Travel nursing has certainly increased in popularity over the last few years. If you are considering pursuing a travel nurse assignment for the first time, you probably would like to hear first-hand about what it's like. And who better to tell you than a fellow travel nurse?
That's why we partnered with Shawn Rafiner, a Travel LPN with LeaderStat. Shawn was fortunate enough to score an amazing travel nursing contract in paradise. He spent Christmas 2022 in Hawaii! He happened to be in the right travel nursing Facebook group at the right time. After sending in a quick application and getting onboarded, he was getting on a flight to spend the next five months on the stunning island of Kauai.
Keep reading to learn more about Shawn's journey as a nurse, get the inside scoop on Hawaiian culture, and to see some beautiful photos of Kauai.
What made you want to become a nurse?
My mom. She was a diabetic and always in the hospital. I stayed with her a lot. She knew I had a big heart, so she told me that I should to be a nurse so that I could care for others.
I went to the United States Army straight out of high school so that I could afford to go to college when I completed my service. I spent six years in the military. After that, I earned my LPN degree in 2004. As of today, I have 18 years of nursing experience - including travel nursing and being a full-time staff nurse - across a variety of settings (corrections, urgent care, long-term care, hospital).
Can you name some of your must-haves for a travel nursing assignment?
My stethoscope and Pulse ox. For my Hawaii assignment, I had to pack my swimming trunks and flip flops. Also, sunscreen because I have a fair complexion and red hair. And I always make sure to take cash.
Tell us about your assignment in Kauai, Hawaii.
Hawaii was amazing. Its beauty is unexplainable. You see things and still don't believe they are real.
Kauai is a small rural island. One side of the island is all resorts, and the other side is all local. I stayed on the local side and the beaches were amazing. The food was awesome, all the fresh fish and seafood. One funny story is I went to McDonald's to have some food from home! But their fast food menus are a little different than back home in Kentucky. Their McDonald's menu has spam, rice and salmon, which blew my mind.
What’s the best compliment you’ve received from a patient or resident while on assignment?
I definitely made new friends in Hawaii and will miss them. I hope to return soon.
Any advice for nurses who are considering a travel assignment in Hawaii for the very first time?
Hawaiian culture is totally different from the mainland. You forget that you're still in the United States. They call is "Hawaiian time." You can never be in a rush.
If you go into a room and just try to give a resident medications, or do a procedure, they take that as an insult. Instead, they want nurses to come in and chat with them first. Ask how they are doing and "talk story" before doing any work.
I've seen nurses be in a hurry before. The residents have refused to let them take care of them any further. Also, if someone brings food and offers some -- take it. Even if you don't love it, at least try it. To refuse food is an insult. If they are offering it that means they are accepting you welcoming you.
Also, whatever norms you're used to on the mainland - locals probably do things differently in Hawaii. It's important to start a travel nursing assignment with an open mind. Adjust and learn.
You have to embrace the culture. Hawaiian life is a way of life unlike anything on the mainland. It's addicting and special. Also, this might be a culture shock for some people. There are chickens everywhere, just walking around. The roosters crow all the time, day or night. They are everywhere!
I love the beaches! I would hike to the water falls and get to see the beautiful sunset. My pictures look fake, but each one is real and special to me. Also, trying new foods is interesting. Some are good, and some are just not my cup of tea.
What’s the most challenging part of traveling?
Being alone in a new place and not knowing where anything is. I like to make it into a game. When I get there, I explore and find all the places I need to go, and all the amazing areas to visit. I like to find the non-tourist spots and hang out there.
How was your overall experience with LeaderStat while on assignment in Hawaii? Where do you plan to go next?
I have loved every minute of my contract in Kauai. LeaderStat has been beside me through my entire contract, checking on me multiple times and correcting any issues.
For now, I plan to go home. I have twin grandsons being born this spring and want to see them. Then, I'll decide what adventure to go on next. I treat my assignments like bucket list. I get paid to visit to amazing spots and enjoy the environments.
What was your favorite Hawaiian food or drink that you tried?
My favorite Hawaiian food is the hot pepper chicken. Also, all the fresh fish of the days. The seafood is so fresh and tasty. I went to the resort side of the island for three days to relax. It's right on the ocean. Their bars and restaurants have a stunning ocean view.
Did you/do you have a nurse mentor?
Yes! Carla Anderson, RN, was an amazing asset. She lived in Kauai all her life and was a huge help with everything. She is a very special and caring lady, and someone I can call a friend. I'll miss her a lot.
Final thoughts or words of advice?
If you are lucky enough to get an assignment in Hawaii, go into it with an open mind and adapt to their culture. It's what you make of it. If you let yourself learn and adapt, you will leave a better nurse than when you arrived!
Aloha.
LeaderStat specializes in direct care staff, interim leadership, executive recruitment, travel nursing and consulting for healthcare organizations nationwide.
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