Moving to a new city and starting an assignment at a new hospital can present challenges for any travel nurse. You need to adapt to new routines, build relationships with new patients and fellow nurses, and get used to living in a new city.

There's no reason to fear a new environment because facing new situations can help you grow as a travel nurse. While it may feel different at first, you can do a few things to shorten the adjustment period in unfamiliar surroundings:

1. Ask lots of questions

Get your feet wet before jumping in at your new hospital. Make sure you gather the information you need. Doing a good job is always easier when you're equipped with more knowledge. It also helps establish healthy lines of communication from the start.

2. Find a mentor

Observe the nurses in action and find out which ones have the skills and experience to best help you hit the ground running. Finding the right mentor can help understand how to best care for patients at your new hospital.

3. Be honest about your abilities

Never exaggerate when filling out a skills checklist. You want an assignment that will help you progress as a nurse, but you also need to play to your strengths. Being honest about your skills can reduce stress and help your new hospital identify areas where you can grow.

4. Have a positive attitude

Looking forward to your new assignment can help influence how you feel about new co-workers and a new environment. It makes you feel more at ease and will help you avoid unnecessary conflicts.

5. Be flexible

Working well with others is an important ingredient in your recipe for success as a travel nurse. Cooperate with other nurses and doctors. Make providing excellent patient care your top priority and do what's necessary to make it happen.

6. Make time for yourself

Don't focus solely on the job. Explore the city. Find fun things to do in your free time.

7. Make communication a priority

Figure out how your supervisor likes to communicate and make a point of communicating often. You will understand your duties better and understand their expectations more clearly.

8. Create healthy habits

Don't neglect the basics while settling into a new routine. Eat healthy, get enough sleep and exercise daily. This will recharge your batteries and infuse you with much needed energy throughout the day.

9. Always smile

Never allow stress to rule your life. Wear a smile whenever possible. It will make you feel better and will also lift the spirits of everyone around you.

10. Ask for help

If you are struggling with your new assignment, never be afraid to reach out for assistance. It shows you value teamwork in an environment where it really matters.

Learn more about travel nursing from Fastaff, a leader in the travel nursing industry.