Stress Relief after a BAD shift?

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Hello my fellow nurses!

Like all of us nurses, I know we all have our BAD shifts where everything under the sun can go wrong...so I was just curious, what do you guys do to relieve that stress after the shift is over?

I was thinking about joining a gun club so I could shoot off a couple rounds after a shift since I am not a drinker, smoker, or exerciser...haha! Then, I was wondering if that makes me psychotic because you know I'd imagine certain people's faces :D

Please share!

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I am only a nursing student so I don't know what real nurses do but, I hit a bucket of golf balls at the driving range, go see a movie, or search news websites. Really anything to just zone out and not have to think about the long day. Hope this helps.:)

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

"... I'd imagine certain people's faces"

LOL....

I understand how you feel. try to find some more productive way to release your frustration.

I am "planning" to do some exercise in the new year. :)

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Specializes in ER, Trauma.

After a bad shift I always feel like going home and kicking the dog. Since I don't have a dog, I asked the PA next door if I could borrow hers. Her answer would undoubtedly be censored, so lets just say she said no.

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Specializes in Trauma Surgery, Nursing Management.

I come home and throw some tennis balls to my silly dog. She thinks she is the fastest, most agile, most athletic dog in the universe. Then she takes out our dock line and tangles herself in it while rolling on her back. HOW can I take ANYTHING seriously with that picture in front of me?!?

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Specializes in Mom/Baby.

Wine....lots of wine....

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Walk the dog...she's always a hoot! Go online and look for my dream house, cook new recipes, think of how I'm going to make my millions :rolleyes:

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I put on my headphones and take the dogs for a nice long walk. After 3 miles it's hard to remember what I am upset about.

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I put on some high octane music and just go crazy. I also got a few music based wii games recently and those are awesome. After doing the Thriller dance routine all of my stress is a distant memory. I also do hot baths and completely mindless TV.

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Specializes in ICU.

I second the wine.

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Wine....lots of wine....

The hangover is not worth it. Movies and popcorn.

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LOL. love the comments.

I third the wine but since you said you don't smoke, drink or exercise...and we don't know if you have a pet for stress/comic relief...here are some ideas.:idea:

If you are single = i like the long walk or hot bath/shower idea. If it's a bath - lights off, light candles, use your favorite scent (lavender and chamomille are soothing) and classical slow music - if shower =put on your FAVORITE loud music and sing along (forget what the neighbors will think) I have found that "single sex" w/toys relieves stress nicely (do before the bath or shower)

If you have a partner I suggest ripping their clothes off and having crazy hot sex (toys optional)...this activity will undoubtedly relieve stress, make your partner happy and get rid of a few calories as well. Cheers!;)

PS. I'm from Montana and LOVE your gun range idea! go for it!

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