7 Tips from a Nurse on Working Holiday Shifts
Having walked in the shoes of holiday shifts, sacrificing festive moments for the call of duty, I understand the unique challenges faced by nurses, physicians, nurse practitioners, and all healthcare workers during this season. I promise that your commitment to providing care, often at the expense of personal celebrations, does not go unnoticed!
Thank you for the valuable work that you do, for being the unsung heroes in the healthcare narrative.
Here are seven heartfelt tips tailored for nurses and healthcare workers to help you find balance between responsibilities of the profession and the warmth of personal connections.
- Embrace a Positive Mindset:
Maintain a positive outlook, acknowledging the immense value in the work you do. Your positivity can be a beacon for both colleagues and patients.
- Make Plans with Family/Friends:
Prioritize quality time with your loved ones to find balance between work commitments and personal relationships. Whether it’s planning ahead or celebrating post-holidays, create moments that matter.
- Take Advantage of Benefits:
Unwrap the gifts your workplace offers—be it perks or resources. Be sure that you’re tapping into all available support during this demanding time of the year.
- Be Empathetic:
Extend compassion to patients, colleagues, and yourself! Recognize and honor the unique challenges everyone faces during the holiday season. A little empathy goes a long way.
- Celebrate with Patients & Colleagues:
You can still cultivate a community spirit by sharing moments of joy with patients and colleagues. Creating a positive atmosphere can make the healthcare setting feel more like a supportive family.
Regularly assess your own mental and emotional well-being. Take a moment to address any concerns or feelings to ensure you’re nurturing your overall health.
- Don’t Neglect Self-Care:
Especially now, prioritize self-care practices to ensure you’re physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared to handle the demands of shifts and healthcare. Remember, taking care of yourself enables you to provide better care for others.
Addressing the unique challenges of working during the holidays is the first step towards finding balance and maintaining well-being during this stressful time. Wishing you strength, positivity, and moments of joy amidst the demanding season.
Shauntel | Founder
Additonal Resources:
Navigating the Holiday Hustle: Mindful Breathing Techniques for Nurses & Health Professionals
Sources:
HALYARD Global Products, “Holiday Stresses of Working in a Hospital Tips for Coping,” 13 Nov. 2019.www.halyardhealth.com/articles/staff-safety/the-holiday-stresses-of-working-in-a-hospital. Accessed 14 Dec. 2023.
