Stress and anxiety prior to shift?

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Ive been a nurse for 13 years. I began a new job on an oncology floor in January. I love it. Great team work and support (with exception of a few lol). Problem is.....I have stress and anxiety the day/night prior to shift. I dont sleep well, i guess anxious on what the day is going to bring ahead as far as new experiences/heavy team/pt crashing? It's very frustrating because I feel confident and know I have the support. I ruin my days off by looking ahead to when I work next. Anyone else feel this way and if so any suggestions? Thank you!

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Oncology, School Nursing, OB.

I used to do that. It got better with time.

I feel it helpful to think about worst case scenarios and how you would handle it. Once you walk through it all in your mind you may realize ok you can handle it. For instance if someone crashes you will not be on your own. You can call for help. Things like that. Also, when you start dwelling on what could go wrong, turn it around and focus on the all the positive aspects of the day and the times you really helped someone or felt good.

Also, doing some type of guided meditation before sleep will help clear your mind and let you relax.

Try to plan and do some fun stuff on your days off so you don't dwell on work. Try to exercise some. Something about a hard work out makes me feel like I can conquer the world. LOL!

If all the above doesn't improve and seems to be getting worse, visit your dr and see about some anxiety med possibly to get you over the hump. No shame in that!

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Great advice! Thank you!

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