22/11/2020
Repost or share if you resonate with this ๐๐
Self care:
Nursing is not only a physically demanding job, but it can also be emotionally challenging. We experience some of the most vulnerable moments of our patients lives along with them and sometimes, it's hard to compartmentalise. This can lead to burn out if it is not managed appropriately.
DEEP BREATHING:
When there are 10 tasks to do, one patient with suspected MI, another desperately needing the bathroom and another with an aggressive family member, it's easy to lose sense of where you are. Take the time out to do some deep breathing. We encourage patients to 'breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth' all the time. We need to listen to our own advice!! It will immediately ground you, allowing for more intentional decision making.
HAVE A CHOCOLATE READY:
During a busy shift, a small treat may just be enough to boost moral! It doesn't have to be chocolate, it can be candy or your favourite snack! Anything that will temporarily deliver some comfort.
TAKE YOUR LUNCH BREAK:
Yes, there are so many things to do and no you don't want to stop just to eat but you MUST fuel yourself. If you are running low on fuel, how are you going to provide the highest quality care? Keep your tank full before you can provide.
DONT TAKE YOUR WORK BACK HOME:
Think about when your patient deteriorates right before your shift ends and youre wondering whats happening on the way home. Have you witnessed an incredibly sad and intimate family conversation which left you in an emotional spiral? Remember that its detrimental to be too emotionally attached to your patients, purely because not being able to compartmentalise will lead to burn out. It may help to have a OFF WORK routine that specifically targets switching off. Whether it be journaling all the hardships/ emotional struggles of work, listening to your favourite song or having a hot bath. Incorporate that into your routine for better managed mental health!
Hope these were helpful and
wishing all the best! Xx