Wave Goodbye to Stressful Nurse Shifts

Even the most upbeat travel nurse can feel sluggish from time to time. After all, caring for patients, filling out paperwork, plus trying to juggle a social life can make you feel like your body is stretched to its limits. But when you’re at work, you can’t let stress get you down. Take a tip from Access Nurses on how to keep your energy levels flying high all day (or night) during your travel nurse shift.

Snooze. If you’re hitting the snooze button on your alarm before every nursing shift, you’re missing out on some much needed zzz’s. Getting a solid night of sleep should be a top priority as a nurse so you can ensure the best patient care. As a travel nurse, you have the option to choose a work schedule that complements your lifestyle. If you can’t sleep all the way through the night, take short naps; even just closing your eyes for 10 minutes can give you a burst of energy.

Stride. Sometimes the energy jolt you need is just a short walk away. When you feel yourself dragging halfway through your travel nursing shift, try reaching for your walking shoes instead of that third cup of coffee, and take a quick lap around the neighborhood. Getting outside the four walls of the hospital, plus the combination of exercise and fresh air, is sure to reboot your energy so you can return to work refreshed. Bring along an iPod or a friend as an extra stress-reliever.

Replenish. Your energy-lacking body may be trying to tell you something: you’re hungry or thirsty. But don’t rely on the fatty, sugar-packed vending machine food options. Bring nutrient-rich snacks to work like nuts, fruit or cheese. To keep from unnecessary snacking, explore other possible energy-drainers before reaching for a snack. And a dehydrated body is a tired and unfocused body. So drink up. Water, tea and all-natural juices are your best bets for refreshing your body. Even one cup of java can really help jump start your energy level.

Communicate. Reach out when you need an energy boost. Call that reliable friend while on a break or grab your travel nurse buddy and have a chat when you feel your energy dwindling during your shift. Sharing what’s on your mind or having a good laugh is a sure way to relieve stress. And don’t forget to communicate with your nursing manager. You may not be a permanent staffer, but that shouldn’t keep you from speaking up if you’re stressed out at work. Notify your manager about work-related stresses.

Exhale. The old trick of closing your eyes and counting to ten while breathing in and out still works like a charm for diminishing a rising stress level. When you deprive your body of good oxygen flow, it’s only natural that you’re going to feel off balance. By practicing taking deep, steady breaths throughout the day, you’ll help keep your body and mind centered. You can even combine breathing exercises with light stretching or yoga poses. This is especially true for the shifts when you’re feeling extra stressed.