Take Care of Your Self

Nurses Stress 101

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I'm not a nurse yet, but between school,fulltime job and family I stay pretty busy. I was wondering , how many nurses , just stop and take care of your self? Like how often do you just spend time by yourself? What do you do for fun. And how often do you do it?

Take care of yourself , because nobody else will:nuke:

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Specializes in everywhere.

I do stop and take care of myself regularly. I go for full body massages, get my hair done (like it matters since I have to wear a surgical cap) and since it is just me and DH at home, I get at least one day a week by myself while he is at work.

Good luck in finding what works for you, everyone is different.

My enjoyment is shopping, fishing and I love to cook. I guess I'm pretty spoiled, I get to do pretty much whatever, whenever I want.

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Specializes in LTC, Psych, Hospice.

I try to schedule a massage about every 6 to 8 weeks and I love to get a pedicure! Taking care of yourself is very important and nurses always seem to put themselves last. Good luck in your career!

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac.

It was really tough when I was in school because I also worked full time most weeks. Every Friday after work I would go for breakfast and coffee with my friends and that was my only social event for the week. As far as spending time alone, I made sure no matter what I went jogging every other day. Even as busy as I was I can honestly say I made that goal. Somehow I survived.

Just prioritize your own health and wellness, even in little increments and you will achieve it.

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

Learn to say "No" and learn that "You can't have everything -- at least not at the same time."

I've learned over the years that I am happier and healthier when I don't try to do everything, help everyone, be all things to all people, be perfect at everything, have everything, etc. all at the same time. Sometimes we have to set one of our goals aside for the moment while focusing on something more pressing.

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This is a favorite topic of mine...it's soooo important for nurses so as not to end up bitter and overworked or with "Cinderella syndrome" as I like to call it.

1. vent - to friends, mentors, trusted fellow nurses, pick some people that you know "are in your corner" and talk (don't keep "it" in)

2. tend to yourself spiritually - if that means regular walks outside in nature, or bike rides, or meeting in a bible study (or spiritual like-minded people), or journaling (and sharing it with someone) or whatever it looks like for you...make it a priority!

3. use Gratitude as a coping tool, be thankful for whatever you can in your life, start with the simplest things and work your way up

4. Catch yourself when you start "Projecting into the future" and stop it...is all the worry now gonna make the future any better? Perhaps some "action" will but "worrying" won't!

5. get good nutrition! are you taking your vitamins and supplements? Pack a lunch (or your favorite snacks) and take them with you to school and work...never be caught starving to death and not being able to "leave the floor" to get something to eat...always bring things with you and then If you want to buy food (and have the time) you can but if you're unable to at least you have your snacks!

It's a good topic and one that I'm passionate about when it comes to myself (as a nurse) and my fellow nurses too!:wink2:

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I'm a nursing student and during school time I get extremely busy,plus I work part-time (2 or 3 days),but I make sure that take one day for myself to just simply relax and clear my body and mind....Usually I spend it by taking a loonggggggg hot shower,do some hair treatment (mask),listen to a music,watch a movie...

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This is an important topic you have started, and it is the course

not offered at nursing school. With the demands of nursing today

you are smart to establish a good schedule for taking care of yourself.

Find sports, exercise, and other interests that you enjoy and schedule that time

with no exceptions. In order to care for others, you must make caring for

yourself the first priority.

I chose dance and horseback riding as two of my favorite burn out prevention activities.

In summer/spring and fall I ride twice a week. Take dance classes as well during

that time, twice a week with a 30-35 hour work (eve) schedule.

In winter, I use dvds for dance and other exercise.

Love eating out at new restaurants, book stores, spending time with family.

I have a wonderful dog who keeps me busy with walks, grooming and pampering him.

Set limits on yourself, if you are very tired, do not accept the overtime if you

do not feel up to it. The system can be very demanding, so look at your needs first.

Welcome to nursing, and best wishes with the completion of your studies!

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