Serving Beyond: Alisha Diggs Is A Nurse On The Move

Raleigh, NC – Alisha Diggs is a nurse passionate about providing quality care to patients, as well as uniting nurses worldwide through education and travel. Receiving a Nursing Degree in 2015 from Kentucky State University, a Historically Black University, Alisha chose to travel the world as a Telemetry nurse. After four years of traveling, she knew she wanted more and there was a strong desire to help others beyond the bedside. Alisha’s desire was to branch out into the community. She had a vision to inspire, motivate, and encourage current and future nurses to live their best lives through education, philanthropy, and traveling.

I had the opportunity to connect with Alisha at the 2020 Nurse Boss Summit at the Raleigh Convention Center. Alisha portrayed robust energy as she interacted with nurses from all over the country at her Nurses on the Move display table. She welcomed the opportunity to share her passion and experience as a nurse:

Alisha, tell us a little about yourself.

I am the youngest of three children to my amazing parents Larry and Rhunette Diggs. I was born in Columbus, Ohio and when I was 10 years old, my family lived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I believe this is when I was bitten by the travel bug, as well as having inherited traveling from my dad. After obtaining my degree in Nursing and Psychology from Kentucky State University, I moved to Myrtle Beach, SC where I worked as a Trauma Step-Down RN. A year later, I embarked upon travel nursing. During my travel nurse journey, I worked in North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, California, and Maryland. Currently, I work as an operating room nurse at The University of Maryland in Baltimore.

What attracted you to the healthcare profession, particularly nursing?

At a young age, I knew I wanted to be a nurse, and more specifically I knew I wanted to “help people.” Nursing is a profession that I knew I would be able to interact with people daily and provide both physical and mental assistance. I love being that positive light and “breath of fresh air” to those who are bedridden, unable to care for themselves, and lack medical knowledge. I also realized nursing is a profession that will always be in demand and would provide job security. 

Do you feel you are making the impact you desire with patients in your daytime / “9-5” position?

I believe I am making an impact in my daytime position due to direct patient interaction and the level of care that I provide. I get to deliver valuable and effective information to the patients I care for, and likewise, I get the opportunity to learn from them. With this being said, I also desire to make an impact beyond my 9-5 full- time position.

What, or who has served as your inspiration as a nurse?

My inspiration to become a nurse came from seeing my grandmother in the hospital at a young age. I remember her having tubes coming from her nose and barely being able to speak or open her eyes. I wanted to create positive health outcomes and be knowledgeable about the healthcare field so I could be a resource when one of my family members became sick. As time went on, my inspiration to become a nurse increased from witnessing those I was close to who suffer from medical conditions and become hospitalized. I wanted to be able to provide information and give them insight.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years as a healthcare professional?

Within the next 5 years, I would like to be a full-time nursepreneur traveling across borders to provide nursing care and education. I would like to change lives beyond my “backyard”, not only through physical wellness but also mental wellness. I desire to see people that look like me thrive and have the opportunity to educate others through their own learning. I would also like to open a Certified Nurse Assistant school in a less-privileged area. This school will offer others the opportunity to make a difference within their own communities.

Let’s talk about your role as a travel nurse and Founder of Nurse On The Move. How did this concept come about? Why do you feel it is important to operate as a nurse in this capacity?

The idea for Nurse On The Move came about because there were people on social media constantly messaging me asking about how to become a travel nurse and wanted more information. Initially, Nurse On the Move was created for current and future nurses to obtain information about travel nursing assignments, as well as understand the potential lifestyle one can have as a travel nurse. Nurse On the Move has now progressed to provide opportunities for outreach and philanthropy projects. We aspire to make a difference in the lives of nurses and also, positively affect the lives of those who don’t have access to learning opportunities and the ability to thrive due to their economic status or physical inability. It is important for me to operate in this capacity to reach a diverse demographic and provide nurses more opportunities to make a difference beyond the bedside.

When did you know it was time to serve beyond nursing in the traditional healthcare setting and step into the business arena and become an entrepreneur who unites and educates other nurses?

I knew it was time to ‘serve beyond’ after my first year of being a nurse in the bedside setting. I enjoyed what I was doing but I wanted to do more, especially for black and brown disenfranchised people who didn’t have the same opportunities. Very often there are inequalities in education and healthcare for people that have lower socioeconomic status. I would like to bridge the gap. There are nurses from all different backgrounds and walks of life. These nurses can educate and become educated through outreach projects.

What tips do you have for nurses, or others in the healthcare field, who desire to branch out into another aspect of serving as a healthcare professional, whether in the community or through business ownership?

My advice to nurses who desire to branch out is to first brainstorm and write down your ideas, goals, and plans. Then, make a step by step model to achieve your goals. Make short-term goals to lead up to your ultimate long-term goal. It is always great to have like-minded individuals around and in your corner, even if that means intentionally finding others to collaborate with. In this social media-driven world, coming up with new and innovative ideas is key to standing out and being different than others that may have similar ideas as you. Stay consistent and disciplined, even when you do not feel like it, and keep going!

What advice or tips would you give to nurses during this COVID-19 healthcare crisis? What is your suggestion for burnout prevention? 

During this healthcare crisis, I urge all nurses to take advantage of this time in your own way. This could mean picking up extra hours or working a travel assignment for extra money. You may want to start writing that book you have been wanting to write, or brainstorm business ideas, etc. Do something you have been wanting to do but haven’t had enough time to do it. I would recommend a great way to prevent burnout is by practicing self-care and doing what makes you happy. Take time away from people at times and be sure to listen to your body and mind. The word “No” can be the cure for burnout at times. Be very intentional about your time, mental awareness, and what you choose to think and have in your presence. 

How can our readers connect with you?

Please connect with me through social media – Instagram @nursesonthemove and my website www.nurseonthemove.com. Also subscribe to my YouTube channel Nurse On the Move, which offers has fun and interesting topics!