signed a temporary order allowing RNs with a license in other states to practice in Florida. There are hundreds of RNs leaving Florida to volunteer in Haiti to assist with earthquake relief efforts.

The order expires in 90 days unless Governor Crist decides to extend it.

Nurses who wish to work in Florida must have a valid RN license from another state, and must have no history of disciplinary actions or a criminal record. When the RN is cleared by the FL BON and the $43 application fee is paid, the RN will be issued a practice letter permitting the RN to provide patient care in Florida.

You can reach the Florida BON at (850) 245-4125 or online at http://www.doh.state.fl.us/. Or you can always ask your Recruiter at TNS by calling (888) 300-5132.

Increase in Travel Assignments in the Northeast

2010-01-11T10:52:00.000-06:00

We just received 16 high paying positions in New York City for travel nurses with ER HOLD and/or SDU experience. If you have an ACLS and a current NY license, call your TNS Recruiter today at 888.300.5132.

We have 12D and 12N positions available for those who can start within the next one to three weeks.

http://www.tnsnurse.com/

High Paying Positions in CA

2010-01-08T16:19:00.000-06:00

$45 per hour with overtime after 8 hours

Call your Recruiter ASAP if you have a CA license and you are available to interview anytime this weeekend or Monday. Our client needs 40 MS TELE nurses to start January 12th. These positions will go fast, so call us immediately at (888) 300-5132.

Happy Holidays from Travel Nurse Solutions!

2009-12-30T12:06:00.001-06:00

All of us here at TNS wish you and yours a special Holiday Season. It's because of each and everyone of our travel nurses, allied professionals and our healthcare clients that TNS is a success year in and year out. Thank you for your continued trust in our services as we work hard every day to offer the best job order, location, pay package, bill rate and traveling professional to deliver a win-win-win solution. We look forward to working with you in 2010.

Cheers,

The TNS Family

2009 Holiday Incentive Plan

2009-12-07T13:56:00.000-06:00

TNS Providers who work holiday hours/shifts based on TNS' Holiday hours/shifts for Christmas Day and New Years Day will be paid their holiday/overtime hourly rate for these holidays. If you are working with TNS already, call your Recruiter today to verify the holiday hours/shifts for your travel assignment.

BONUS #1: For each Holiday shift TNS Providers work, they will receive a $250 Bonus.

BONUS #2: For Providers who commit to a 13 week assignment and the Provider starts no later than December 12, 2009, the Provider will receive another $250 Bonus.

BONUS #3: And for Providers who work over 244 hours for the month of December, the bonuses range from $1000-$3,500.

If you are looking for a travel assignment and to pick-up some extra holiday cash, call TNS today at (888) 300-5132 to speak with a Recruiter for more details.

Happy Holidays from the TNS Family!

TNS Travel Nurse Featured at Scrubsmag.com

2009-11-17T12:20:00.000-06:00

We are proud to highlight and forward an article written by Jennifer, a travel nurse on assignment out in California with Travel Nurse Solutions. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us.

Way to go Jennifer!!

Greetings From a Travel Nurse

Ever wondered what it’s like being a travel nurse? We’ve asked travelers to keep in touch from the road and give us a taste of the globe trotting life. This week we received a postcard from Jennifer, an OB nurse on assignment in sunny California.

“I recently started my new travel assignment in Susanville, CA, and I really love it here. The staff is nice, the hospital is nice, and the managers are present and attentive to their employees! Can’t beat that!

“I loooove being back on an OB-only floor! I’m made for that. Susanville itself is not a very exciting town, but it has beautiful views! And there is just so much to do around.. We’re an hour away from Reno, NV, 1.5 hours away from Lake Tahoe, about 5 hours from San Francisco…We visited lots of places!

California is just a beautiful state! We’re leaving next week for 4 days in Huntington Beach and after that.. who knows? We just have so much to see!!!”

- Jennifer

Labor Action Notice Given for New York City

2009-10-30T11:02:00.000-05:00

We have received the 10 DAY NOTICE for NEW YORK! The start date is November 9th.

The travel dates are November 7th and 8th. Orientation and check-in will be completed at the Hotel Command Center on these days.

Emergency Medical Solutions (EMS) is recruiting to fill 300 nursing positions (Cath Lab, Case Management, CVICU, OR, LD, PP, etc.) for a potential labor action in NYC. All specialties except PEDS are being requested along with a few NICU NPs.

$48 per hour for the first 40hrs with great OT potential
$72 per hour for all overtime, holiday and call back hours
$10 per hour for call

The hourly guarantee is 48 hours for all specialties with the option and realistic opportunity to work 5-7 shifts per week. Your flexibility and availability is key while in NYC for everyone to have a successful labor action.

If you are given the GREEN LIGHT to travel on November 7th or 8th (you will receive a toll free number to call up to the last second prior to traveling) to board your flight or to start driving to the Hotel Command Center (where parking is free) and the labor action settles before you work a shift you will receive $1,920.

EMS will provide and arrange secure housing with free internet access and travel.Referral Bonus-going forward, for any RN that you refer for the NY Labor Action you will receive a Labor Action Referral Bonus of $250 if they work the strike.

Apply for the labor action today at http://www.emergencymedicalsolutions.com/ or http://www.tnsnurse.com/. You may also call 888.300.5132 to speak with a Recruiter for more details.

Thank you all for your patience during the union and hospital negotiations.

Michael Cooley, VP
Emergency Medical Solutions

2009-09-02T11:03:00.000-05:00

New York Labor Action Alert!

TNS' strike division, Emergency Medical Solutions (EMS) is currently seeking RNs of all specialties for a LARGE potential labor dispute in NY.

This labor dispute is targeted for late October.

Call a TNS recruiter and start sending in your documents today to get on the list! If you need a NY license, go to www.op.nysed.gov and download the application. It currently takes 6-8 weeks to get a NY license. EMS/TNS will reimburse you up to $200 for your NY license (with proper receipts) once you take a NY assignment with TNS or EMS.

You may also create your profile and visit us at www.tnsnurse.com or www.emergencymedicalsolutions.com.

We are also on FaceBook (Travel Nurse Solutions), LinkedIn and Twitter (EMSUPDATES). You will find updates and more job orders at these social networking sites each day.

And of course, we would love to hear from you as well, Call us today at 888.300.5132.

2009-08-26T10:33:00.000-05:00

New RN Bonus Programs!

TNS is offering a $1,000 New Nurse Bonus for (CVICU, CVOR and Cath Lab) nurses who have never worked with TNS. The nurse must accept and complete a CVICU, CVOR or Cath Lab 13-week travel assignment with TNS.
*To qualify for this New Nurse Bonus the nurse must be submitted for a job after 8/25/09 and must start the assignment on, or before, 9/28/09.

TNS is offering a $500 Quick Start Bonus to (CVICU, CVOR or Cath Lab) nurses who have worked for TNS in the past that accept and complete
a CVICU, CVOR or Cath Lab 13-week travel assignment with TNS.
*To qualify for this Quick Start Bonus the nurse must be submitted for a job after 8/25/09 and must start the assignment on, or before, 9/28/09.

Don’t forget the $500 TNS Referral Program!
With the TNS referral bonus program, you are entitled to $500 when your nurse referral completes a 13-week assignment with us. Refer your friends and peers to Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) for access to the top assignments nationwide with industry leading pay, day-one benefits and exceptional service.

Call TNS today for more details at 888.300.5132!

TNS to Attend Nursing Management Congress 2009

2009-08-03T09:16:00.000-05:00

Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) is pleased to announce that we will be attending Nursing Management Congress 2009 in Chicago, IL at the Hilton Chicago from September 9th-12th. We are enthusiastic to celebrate NMC's 30th year and we are looking forward to another great conference. Be sure to stop by Booth 1005 to meet representatives from TNS, HC Staffer and Emergency Medical Solutions. We have exciting news to share with you that will decrease your staffing costs while increasing efficiency of day-to-day operations.

Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) - www.tnsnurse.com
Since 2001, TNS’ rapid response business model has provided contract nurses of all specialties for 4-26 week contracts. We are owned and operated by Registered Nurses and experienced healthcare staffing professionals with over 65 cumulative years of healthcare staffing experience. Servicing more than 700 healthcare facilities and operating in 42 states, TNS is the largest rapid response nurse travel company in the United States. One area that sets us apart from our competition is that our nurses extend their assignments 85% of the time which increases continuity of care and decreases orientation costs. Our mission is to be the healthcare provider of choice by each of our clients and the employer of choice by travel nurses. TNS is successful for its clients 93% of the time as our quick delivery model provides candidates for consideration within 24 hours who possess start dates within 5-10 days.

HC Staffer (HCS) - www.hcstaffer.com
HCS offers an automated web-based staffing management software system which operates in real-time. Our software instantly enhances the decision making process by delivering information on demand. This technology improves response time and efficiency of both facilities and agencies. The instant transmission of agency responses, candidate submissions, confirmations and cancellations allow for immediate review, based on facility specific competencies. These capabilities significantly reduce unnecessary and redundant communication. And of high importance, the benefits of HCS enable you to control costs while increasing efficiency. Our goal is to partner with select clients and their preferred agencies to automate the complete staffing management process while ensuring regulatory compliance with proactive credentialing tools.

Emergency Medical Solutions (EMS) - www.emergencymedicalsolutions.com
EMS provides emergency preparedness and crisis healthcare staffing resources by planning, assessing, recruiting and managing temporary workforce staffing. We are the staffing solution for labor actions, natural disasters, software implementations, facility expansions, workforce assessments, communications planning and seasonal workforces. With 18 years cumulative experience in healthcare labor actions and crisis staffing situations, we have the experience and knowledge to create a specialized plan of action for each crisis. As a rule of thumb, we prefer to start our two phase approach immediately to stay proactive; however, we are also prepared at a moment’s notice. It’s important for you to have an experienced management team and Rapid Response Staffing Agency such as EMS on your side. Our reputation is one of delivering excellent staffing assessments and highly skilled nurses for our clients within days. EMS has the ability and will deliver personnel (nursing, allied, therapy and ancillary staff) at a moment’s notice.

We are all under the umbrella of Jackson Healthcare (www.jacksonhealthcare.com), the 5th largest healthcare staffing agency in America as well as the fastest growing healthcare staffing agency, so you can be assured that we will deliver high quality personnel in a timely manner.

If you would like to schedule a time to meet with us while you are in Chicago at NMC 2009, please call Michael Cooley, Director of Business Development at (800) 956-6303, extension 4101.

TNS Relocates Headquarters in Birmingham

2009-07-02T15:29:00.000-05:00

Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) is excited and proud to share the news of the recent relocation of our new headquarters in Birmingham, AL. The increased office space provides the ability to move freely while also adding a training room, several conference rooms, an improved kitchen along with an open floor plan for all to roam free while assisting our clients and nurses. Our new address is 3750 Corporate Woods Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35242. Please stop in and see us Monday through Friday from 8am - 5:00 pm as we would love to visit with our nurses and clients. Our toll free number remains the same at (888) 300-5132.

$500 Quick Start Bonus

2009-06-04T11:41:00.000-05:00

TNS Offers $500 Quick Start Bonus to RNs Working Job Action in New Jersey

If you accept and start an 8–13 week assignment within seven calendar days of your last Job Action shift you will receive a $500.00 Quick Start Bonus.

Call TNS today for more information 800.956.6303 or visit www.tnsnurse.com.

Free Medical Mission 'Job Board' Launched

2009-05-18T14:11:00.000-05:00

Alpharetta, GA (Vocus/PRWEB ) May 14, 2009 --

Jackson Healthcare has launched the free online board, MedicalMissions.org (http://www.medicalmissions.org/), to connect qualified medical professionals with health-related mission opportunities around the world.

The new website is designed for charitable organizations and experienced physicians, nurses and rehab specialists to communicate volunteer interests and needs. It is a philanthropically supported site that will not use ads or sponsorships to offset costs. The idea for the site took root in the coordination of a medical mission trip Jackson Healthcare recently sponsored.

"We discovered this amazing opportunity when coordinating a recent medical brigade to Honduras," reports Richard Jackson, Chairman and CEO of Jackson Healthcare. "We were extremely encouraged by how many physicians were willing to volunteer two weeks to provide needed surgical and medical services to regions that don't have it."

All volunteer spots available for the medical brigade to Honduras were filled within 72 hours. That led Jackson to discover that its biggest hurdle was not finding enough medical specialists willing to volunteer. The problem was finding enough opportunities to meet the volunteer demand.

In an effort to solve this problem, Jackson Healthcare Charities financially backed and launched MedicalMissions.org, in partnership with Jackson & Coker, LocumTenens.com, Travel Nurse Solutions and Jackson Therapy Partners. With hundreds of medical professionals interested in volunteer opportunities abroad, their goal is to get the word out to organizations seeking these types of volunteers.

"We want organizations who seek health-related volunteers for short and long term opportunities to leverage this new web tool to their advantage," says Jackson. "There's no cost for them to use this site, except their time. Our goal is to be a catalyst for serving the under served around the globe." He added, "We also want medical professionals with a passion for overseas mission work to post their professional profiles so that these organizations can connect with them."

Jackson says he was "warmed" by the enthusiasm and support physicians showed in wanting to give back in service to those less fortunate. "It proves that, despite the challenges with the U.S. health system, we're blessed with many medical professionals who are in this industry to truly care for others."

ABOUT JACKSON HEALTHCARE - Founded by healthcare pioneer Richard L. Jackson, Jackson Healthcare addresses the two biggest challenges facing healthcare today: finding the right people and delivering the right information at the right time. The JH family of companies provides clinician staffing, anesthesia management, hospital management and healthcare information technology solutions proven to improve clinical and financial outcomes and increase operational efficiency. With over 400 associates in Alpharetta, Ga., and a total of 600 nationally, JH serves more than three million patients in some 1,000 hospitals each year.

CONTACT:Keith Jennings

Jackson Healthcare

678.690.7942

http://www.jacksonhealthcare.com/

A Message from Our President/CEO

2009-05-06T13:21:00.000-05:00

To Our Nurses,

On behalf of the Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) team, we want to thank you for your selfless dedication to the nursing field and the patients you care for, not only during Nurses Week, but all year long.

Having traveled as a registered nurse, I understand the struggles you face daily. I want to thank you personally for the difference you make in the lives of those you provide patient care for. Moreover, your willingness to give support to others, even under the toughest of circumstances, does not go un-noticed here at TNS.

TNS understands the current challenges you face in the travel nurse industry. Therefore, we are continuously working to provide you with the most fulfilling travel nursing experience in the industry.

Thank you for your continued loyalty and trust in TNS.

Sincerely,

Paul D. Gunnoe, RN
President/CEO
Travel Nurse Solutions, LLC

Rick Jackson, CEO Recognized Again in Atlanta for his Vision

2009-03-18T08:41:00.000-05:00

The Next Generation Of Health Care
BtoB explores local innovators committed to changing the way the health care game is played.

by Allison Shirreffs, Laurel-Ann Dooley and Drew Ermenc - March 5, 2009

Innovation drives business - all business, regardless of SIC code. If your company is complacent or content, you will suffer, and possibly lose to those who are finding ways to perform better, faster and more affordably. The Atlanta business community is no stranger to innovation. A 24-hour cable news network. Branding and growing a home-style restaurant with a sweet focus on inviting, fluffy waffles. A start-up Internet provider with a mind of its own . . .

As the rising cost of health care becomes a significant issue in 2009 - both politically and it's effects on already-suffering balance sheets - innovation will take hold once again. Tough times breed innovation. So here's a preview of the people, products and services that are committed to changing the way the health care game is played, saving money, saving lives and creating solutions for today's problems in health care. All are based in metro Atlanta, and all are poised to make a difference. You've officially been warned. Innovation - it's a beautiful thing.

[Streamlining Solution] Rick Jackson Nearly 60 percent of U.S. healthcare executives who responded to a recent survey say their facilities lack the ability to track patients continuously. According to the 2007 National Survey on Patient Throughput and Capacity Challenges, more than half of those same executives rated their facilities' "bed-turn process" as poor or fair.

What if hospital wait times could be reduced, more people could be seen and it would take less people to do so? That's what Rick Jackson, founder and CEO, Jackson Healthcare, believes his StatCom software will help accomplish. By providing patient flow logistics and tracking across departments, StatCom will help health care organizations anticipate demand and manage potential bottlenecks. While some health care facilities have implemented patient throughput and logistics management (PTL) systems, a recent Gartner Report estimates the market penetration of such products as less than 1 percent. If that's the case, what are hospitals using to track patient throughput? Nearly 70 percent use phone calls and voice mail to track patients as they move through a hospital, according to a Patient Throughput survey. It's not unheard of for dozens or upwards of 100 phone calls to be made to schedule or cancel a complex procedure.

Charles Frame, executive director at the Emory Center for Healthcare Leadership at Emory University School of Medicine, explains that the historical infrastructure of hospitals led to a silo mentality and a hierarchal organizational structure. "In the olden days, the physician came to the patient a lot more," he says. These days, patients undergo various tests and, as a result, are transferred throughout the hospital. "Many hospitals aren't built for that," he adds. This silo mentality is exacerbated by the fact that hospitals aren't producing a product, they're dealing with human beings. "The sheer human element makes it so much more complex," Frame notes.

It's more difficult than streamlining manufacturing processes with Six Sigma, he says, "That sounds great, but it's a lot tougher to achieve." According to Jackson, StatCom goes a long way towards increasing efficiencies by tracking a patient's whereabouts in real time, alerting different departments and functions with the click of a button. Jackson likens StatCom to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and air traffic control. Aircraft are tracked from takeoff to landing, and shuffled if some run late or there is inclement weather. As the FAA is to aircraft, StatCom is to patient flow - from admissions through X-ray, bed assignment, transportation, equipment personnel, housekeeping and so forth - a patient's every movement up through discharge. Jackson believes that delivering patient flow information in this way "will significantly improve operational efficiency," he says.

"[StatCom will track] patients, equipment, roving C-Arms, MRIs. There will be increased utility of every asset. That all equals profit." Additionally, nurses will be able to reduce the time they spend on non-clinical duties and devote more time to patient care. To date, Jackson has invested $20 million in its development and considers the software "truly transformational." And transforming health care is what Jackson is interested in these days.In 1978, Jackson formed his first health care-related company, Jackson & Coker, a physician staffing company. Since then, he's conceptualized and/or developed more than two-dozen companies in the health care sector. In 2007 and 2008, Jackson Healthcare made the Inc. 5000, list of fastest growing private companies in the U.S. (having grown from $92.4 million in revenue in 2004 to $372.6 million in 2008).

Recently, Jackson took aim at health care's bigger picture. "A while back, insurance companies came along and solved a problem. But now they're an unnecessary link in the chain," he says. Jackson has developed a plan to revamp health care that is based largely on removing insurance companies from the process. "They're not bad people, but we've come so far," he explains.While Jackson understands an insurance company's wish to keep health care costs down, the overall effect, he says, is that health care is no longer distributed by doctors, but by insurance companies. "You have non-doctors telling doctors how to practice medicine," he says, adding that it's inefficient as well. "Thirty to 40 cents of every dollar [spent on health care] is not going to health care." He suggests taking insurance companies out of the decision-making procedure and automating the process. The fact that decisions will be made by policy makers in Washington, D.C. distresses Jackson. "Government doesn't know health care," Jackson says.

"Everybody is trying to protect his turf." "By most people's standards, I've been successful. Now I want to move from success to significance - to create a legacy in health care," he says. "I'd like to say I had a hand in how health care is done."

To view the entire article click here: http://www.btobmagazine.com/articles/2009/march/the_next_generation_of_health_care.html

Mission Volunteers Needed for Medical Brigades to Honduras and China

2009-03-10T12:25:00.000-05:00

Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) is assisting in the recruitment of RNs for medical brigades to Honduras and China. TNS’ affiliate, Jackson Healthcare, is the official sponsor of these medical brigades. For more info, please contact:

Honduras from April 18 – 25, 2009
General Surgery & OB/GYN, Post-Op RNs Needed
Contact: Chad Jackson at Jackson Healthcare
Call Toll Free: (800) 562-8663 x1259
chad@jacksonhealthcare.com

Changde, Hunan, China from August 1-15, 2009
Cleft Palate Medical Mission, ICU and OR RNs Needed
Contact: Judy Yang, Coordinator at Chinese Agape Foundation
Office: (678) 423-4396, Cell: (678) 857-9342
www.china-mission.org

You may also visit our website at www.tnsnurse.com for a link that will answer your questions about this unforgettable opportunity.

Stop by Booth 753 to Visit Travel Nurse Solutions at AONE in San Antonio

2009-02-24T09:01:00.001-06:00

Join Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) at Booth 753 at the AONE Conference in San Antonio from April 16th-18th. Each year, it’s always great to meet all of you in person after we spend so much time with you on the phone and through email conversations. It will also allow you to get a brief description of our creative staffing solutions. These solutions allow TNS to provide our clients the most qualified nurses in a timely manner, while also considering your budgetary needs. Members from HC Staffer and Emergency Medical Solutions will also be attending the tradeshow.

TNS, which is JCAHO certified and nurse owned and operated, started back in 2001 with a vision to deliver the highest caliber nurses to hospitals within days. TNS offers 4 to 13 week contracts with all-inclusive rates and no OT charge until after forty-eight (48) hours a week. This allows our clients to utilize fewer travel nurses and eliminate much of their overtime costs. Stop by Booth 753 and discover the benefits of working with TNS.

HC Staffer is fully automated staffing management software that consolidates the entire process from order placement to invoice while ensuring regulatory compliance at all times. HC Staffer operates in “real time” allowing you to constantly monitor and communicate effectively without your staff being overwhelmed with phone calls, emails, faxes, etc. throughout the day. Stop by Booth 753 and ask for Rob Simmons.

Emergency Medical Solutions (EMS), is the partner you have been looking for when it comes to mobilizing quality personnel quickly during the time of a labor action. EMS staffing professionals understand the complexity of labor disputes, including the potential effects of revenue and community confidence. Through pre and post strike staffing, as well as labor action staffing; EMS provides your management team the peace of mind of knowing that your facility is completely staffed and quality care is being given so that you may focus your attention on labor negotiation. With 18 years cumulative experience in healthcare labor actions, our professionals will work diligently with your staff to create a specialized plan of action tailored to your facility. Stop by Booth 753 and ask for Michael Cooley.

Travel Nurse Solutions and all of its healthcare staffing divisions are affiliated with Jackson Healthcare, the 5th largest healthcare staffing agency in America as well as the fastest growing healthcare staffing agency.

Plus, we will have great goodies for you to take back to the hospital for your nurses.

We hope to see you in San Antonio!

Travel Nurse Solutions
HC Staffer
Emergency Medical Solutions

2009-01-30T12:33:00.000-06:00

Coming up on February 15th will be the Mercedes Marathon and Half Marathon in Birmingham, AL. Several people at TNS have been training for this event over the last several months and this will be the first event of its kind for all of us. We will focus on the Half-Marathon, a distance of 13.1 miles and our team is a mix of production and support staff – from Account Manager and Recruiter – to IT.

The training and conditioning started in late October/early November. Our team (The ‘Ham Sandwiches – like Birming ‘Ham – get it?!) meets Tuesday and Thursday nights at a local high school for group runs. In the enclosed picture the ‘Ham Sandwiches ran in the Jingle Bell 5k for Arthritis in December 06, 2008. We change it up between long distance, speed work and hill repeats. It certainly has been an exciting challenge, and we have seen improvements in both our speed and level of endurance. When we first started, the average distance any of us ran ranged from 0 miles to little over 3. Today, after 3 months of consistent exercise and training, we can easily knock out 5-10 miles!

To keep the training from becoming too monotonous, we have thrown in trail runs and local races. Trail runs are a great way to change up and challenge yourself – we head to a local state park and enjoy a different type of surrounding than the city and it really allows you to lose yourself in the run. 5k, 8k and 10 mile races have pushed us to get comfortable racing and running alongside with thousands of other people. An added benefit – the races generally support local charities.

In just 2 weeks we will see all our sweat and dedication pay off when we complete the 13.1 mile road race in downtown Birmingham. It will be a special feeling to have set a goal, work towards it and then reach it. We can’t wait to cross that finish line, celebrate with our families and enjoy plenty of BBQ!

Jackson Healthcare Surgical Brigade

2008-12-17T08:15:00.000-06:00

Associates of Jackson Healthcare:

I wanted to let you know about a significant event that occurred during the first week of December. Locumtenens.com, Jackson & Coker, Travel Nurse Solutions, and Jackson Therapy Partners joined together to sponsor Jackson Healthcare’s first ever medical brigade. Led and directed by Chad and Carlyn Jackson, a team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses traveled to Mission Predisan in Catacamas, Honduras to perform vital and life saving surgeries on people that would not otherwise be able to access this kind of care.

Many of the providers who went on the trip had done medical missions before and all of them said this was by far the best organized and most impressive operation they had seen. They all asked when they could come back. I also think this is also a wonderful testament to the quality of the providers that we support. We literally had hundreds of people who responded to our request to go on this trip. We have since had thousands more who have expressed interest in other medical mission work.

Based on the success of this trip, we plan on sponsoring at least two medical brigades in 2009. Thank you to all of you who worked on this one. If you have interest in helping with the trips next year, contact Chad or Carlyn.

In the middle of a week when we are getting the opportunity to support children from our community to experience Christmas, I hope you feel equally proud for the way you are supporting people thousands of miles away as we literally save their lives.

Shane Jackson

Holiday Incentives for TNS Travel Nurses

2008-11-24T12:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Holidays!

The holidays are upon us. It's amazing how quick time flies and how fast the holidays approach us each year. All of us here at Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) love the holidays for many traditional reasons! We also know how tough it can be to keep the nursing units and hospitals staffed efficiently during the last two months of the year. So, in an effort to assist our clients throughout the United States, TNS has again introduced the popular Holiday Incentive Plan to our travel nurses currently on assignment. With this incentive they are eager to cover missed shifts during the entire month of December.

If you need extra staffing assistance during the holidays please contact your Account Manager at 1-888-300-5132. Your Nurse Managers may also personally ask their TNS travel nurses to pick up extra shifts as well. We have received positive feedback the past three years after the holiday season and we hope our incentive for our TNS travel nurses helps keep you staffed. All of us here at TNS hope you and your family have a safe and exciting holiday season.

Jackson Healthcare Dedicates New Corporate Headquarters

2008-11-14T09:21:00.000-06:00

Jackson Healthcare (JH), located in Alpharetta, GA dedicated its new corporate headquarters on October 17, 2008. The building houses the six operating companies and over 400 associates of JH that are based in Atlanta. Associates had significant input into the design of the building from planning their individual company work areas to providing significant impetus for creating a physical fitness center, restaurant, and other common areas. According to Shane Jackson, Executive Vice-President for Jackson Healthcare, "This building is dedicated to our associates and is proof of our investment in our people. We support their living a holistic life. The 'workscapes' are designed to give a roomy and comfortable feeling. Down to the smallest detail, we selected furnishings, artwork, carpet, and wall colors so that our associates would be proud of where they live during the day."

In his remarks, Richard L. Jackson, Chairman and CEO of Jackson Healthcare, stated: "May this building provide an atmosphere and environment for our Associates to accomplish greatness. May this building help Jackson Healthcare achieve success through service to our customers. May it help achieve significance in our supporting our charities working with the community. And may it help us create a legacy through our creativity and wisdom to make a difference in the world."

The following are some quick facts about the new facility:
New headquarters contains 161,000 total square feet of space.
Of the occupied square footage, almost 12,000 square feet are devoted solely to amenities for the Associates, including The Coliseum (Fitness Center), Ciao (Restaurant), and Time Out (Game Room).

More than 100 firms - contractors, subcontractors, designers, and vendors collaborated to build this facility. The facility was designed in less than 6 months and took 14 months to construct.

About Jackson HealthcareFounded by healthcare pioneer Richard L. Jackson, Jackson Healthcare addresses the two biggest challenges facing healthcare today: finding the right people and delivering the right information at the right time. The JH family of companies provides clinician staffing, anesthesia management and healthcare information technology solutions proven to improve clinical and financial outcomes and increase operational efficiency.

With over 400 associates in Alpharetta, Ga., and a total of 600 nationally, JH serves more than three million patients in some 1,000 hospitals each year. With a 53-percent compound annual growth rate between its founding in 2000 and year-end 2007, the company ranked seventh on Atlanta Business Chronicle's "Pacesetters" list of Atlanta's fastest-growing companies in 2007 and 2008. JH was ranked the 5th largest Healthcare Staffing Company by Staffing Industry Analyst Report in October, 2008. JH also was named to the Inc. 500 list in 2004; to the Inc. 5000 in 2007 and 2008; and as one of "Atlanta's Best Places to Work" by the Atlanta Business Chronicle in 2007 and 2008. The firm's operating entities include: Jackson & Coker, Jackson Hospital Affiliates, Jackson Therapy Partners, LocumTenens.com, Parker Staffing Services, Patient Placement Systems, Premier Anesthesia, StatCom, and Travel Nurse Solutions.

Healthcare Jobs on the Rise

2008-11-10T11:23:00.000-06:00

Even during tough economic times throughout the nation, it's reported that Healthcare and Medical jobs are on the rise as research shows an increase of 2.66% the past 12 months. And the regions experiencing growth are scattered throughout the nation and in the larger cities. The thoughts of financial concerns lead to increased depression, stress and mental illnesses that require treatment even when they are not affordable. Along with the aging of America (including nurses themselves), the severe nursing shortage and continued facility expansions, the demand for qualified candidates continue to increase. When the census and elective surgeries drop in states and regions, the demand for qualified nurses rise in other locations who are experiencing census growth of their own making the services of travel nurses ever more popular. Travel nurses are readily available, quick to adapt and perfect for short term staffing assistance.

Travel Nurse Solutions is Named 5th Largest Nurse Staffing Agency

2008-11-06T08:56:00.000-06:00

We are excited to share our most recent news with you! Travel Nurse Solutions (TNS) is one of the five largest travel nurse staffing agencies in the country. TNS is a part of Jackson Healthcare (JH) which has been ranked the 5th largest as well as the fastest growing healthcare staffing company by the Staffing Industry Analyst Report (October 2008).

The Jackson Healthcare family of companies provides clinician staffing, anesthesia management and healthcare information technology proven to improve clinical and financial outcomes and increase operational efficiency. JH serves more than 3,000,000 patients in some 1,000 hospitals each year.