Caring for patients is nurses’ top priority, but many struggles to maintain their well-being. Nurses are more likely to be overweight and have higher stress levels than the general population. They also tend to get less sleep than the recommended hours. Nursing is a demanding job that affects your physical and mental health. Therefore, staying healthy as nurse is a must and you must take care of yourself first.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration reports that nurses and other healthcare workers experience the highest rate of nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses. It is higher than even construction workers.
As mentioned before, both your mental and physical health are essential. Here are some tips to assist you in enhancing your overall health.
1. Work on Your Skills
As a nurse, it’s essential to work on improving your skills and expanding your knowledge constantly; it will help you in staying active, fit and healthy both mentally and physically.
Take online classes, attend conferences or seminars, and stay up-to-date on current medical advancements. Don’t be afraid to seek help or additional training from your colleagues or supervisors.
Your patients rely on your expertise and skills, so staying knowledgeable in the nursing field is important. Keeping up with current advancements can also help improve patient care and make your job easier. So remember to constantly improve your skills and expand your knowledge for yourself and your patients.
Nursing is a respectable profession that allows you to help others and make a difference, so try to focus on the positives in your job if you want to pursue your career in nursing. In addition, many online nurse practitioner programs are available to continue your education and enhance your skills. These programs will also allow you to advance your career and earn a higher salary.
2. Socialize with Friends and Family
It can be tempting to stay at your station and work all the time, but take breaks and socialize with your co-workers. Forming strong relationships with colleagues can improve job satisfaction and lower stress levels.
In addition, having a support system at work is essential, so make sure to socialize and bond with your fellow nurses.
Though it may be difficult for nurses to find time, setting aside a few minutes each day can help improve your health and happiness.
After a grueling day at the hospital:
- Come home to your loving family and relax rather than complete more paperwork.
- Go out with friends and enjoy yourself instead of studying for another hour.
- Take a break from TV by going jogging or fishing.
- Use your free time exploring new hobbies rather than reading medical journals.
Make the most of your free time by doing something you enjoy.
3. Take a Proper Sleep
Many nurses suffer from sleep deprivation due to working extended hours. To be ready for another day on the job, ensure you are getting at least seven-plus hours of sleep. If you are suffering from fatigue during your shift, take a quick nap break or drink an energy drink.
It’s very common for nurses to work long hours into the night. However, it takes a toll on your health when you’re constantly operating on little to no sleep. As a result, your immune system weakens, and you become more susceptible to getting sick.
If possible, try not to schedule a shift that would make you wake up early the next morning. It gives your body ample time to rest to be productive during your shift.
4. Do Exercise Daily
Exercise is very crucial for a nurse as to keep them both physically and mentally healthy. It can improve sleep, lower stress levels, and increase energy. Try to fit in at least thirty minutes of physical activity every day, whether going for a run or doing some yoga at home.
If you are short on time, get exercise equipment like a mini trampoline or an exercise bike to use at home.
In addition to exercise, remember to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to keep your body nourished and hydrated.
5. Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene is important for nurses, as they work closely with patients and can quickly spread germs. Make sure to wash your hands regularly, cover open wounds, and change out dirty medical scrubs or uniforms. It’s also important to take regular showers, brush your teeth, and trim your nails to maintain proper hygiene.
Something nurses must always keep in mind is to get vaccinated and have routine check-ups. Not only does this protect you, but your patients as well.
In addition, nursing hours can be long and physically strenuous; being cautious of your health makes on-the-job accidents less likely to occur.
Working in a hospital or clinic environment can expose you to various illnesses, so taking care of your hygiene to prevent the spread of germs and maintaining a clean work environment is essential.
Your patients will appreciate your efforts in keeping them safe, and you’ll feel better knowing that you’re practicing proper hygiene. So remember to wash those hands.
6. Think Positively
Maintaining a positive outlook can have a significant effect on your physical and mental health, as well as job satisfaction.
Take time to reflect on the positive side of your job, and remember the impact you have on your patients’ lives. Surround yourself with supportive colleagues and friends, and don’t be afraid to seek help if you feel overwhelmed or burnt out.
It’s important to focus on the positive aspects of nursing and remember your motives for choosing this career, as it can be physically and emotionally demanding.
Stay optimistic and surround yourself with supportive individuals to combat stress and burnout. And don’t forget to take time for yourself, as self-care is vital for maintaining a positive mindset and a successful career in nursing.
Conclusion
Nursing is an excellent and rewarding profession, but it can be tough on your body.
Long hours on your feet, exposure to sick patients, and high-stress levels all take their toll. That’s why it’s so important for a nurse to prioritize self-care and find ways for staying mentally and physically healthy.
Luckily, you can do some easy things to feel your best. The above tips will help get you started on the path to better health as a nurse – try them and see how they work.
Hi, I’m the Founder and Developer of Paramedics World, a blog truly devoted to Paramedics. I am a Medical Lab Tech, a Web Developer and Bibliophiliac. My greatest hobby is to teach and motivate other peoples to do whatever they wanna do in life.