Have you ever shown up to your allied health or travel nursing jobs wishing you had a checklist of resources that’ll help you on your assignment? We had a feeling. So, we made one for you!
From facility-specific policies, processes, and expectations to department phone numbers and communication channels, these are the resource items that should be included in your on-assignment checklist.
Download on-the-job healthcare traveler checklist.
On-the-Job Checklist for Travel Nurses and Allied Health Travelers
Map of the facility
Starting fresh healthcare jobs as a travel nurse or allied health traveler can feel like you’re dropping into a maze, but having a map of the hospital or facility can be a total gamechanger.
Whether you need to know where to park and enter the building, find the supply closet in a pinch, determine the fastest route to the cafeteria, or locate a different department, having a facility map handy ensures you’ll find your way to your intended destination.
Not only is having a map convenient to get where you want to go, but it can also increase safety and efficiency, especially in emergencies when knowing exactly where to go can make a world of difference. With a map in hand, you’ll navigate the facility like a pro in no time and set yourself up for a smooth, successful assignment.
Organizational chart
It can feel overwhelming to step into an unfamiliar environment with a whole new team. That’s where an organizational chart of the facility’s departments, specialties, and key personnel comes into play.
Instead of playing the guessing game when you need to know who handles something, an org chart can tell you exactly who to contact for specific needs, like the charge nurse for your unit or the IT expert.
Additionally, having an org chart can help you better advocate for and support your patients. Knowing the chain of command at your new job means you can escalate concerns or requests efficiently, without wasting time tracking down the right person. It’s not just a tool for logistics — having an org chart is one way to turn an unfamiliar workplace into one that feels manageable and maybe even welcoming.
Unit/department phone numbers and communication channels
No matter what your healthcare division or specialty is, chances are you’ll work cross-departmentally while on assignment — from calling the pharmacy for a medication request to coordinating with the lab for a critical test result. Make it easier on yourself and collect a list of the facility’s unit phone numbers, as well as their preferred communication channels.
While having the phone numbers close by is helpful, knowing the preferred communication channels for each department is just as important. Some teams may prefer calls through personal phones, work phones, or platforms like Vocera, while others rely on secure messaging systems like Epic.
Understanding these preferences can help you avoid missteps and reduce stress in high-pressure moments. With the right communication tools, you’ll feel more in control, even in the most hectic situations.
Travel nurse and allied professional expectations
Floating and patient ratio
Floating to a different unit can feel like you’re being thrown into the deep end without a life jacket. The good news is that having a copy of the facility’s floating policies can change that. With it, you know what to expect ahead of time, what units you may float to, and how often it’s likely to happen.
Patient ratio policies are just as crucial, especially when you’re new to a hospital or facility. Best case scenario is knowing these expectations will provide comfort, knowing you’re abiding by the facility’s policy. On the other hand, if you’re suddenly assigned more patients than what’s outlined, you have the documentation to reference when raising concerns.
The point of these systems is to provide clarity and fairness across the board of healthcare providers, and knowing the rules will empower you to navigate situations confidently.
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Charting system and electronic health record
Epic, Oracle Cerner, MEDITECH — oh my! The type of charting system or electronic health record (EHR) platform you use will depend on the facility you work in. So, keeping a copy of the charting and EHR policies can make the learning curve less stressful.
These resources act as a quick reference for things like charting expectations, documentation shortcuts and hacks, and the dos and don’ts of navigating the system. Even better, get your hands on video tutorials or a quick orientation session, if possible. Accurate charting is key to communicating with fellow nurses and others on the care team, and ensures your patients have the best outcomes.
Tracking working hours
You already know how to track your hours for Fusion Medical Staffing. Unsure of how to track your working hours at the facility? Ask the facility for a copy of their timekeeping policies!
Having this information means you’ll know important details like how early you’re allowed to clock in or how late you can clock out. It also allows you to become familiar with the timekeeping system the facility uses — badge swipe, mobile app, old-school punch clock, there are many options. With these policies in hand, you’ll easily stay organized and avoid unnecessary payroll issues, all while protecting your time.
Facility-specific policies and processes
Emergency management
Just like each hospital or facility has its own charting system, they all have their own emergency management policies and processes, as well. And having a copy of them is like having a safety manual for the unexpected.
It’s one thing to know about general protocols, but each hospital has its quirks, like where to find the nearest evacuation route or how to access backup supplies. Having this info can save precious time, keep everyone safe, and empower you to act confidently.
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Medication
Have questions about the medication distribution system at the facility where you’ll be working your allied health or travel nurse job? Ask about medication policy/procedures.
For example, you can ask to find out which dispensing system the facility uses or assess medications/pharmacy/troubleshoot during off hours, as well as how far the pharmacy is from your unit and the process for medication delivery. While some facilities have on-demand pharmacy services, others may stick to scheduled deliveries or rely on centralized systems that may not be nearby.
Additionally, every facility does things differently when it comes to overrides, waste, and documentation, and knowing the rules helps you stay aligned with their standards. The best part? Having this info gives you one less thing to worry about.
Severe weather
From snowstorms to tornados to hurricanes and more, knowing the facility’s severe weather plan gives you a clear idea of what’s expected from you during times of emergency. Will you be required to stay on-site during the storm? What’s the backup plan if your relief can’t make it in? With a copy of the policies, you can plan ahead!
Severe weather policies also cover critical logistics that can make or break your shift, like where to park during a storm, which entrances will stay open, and where to find emergency supplies. If your facility has specific shelter locations or protocols for patient safety during extreme weather, having that information on hand means you’ll be ready to act without hesitation.
Weekend call-in sick
When you start your new allied health or travel nurse job, print out the facility’s weekend shift call-in sick policy. Hopefully you never have to use it, but just in case, you’ll know who to call, how far in advance to call, and how shifts are covered.
Keeping your own copy of the weekend call-in sick policy takes the guesswork out of an already bad time. With all the details in hand, you’ll feel prepared and responsible, even in a tough situation.
4 questions to ask during your assignment orientation + why
Should I bring my own stethoscope?
Oftentimes, going to work as a travel nurse or allied professional is like a BYOS party — bring your own stethoscope. But to be sure, ask during orientation.
Knowing whether the lot is covered or monitored by security can also provide peace of mind, especially for night shifts or in areas with unpredictable weather.
Where can I store my personal belongings?
You’re not going to carry around your personal belongings during all of your shifts, so make sure you ask about the employee lounge or storage options during orientation. It can also be helpful to know if the lounge has amenities like a fridge, microwave, or charging stations.
Do I clock out for lunch?
To avoid surprises later, ask about the lunch policies at the facility. Finding out if you’re expected to clock out for lunch, how long your break will be, and where you can eat will help you plan your day better.
Are there on-site cafeterias or other food options? If so, are meals free, discounted, or full price for nurses and allied professionals? Do patients and families share the same dining space?
Is there an Intranet or internal system where I can find copies of policies and procedures?
When you need quick answers on the job, it’s good to know how to access important internal information, such as policies and procedures. So, ask about an Intranet or other internal portal where you can find the tools to make your transition even smoother.
When you have the right resources at your fingertips, starting a new travel nurse or allied health job may not feel as scary. The next time you find yourself asking what you need to know when you start your assignment, refer to this handy checklist!
Have recommendations for more items to add? Let us know!
