Long shifts and constantly experiencing what can be called as tedious activity, can quickly turn into really tiring experiences which may in-turn make nurses feel extremely tired and disorganised with their workflow.
Some quick tips that can help you experience a better shift.
1. Getting enough sleep in before your shift might be vital to have a smooth experience. If you feel tired or worn-out from the beginning, you might find it really difficult to finish long shifts.
2. Eating Well - Having well-balanced meals and taking care your of own nutritional requirements is essential for nurses to ensure that your working experience is more well-rounded.
3. Organisation - Keeping your work area tidy and clean might be key to staying on top of your work. Having a clear checklist and calendar to keep track of all the essential work objectives for the day will leave you feeling more productive and able to stay on top of all your tasks.
4. Taking breaks - As the job of a nurse can feel very stressful at times, it is recommended for them to leave the unit during lengthy work hours. Find some activity that helps you refresh your mind or de-stress. Some good examples of a refreshing break can be sitting outside and spending some time in nature. Driving to some place that may help you to recuperate your thoughts or clear your mind can help you feel very revitalised and ready to get back to your work.
5. Wearing Compression Socks - Many nurses are prone to varicose veins due to spending the majority of their day on their feet, meaning they have very low blood flow in their legs. This can leave your legs feeling uncomfortable and may also make your feet ache, swell or muscles cramp. It’s recommended to wear compression socks to reduce the lactic acid build up in the legs and promote blood flow.
6. Practice Stress Management: Develop coping strategies to manage stress effectively. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, and engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy can help reduce stress levels during or after your shift.
7. Supportive Relationships: Foster positive relationships with your colleagues. Building a supportive and collaborative work environment enhances teamwork, morale, and overall job satisfaction.
8. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest nursing practices, attend educational workshops, and engage in professional development activities. Continued learning improves your knowledge and skills, making you more confident and efficient in your role.
9. Practice Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your experiences and learn from them. Assess your strengths and areas for improvement and set personal and professional goals to enhance your nursing practice.
10. Celebrate Accomplishments: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Recognise the positive impact you make on patients' lives and the difference you bring to the healthcare team. This can help you feel more accomplished and fulfilling at the end of the day and help you reflect more positively.
At Kingdom Medical, we recruit the finest healthcare professionals who are committed to providing exemplary patient care. To find out more, please call us on 0330 912 0127 or send us a message today.
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