The nursing career is exhausting physically and emotionally. Nurses are experiencing burnout related to caregiving overload. Nurses give so much of their physical and emotional being to their patients and families. When it comes to themselves, self-care is often left behind.

This is what nurses can do -

👉Self Care for Mental Wellness.

Praise and compliment yourself.

Find an emotional outlet (e.g., drawing, playing music, writing, etc.).

Create a gratitude practice.

Have a habit of doing yoga or meditation in the morning before coming to work.

👉Self Care for Physical Wellness.

Park far away from the building.

Use the steps instead of the elevator.

Stand while you chat.

Walk the halls during downtime.

Bring your own healthy lunch and snacks – avoid ordering takeout food or going to the cafeteria.

Take a nap – even if it's only 20 minutes.

Go to bed early and wake up the same time every day.

Strive for 7-9 hours of sleep a night.

Prioritize healthy food choices – as tough as it can be it's really important for nurses to have nutritious foods on hand.

👉Self Care for emotional wellness.

Have conversations that include humor.

Praise others for their accomplishments.

Praise yourself.

Write something in the breakroom to help coworkers smile.

Be kind to everyone.

Smile at everyone you walk past.

Do something you enjoy on your breaks. – text a friend or loved one, watch a funny video clip, or go outside and enjoy a little fresh air and sunlight.

👉Self Care for Spiritual wellness.

Become mindful with meditation.

Help patients practice mindfulness.

Respect and try to understand patients’ and coworkers’ religious beliefs.

Go outside or at least near a window to appreciate nature on a break.

👉Developing healthy Social Connection.

Ask co-workers about their day.

Eat lunch with someone.

Buy an Instant Pot or slow cooker for the unit and cook together.

Celebrate with coworkers – birthdays, baby/bridal showers, etc..

Talk to the maintenance person, housekeeper, and secretaries about their days.

Sources - https://www.registerednursing.org/articles/ultimate-guide-self-care-nurses/

Photo Credits -

https://www.purdueglobal.edu/blog/nursing/self-care-for-nurses/