If you’re a nurse or allied healthcare professional considering the high-impact world of strike nursing, preparation is key. When a strike notice is issued, the window for deployment is often short, and the need for qualified, ready-to-go professionals is immediate. The more prepared you are, the faster you can take advantage of these exciting opportunities—and the smoother your experience will be from start to finish.
In this guide, we’ll cover exactly how to prepare for a strike assignment, from keeping your credentials organized to packing smart and staying mentally ready for the challenges ahead. Whether it’s your first assignment or you’re a seasoned pro, this checklist will help ensure you’re always deployment-ready.
Why Preparation Matters in Strike Nursing
Unlike traditional travel assignments, strike nursing often moves at an accelerated pace. Strike notices may give just a few days’ warning, and facilities rely on agencies like RapidStaff to quickly supply experienced healthcare workers who are fully credentialed and ready to hit the ground running.
Being prepared not only increases your chances of being selected for high-paying strike opportunities, but it also reduces the stress of last-minute scrambling and ensures you can focus on delivering excellent patient care.
Step 1: Keep Your Credentials Up to Date
The most important factor in deployment readiness is having all your professional documentation current and easily accessible.
Key Documents to Keep Updated:
- Active Nursing or Healthcare License(s)
- Compact State Licenses (if applicable)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
- Advanced Certifications (ACLS, PALS, TNCC, NRP, etc.)
- Immunization Records and TB Test Results
- Physical Examination Documents
- Background Check and Drug Screen Clearance (if recently completed)
- Updated Resume
Consider using tools like the Credentialing Wallet in the TotalMed+ app or portal to digitally store your documents. This ensures that your paperwork is always just a few clicks away when a strike assignment becomes available.
Step 2: Maintain a Travel-Ready Bag
Strike assignments often require you to deploy within 24–72 hours of notice. Having a dedicated “go-bag” packed with essentials can save valuable time and help you avoid forgetting critical items in the rush.
Essentials to Pack:
- Scrubs and Comfortable Work Shoes
- Personal Hygiene Products
- Basic Medications and First Aid Items
- Copies of Your Credentials (Physical and Digital)
- Portable Phone Charger and Power Bank
- Snacks and Non-Perishable Food Items for Travel
- Travel-Size Laundry Supplies
- Lightweight Blanket and Travel Pillow
Don’t forget to bring a small notebook and pens—you may need to quickly jot down facility information, assignment details, or patient care notes in environments where electronic documentation isn’t immediately accessible.
Step 3: Understand the Nature of Strike Assignments
Going into a strike nursing assignment requires a mindset shift. These deployments are not your typical travel jobs. They often involve:
- High-Intensity Work Environments: Staffing shortages and high patient volumes are common.
- Longer Shifts and Extended Hours: Be prepared for 12-hour shifts or back-to-back days.
- Navigating Tense Situations: Strikes can create an emotionally charged environment. Remaining professional and focused on patient care is critical.
Prepare yourself mentally by remembering why you’re there—to ensure that patients continue to receive safe, quality care during a time of disruption.
Step 4: Build Financial and Logistical Readiness
Even though strike assignments offer competitive pay, you’ll want to make sure you have immediate access to funds for incidental expenses before your first paycheck arrives.
Financial Preparation Tips:
- Have a credit card or debit card with sufficient funds for emergencies.
- Verify your direct deposit information is correct with RapidStaff or your agency.
- Keep a small amount of cash on hand for unexpected situations.
Also, ensure you’re logistically ready to leave at a moment’s notice:
- Keep your car fueled if driving to an assignment.
- Have your passport or state ID easily accessible for flights.
- Make arrangements for pets, family, or other obligations ahead of time.
Step 5: Familiarize Yourself with RapidStaff Processes
Knowing how the deployment process works with RapidStaff will help you stay ahead of the game.
Key RapidStaff Tips:
- Regularly log in to the RapidStaff portal to review upcoming strike opportunities.
- Enable text and email notifications so you never miss a deployment alert.
- Use the Credentialing Wallet to keep your documents organized and updated.
The faster you respond to deployment alerts and complete any required onboarding steps, the more likely you are to secure high-demand assignments.
Step 6: Practice Self-Care and Stress Management
Working during a strike can be physically and emotionally demanding. To perform at your best, you need to prioritize your own health and well-being.
Self-Care Strategies:
- Get adequate rest before deployment.
- Bring healthy snacks and stay hydrated throughout your shifts.
- Schedule short mental breaks when possible during long shifts.
- Stay connected with friends and family for emotional support.
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself ensures that you can provide the highest level of care to your patients.
Step 7: Know What to Expect Upon Arrival
When you arrive at a strike assignment, things move quickly. You’ll likely receive a rapid orientation, an overview of facility protocols, and immediate patient assignments.
Be prepared to:
- Ask clear, direct questions during your orientation.
- Familiarize yourself with the facility’s emergency protocols.
- Focus on teamwork with fellow strike healthcare workers to ensure smooth operations.
Flexibility and a positive attitude will go a long way in helping you adjust quickly and make a lasting impact.
Final Thoughts: Your Skills Are Needed—Be Ready to Answer the Call
The healthcare industry needs courageous, skilled professionals like you to step up during times of crisis. By staying prepared, you’ll be ready to seize life-changing career opportunities, make a meaningful difference for patients, and enjoy the personal and financial rewards that come with strike nursing.
At RapidStaff, we’re committed to helping you stay deployment-ready with the resources, tools, and support you need to succeed. Whether it’s your first assignment or you’re a veteran of strike deployments, we’re here to ensure every step of your journey is seamless and rewarding.
Are You Ready?
Visit RapidStaff.com to review upcoming strike opportunities, update your credentials, and stay prepared for your next assignment. The call to care during critical times is just around the corner—will you be ready to answer?
