Travel Nurse Staffing: Can I Start My own Agency?

With the tremendous nursing shortage in the United States there would seem to be a lot of money to be made in travel nurse staffing. Although this may be true, starting a travel nurse staffing company may not be as easy as one might think.
The biggest challenge in starting a travel nurse staffing company most people face is a lack of capital. The issue is that nurses want to be paid for their work very quickly but hospitals won't normally agree to pay the agencies as quick. If you were to start a travel nurse staffing company, you would need money to run your business while you are waiting to get paid by the hospitals.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the travel nurse staffing industry is highly competitive. You will need a constant source of nurse leads who are seeking jobs. These leads can be very expensive and may cost you thousands of dollars per month. Due to the high demand for qualified nursing professionals, and strong incentives offered by competitors, some nurses change their minds about taking an assignment when they get better offers from other companies. This is just another possible pitfall to keep in mind when starting a travel nurse staffing agency.
Another challenge in starting a travel nurse staffing company is you will have quite a bit of internal overhead. There are many pieces to the puzzle that will make it very difficult for only a few people to start. The key components are housing and nurse payroll departments, account management, and of course experienced nurse recruiters which may be difficult to find.
One additional factor to keep in mind is the potential liability in the nursing industry. You will need to make sure you carry a fair amount of liability insurance and that you keep good records of your nurses' credentials. Collecting paperwork can be pain, but failure to keep good records could lead to big trouble and major headaches down the road.
In closing, this article is not meant to discourage you from starting a travel nurse staffing company, but to make you aware of some potential pitfalls that you will need to keep in mind. If you remember some of the key points mentioned above, there is a good chance you will have a successful, profitable, travel nurse staffing agency.
Steve Arnold writes for Jobs in Nursing . Check out some other Jobs in Nursing Articles here.






Profile of a Travel Nurse

Travel nurses are nurses who travel to different locations for short-term working assignments. Travel nurses often work for hospitals, doctors offices, and in the medical administration field. Travel nurses are usually hired to fill temporary work shortages such as peak work times, maternity leave, and long term illnesses of permanent workers. Medical facilities will pay a high salary to fill short term periods. Assignment can be a few days or several months. An assignment usually runs for about 13 weeks.

To obtain a career in travel nursing, you must first have the appropriate credentials. The usual requirements for becoming a travel nurse are a minimum of one year of clinical experience and a state employment license granted by the state’s nursing board. You should have a nursing degree from a recognized nursing school and have all the skills needed to fill a particular position. Not all hospitals recognize one year vocational diploma programs. Medical facilities expect travel nurses to know what they are doing on the first day of the assignment. That is one reason why they pay top dollar for a travel nurse. They expect the travel nurse to have the knowledge and skills to adapt quickly and efficiently.

There are a number steps to achieving a career as a travel nurse. First, one should apply to a travel nurse agency. These agencies are actively involved with hospitals across the country and with many International hospitals. They have the knowledge of open travel nurse positions and they match the travel nurse with the staffing needs of the medical facility.

Once a person is accepted into the travel nurse agency, the recruiter will match that person with the assignment. The recruiter will help the travel nurse with the interview process, obtain essential state licenses, assist with housing and travel, and arrange for the appropriate benefits and pay. The recruiter receives a fee, but the travel nurse receives their knowledge and experience.

Although each state has its own nurse licensing requirements, they do provide temporary licenses. Some temporary licenses can last up to a year. Registered nurses have the advantage because their national board exam covers state requirements. Having a nursing agency recruiter can be helpful as they will assist you in securing your temporary license.

Because of the travel arrangements that need to be made for each assignment, travel nurses tend to prefer recruiting agencies. These agencies are experienced and can make travel arrangements quickly and efficiently. If traveling out of the country, one needs to secure a visa and have proof that they are a graduate of a reputable institution. It is important to maintain a current resume with valid supporting documents.

The life of a travel nurse requires maintaining a constant travel schedule that includes:

Maintaining a Check List: A week before you depart, have a list of all the necessities you need and check them off as you pack. This includes documents, clothing, books, etc.

Research Work Location: Prepare for cultural differences, personal safety issues, and proximity to stores, restaurants, and supermarkets. This will minimize unexpected stressful events.

Move In Early: Moving in a day or two early will allow you to become familiar with you’re your work location and the surrounding community.

Most nurses enter the field of travel nursing so they can travel, experience different work environments, make a good living, and maintain a flexible work schedule. Travel nursing is also an excellent way for recent graduates to find out where they would like long-term employment. The Professional Association of Nurse Travelers, a non-profit national organization representing nurse travelers in the US, is a great organization to consult with regarding a career in travel nursing.There are also many traveler nurse blogs and forums where one can gain more insight into the pros and cons of travel nursing.



Looking for travel nursing jobs, physician jobs or speech pathologist jobs? Leading provider of healthcare staffing can help place you in your dream job with hospitals or healthcare providers.


The Profile of a Travel Nurse

Travel nurses are nurses who travel to different locations for short-term working assignments. Travel nurses often work for hospitals, doctors offices, and in the medical administration field. Travel nurses are usually hired to fill temporary work shortages such as peak work times, maternity leave, and long term illnesses of permanent workers. Medical facilities will pay a high salary to fill short term periods. Assignment can be a few days or several months. An assignment usually runs for about 13 weeks.

To obtain a career in travel nursing, you must first have the appropriate credentials. The usual requirements for becoming a travel nurse are a minimum of one year of clinical experience and a state employment license granted by the state's nursing board. You should have a nursing degree from a recognized nursing school and have all the skills needed to fill a particular position. Not all hospitals recognize one year vocational diploma programs. Medical facilities expect travel nurses to know what they are doing on the first day of the assignment. That is one reason why they pay top dollar for a travel nurse. They expect the travel nurse to have the knowledge and skills to adapt quickly and efficiently.

There are a number steps to achieving a career as a travel nurse. First, one should apply to a travel nurse agency. These agencies are actively involved with hospitals across the country and with many International hospitals. They have the knowledge of open travel nurse positions and they match the travel nurse with the staffing needs of the medical facility.

Once a person is accepted into the travel nurse agency, the recruiter will match that person with the assignment. The recruiter will help the travel nurse with the interview process, obtain essential state licenses, assist with housing and travel, and arrange for the appropriate benefits and pay. The recruiter receives a fee, but the travel nurse receives their knowledge and experience.

Although each state has its own nurse licensing requirements, they do provide temporary licenses. Some temporary licenses can last up to a year. Registered nurses have the advantage because their national board exam covers state requirements. Having a nursing agency recruiter can be helpful as they will assist you in securing your temporary license.

Because of the travel arrangements that need to be made for each assignment, travel nurses tend to prefer recruiting agencies. These agencies are experienced and can make travel arrangements quickly and efficiently. If traveling out of the country, one needs to secure a visa and have proof that they are a graduate of a reputable institution. It is important to maintain a current resume with valid supporting documents.

The life of a travel nurse requires maintaining a constant travel schedule that includes:

Maintaining a Check List: A week before you depart, have a list of all the necessities you need and check them off as you pack. This includes documents, clothing, books, etc.

Research Work Location: Prepare for cultural differences, personal safety issues, and proximity to stores, restaurants, and supermarkets. This will minimize unexpected stressful events.

Move In Early: Moving in a day or two early will allow you to become familiar with you're your work location and the surrounding community.

Most nurses enter the field of travel nursing so they can travel, experience different work environments, make a good living, and maintain a flexible work schedule. Travel nursing is also an excellent way for recent graduates to find out where they would like long-term employment. The Professional Association of Nurse Travelers, a non-profit national organization representing nurse travelers in the US, is a great organization to consult with regarding a career in travel nursing.There are also many traveler nurse blogs and forums where one can gain more insight into the pros and cons of travel nursing.





Leading healthcare staffing company connects hospitals and healthcare providers with highly qualified, full- or part-time healthcare professionals with travel nursing jobs, physician jobs and speech pathologist jobs.




A Career As A Travel Nurse

Travel nurses are healthcare professionals such as registered nurses or therapists who travel to various locations to work for certain portions of the year. They usually work up to four travel jobs per year. A travel nurse can work in any region in the United States and many International regions. Most nurses secure a travel nursing career through a reputable travel staffing agency.

A career as a travel nurse can be personally and financially rewarding. Most people who have experienced life as a travel nurse say it is an exciting profession and a great way to earn a living. A travel nurse will enjoy living in new and exciting locations, reside in wonderful accommodations, and work in excellent hospitals. Other benefits include:

Travel Assistance: Most reputable travel nurse agencies will arrange such travel details as directions and maps. They should also have a 24-hour emergency hotline.

Great Pay: While on assignment, travel nurses are offered comprehensive packages consisting of excellent pay with many benefits and bonuses. Annual earnings for an RN travel nursing jobs can be as high as $110,000.

Your Facility Choice: Most travel nurse agencies have available jobs in all 50 states and at the highest ranking hospitals.

Free Private Housing: Housing accommodations are selected by travel nurse agencies for their excellent services and amenities that may include spas, swimming pools, and fitness centers.

Flexible Work Schedule: Many nurses choose a career as a travel nurse because the stress of a traditional hospital can be the result of long hours and increased physical demands. Travel nurses have more flexible work schedules. It is often much easier for a travel nurse to plan for special engagements and vacations

Free Health and Dental Insurance: Travel nursing agencies offer many free comprehensive health plans to meet all their clientÂ’s needs. Dependents can also be covered at a nominal cost. Travel nurses can also receive supplemental insurance that provides income if they are unable to work as a result of a non-work-related illness. As well, professional liability insurance should be offered at no extra cost.

Work Protection Plan: A work protection program should be offered by a reputable travel nursing agency because it ensures that if a shift is cancelled, you will still be paid.

Travel Expenses Reimbursement: Most travel nursing agencies will provide travel allowance to nurses. Travel allowance may be given before you depart or as a reimbursement after you arrive.

Tax Advantage Plans: Tax laws allow full-time travel nurses to receive non-taxable credit for meals.

Licensure Reimbursement: Travel nurse agencies will reimburse nurses for their State Nursing Licensure fees for every travel assignment. They will also help travel nurses acquire a State Nursing License.

Auto Club Membership: Many travel nurse agencies offer a discount or free membership to an auto club. Travel nurses will have access to roadside assistance, hotel discounts, rental cars, free trip routing with detailed directions and maps, emergency check cashing, and no fee travelers checks.

401(k) Plan: Travel nurses can enroll in a retirement 401(k) plan where a portion of their earnings will go into a retirement savings plan.

Free Course Upgrades: Many travel nursing agencies will provide free education courses so nurses can keep up with new technology and education.

Referral Bonuses: Travel nursing agencies will give bonuses to travel nurses who recruit other health professionals into their travel nurse program.

While the pay and bonuses of a career in travel nursing are very rewarding, travel nursing positions are highly sought after. It is important that you keep up with modern education and experience. There are hundreds of agencies that specialize in placing travel nurses. Registering with several agencies will increase your assignment choices. With the right planning and knowledge, you will discover great joy with a career as a travel nurse.



Healthcare staffing company that connects hospitals and healthcare providers in a variety of specialized disciplines, including: Travel Nursing jobs, Speech Pathologist and Physician jobs.


Tips On How To Start A Career In International Travel Nursing

If you are a nurse who enjoys traveling, you may want to consider a travel nursing position. Many travel nurse placement agencies offer positions that range anywhere from four to thirteen weeks depending on the case. This type of position offers the opportunity to expand your horizons while obtaining more experience in your chosen field.
In terms of compensation, the traveling nurses tends to make anywhere between 10-15% more than the staff nurse with incentives and bonuses added to the package. For many nurses, being a travel nurse opens the opportunity to see parts of the country they would not ordinarily see in the course of normal employment. If you aren't able to travel because of children or financial obligations, you can still experience the thrill of being a travel nurse by accepting assignments closer to home. Of course, when you are able to do so, you can ask for assignments in other cities or states. That is one of the benefits of being a travel nurse with a placement agency: it leaves you in control of which assignments you accept. Unlike a staff position, you are not required to report to work every day as per a set schedule unless you are on an assignment. When you are in between assignments, the choice is yours to accept or decline, and often times with a travel nurse, bonuses are paid to those who complete assignments.
Are the assignments always in hospitals or nursing homes? That depends on the assignment, but the potential is also there for private duty. Some nurses prefer private duty cases, and in many cases, the pay is higher than it is in a facility-based assignment. Let the placement agency know if you prefer a particular kind of environment because they will try to accommodate you whenever possible. The key role is to meet the needs of both the patient or facility and the nurse. The more comfortable the nurse is with the position to which she has been assigned, the easier it will be for her to perform her job.
Travel nursing opens up many opportunities in the field, and for the nurse who is good at what she does, and not adverse to relocation, opportunities in other states as a staff nurse may be a thought to consider. This is a good way to feel the waters and see if you like different scenery before making the permanent decision to move to an unfamiliar place. This type of position is not for everyone, but if you like to travel and try different things, this is the kind of position you will love. Not only will you see other parts of the country, you will experience a completely different world of individuality in the new people you will meet.
Sandy Sizemore writes on many consumer related topics including health care. You can find travel nursing companies and info on international travel nursing and more by visiting our health care website.






How To Get An Exciting Career In International Travel Nursing

If the excitement of international travel appeals to you, then you might want to think of being an international travel nurse. Of course, finding a placement agency is going to be the first key to doing that, and in a detailed search, only agencies placing nurses from overseas into the United States came into play. However, if the program works the same way, the placement agency or employer will make all arrangements for your travel and the obtaining of your visa and green card to allow you perform your assignment internationally. You will also need a work permit, which will be obtained for you as well.
International travel nursing can provide a worldwide wealth of knowledge, especially if you are interested in working in some of the poorer countries instead of those with a wealth of riches to offer. The challenges of working in a country that speaks a different language, has a different culture, and has different medical needs can be crucial to the expansion of your nursing knowledge. The development of worldwide knowledge that you are able to take home with you can make the experience one that will allow you to greater utilize the skills that you have learned.
Becoming an international travel nurse can also provide you with a scope of knowledge in the travel field, allowing you to travel while at the same time, performing the job that you love. Perhaps you have something to offer the country where you are placed, and can bring back some of their knowledge as well. The combination of the two knowledge bases can ultimately be beneficial to patients on both sides of the global community. The sharing of knowledge in the medical field is the key to the entire world knowing how to treat the diseases that plague our people, and the utilization of international travel nurses, both into other countries, and from other countries into the United States, will make that happen. Each has knowledge to share, and a skill that is unique, so the working together of the two cultures can only improve what each country is already practicing.
International travel nursing can be a rewarding experience for both the nurse and the people she is sent to serve both culturally and medically. The placement agency knows how important this is and will strive to make certain that each nurse is placed where the needs can best be met within the scope of her desires. If nursing in another country appeals to you, be sure to contact one of the companies that places nurses internationally and be on your way to an unforgettable cultural experience while expanding the scope of your medical knowledge.
Sandy Sizemore writes on many consumer related topics including health care. You can find travel nursing companies and info on international travel nursing and more by visiting our health care website.






Cirrus Medical Staffing's Travel Nurses

I’m looking for some skilled case managers who are willing to go on Travel Nurse Jobs assignments to Florida and California. Does anyone know a good site to find and attract these people? Travel assignments would last a minimum of 13 weeks, with the option of extending for additional 8-13 week assignments.Because they’re difficult to find, I would love to hear from some CMs about what would entice them to travel.More about Cirrus Medical StaffingPick a place. Any place. From the Carolina beaches to the Colorado Rockies to the California coast. From scenic Alaska to sunny Hawaii. From the bustle of Manhattan to the quiet charm of a small New England village. All across the country, hospitals are faced with critical staffing shortages, ranging from allied health professionals to critical nursing units. And hospitals want to attract traveling medical professionals to work on a contractual basis. Cirrus Medical Staffing is a Travel Nursing Agency and, an A. Soriano Corporation (ANSCOR) company, specializes in the placement of healthcare professionals. Cirrus Medical Staffing provides Travel Nurses, Travel Allied Health Professionals and Permanent Placement services throughout the entire United States. In addition, Cirrus is pleased to provide international staffing augmentation to our client facilities through our sister company, Medtivia. If you're a Nurse or Allied Health professional looking for a Nurse Staffing Agency and ready to earn top dollar while you leverage your skills and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime, this is where your journey begins. If you're a Travel Nurse, you've come to the right place.






Travel Nursing Jobs, Traveling Nursing Jobs, Travel Nurse Jobs As a Career Option

If you are thinking of becoming a travel nurse then it is a viable career option as you will have more salary than the permanent and para diem nurses. If we look back then it is in the year1920 when traveling nursing jobs came into existence after the shortage for nurses was felt. It is the most popular career in USA as the demand for travel nurses is mounting owing to less number of nurses in specific regions. There are around 25,500 travel nurses in USA and about 340 US travel nurse companies. Travel nursing jobs are the short term nursing jobs (4 to 52 weeks) in which the nurses have to travel to different parts of the country. The contract that is outside the country is of longer period like one to two years. Travel nurse job gives you the wonderful experience of meeting new people and enjoying different seasons and states of the country. Depending upon the project you can choose the period of stay in the travel nursing job. Like some nurses prefer to stay for one month other for one year. How to become a travel nurse?To become a travel nurse one will have to complete the education from the affiliated nursing school to get the Registered Nurse degree. You can go for any of the following types of education Four years BSN degree Two years ADN program Three years diploma Along with this one must have the clinical experience of one year as a licensed nurse in the area of his or her specialization to get into traveling nursing jobs. It is recommended that you must get two to three years of experience for the International travel nursing jobs. The requirement of experience vary with the specialization. Like LPN/LVN requires three years of experience where as for Psychiatric travel nurse job, Med-Surg and Rehab you need the experience of two years to get travel nursing jobs. Also clearing NCLEX-RN exam is must to become a travel nurse in USA. Along with this as a travel nurse you will have to get the license of that particular state. You travel nursing company will help you in getting that.Apart from the education and experience you must have a charming personality, easy to adapt nature and good communication skills.Traveling nurse jobs is obtained through the travel agency or travel nursing companies that are tied up with the hospitals. Travel nursing companies not only help you in finding the travel nursing jobs but will also help you with the relocation, housing and registration with local authorities. But you will have to be very careful while choosing the travel nurse company as the services provided vary a lot from company to company. So always ask for the entire services that travel nurse agency or company is going to provide while giving the travel nursing job to you. Do ask for clinical support, type of health insurance and 401(k), type of housing, salary and associated benefits, work assignments and loyalty programs.You can tell your requirement of travel nurse job to your travel nurse company so that can find the best suitable match. You can start your travel nurse jobs after accepting and processing of your job offer. This can take one week to one month's time. Benefits of Traveling Nurse JobsFirst of all travel nurse salary is more than the registered nurse working in the same hospital. Apart from this travel nurse will get the housing facility while on work by the travel agencies with basic furnishings of washer dryers, dishwashers etc. Housing stipend is given to the nurses who choose to live independently of travel agency. The amount of stipend is more than the actual wages or it can be substantial. Along with this the travel allowances are also paid by the travel agencies that but the coverage of the travel cost vary. So you must inquire about this things before getting travel nursing job. Tax advantages are also given if the nurse maintain tax home while working in the traveling nurse job.Travel Nurse SalaryTravel nursing pay vary a lot and generally changes with the location, hospital need, housing cost of the area and negotiation ability of the traveler. Like you will find more travel nurse salary if you are given travel nursing jobs in north or west America than the southern American States. The RN travel nurse salary can be $40 per hour whereas surgical technologists, respiratory therapist and LPN will get pay close to $28 per hour. Some of the hospitals and travel agencies also give bonus that can reach to $6,000 and given at the end of the assignment.You can also begin your traveling nurse job with your friend or family. So no need to worry about anything to begin the adventurous career as a travel nurse.



R Oberoi is associated with Manpower from India and suggests www.manpowerindia.net for further reading & information on current recruitment in different industries.




Selena: A Life Remembered (Part 2)

~Continued from Part 1~
As Selena's popularity grew placing additional demands on the band (e.g. travel), Abraham removed Selena from the 8th grade, drawing immediate unwarranted criticism. Some accused him of violating Child Labor laws while others warned that he was ruining his kids. "They'll be surrounded by drinking and drugs" and "it's going to have an effect on them," the critics incorrectly predicted.[1]
Despite the skeptics, Selena remained unaffected. She continued to have fun and enjoy singing. She kept her down-to-earth personality and refused to snub anyone, believing that "if you treat people good, it [will] come back" in the end.[2] Accordingly, Selena always maintained a great repertoire with her fans and audience.[3] At the same time, she also kept up with her academics and earned a G.E.D. from a Chicago-based Correspondence School at 17.
As Selena was growing into a star, her brother, A.B. III was becoming an accomplished songwriter and producer, after originally taking it up to supply his youngest sister with the quality, original material that the band lacked. One of his first songs, "Dame Un Beso" enjoyed moderate success. Before long, A.B. III supplanted his father as the band's leading songwriter. In addition, Ricky Vela, another band member also assisted with music composition.
When the band's second album, "Alpha" was released, it brought Selena her first music honors. She won "Female Vocalist of the Year" at the 1987 West Texas Hispanic Music Awards and KFLZ Awards ceremonies and was voted "Female Vocalist of the Year" and "Performer of the Year" at the Tejano Music Awards. This recognition introduced Selena to two influential people: Rick Trevino, founder of the Tejano Music Awards and Johnny Canales, a television personality on one of the top-rated Spanish shows. Their efforts gave Selena much needed publicity, expanding the horizons for "Selena Y Los Dinos."
Two more albums, "Preciosa" and "Dulce Amor" were released in 1988 earning Selena greater recognition. With album sales exceeding 20,000, Selena's name began to spread beyond Texas. Not surprisingly, Selena was a finalist for "Female Vocalist of the Year" for 1988 and "Terco Corazon" and A.B. III were nominated for "Single of the Year" and "Songwriter of the Year," respectively, at the Tejano Music Awards.
Despite Selena's growing fame, the Quintanillas' lifestyle had not changed much. They continued to live on beans and hamburgers and shared just about everything. As a result, they had "Nobody You Know" written at the top of the band's bus, "Big Bertha's" front windshield.
Their fortunes, though, changed dramatically when Selena was signed by Jose Behar, the former head of Sony's Latin music division and creator of the Capitol/EMI Latin label in 1989. The signing came about when Behar and a friend, Mario Ruiz, who became President of EMI Mexico attended the 1989 Tejano Music Awards searching for new talent and discovered Selena. The events went as follows according to the account by Jose Behar:
"...We were standing at the back of the auditorium when we saw her. Mario and I looked at each other like, 'Wow. This is special.'"
"...I said, 'It's interesting. Women don't sell in the Tejano market.' And they really hadn't. Yet I said to myself, 'This is the crossover act I'm looking for."[4]
Afterwards, Behar, believing that he had found the next Gloria Estefan, a popular and successful crossover Latin artist went backstage and met and signed Selena after talking to her father. At the time, Behar never imagined how many records Selena would eventually sell.
Despite her signing with Capitol/EMI Latin and her taking "Female Vocalist of the Year" honors at the 1989 and 1990 Tejano Music Awards, and also "Female Entertainer of the Year" at the 1990 Tejano Music Awards, Selena's first few new releases did little better than her previous ones. However, another breakthrough came in 1991 when she was paired with Alvaro Torres in "Buenos Amigos." Their video soared to #1 on the Billboard Latin Tracks Chart giving Selena national exposure. An appearance on "Donde Quiero Que Estes" with the Barrio Boyzz, an immensely popular Latin band further enhanced Selena's rising stature, enabling her to enter the international Latin market with her solo hits, "La Carcacha" and "Como La Flor."
Johnny Canales then helped make Selena an instant Celebrity in Mexico leading to an offer star in a leading role in a Mexican Soap opera, which she turned down because of its steamy scenes. Though determined to make it big, Selena wasn't about to sacrifice her principles. She valued her appeal to her broad audience that consisted of young children and grandparents alike.
Performing in skin-tight pants, low-cut bustiers, and shiny outfits was her limit. Unlike many others, Selena did not need to forego her morals for fame. Her natural-born talent was sufficient. In addition, when Johnny Canales compared Selena to Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Janet Jackson, all pop stars, he declared, "I'd say [Selena] was like those people, but better. Those people never sang Tejano. She could do what they do, but it would be hard for them to do what she does."[5]
Also during this time, the Los Dinos Band was expanding, providing Selena with some of her happiest moments. Pete Astudillo, a Laredo, Texas native and talented artist joined in 1989. Together, he and Selena went on to perform hit duets like "Yo Te Amo" and "Amame, Quiereme."[6] Accordingly the pair were twice nominated for "Vocal Duo of the Year" at the Tejano Music Awards.
A second great addition was Chris Perez, who briefly joined Los Dinos in 1988, left a year later to try it on his own, and then returned in 1990. Chris was a talented guitarist who eventually became Selena's husband. They were married on April 2, 1992.
Although Selena's father initially opposed the marriage, he soon viewed Chris as "a son."[7] Afterwards, Selena and Chris shared a nearby house, with her parents living next door in one house and her brother, A.B. III and his wife and children in another. Between the three houses there were nine dogs, five of which belonged to Selena, an avid animal lover. Later the pair bought a piece of land a little further away with plans to build a larger house to start a family and run a small farm. Prior to her death, Selena had already picked out the furniture.
As Selena's career took off, she released two hit albums: "Ven Conmigo" featuring the hit song "Baila Esta Cumbia" in 1990 and "Entre A Mi Mundo" featuring the hit songs "La Carcacha" and "Como La Flor" in 1992. The great success of these albums completed Selena's transformation from "unknown" to "star." Then a show featuring Selena, La Mafia, and Emilia Navaira at the Summit in Houston in the summer of 1991 drew more than 9000 people. Next followed "Selena Live" in 1993, which gave the young singer her first Grammy along with three Tejano Awards, opening the door to mainstream pop.
After four years of attempts, Jim Behar, using Selena's soaring popularity and sales to their advantage, finally convinced EMI's pop division to give her the crossover chance she had been dreaming of. Prior to 1993, Behar had faced repeated setbacks and had to start over each time when key executives left the Company. As one EMI executive, Nancy Brennan, Vice President of Artist and Repertoire summarized, "All he [Behar] ever talked about was Selena. He was like a broken record, 'Selena, Selena...'"[8]
Brennan was exposed to Selena when she attended a Billboard Latin Music Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada to see Jon Secada, an immensely popular EMI artist. There, Selena's opening made a lasting impression. By December 1993, Selena had been signed by EMI's SBK subsidiary to begin her crossover album, which took a year-and-a-half to produce due to the tedious effort of finding the right songs and producers.
The 1994 "Amor Prohibido" success also added to the crossover delays since Selena was requested to appear everywhere. Nancy Brennan recounted one such episode when had been forced to postpone a recording session: "This is the first time I have ever made a debut album by an artist who was too busy to record for me. How can you tell someone, 'No I don't want you to play the Astrodome for 60,000 people; I want you to work on your record.' Everyone wants her."[9]
The "Amor Prohibido" album featuring four #1 Latin Singles (title track "Amor Prohibido" "No Me Queda Mas," "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom," and "Fotos Y Recuerdos" launched Selena's greatest year to date. When "Amor Prohibido" came out, it promptly replaced Gloria Estefan's "Mi Tierra" at #1 on Billboard's Latin Tracks Charts and even made the top 200 on Billboard's Pop Charts. It led to six awards at the Tejano Music Awards ceremony attended by more than 45,000 people - "Female Entertainer of the Year," "Female Vocalist of the Year," "Orchestra Album of the Year," Record of the Year," "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom" "Song of the Year," and "Techno Cumbia, "Crossover Song of the Year." More than 400,000 copies had sold at the time of Selena's death less than a year after its release.
Selena also realized two more dreams in 1994. First, she opened a boutique/salon in Corpus Christi called "Selena Etc." Since childhood, Selena had dreamed of designing clothing and jewelry. Second, she played a bit-role "Don Juan DeMarco," a film released in early 1995 that starred Marlon Brando and Johnny Depp and offered the potential of leading to greater and perhaps leading roles. Acting had been a recent dream of Selena's.
With the impending release of Selena's cross-over album, "Dreaming of You," her wide-spread fame and rocketing demand, a million-dollar record deal, a Grammy Award, endorsements from sponsors like Coca Cola and her own line of clothing, it seemed like Selena's meteoric career could only rise higher. By this time, Selena had been named "one of the most successful Latin entertainers in the world" by "Hispanic Business" magazine.
The sold-out Astrodome Concert for the Houston Livestock and Rodeo February 1995 with a crowd of 61,000+, at the time, the largest in Astrodome history only strengthened this belief. Yet ironically and almost prophetically, when Selena was asked to speculate on her future during a July 1994 interview, she modestly stated, "I just hope still to be alive, hopefully singing still and later on, maybe 10 years yonder, I hope to have a family by then."[10]
Four years earlier, Yolanda Saldivar, a self-professed "biggest Selena fan" had come into Selena's life after persistently requesting to start a fan club in her honor. Although Abraham had initially refused, he eventually gave in when Yolanda agreed to make it "not-for-profit" and donate leftover proceeds to charity. Eventually Yolanda's relationship with the Quintanillas deepened when Selena named her Operations Manager to handle sales, customer-relations, and "Selena Etc.'s" finances.
At the time, no one saw Saldivar's dark obsession. Furthermore, no one had been aware that Yolanda had failed to pay off a $5300 student loan, left her nursing job under suspicious circumstances, been turned down by Shelly Lares, a prominent, young Tejano singer to form a "Shelly Lares Fan Club," and been accused of stealing $9200 from a dermatologist she had worked for.
However, by early 1995, Abraham Quintanilla began to receive complaints from upset fans who reported that they were not receiving the Selena packets, consisting of a T-shirt, baseball cap, cassette/CD, and autographed poster they had paid for in membership dues. Money also began to go missing from the boutiques. With their suspicions growing, the Quintanillas conducted an investigation and discovered that Yolanda had written four checks, including one to herself for $3000 from the Fan Club's books. Selena's father then angrily confronted Yolanda who claimed she could explain everything if given some time. Afterwards, Saldivar purchased a .38 caliber gun.
Yet despite the mounting evidence, Selena sent Yolanda to Mexico to assist with opening a "Selena Etc." boutique in Monterrey. Hopeful that they could remain friends after the confrontation, Selena was willing to give Saldivar the chance she had requested - to "prove her innocence and find the missing papers."
Then while in Mexico, Yolanda phoned Selena to hysterically report that the car containing the documents had been stolen and that she had been raped. Yet Yolanda refused medical care when she returned to Corpus Christi. Instead, she requested that Selena meet her at the Day's Inn motel in Corpus Christi. When Selena and her husband arrived, Yolanda failed to produce any documents.
Afterwards, Yolanda called Selena around midnight on the morning of March 31, 1995 claiming that she was suffering from internal bleeding caused by the rape. During the phone conversation, Saldivar pleaded for Selena to return alone, which she did in the morning.
Once there, Selena drove Yolanda to the hospital where she retracted her rape story. Afterwards Selena drove her back to the motel where they both argued after, it is believed, Selena fired her and planned to return a Faberge Egg ring funded by all of the boutique employees, which she had been misled into believing that Yolanda had generously given to her as a gift.
Upon hearing the argument and a gunshot, a maid cleaning a nearby room looked out the window and saw Selena clutching her chest, screaming for help as she fled from Yolanda who clutched the .38 in her right hand, aimed and fired again.
When Selena made it to the lobby, she collapsed, bleeding profusely from her wound. Although the desk clerk locked the door and called 911 for an ambulance, it was too late. Efforts to revive Selena, despite a blood infusion and electric shocks that briefly restarted her heart, were to no avail. She was pronounced dead at 1:05 PM. Afterwards, tens of thousands filed past Selena's open coffin to pay their last respects as her body lay in state.
Today, nearly 12 years after her death, Selena's legacy lives on. Despite the tragedy, Selena made the crossover into mainstream and is an icon whose spirit still lives. Reminder's of Selena's warmth, generosity, and indelible beauty are all around Corpus Christi. Mirador de la Flor stands along the Gulf shore while a museum dedicated to her career stands only a few miles away. Each year thousands visit Selena's grave, Mirador de la Flor, and the Selena Museum. Selena memorabilia remains popular with rare autographs going at times for more than a $1000. With her continued fame and popularity, it would not be surprising if the United States Post Office eventually issued a stamp to honor Selena's enduring legacy.
__________
[1] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[2] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[3] Bill Hewitt, et al. People Weekly. (Chicago, April 17, 1995) 49.
[4] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[5] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[6] Himilce Novas. Remembering Selena: A Tribute in Pictures and Words. (St. Martin's Griffin: New York, 1995) 43-44.
[7] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[8] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[9] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[10] Bruce Hagan, Producer; Joshua Kuvin, Editor, et. al. Dateline NBC - Obsession. (April 7, 1995).
William Sutherland is a published poet and writer. He is the author of three books, "Poetry, Prayers & Haiku" (1999), "Russian Spring" (2003) and "Aaliyah Remembered: Her Life & The Person behind the Mystique" (2005) and has been published in poetry anthologies around the world. He has been featured in "Who's Who in New Poets" (1996), "The International Who's Who in Poetry" (2004), and is a member of the "International Poetry Hall of Fame." He is also a contributor to Wikipedia, the number one online encyclopedia.






John Denver's Legacy Continues

June 2, 2004--Almost 7 years since singer/songwriter John Denver's death, and his music and message is strong as ever. Just ask Christine Smith, author of the internationally popular book, A Mountain In The Wind-An Exploration of the Spirituality of John Denver, who not only manages the Annual (now in its 6th year) John Denver Celebration - the premier annual event honoring Denver in the world, but who is also President/Founder of the charity Dreams of Freedom, Inc. which gives his music to prisoners, hospice patients, nursing home residents and others worldwide ( www.johndenverlegacy.com ).



Smith has appeared on numerous talk shows nationwide and worldwide including 1-2 hour interviews on several syndicated radio shows, and even live on the BBC World News, sharing about John Denver's life and his significance. She is continually contacted by people worldwide with incredible stories of how Denver's music touched lives.



"John was a messenger of truth. His music touched millions of hearts because he sang from the heart," she says, noting that each year people travel from worldwide to attend the annual celebration in the small mountain community of Salida, Colorado, "It's a place of renewal, and a time for those who appreciate him to reflect upon what he gave us, and the difference each of us can make for good in this world if we place unconditional love in our heart."



Although the event, with musicians from across America, and guests worldwide, occurs October 1-3, 2004, seats are filling up now due to the limited seating available and the demand.



Smith, who is 37, says Denver was an incredible influence on who she has become, and that many of those attending the celebration share similar stories, "People come here each October and share incredible stories of how his music inspired them, healed, or motivated them. There are times of both tears and laughter during the three days we are together."



Believing his music can change person's lives, Smith gives Denver's music and videos to prisons, nursing homes, hospice, Native American reservations, homes for unwed teen mothers, and shelters nationwide through the charity she founded five years ago, Dreams of Freedom, Inc. In addition to providing his music, the charity supplies warm clothing, soap, toothpaste, antiperspirant, shampoo, and other hygiene items for prisoners nationwide, as well as toys for prisoner's children and other families in need--and everything provided is given in memory of John Denver. Any agency or facility interested in receiving the music and the humanitarian help is welcome to contact her -- services are provided free of charge to numerous prisons, hospitals, nursing homes, homes for unwed teen mothers, and other places where Smith feels his music and humanitarian help will bring encouragement.



"John taught that love is the answer, and I believe that. I view everyone as my brother and sister in the human family, and I want to do all I can to ease suffering. If I see a need that I can help, I want to do so...and I learned that from John's example. He was far more than a singer/songwriter, he was a humanitarian and environmentalist who lives the life and values he sang of."



"I want to make sure John is always remembered for the good works he accomplished as well as his music. Beyond the 'hit' songs, not many people realize the extent of the music he wrote and recorded, nor do they realize the beautiful impact he has had on so many lives. I take every opportunity given me to share the truth of who he was--through interviews, my book, The 6th Annual JD Celebration, and certainly through the charity Dreams of Freedom. I want to share his music and message with all who are receptive."



In addition, her website contains much information about Denver and features a Guest Book which has been signed by individuals worldwide sharing their thoughts and experiences about the man and his music.



Much information regarding John Denver, as well as information on obtaining help or supporting the charity, or details on how to attend The 6th Annual John Denver Celebration are available at Smith's website www.johndenverlegacy.com






What You Need To Know About an Overseas Nursing Career

Companionship is very important to people who are lonely or ailing. And when there is no family or friends around, a nurse is someone you can turn to. When I was young, and was hospitalized for a month, a nurse took the place of my parents, when they were not around. She comforted me and took great care of me. They are representatives of angels, down on earth, to help the needy and comfort the ones in anguish. When you opt for career in nursing, you don't need to remain in your hometown anymore. Look for opportunities overseas.

The world is suddenly seeing an influx of nursing vacancies. In countries like US, UK and Netherlands, and a lot of developing countries there is a shortage of nurses. The reason being that most of their youth are not choosing to follow careers in nursing and hence the dearth for nurses. They are going in for other professions instead. And the nurses that are available in the country are fast approaching retirement age and there are not many to replace them. This has suddenly opened up the international job market for nurses.

How do you go about it? First of all, ensure that you know English and also the basic language of the country, when you are applying. Make an attempt to take a short course in the local language. Also remember, that every country has its own methods of Registration. You have to pass an English test and fit other requirements. Sometimes, you need to be willing to take up additional training courses, as per the standards required by their nursing laws and regulations. What you have learnt in your country may not always be sufficient and you need some extra expertise.

When you apply overseas, also make sure that you submit the certificate of proof of your education, work experience, nursing license (if any), languages known, any special training taken, like some people nowadays do courses in physiotherapy, etc. This increases your chances of getting that golden job. At this point, also make a mention of references from any dean of a reputed hospital who knows you personally. This speaks much of you. Mention any special or challenging cases that you may have handled in the past. If you have received any letters of appreciation or citation, then make sure to mention that too. It speaks volumes for your work and will enable you to get the best nursing job in the market.

Finally, make sure that you contact a genuine nursing recruitment or agency as it is very important that you are not cheated. You can go online and try to get enough information which will throw a lot of light on issues that you need to take care of. Be wise and make proper enquiries. Prepare yourself and be patient, opportunity will come knocking at your door. Travel the seas, and take your nursing skills to other distant places. Nurses are always a blessing, wherever they go.

Nursing Degree - Health Of The Future

It is far from a hidden truth that there is a shortage of nurses in the United States. Hospitals, doctors and nursing homes have been clinging to dear life for years in the attempts to find and keep a good group of nurses. With the shortages in the profession, the pay rate has climbed to far exceed expectations and this leaves nurses with many options. For the nurse this is an excellent opportunity, but for the providers it can prove costly. If you are on the fringe of making a decision between a nursing degree and some other here are some things to consider.

The American Association of College Nursing estimates that there will be a shortage of over 300,000 nurses by the year 2012. That could not only create a hazard to the medical industry, but also provide nurses with an excellent paying career. Nursing is one of those careers that not only provides good pay, but also gives the individual the greatest reward ever. This reward can be seen on a daily basis with the fact that they help those in need and it is the thanks in the eyes of a child that sustains the career choice.

There are several options that nurses have afforded to them. There are different certifications in nursing and with them brings different duties as well as pay. Another positive about the nursing profession is the fact that there are so many options. One nurse may work in Pediatrics and another can work in Geriatrics. There is no limit to the opportunities in the nursing field. Here is a look at the types of certifications and a little bit about each.

LVN/LPN:

A year's worth of college training and a set amount of experience can help you obtain the certification of either LVN/Licensed Vocational Nurse or LPN/Licensed Practical Nurse. While completing the required academic requirements the nursing student will spend time shadowing nurses, doctors and other health care providers for hands on and/or practical experience. After all the requirements have been fulfilled the nursing student will be expect to take the state exam, which is not easy. It is recommended that students purchase a good study guide or course to refresh and prepare for the test. A LPN or LVN can expect to make an average of $37,000 per year. LVN or LPN can be responsible for administering medications, giving injections, drawing blood and/or starting IV's as well as a host of other medical duties.

RN:

The RN or registered nurse is gained by attending college for two to three years and passing the state's respective exam. The test consists of educational material as well as practical information, making it necessary to study for the exam. The major shortage in nursing comes with the licensure of the registered nurse. The RN certification opens many doors and opportunities to those wanting to pursue a career in the medical profession. In most cases the Registered Nurse oversees other medical tech., interns, LPN (LVN) and Certified Nurses Aids. The average salary reported on the Internet for a RN is in the range of $55,000 per year. RN's can work in private practice, doctor's offices, hospitals, traveling situations as well as other medical options.

BSN:

The BSN or Bachelors of Science in Nursing can be obtained after a nurse completes a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. Many universities are now offering an online option or correspondence classes for nurses to achieve the higher level of education. The RN may wish to return to school to enhance his/her skill and salary level. This transition may not be obvious to a patient by sight, but the experience and knowledge could be a tale-tale sign. A BSN also looks better on paper and hospitals, doctors, nursing homes will ring your telephone off the wall. Generally, the BSN works in a managerial position reviewing case files, dealing with administrators and advocating for patients, but can hold a variety of other nursing positions. The Internet reports the average salary for a BSN at well over $60,000 per year.

Regardless of the nursing path that is chosen, it is extremely important to prepare. While in school take good notes, keep textbooks and other information obtained during the educational experience. Pay close attention in the practical training provided in the hospital or with other medical professionals. The state exam that you will be taking to obtain your license must be taken seriously. There are a variety of great preparatory study guides that will help prepare you for your big day. It is also recommended and advisable to obtain the furthest degree in nursing possible. The more education and letters behind your name the more opportunity that you will have. Nursing is one of those fields that no matter where you go or live there is always a job waiting for you.

If the predictions of the American Association of College Nursing is correct and there is truly that big of a shortage in the future, the pay rates for nurses could double, even triple. The pay scale is already exceptionally good, but imagine what will happen when the nurses of today are retiring. The pay rate will rise and since you have the education and experience, you will be in high demand.

Nursing Certifications and Expanding Your Career

If you are a registered nurse, you already hold the key to unlock an almost unlimited number of career opportunities. The only thing you have to do is choose the door to walk through. There is little risk here, if you feel like you have traveled down the wrong path you can simply choose another door. This is what it's like to obtain advanced nursing certifications. You have the ability to choose a career path that suites you, but you can always gain additional certifications and change your career track.

With a nursing certification there is no limit to the things you can do throughout your career. There are many new and emerging nursing fields popping up all the time. Obtaining certification in areas such as forensic nursing, holistic nursing and genetic nursing will you allow to work in these nontraditional fields. Most of the certifications do not take a long time to obtain, so you can gain as many as you feel necessary.

Obtaining nursing certifications can easily help you advance from a registered nurse into a number of different leadership roles. Although the most common is nursing supervisor, you may gain certifications in specialties such as nurse manager or nurse administrator. These specialties help you land positions in the operational and financial management sectors within the healthcare industry. You may only be working at the hospital, but you could become one of the key leaders that ensure that the hospital runs efficiently and effectively.

When you obtain advanced nursing certifications you give yourself the opportunity to break out of the hospital and into many different types of organizations. Advanced certifications allow you to work in environments that a regular registered nurse may not be able to. For example, with fields like genetic nursing and nurse researcher, you are able to work in a laboratory setting. With specialties like legal nurse consulting, and nurse advocacy you might even find yourself in the courtroom. With ethics in nursing and nurse educator you are sure to be in the classroom.

Not only can you find yourself working in multiple types of organizations during the course of your career, but with some nursing certifications your nursing career may even be able to take you to different states or countries. International nursing gives you the tool to take your nursing knowledge to a variety of different countries. Right now, this is one of the more popular specialties, and though most choose to take their expertise to an underdeveloped nation, you can choose to go where ever you would like, as nurses are in demand all over the world.

Choosing an advanced certification such as independent nurse consulting could give you the option of starting your own business. You can choose to start a consulting business, a mobile or in home nursing business, or maybe even a case management business. The possibilities are endless. Along with the consistent boom in medical services that is forecasted to last for years to come, your chance of turning a profit sooner and staying in business longer is greater than that of the average first time entrepreneur. As the largest group of people in the country (the "baby boomers") begins to age, the need for healthcare workers and businesses will continue to grow.

Becoming certified within a particular specialty will allow you to explore other career interests, possibly writing. A number of nurses lend their knowledge to various media outlets and organizations through either full time or part time writing. Regardless of whether you choose the specialty of nurse writing or you choose to write about other medical procedures, you will find the opportunities endless, possibly allowing you to cultivate this knowledge into a career. Aside from writing articles you may choose to write for seminars, continuing education course materials, or even product reviews.

Nursing certifications allow you to expand your career by giving you options. As you can see there is no limit to the number of career paths that you can take. You can manage your career to change as you change. In this economy some may see career longevity as a great reason for gaining nursing certifications. Many nurses see the flexibility of obtaining these additional credentials as their greatest asset. You should be able to obtain certifications while still working full time. Your certifications can help you move from the hectic pace and schedule of a registered nurse to the more structured business hours and standard schedule of a consultant. Then there is the consistent demand of specialty nurses. Unlike most of those entering the workforce today, you should be able to get a job anywhere in the U.S.

Nursing certifications not only expand your career, but they give you the control of turning your career into whatever you would like it to be. Certifications such as these allow you to take your favorite part of your job and perform that service possibly for the rest of your career.

Third-World Nursing - Seizing The Opportunity Of A Lifetime

Before settling down on a permanent or long-term nursing job, it's a good idea to explore your options first and expand your horizons. Having an exciting and different kind of experience outside your comfort zone can teach you a lot of things, not just about the nursing profession but also about yourself, the world, people, and life in general. As the old adage goes, you only live once. One of the best things about the nursing profession is that it is so flexible and recognized everywhere. Anywhere in the world in their urbane scrubs free shipping, nurses are in high demand and thus, traveling and working in different places in the world is an opportunity you should seize! While it is not the most obvious option, working as a nurse in a third-world country can be the most exciting and life-changing experience you can have.

What is a third-world country?

In general, third-world countries are economically underdeveloped countries, mostly situated in Africa, Asia and Latin America. The term "third-world" may actually be deemed politically incorrect and the term "developing countries" is preferred. In these countries, there is a significantly high level of poverty. Healthcare, educational, and other basic services are grossly insufficient. Other common characteristics include high birthrates, over-population, and economic dependence on advanced countries, and a very low GNP. Because of these, foreign aid and volunteers are usually needed.

Making a difference

As you can suppose, conditions in a third-world country may be austere and even dangerous. However, it offers a great opportunity to help other people, promote health, spread advocacy, prevent diseases, experience diverse cultures, and even a chance to make a difference.

Providing free healthcare

The most common type of nursing opportunities abroad is short term volunteer assignments similar to the Peace Corps, usually lasting for three weeks at a time. These "missions" are often sponsored and organized by religious organizations, corporate foundations, international organizations, or individual groups. Transportation as well as allowance for food and lodging is usually covered by the sponsoring organization and equipment and pharmaceuticals are usually brought to the site. Volunteers are organized into teams and have to make the daily travel to makeshift clinics located in remote villages or in the outskirts of the city. Residents of the village assemble at the designated site and volunteers provide various medical services such as adult, gynecologic, and pediatric care; they also dispense basic medicines.

Challenging encounters

A lot of times, you will need to adapt and improvise depending on the available facilities and environment. Also, you will encounter a lot of diseases that you only read about in medical books but do not encounter back home such as Malaria, elephantitis, neonatal tetanus, and various epidemics. A lot of these countries may also be undergoing political turmoil, armed struggle, revolutions, and civil war where armed civilians roam the villages. You will also have to adjust to the living and transport conditions-traveling on foot, riding a mule, horseback or in a four-wheel drive up mountains and across rivers, and sleeping on mats, on the ground, or on the floor. Indeed, it is not for the faint of heart. So before you decide on embarking on this kind of adventure, make sure you know what you're getting into.

5 Top Tips for Choosing an Honest Nursing Employment Agency

I have had a number of nurses write to me with stories of dishonest nursing employment agencies that have taken their money and done nothing for them. This can really shake your faith in people and leave you with a sour taste in your mouth... but do not let these dishonest people rob you of your dream of moving your nursing career abroad! Here are some tips on judging the quality of nursing recruiters that will help you kick start your job hunt.

Does the nursing employment agency have a website?
Most companies that are involved in recruiting internationally educated nurses have a website. There are a few things you need to look for on the website that will help you judge the quality of the agency and the recruiters working for them.

1. Are they affiliated with any professional recruiting membership organisation? Just like lawyers, teachers and travel agents have membership organisations, so do recruiting services. These membership organisations offer you; the client, protection from illegal fraudulent practices. Check the nursing agency's website to see if they belong to a membership organisation. If they do not advertise it, you can email them and ask for this information.

2. How long has the nursing agency been operating? Nursing recruiting agencies that have been operating for a while are more likely to operate legally and consider your best interests because they have a reputation to maintain. One of the worst things a business can experience is poor recommendations passed around by word-of-mouth.

3. Is the website professional looking? If a company has not made the effort to put up a professional looking website, this may be a signal that they do not take their business seriously. The internet is an extremely powerful business tool, especially for a business that is working with nurses and nursing employers in different countries.

4. Can you find the agencies 'terms of use'? It is customary for business on the internet to have a link to the company's 'terms of use', is this easy to find? When you read it, can you understand what it means? Are the costs and responsibilities for using their recruiting service clearly stated?

5. Does the nursing employment agency have offline contacts listed? Online business should have a real life address, and they should show it clearly on their website. It may not be on the front page of the nursing agency's website, it may be listed on a 'Contact Us' page or in fine print at the bottom of each page, or listed on the 'terms of use' page. If you can't find a way to contact a representative of the agency offline, it is probably a good idea to be wary. Listing offline contact information is part of the USA's anti-spam law and any company aiming to do business online with the USA or its citizens is required to list this information.

While I cannot guarantee that using these tips will secure you a nursing career overseas, I can assure you with confidence that I have used these strategies myself and have always had good luck with them.

Volunteer Abroad International Opportunities Overseas Volunteering Humanitarian Trips Medical Nurses Emt College & High School Students Families

Volunteer Abroad Programs - Volunteering Work Opportunities

Welcome to A Broader View Volunteers! We offer international volunteer projects for the globally-minded individual searching for a unique travel experience. Our volunteer projects are available year round in Central America, South America, Asia and Africa.

We offer customized programs with flexible start dates. You choose when you want to volunteer and for how long. We personalize each program to suit your skills and preferences. Regardless if you are traveling solo, with your family, on a spring break, gap year or medical mission, we can arrange a rewarding volunteer experience.

Mapa

We offer the following A Broader View international volunteering opportunities:

orphanageChild Care/Orphanages projects:

Volunteer abroad in with orphan children and street kids.  As a volunteer, you will primarily assist with the daily care of the kids; including feeding babies, teaching English, playing games, teaching songs, reading activities, creating arts & crafts projects and sharing your affection and attention with these wonderful children.

clinicHIV/AIDS awareness projects:

Volunteer abroad supporting HIV/Aids organizations working in rural communities promoting health education, prevention, awareness and care.

Volunteers work with grassroots local organizations that provide HIV/AIDS education and support to rural communities.

The project is to advocate for women, children and families in the fight against preventable diseases as well as mobilizing communities, strengthening their capacity and using their own resources for acceptable and sustainable projects.

teachingEducation/Vocation projects:

Volunteer abroad working in kindergarten, primary and secondary schools.

As a volunteer, you will primarily assist the local staff with teaching English, math, science, geography and vocational skills such as carpentry, electronics and computer training.  TEFL certificate is not required.

hospitalMedical and Dental projects:

Volunteer abroad at rural clinics and community hospitals. Both hands-on and observation work is available. Health care volunteer placements are open to medical professionals including doctors, dentists, nurses and EMT's.

This program is also open to nursing and medical students in all medical fields. Medical volunteers must submit a copy of their credentials or nursing certificate, or university/medical school letter verifying enrollment.

constructionConstruction / Community Development projects:

Volunteer abroad  to support women empowerment projects in the community, Volunteers needed for manual labor jobs working along side skilled and unskilled local workers.

Some tasks include building a children's playground, footbridge, painting, renovation work at the school and farming programs. Volunteer at a school, orphanage or ecology projects.

Conservation and Environmental projects:

Volunteer abroad in a National park helping tortoises or other wildlife, as well as the fauna. The main objective of this project is to rehabilitate the animals and reincorporate them back into their natural habitat. Volunteers will feed animals and clean and repair cages. In addition, they will help build new cages and improve existing facilities

Language & Cultural Immersion.

Language & Cultural Immersion:

Delve into a new language! We provide you the chance to fully immerse into the culture and learn Spanish.

Focusing in conversation practice, grammar, readings and the vocabulary according to the student level and needs. The program is based in 20 hours per week, 4 hours per day from Monday through Friday. Students at all levels are welcome. You choose morning or afternoon classes. The remainder of your day you will volunteer at a local orphanage or school helping children learn English or you can use your time for other activities.

Our programs open you up to world of discovery. You will experience people, places and things of which you have only dreamed. If you have one month to spare or just one week, A Broader View programs offer a real opportunity to experience, learn and contribute in ways which traditional travel does not do.

We provide the unique opportunity to truly experience foreign cultures, learn about new people and have a life-changing experience.

Volunteer with us and gain A Broader View of the World

Why Choose Nursing Abroad as a Career

Why choose nursing abroad as a career? Many reasons come to mind; you can advance your career, gain a variety of clinical experiences, make a higher salary and, fulfill your travel desires, to name a few.

Many countries are experiencing an acute shortage of qualified experienced nurses. This has resulted in a golden opportunity for internationally educated nurses to move overseas either temporarily for a year or two, or to immigrate permanently.

Advancing your Nursing Career Abroad
Because these countries are crying out for nurses to fill immediate vacancies at all levels it is easy for overseas nurses to springboard their way into senior nursing positions which may include supervisory or management roles.

Even if you are not keen on moving your nursing career abroad permanently, taking your nursing job overseas for a year or two to gain experience in a management role can launch you into management once you return home with a newly enhanced resume.

Gain a Variety of Clinical Experience
Nursing overseas can open up opportunities to encounter different clinical experiences because although you will probably initially be hired to nurse in the specialty in which you currently have experience, you will come across country and region specific experiences.

Nursing overseas will also allow you to gain experience in alternative techniques and approaches to nursing and healthcare.

Earn a Higher Salary
Countries experiencing acute nursing shortages are desperate for nurses to fill the vacancies in their healthcare system. As a result they are often paying higher wages in an attempt to attract more nurses, both domestically and internationally. Many healthcare recruiters are also offering benefits and bonuses that can add to your bottom line.

I have had a number of colleagues who have worked abroad for a few years to save money then returned home with a healthy house deposit or paid off their student loans completely.

Travel and Explore the World
Nursing abroad means you will make your home in a new region of the world. The opportunity this lends to explore new countries and cultures is priceless. If your dream is to explore the UK, the USA, Australia… then moving your nursing career abroad to one of these countries currently experiencing acute nursing shortages will give you the opportunity to fulfill your dream and fund it at the same time.

This is a technique I have used personally to explore the UK, Eastern Europe and South East Asia over the last 12 years.

Nursing is a transferrable occupation
Moving your nursing career abroad is a realistic option for both experienced and newly registered nurses not only because there is a worldwide shortage of nurses, but also because there is a long history of nurses moving around the world to work.

The most you will be required to do in order to get a job in a new country is prove you are registered at home, have a suitable equivalent level of education and training and perhaps sit an exam. While different countries have vastly different rules which can be confusing to work around, it is easy to find a nursing job abroad with the right roadmap through the recruiting and registration process.

Applying for International Nursing Vacancies

International nursing vacancies are en vogue today because of the several perks they include, such as the extremely high pay, the great boost to the resume it brings, and of course, the chance to visit a foreign country. Several international nursing vacancies are being posted in the classifieds each day, and qualified nurses are getting the chances to go on these assignments.

There are some things to look out for in advance, though. The first thing would be to get a complete list of duties that the nurse would have to perform in the international assignment, and get it in a written and signed contractual form. This is very important in order to avoid any misunderstandings later. Even the remuneration must be decided in advance, and the additional benefits that may be included, such as accommodation facilities, tickets for the travel, etc. Since most of these international jobs are in the form of individual assignments, it is necessary to get everything confirmed in the form of a contract.

Next, you would like to see which nursing jobs are in demand internationally. Actually speaking, all nursing jobs are in much demand everywhere, and there are no favorites. However, the jobs that are easier to get than others are nurse practitioner jobs, licensed practical nurse jobs, childcare and maternal care nurse jobs, cardiac care nurse jobs, diabetic care nurse jobs, paralysis and invalid patient nurse jobs, oncology nurse jobs, etc. It will be harder to find jobs for anesthetic nurses, operating room nurses, emergency room nurses, dental nurses, etc. In fact, the jobs that have more individual patient care are more in demand internationally.

In order to become eligible for an international nurse job, it is good if you are a registered nurse with a few years of experience. However, being an individual contract job most of the time, even licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses can get jobs, but they will need to be content with lower pays and will not be able to continue their educational courses when they are on an assignment. Also, they may have to fend for themselves. Even so, it is good for a licensed practical nurse to get an international assignment to add to the portfolio.

People looking for international nurse jobs must get themselves registered with a nurse recruiting agency. These people have listings of several international nurse jobs in countries around the world and worthy candidates are selected for the jobs and sent on assignments. Some of the most acclaimed international nursing recruiters are Compass International, Adevia, American Life and Dignity, Alda, etc. or you can also visit some websites like nurse-recruiters.com which can give you a good knowledge of the available assignments.

It is needless to add that if you are looking for an international nursing job, you will have to keep your documentation ready. At least, a passport must be ready with you, along with certificates of your nursing jobs and letters of recommendation that might be required. Visa is usually simple to get once you have the contract in your hand. If there is a qualifying interview to be given at the embassy, you will need to tell them you are moving out on a temporary nursing assignment.

Cheap International Travel: Unwind Before It Gets All Tangled

There's no denying about the phrase, "all work and no play can make anybody go bonkers!"

Everybody is expected to work at its best when in all sorts of jobs. Nurses are expected to do the rounds more than 16 hours and maybe longer unless they realize they have exceeded their minimum time or until they break down because all they did was work, drink coffee, work, and drink coffee in full 26 hours. Everyone can tell that doing that is quite too much. Its not like you're the world's greatest hero and not everyone realizes what you've been doing either.

We're not talking about nurses only, there's doctors too expected to meet their patients on call. The architects spending days drawing, you'll be surprised they haven't transferred their faces from staying in front of those stencils and plates on to their project. Businessman only has numbers in their heads. Engineers got buildings to attend to. Most often, work consumes most of your time that you miss out the big world out there waiting to be explored.

What's worst is that if you spent all of your time on work that you loose the supposed quality time you should have been spending with your family. Too busy to even remember your kids plays in school, you and your partners wedding anniversary, your parents birthdays and God knows what more significant dates you have taken for granted because of having all the focus at work.

Make up to them, and finally give yourself a break from the busy world. Live up in the real world. The world of nature. Life is too short to be wasted on material things alone. There are so many places to go to, explore other countries. Visit other cities. The best part about it is that there's a lot of offers out there about cheap international travels that you can search on so you can actually afford to bring your family with you.

Memories are the supreme treasure you can pass on to those you love. Travelling, visiting places half way around the world, and living life far from your usual routine can really leave a lasting memory not only to you but to the whole family as well, or to whoever is with you.

This is not exclusively for family persons only. If you're not married, then why not ask your friends for a quick tour somewhere else. An adventure using cheap international travel informations that is available in all airline desks where you can find tips on how to travel by the budget. The best experience that you'll never forget is exploring another part of the world not everyone finds time to do.

Before work gets the best out of you and before it spoils all your years, while you still are strong and while you have the budget to plan, go travel! When you've finally had that great break, you'll realize that you have more enthusiasm to work when you return. Having a good unwinding experience recharge your energy needed to create that excellent outputs in all aspects of jobs there is everywhere. It has been proven that revitalizing is helpful for everyone. So, why go wait till you're messed up and old? While you still have the chance, before you finally break down from all the pile of work. Find that information about cheap international travel as soon as you finish the last batch of paperwork that went in for you today.

Dubai Nursing Jobs

Dubai, the flagship city of UAE, offers a plethora of job opportunities to those expatriates who wish to work in this highly diverse and multi-cultural city. Jobs across all industries such as IT, healthcare, realty, banking and finance, construction, oil and gas, manufacturing and hospitality etc are available in Dubai across all work levels. Big players and international companies in all sectors have set foot in Dubai giving it the status of a world-city. In this article, we will explore the job opportunities in healthcare, especially nursing jobs in Dubai. There is a he demand for well qualified and trained nurses in Dubai in various healthcare departments.

In fact, for nursing jobs, Dubai has become the most preferred destination of expatriates. There are endless opportunities for growth and career development in Dubai as the region is witnessing immense growth itself. Thus, the number of job openings has also increased considerably in Dubai and both local as well as multinational companies are willing to hire foreign nurses in Dubai. Working as a nurse in Dubai comes with many benefits as one gets to acquire invaluable professional experience working in world-class healthcare institutions under the best of conditions and of course with high remuneration.

As a nurse, you could get various settings for jobs in Dubai. This means that the kind of places that you can works as a nurse in Dubai is also many. To start with, hospitals, of course, hire nurses in their various departments. Services of nurses are required in the emergency department, intensive care units, pediatrics department, surgical department, radiology department beyond many other departments. Qualified nurses with proper training are quickly absorbed in most hospitals. Hospitals with state of art medical facilities are established in Dubai. To work as a nurse in one of such hospitals under the guidance of qualified doctors could be an experience to cherish if one works as a nurse in Dubai. One could get a job as nursing directors and managers too in hospitals.

Apart from hospitals, nurses in Dubai are hired by other institutions too. There are doctors and medical practitioners who practice privately. These include dentists, physiotherapists etc. These medical practitioners too employ nurses. Expatriate nurses with appropriate education and experience can look forward to good opportunities with such doctors having individual practice. Apart from these, one could also work with international companies outside hospitals such as a company nurse or a school nurse, or even as a private nurse. Thus, there are ample jobs for nurses in Dubai. To sum up, qualified and experienced nurses can look to get following jobs in Dubai: as staff nurses, as emergency room nurses, as intensive care or critical care nurses, as pediatric nurses, as dental care nurses, as nursing directors and assistant directors for various hospital departments, as school nurses and also as private nurses.

Dubai or gulf Job vacancies for the same are regularly advertised through newspapers, job sites and directly on the websites of companies. Other than permanent jobs, nurses in Dubai are also hired on temporary basis as traveling nurses so there are such vacancies too. As so many opportunities abound for nurses in Dubai, a nursing career will be full of growth opportunities and satisfaction in Dubai. Apart from growth prospects, the other major attraction that pulls nurses into Dubai is the attractive salaries that employers offer.

The healthcare industry in Dubai offers quite competitive salaries to its staff. Nurses are paid quite well and their salary packages come with associated benefits such as accommodation allowance, travel allowance, education benefits for children, paid leave, associated transportation costs and other such benefits. Also, the incomes in Dubai are tax-free, which means that whatever you earn is for you to keep. Thus, with high salaries, expatriates end up saving a lot in nursing jobs in Dubai. Before taking up a nursing job in Dubai, it would be beneficial if you join an online forum or a community of such nurses already working in Dubai to get a first hand information about the career and lifestyle as a nurse in Dubai. You will get in-depth information through such forums. With Dubai's medical sector growing intensively, it has become a much sought-after destination for foreign nurses.

Nursing Profession

In Pakistan, nursing profession is not considered favorable by Muslim families. In rural areas there are almost five nurses for 1 million people. Community health and public health care have been lacking in the nursing curriculum. Therefore, preparing recruits for the community many nursing institutes and communities has involved a sequence of continuing education in service and on the job training in the new BScN program courses. Those nurses who has a diploma in nursing and a year of midwifery, and who followed this sequence, could be selected for being sponsored for support in the two year BScN program with its community health orientation. After two more years of advanced experience, these nurses are given the opportunity to apply for master's studies abroad. And after completing their masters, when they return they are employed by the communities and hospitals to take immediate actions in these rural areas.

Nursing Profession looks for graduate nurses who could become future leaders, researchers and innovators of nursing practice. Nursing programme provides students with a level of practice and theory in nursing that will enable them to boldly take on the role of a Registered Nurse within a quickly changing health care services. The Government or the Board are regularly re-validating courses to strengthen nurses the nursing, midwifery and health visiting future needs.

Courses for qualifying as Registered Nurses are:

Diploma in Nursing
BSc. Nursing
BSc. (Honors) Nursing
MSc. Nursing

These courses help to progress from a novice student of nursing to a competent practitioner; they will be able to practice in any situation in which ever branch of nursing. From day one the students will be able to see the relevance of what they are learning as they gradually explore case scenarios based around real users of health care services, which gives the confidence to develop a range of important foundation skills, like working in teams.

Entry Requirements For International Courses:
A minimum of two passes at GCE A Level, equivalent to 12 A Level points, and three further GCSE passes at grade C or above, normally including English and Mathematics; or equivalent profile. Other entry requirements are based on the course chosen

Academic Programmes Offered In Pakistan:

Diploma in Nursing:

Entry Criteria:
Must have completed twelve years of education (HSC Science or General Group) or Matric (Science or General Group) by obtaining not less than 45%. Aptitude Test and interview are required for applicants.

Diploma in Pupil Midwifery:
Must have completed ten years of education Matric (Science or General Group) by obtaining not less than 45%. Admissions are granted on passing Tests and Interview.

Graduation Requirement:
For graduation, the candidate must complete 3 years by remaining full-time student and pass all required examinations as per rules of the Nursing School and Pakistan Nursing Council.

Nursing Practicies

Nursing Profession looks for graduate nurses who could become future leaders, researchers and innovators of nursing practice. Nursing programme provides students with a level of practice and theory in nursing that will enable them to boldly take on the role of a Registered Nurse within a quickly changing health care services. The Government or the Board are regularly re-validating courses to strengthen nurses the nursing, midwifery and health visiting future needs.

Courses for qualifying as Registered Nurses are:

Diploma in Nursing
BSc. Nursing
BSc. (Honors) Nursing
MSc. Nursing

These courses help to progress from a novice student of nursing to a competent practitioner; they will be able to practice in any situation in which ever branch of nursing. From day one the students will be able to see the relevance of what they are learning as they gradually explore case scenarios based around real users of health care services, which gives the confidence to develop a range of important foundation skills, like working in teams.

Entry Requirements For International Courses:
A minimum of two passes at GCE A Level, equivalent to 12 A Level points, and three further GCSE passes at grade C or above, normally including English and Mathematics; or equivalent profile. Other entry requirements are based on the course chosen

In Pakistan, nursing profession is not considered favorable by Muslim families. In rural areas there are almost five nurses for 1 million people. Community health and public health care have been lacking in the nursing curriculum. Therefore, preparing recruits for the community many nursing institutes and communities has involved a sequence of continuing education in service and on the job training in the new BScN program courses. Those nurses who has a diploma in nursing and a year of midwifery, and who followed this sequence, could be selected for being sponsored for support in the two year BScN program with its community health orientation. After two more years of advanced experience, these nurses are given the opportunity to apply for master's studies abroad. And after completing their masters, when they return they are employed by the communities and hospitals to take immediate actions in these rural areas.

Academic Programmes Offered In Pakistan:

Diploma in General Nursing:

Entry Criteria:
Must have completed twelve years of education (HSC Science or General Group) or Matric (Science or General Group) by obtaining not less than 45%. Aptitude Test and interview are required for applicants.

Graduation Requirement:
For graduation, the candidate must complete 3 years by remaining full-time student and pass all required examinations as per rules of the Nursing School and Pakistan Nursing Council.

Diploma in Pupil Midwifery:
Must have completed ten years of education Matric (Science or General Group) by obtaining not less than 45%. Admissions are granted on passing Tests and Interview.

Nursing From the Beginning

Nursing from the beginning has existed in various forms in every culture, while the definition of nursing and its practice has changed significantly over time. The oldest form of the word is found in the English language from the 14th century and referred to a woman employed to suckle and generally care for a younger child. In the 15th century, nursing developed in the idea of looking after or advising another, and not necessarily meaning a woman looking after a child. The idea of nourishing in the broadest sense refers in modern nursing to promoting quality of life.

When this concept took its birth, nuns and the military often provided nursing-like services. The religious and military roots of modern nursing remain in evidence today in many countries.

During the World War, a significant development in nursing history arose when Florence Nightingale, working to improve conditions of soldiers in the Crimean War, laid the foundation stone of professional nursing with the principles.
New Zealand was the first country to regulate nurses nationally, with the implementation of the Nurses Registration Act on the 12th of September, 1901. Ellen Dougherty was the first Registered Nurse. North Carolina was the first state in the United States to pass a nursing licensure law in 1903.

Today Nurses are often in key management roles within health services and hold research posts at universities.

Nursing as a profession
The aim of the worldwide nursing community is to develop the profession guided by continuing education based on nursing research, and to regulate standards of competency and ethics. There are a number of educational paths to becoming a professional nurse, but all involve extensive study of nursing theory and practice and training in clinical skills.

The authority for the practice of nursing is based upon a social contract that outlines professional rights and responsibilities as well as mechanisms for public accountability. In almost all countries, nursing practice is defined and governed by law, and entrance to the profession is regulated at national or state level.

Nursing practice:
Nursing practice is mainly the caring relationship between the nurse and the patient in their care. In providing nursing care, nurses are implementing the nursing care plan, which is based on a nursing assessment.

Definition:
"Nursing encompasses autonomous and collaborative care of individuals of all ages, families, groups and communities, sick or well and in all settings. Nursing includes the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and the care of ill, disabled and dying people. Advocacy, promotion of a safe environment, research, participation in shaping health policy and in patient and health systems management, and education are also key nursing roles."

International Council of Nurses

NCLEX Introduction:
The NCLEX tests are required to receive professional licensure in the field of nursing and are created by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). The NCLEX means National Council Licensure Examination.

The NCLEX tests are designed to be one of the final hurdles in nursing career. Consequently, the questions focus on the ability of the candidate to make decisions in various patient care scenarios under critical conditions. The NCLEX test requires that the candidate understand the basic principles of nursing and apply this to different elements of patient safety management.

The key NCLEX testing tips are stated as follows:
1. Assess, Assess, Assess: In almost all cases something can be done before contacting the MD.
2. Prioritize: Delegate to the appropriate support personal and prioritize your tasks.
3. Review Medical Terminology: Understand the definition of all medical abbreviations and terminology used in the NCLEX questions.

Schools of Nursing:

Aga Khan University School of Nursing:
Established in 1980, Aga Khan University School of Nursing (AKU-SON) was the first academic component of AKU and its Faculty of Health Sciences. The School offers several programs in nursing, including a three-year Diploma Program, Pakistan's first four year BScN and a two-year Post RN BScN, as well as the first Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) which started in October 2001. Four-year BScN and MScN are the only program of its kind in Pakistan.

Since its commencement, AKU-SON has played a leading role in establishing an internationally acceptable model for nursing education and practice in Pakistan, and has trained 2,232 nurses

Pakistan became the first Muslim country to achieve chapter status in the Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI) global network when, in 2000, Aga Khan University School of Nursing Honour Society received its Charter.

Pakistan Institute of medical Sciences:

History:
The School of Nursing is one of the components of the Pakistan Institute of medical Sciences Islamabad. The School of Nursing organized in September 14 1987. The School of Nursing is affiliated with Nursing Board, Lahore-Pakistan. The total covered area will be 19942Sq.f.t and that of hostel will be 43485sq.ft.

Course Offered:
Duration of basic nursing is for three years and that of midwifery is one year. During the course the courses related to the medical profession and nursing care has been taught.

Facilities:
School of Nursing granted remuneration to the students according to existing government rules. School of Nursing provides accommodation facilities to the students subject to its availability.

Ziauddin Medical University:

Background:
The School of Nursing was established in 1986 and received recognition by the Pakistan Nursing Council in the same year while the School of Midwifery was recognized in 1990.

Programme Objective:
The program is designed to produce competent nurses and midwives equipped with the necessary knowledge and skill to contribute to the improvement of health of individual(s) and family(s) in the hospital and community by applying the principles of nursing and primary health care. Students experienced clinical training in community and hospitals including Ziauddin Medical University hospitals.

Academic Programs Offered:
Diploma in General Nursing (3 years)
Diploma in Midwifery (One Year (Post Basic)
Diploma in General Nursing Program (18 months)
Diploma in Pupil Midwifery (18 months)