A Better You is Better for All
Healthcare never takes a rest. So, keeping yourself healthy should be a top priority for providing the utmost care to your patients.
Nursing is a rewarding career, but like any job, it comes with its own set of challenges. Nurses sometimes put their own health behind that of their patients. Their work hours and shifts can affect their overall health.
Nurses often need to be reminded to put on their own “oxygen mask” before helping others.
Here are three ways to maintain good health, so you can support the health of others.
Sleep
According to the Mayo Clinic, “…people who sleep so little over many nights don’t perform as well on complex mental tasks as do people who get closer to seven hours of sleep a night.” Read more about how much sleep you need here.
Diet & Exercise
Junk in equals junk out. If you are eating processed foods and sugary drinks to stay energized, you will soon find you lack the energy you need, and the cycle continues.
Eating whole foods not only sustains your energy, but also prevents the onset of weight gain, diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and a myriad of other health problems.
Nurses are always on their feet, which is exercise. Make it fun by creating a competition with other co-workers, and track your steps. Exercising doesn’t have to be intense to be beneficial.
Social Life
Make time to have a social life. An outing with friends for dinner could be just what you need to refresh yourself and have another
great work week. Find those things you enjoy outside of work and pursue them!
Take Away
You are never too old or experienced to be reminded your mental and physical health matters. Self-care will provide satisfaction and longevity in both your career and personal life. You and your patients deserve the best you!
