#ARMS Travel Nurse Story
Remember those early days in kindergarten when you were asked to draw what you wanted to be when you grew up? For Toni, a travel nurse with ARMStaffing, that dream began with a simple drawing of a nurse. “We had to lay down on the floor, and they traced our bodies,” she recalled, “and I drew a nurse because I was often in the hospital as a young child, I had cardiac issues.” The constant presence of EKGs and medical care in her youth became a foundational part of her life and sparked a passion for nursing.
Fast forward to adulthood, life took Toni in various directions until her father fell ill. “My father became sick, I went to a hospital, and I decided, you know, I’m going to do this. So, I went to nursing school.” Despite having two small children, she enrolled at Penn State, excelled in her studies, and even became president of her class as a nontraditional student.
Toni found her calling in Progressive Care Units (PCU) and developed a love for floating between units. “I actually love floating,” she admitted, “I like the non-commitment to one particular unit, but I like to help everyone.” Her journey began in Neurotrauma and Neurosurgery, where she honed her skills before eventually moving into cardiac care, a field that had always fascinated her. “I like the cardiac aspect of things because prior to me getting into nursing, I was at Elementary Tech, where I would read the strips at Geisinger Medical Center.”
Taking the Leap into Travel Healthcare
In early 2020, Toni made the leap from being a staff nurse to a travel nurse with ARMStaffing. Her prior experience in home health, where she adapted to different environments and situations daily, made for a smooth transition. “I figured, well, travel nursing would be a great fit,” she said. “You know, I get to see places and get to help people. And not to mention that the compensation was pretty good.”
Navigating the ‘New Normal’
When asked if securing contracts has ever been an issue for her, particularly in a post-pandemic world, she replied, “For me personally, not at all. And I don’t know if it’s a personality thing or, a resume thing. I’m not sure. But for me, no trouble at all.”
Michael, her recruiter at ARMStaffing, has been crucial in this process. “Michael has been fantastic. I mean, we communicate a couple times a week, and if we don’t communicate, one of us is on vacation,” she joked. This supportive relationship has made her experience with ARMStaffing outstanding from the beginning.
Being a part of the ARMS family
Despite being registered with other agencies, Toni chooses to work with ARMStaffing because of the personalized care she receives. “Michael knows what I want. I don’t feel like he’s just in it for the money. He truly feels this is his happiness. Like, this is his jam.” Michael’s genuine interest in her happiness and career stood out to her.
“I feel like my best interest is in heart with ARMStaffing,” she explained. ARMStaffing has provided a supportive, non-pushy environment, ensuring all processes run smoothly. For her, ARMS isn’t just an agency; it’s a partner in her journey as a travel nurse, always ready to help her navigate the next step in her career.
Toni’s story shows that you should always follow your passion and the difference a supportive agency can make. Through ARMStaffing, Toni continues to thrive, embracing the challenges and rewards of travel nursing, while always keeping patient care at the forefront. Her journey, from a young girl inspired by hospital stays to a successful travel nurse, is an inspiring tale of dedication, adaptability, and the pursuit of dreams.
You’re a rockstar, Toni!
All About You
Here comes the lightning round – All of Toni’s favorites.
Movie: Overboard
Color: Purple
Hobbies: Snorkeling, Hunting & Fishing
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