Staying Healthy through Clinicals

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Ok, the headline may be misleading, but I couldn't think of a better one. I have started clinicals and I have some questions.

I am still getting used to being on my feet 12 hours of the day. I am ok with it, and I know over time my body will get use to it. However, my feet and knees ache really bad at the end. I am wondering if it is ok to take 5-10 minutes, say 3-4 times throughout the shift to go and walk the stairs. Sounds silly, but last night I had to go back in get my lunch and I took the stairs and it felts so good to use my legs in a different way. I am hoping that if I can incorporate that into my 12-hour shift, I won't hurt as bad at the end.

Secondly, hydrating and food. My preceptor is a runner and she is in good shape, but I asked her how she stayed hydrated during her shift, because from what I can see, we don't drink anything during the shift (too busy) and that's not good. She says she redhydrates at home after her shift, and that is still not good. How does one get fluids throughout the shift when there is a no food/beverage on the floor rule (which is smart)? The only time I have had food is the 30 minutes for lunch, I would like to be able to find a way to snack on healthy foods throughout the day.

I understand that is life as a nurse, but I also know there are nurses out there that are athletes, runner, bodybuilders, competitors, and I want to know how they make it work during a 12-hour shift. It's a lifestyle and I want to get it down before I become a statistic (gaining weight during nursing school. I can't afford that)

Thanks for any input or suggestions, or even just telling me its ok to take a 5-10 minute break when time allows. I don't want to give off the impression that I am going into hiding to avoid doing anything, which is actually the complete opposite of my mantra. I want to do it all. lol. haha.

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Specializes in Emergency Dept. Trauma. Pediatrics.

Have you looked into some good Orthopedics for your shoes? It can make a world of difference for you legs, feet and back. As far as the breaks that will be dependent on your clinical site and school policy's.

As far as hydration, I actually stayed more hydrated during clinicals because I was constantly refilling my water bottle with all the ice and water machines everywhere. We had enough time to take drinks, especially when charting.

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There's no food or drink allowed on the floor? Is there a break room you could stash a bottle of water in? Is there a locker room you keep your coat/lunch in during the shift? I throw my bag (with my lunch and a bottle of water in it) in the locker room on the floor. When I get a free minute, I go in there and chug some of my water. I'm a runner and have to stay hydrated. Yes, as a nurse, you can expect to be on your feet all day, but to expect us not to eat or drink anything for 12 hours besides a 1/2 hour lunch is cruel!

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Specializes in Emergency/Cath Lab.

First off, I dont care what anyone says, there is ALWAYS time to drink. Hydrate or die is what we were always taught. It was drilled into our skulls. Doesnt matter if you arent outside in the sun you still need to drink. Make time for it. You can take 30 seconds to sip on a Nalgene or something and since it is capped the spill risk is low.

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Specializes in Emergency Nursing.

I pop back into the break room when I can to take a quick sip from a water bottle. It takes less than a minute.

I also like the suggestion of orthotics. My shoes only needed a gel insert to make a huge difference.

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