How do you care for yourself??

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What do you nurses do to care for yourself? What do you do to make sure you stay healthy, relaxed, minimal stress etc?

Nurses are known for not caring enough for themselves, leading to burn out. Just looking for ideas on what you do to stay sane (as a relative term of course) ;)

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Specializes in Critical Care/Coronary Care Unit,.

I exercise, try to eat healthy, pray...and try to realize that I can't save the world. I just try to do my best for those patients I happen to encounter.

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Sleep,spend time with friends and family.

Pedicures, massage, and every night in my hot tub.

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Specializes in LTC, Subacute Rehab.

Liquor.

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Specializes in Community, OB, Nursery.

I make it a point to exercise 3-4x/week for 30-60min.

I try to think about work as little as possible while I'm not working (and I live almost 50 miles away, which helps tremendously).

While working (and while not working for that matter), I try to stay hydrated and not eat/drink too much junk, caffeine included. I used to be an addict, but since I found out I'm pregnant I've had to cut back and am surprised at how much better I feel without it.

While not working, I also try to get at least 7 hours of sleep nightly, more if possible.

Whoever mentioned massage.....ahhhhhh. What a nice way to pamper yourself. :up:

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If you want to have a good amount of physical energy and a positive emotional outlook, then exercise is important no matter what you do for a living.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Geriatrics, LTC.

Leave work at work!

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I work out, Meditate an hour day, I walk a Labyrinth and Medicine Wheel for grounding and centering that's really important to me. I eat right and get plenty of rest and i try not to take things to heart to much and try to i leave it at work. Friends and Family and open communication with someone you trust is a plus because no matter how crazy things may sound to you or how your are feeling a good sounding board is always good to have... These are my thoughts use them as you wish

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Specializes in Tele.

Care for myself? Lol.

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Specializes in med/surg, wound/ostomy.

I get up about 30 minutes earlier than I need to - drink my coffee, watch the news, and knit socks. There is someting quite soothing about feeling the softness of the yarn, and wathing the pattern emerge from the varigated yarn I use. After I make socks for my family, I will make them for patients in the hospital where I work. Anyone need a pair of hand-knit socks??!!??

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

I try to get 7-8 hours of sleep a night, get a massage a couple times a year, go for walks or do pilates on days off, eat healthy, bring my own lunch to work so I dont buy junk in the cafeteria. I work 3 12's a week and rarely pick up extra time.

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Specializes in School Nursing.

My critters are my therapy. There is nothing better than a quiet trail ride in the woods, telling all my troubles to my horse who does not judge or disagree with me! And just sitting in the middle of the pasture with a herd of goats all wanting your undivided attention is enough to make anyone smile. When all else fails, my dog is a cuddler and it is hard to be unhappy with a soft, warm puppy in your lap.

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