Help for nurse burnout
What can you do to prevent or cure nurse burnout:
Are you losing your passion for your current area of nursing? Maybe it is time for a change. There are so many different
types of nursing careers.
If you no longer love what you do, it is time to think about what else you may enjoy.
Many of us get to this point and after taking a break you may realize your passion for your previous role is still quite strong. Maybe a break is all you needed and you can return to that specialty. Some of you may find another type of nursing that turns out to be something you love even more. The options for nurses really are endless.
Other things you can do to prevent or cure nurse burnout:
- maintain a work-life balance or study-life balance
- keep in touch with family and friends for support
- take care of yourself - a proper diet and exercise regimen can keep both your body and mind healthy, exercise is a great stress reliever and improves your energy level
- maintain your spiritual health by attending services or bible study
- get involved in task forces at work to improve processes
- join or start a morale committee for your unit, you may not be the only one feeling down
- look for advancement opportunities you may be interested in that can lead to a change within your area
- look for seminars offered at your place of employment or school/college for managing stress
- student nurses - form a group to take breaks with, 30 minutes out can clear your head. In nursing school my favorite break spot was Robin's Donuts that was across the street, a short walk and relaxing with another student was great, we were then able to hit the books when we got back to the dorm. Now I am in an RN-BSN program and work full time, Starbucks or Barnes and Nobles helps but unfortunately they are a little farther to go then I would like and I often go alone and take my books. It actually does help. When I start getting distracted too easily it is time to head back home. Another bonus is that both also have wi-fi, depending on your internet provider it can be free.
- work on improving study skills to be more productive
- learn time management strategies
- if you work in an area with a high rate of patient loss, take advantage of any grief counseling that is offered, even if you don't think you need it
- take your meal breaks, seriously, many of us skip this, take advantage of it to clear your head
- use your vacation time/school breaks, take a trip or just relax, but use your time off to destress
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