Adapting Quickly to New Facilities as a Travel Nurse


As a travel nurse and transitioning from one healthcare facility to another, you will learn new skills to build your resume, experience new protocols and work with a new team of colleagues. To help you guide this change and jump in feeling confident, here are five tips to adapting quickly to new facilities as a travel nurse:


Proactive Learner

Having the ability to develop, connect with the facility staff and grow your skill set is one of the most rewarding aspects of travel nursing. We encourage you to take advantage of every learning opportunity the facility offers by attending orientations, workshops and training sessions to become familiar with their technology, policies and procedures. Proactively seek out classes to expand your experience and allow you to share your knowledge with the team. Your positive attitude and willingness to learn will take your professional development to the next level and you’ll be viewed as a leader at each new facility you travel to.

Positive Attitude 

A positive attitude is a powerful trait to have when stepping into unfamiliar territory. Approach each new Axis travel gig with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Stay curious about the new facility’s practices, the local healthcare approach and the strengths of your new team. Your positivity can inspire those around you and make for a smoother entrance when joining a new team. 

Effective Communication

Clear communication is the cornerstone of successful teamwork, especially in healthcare. As a travel nurse, you’ll be working with new colleagues regularly, so effective communication becomes vital. Take the initiative to introduce and ask questions to clarify procedures and expectations. Active listening is equally important as it helps you take in information quickly and demonstrates your commitment to collaboration.

Time Management

Navigating new facilities and adjusting to different workflows can be overwhelming, but being organized and having effective time management can alleviate stress. Keep track of your assignments, patient details and important meetings. Prioritize your tasks, ask questions and stay on top of documentation. By managing your time, you’ll ensure quality patient care and demonstrate your commitment to the facility’s success.

Build Relationships

Building relationships with staff is a key to thriving as a travel nurse and one of the reasons individuals love traveling. Take the initiative to connect with your new colleagues on both personal and professional levels. Engage in casual conversations, share experiences and show genuine interest in your team. Strong relationships create a supportive network that can help you navigate challenges. Building rapport with your team fosters a sense of belonging and positively improves collaboration.


Adapting quickly to new facilities and teams as a travel nurse requires a combination of positive attitudes, effective communication, adaptability, and relationship-building skills. By keeping an open mind, actively engaging with your colleagues and demonstrating flexibility, you can navigate each new assignment with confidence and ease. Remember that every travel gig brings fresh opportunities for growth and learning.

Let’s start your journey as a travel nurse with Axis today! 

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Mackenzie Bolte