Five Strategies to Effectively Handle Stress
It’s no secret that a career in nursing comes with significant stress. Not only are these professionals responsible for maintaining patients’ health and comfort, but limited budgets also mean that health facilities are frequently short staffed. As a nurse, learning to handle stress effectively is crucial to avoiding burnout and even preventing potential health issues in your own life. Here are five strategies to help nursing professionals manage their stress on the job:
Go for Walks
Want to reduce on-the-job stress? Consider taking a walk with a co-worker on your lunch or coffee break. Not only does walking enable you to get some exercise, but it also allows you to step outside the hospital for a few minutes. You can boost stress-blasting endorphins while appreciating the beauty of nature.
Say “No” Sometimes
Healthcare workers are accustomed to giving of themselves on a regular basis. And while it’s great to be selfless with your patients, nurses need to avoid saying “yes” to every request from friends and co-workers. The next time a co-worker asks you to cover her shift, don’t be afraid to decline politely. After all, even nurses must take time for themselves if they hope to do their jobs effectively.
Stay Healthy
Healthcare professionals perform a crucial service to society by taking care of those members who are ill or injured. However, the fact is that you can’t care for others if you don’t safeguard your own health and wellness first. Exercising and eating well help reduce stress and keep you healthy. For best results, aim to sleep for seven to nine hours a night and take a vacation now and then to recharge your batteries.
Consider Counseling
As a nurse, you are responsible for helping patients through a wide range of physical and emotional challenges. Over time, this stress can build up and even affect your own quality of life. One of the best ways to manage stress and maintain personal wellbeing is to see a counselor. You can talk through issues as they arise and ensure you’re ready for whatever comes next.
Work with a Staffing Company
Even the best nurses may find that some jobs are simply poor fits.
Unfortunately, between the long hours and erratic schedules, healthcare workers often struggle to find the time they need to search for new positions. When you work with a staffing company, you can turn your career search, and the accompanying stress, over to the professionals.
Contact Remede to Launch Your Job Search
Based in Floral Park, NY, we help nursing professionals find the best travel contracts, local contracts, permanent and per diem positions to meet their needs, in both New York and across the country. Our goal is to further your career goals while keeping stress levels at a minimum. Call today for more information about Remede’s staffing services or search available nursing jobs online.