Nurses are on the front lines when it comes to Disaster Relief. They leap into action at a moment’s notice to provide care to those affected areas. Travel nurses are ideal in responding to a crisis situation. They have the skills, flexibility, and knowledge to adjust quickly and respond “in the trenches”, so to speak. Here is some information about how you can be better prepared, as a nurse and specifically as a traveler, and be ready to respond at a moment’s notice.

Have a Personal Emergency Preparedness Bag: Many hospitals go on lockdown during an emergency. Make sure that you have everything that you need in an easy to grab-n-go bag. Here are some items you should keep in there:

• Phone charger/Portable rechargeable batteries
• Changes of clothes
• Hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
• Water and Snacks
• Contact information and important documents (stored in a ziplock bag)
• Medications
• Extra shoes and socks

Use your car to hold an emergency preparedness kit: You should keep some basic supplies always, just in case you need to administer aid on the go. Here are some items to consider:

• Battery-operated flashlight
• Crank radio
• Extra batteries
• Blankets
• Easy snacks (granola, peanut butter crackers, etc)
• First aid kit
• Bottled water
• Maps
• Flares
• Tire Repair Kit
• Extra clothing
• Pet food, if applicable

Have a Plan of Communication: Take time to plan out your communication plan. Who is your first point of contact? If you’re on assignment, contact your recruiter or the Emergency Hot Line set up by your agency. Call or you’re your family point of contact and have them disperse that you’re okay, so that you are able to focus on administering aid. You can also check in on FB to let friends and family, who you can’t reach individually, know you’re okay.

Remember, as a nurse, you have the skills to keep people safe during a crisis situation. As a traveler, you’re able to jump in with little orientation. That is why you are best suited to respond to a disaster. You are incredible, resilient, and selfless.