Time For You: How to Stay Energized throughout Your Shift

Working a 12-hour shift is challenging in any field, and health care workers specifically must deal with physical, emotional and relational stressors that can deplete their energy more than many other workers.

A number of factors can also determine how taxing a shift is, including:
•  Patient load and acuity levels;
•  Amount of ancillary staff support;
•  Documentation requirements;
•  Level of co-worker/provider engagement;
•  Ability to take breaks and make nutritious food choices;
•  Personal health status;
•  Ergonomics of the work environment;
•  Type of flooring and shoes worn;
•  Available patient handling assistance devices; and
•  Shift schedule.

With so many factors at play, what can a health worker do to survive and thrive through a long and challenging shift?

1. Control what you can control
“While you may not have any control over your patient load or acuity, you can make use of any assistance devices available to you. You may not get to choose what shift you work, but you can do your best to maintain a regular routine.

For more tips and the original article.

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