KristineVictoria

In my normal week , I work four to five 12-hour shifts, working in a hospital as a telemetry RN, and an agency nurse for 2 different hospitals. I also work both shifts, but mostly just 1 day shift a week.

How can I do these? I make an effort to love what I do. After all, nursing is a big part of my life. My schedule, I have by choice. It lets me still be very much involved in my school-aged children’s lives. Yes, I volunteer in their school, too. The amount I have to work as a nurse is a necessity for my current family situation for I am the sole earner in my household.

“How do I do manage?“ often, my friends and coworkers ask. I put together this list of ten suggestions and thoughts I already know and do, but may need to be reminded of sometimes.

To be a good nurse, I have to work hard. It feels good to know I am a good nurse. (clearing throat)

I made up this fictional scenario. There are three nurses I work with. All were doing the same job as nurses but when asked what her job was, the answer varied. “Cleaning bedpans and following doctor’s orders,“ the first replied. “Just working to pay my bills,“ the second said. “Helping to heal the sick,” the third said with her chin up. I chose to be like the third.

In the medical setting, I can’t possibly start and finish everything. I begin the tasks as soon as possible, but I don’t beat myself up into finishing each one. Nursing is 24-hour care. I learned to delegate, ask for help, and follow up, as appropriate. If busy, I pass it on to the next shift provided it can wait. I prioritize.

I usually deal with sick patients. I do not expect my patients or their loved ones to thank me, however deserving, but when one does, I cherish it.

Nursing is very broad, and in medicine, there is always something new to learn regardless of how long I have been a nurse. It is okay to ask questions, or to listen to someone who may know better.

I come to work prepared. I keep in mind that a stable patient does not always remain stable no matter what I gathered from report.

I take care of myself first. I only have one back! Also, I do not work without taking a break. A 12-, or even an 8-hour shift, is too long not to eat. I tell myself, low blood sugar = low energy = less ability to deal with stress and make intelligent decisions.

I find ways to get excited about going to work. I personally like listening to fiction, learning, and inspirational books on CDs while driving on the way to work.

I do something fun for me on my time off.

I relieve stress by writing it out, whether it’s in my personal journal or blog. Of course, I mind HIPAA regulations. I like to draw, write, and, yes, blog. These are my ways to get things off my chest. I also do strenuous exercises or activities with my family to help with the release of endorphins.