3 Nurse Approved Ways to Fill Gaps When You’re Short

Hey there, care team leaders, schedulers, and administrative wizards; this one’s for you.

If you’ve ever had a moment where your heart sank at the sight of a last minute call off or you’ve done that scheduling shuffle that feels more like advanced Tetris than anything else, you are not alone. Nurses and caregivers are burning bright, and sometimes… burning out. And the weight often lands right on your clipboard (pun very much intended).

As a licensed nurse and the heart behind The Nursing Well, I see you. I’ve worked those long nights, filled those holes in the schedule, and sent those “can anyone pick up?” texts. So today, I want to offer a little bit of relief to your nervous system and a whole lot of love.

Here are 3 simple, nurse-approved ways to help you fill staffing gaps without burning out your team or yourself.

1. Build a Flex Pool Before You Need It

You know how we tell patients to hydrate before they’re thirsty? Same thing here. If you’ve got the bandwidth, start cultivating a list of PRNs, floaters, or per diem folks you trust and can call when the pressure is on. Even a few names can go a long way.

Pro tip: Keep a “just-in-case” shift calendar visible. Nurses love a little clarity and consistency.

2. Lean Into the Power of Your Culture

One of the best incentives for shift coverage isn’t always monetary, it’s emotional. When people feel seen, supported, and appreciated, they’re more likely to show up for the team.

Whether it’s a “thank you” note with a gift card for coffee or “lunch on us”, a pizza party after a rough week, or simply checking in with the staff who always step up let them feel the gratitude. It’s the culture of care that creates loyalty.

3. Use Clipboard Health (Because Reliable Back-Up = Peace of Mind)

Sometimes your whole team is just… maxed out. That’s where Clipboard Health comes in.

It’s a simple app that connects your facility to licensed, credentialed nurses, caregivers and CNA's in your area. You can fill open shifts quickly without relying on expensive staffing agencies or last-minute panic mode.

📋Here’s my nurse-approved link to sign up for Clipboard Health:

Using my link also supports my work here at The Nursing Well, which is all about creating care, calm, and clarity for healthcare workers and the people who support them.

Side note: For My Fellow Nurses & Caregivers

If you’re a nurse, CNA, or caregiver looking for flexible ways to earn, breathe a little easier, or simply create a schedule that aligns with your life. Clipboard might just be the thing you didn’t know you needed.

What I personally love about Clipboard (aside from the ease) is this:

• You clock in on the app 📲

• You clock out on the app 💬

• You get paid instantly 💸✨

No waiting. No games. Just real shifts, real time, and real money.

If you’re curious or ready to sign up as a nurse or caregiver, here’s my personal referral link:

📋Use my referral code to earn a $150 bonus after completing your first shift or when you land a job!

My Referral Code: Q3qKbcE9

Enter the code on the "Redeem Code" page under "My Account" before booking your first shift or job interview.

The referral code must be entered before the referred professional’s first shift for a referral bonus to apply. Unfortunately, if you didn’t enter the referral code in time, the bonus cannot be applied retroactively.

When you use my link, you’re also supporting The Nursing Well, which helps me continue creating free resources, love notes, and care-forward content for all of us navigating the wild world of healthcare.

Take what you need. Rest when you can. And always remember that your peace matters too.

In Closing

Whether you’re leading a 100-bed skilled nursing facility or a boutique memory care home, I want you to know: I see you. I respect your hustle. And I hope one of these three ideas helps lighten your load, even just a little.

Here’s to smooth shifts, supported teams, and the power of a well-timed referral.

With heart,

Mika

Founder of The Nursing Well

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