Habits That Will Keep Nurses Healthy at Work
Habits That Will Keep Nurses Healthy at Work
As nurses, maintaining healthy habits is crucial for both personal well-being and the ability to provide optimal care for patients. During busy shifts, it's easy to neglect self-care, but it's important to prioritize these practices. Here are the healthiest habits to practice daily even at the busiest shifts!
1. Use a Large, Reusable Container to Stay Hydrated and Meet Water Drinking Goals
First and foremost, staying hydrated is essential. Nurses should aim to drink water consistently throughout their shift to prevent dehydration which can lead to fatigue and decreased alertness. Drinking more water from a large reusable water container offers an array of significant benefits for both individuals and the environment. Utilizing a larger container encourages individuals to track and meet their daily water intake goals more effectively.
With a larger capacity, users are encouraged to hydrate frequently throughout the day, promoting better overall health and well-being. Embracing a large reusable water container not only fosters personal health but also aligns with environmentally responsible practices, making it a favorable choice for individuals’ health and the planet.
2. Have a Workout Routine When You’re Not Working
Regular exercise plays a crucial role in preventing injury during patient care activities. Engaging in a well-rounded exercise regimen improves strength, flexibility, and endurance, which are all essential for safely maneuvering and assisting patients. Strengthening exercises help build muscle, providing the necessary support for lifting and transferring patients, while flexibility exercises can improve range of motion, reducing the risk of strain or muscle injury.
Additionally, improved endurance from cardiovascular exercise can help healthcare workers sustain energy levels during long shifts, maintaining focus and reducing the chance of physical fatigue-related accidents. By incorporating regular exercise into their routines, healthcare professionals can significantly decrease their susceptibility to injuries related to patient care activities, ultimately contributing to improved patient safety as well.
3. Prepare Foods and Snacks in Advance to Bring to Work
Making time to prepare balanced meals and healthy snacks is vital to sustain energy levels throughout the day. Packing nutritious options and planning ahead can minimize the temptation to opt for quick, but less nutritious, food choices. Planning ahead and stocking up on nutritious options can significantly minimize the temptation to opt for quick, but less nutritious, food choices. By ensuring that your kitchen is consistently filled with a variety of healthy foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, you'll be better equipped to make nutritious meals and snacks easily accessible.
Taking the time to plan your meals and snacks for the week can also help you avoid reaching for unhealthy options when hunger strikes. Whether it's preparing smoothie ingredients in advance or prepping a batch of hearty salads, having nutritious choices readily available can make it simpler to stay focused on maintaining a balanced diet.
4. Be Open to Take Strategic Short, Mental and Physical Breaks
Finding moments for mental and emotional rejuvenation is important. Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing, or brief meditation exercises can help manage stress and maintain focus during demanding shifts. The nature of the job involves high-pressure situations, emotional intensity, and physical demands.
Taking time to recharge is crucial for maintaining well-being and providing quality care to patients. Whether it's a brief mindfulness exercise, a short walk outside, or a quiet moment to decompress, these moments provide nurses with the opportunity to reset, reflect, and replenish their mental and emotional reserves. By prioritizing self-care and finding ways to rejuvenate during their shifts, nurses can better sustain their resilience and continue to deliver compassionate and effective care to those in need.
Prioritizing these healthy habits can empower nurses to perform at their best while ensuring their own well-being remains a top priority.
Are you a BUSY nurse that feels like the job is running you down?
I know and see what you’re going through. My family is full of nurses and Empyrea specializes in creating healthier lifestyles for them.
Book a FREE Intro with me and we'll create a fitness plan that makes you feel ENERGIZED and MOTIVATED to achieve your fitness goals! ---> Book a FREE INTRO here!
- Carl Anthony Grande
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Creator and Owner of Empyrea Group Training (Cedar Grove, NJ)
Follow me on IG and FB: @trainempyrean
Email me: manager@trainempyrean.com
