During your nursing shift, there are multiple things that we believe will help you get the job done more efficiently. For many people who work in nursing jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities, long hours are simply part of the job. Hospital nurse jobs in particular often require long workdays and swing shifts. They accommodate patients’ needs 24 hours a day, which can be both physically and emotionally demanding. The following are three items that will save you during your nursing shift.
1. A Go-Bag
A nursing Go-Bag is essential for long shifts and will contain everything you need to survive even the most hectic of days.This bag can take whatever form suits your personal style (backpack, large purse, messenger bag, etc.), but its most important feature needs to be function. Something that contains various pouches and compartments will help you keep everything organized—and easily accessible in a pinch.
Some shifts don’t even lend you a couple of spare minutes to yourself. Locate your essentials quickly so you can get back to caring for your patients fast. This bag should contain items such as:
- Chapstick
- A change of clothes
- An extra set of scrubs
- Personal medications (Tylenol, Tums, allergy meds)
- Extra personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, unscented lotion, contact solution)
- Feminine products (for female nurses)
Let this bag be something dedicated solely to work. This eliminates the need to switch anything out from your personal handbag when you come and go from shift. You’ll have all of your essentials right where you need them!
2. Comfortable shoes
They say that nurses are angels in comfortable shoes and they couldn’t be more right. People in nurse jobs spend all day on their feet – standing, walking, helping patients, lifting heavy objects. This puts a great deal of stress on their backs, knees, and feet. Nurses who aren’t wearing shoes that are both comfortable and supportive may be at risk for swelling, joint pain, lower back pain, and other potentially debilitating injuries. “Anyone who spends a lot of time standing or walking should wear comfortable shoes that help to support the arch. That also provides cushion and shock absorption,” says Jacqueline Sutera, a podiatrist in New York City. “This is necessary for overall health, not only for your feet but also for bigger joints in your knees, hips, and back.”
3. A high-protein, high-energy snack
Even though nurses are encouraged to take breaks during the workday. Many find themselves skipping much-needed breaks to check in on patients and catch up on paperwork. After all, it’s easy to overlook stepping away to eat lunch or grab a snack when the shift is already so busy. This is especially true in a hospital setting where there are often patient emergencies that require nurses’ attention. Nursing jobs may be increasingly synonymous with non-stop work. Skipping breaks to get more work done is actually counterintuitive. Experts have found that taking breaks is important for nurses to de-stress and recharge for the workday. Regular breaks can also improve performance, increase productivity, and boost creativity on the job.
If you are having a particularly busy day and you simply cannot step away, make sure you have a snack. That you can easily eat on the go to replenish your energy and keep your mind sharp. Coffee and energy drinks can help give you a quick energy boost for the time being. There are healthier ways to get that same kick while also getting the nutrients needed. That will get you through your shift. No matter how experienced a nurse you may be, you are no help to your patients if you are low on energy. Some examples of the best high-protein, high-energy snacks for nursing jobs include:
- String cheese
- Almonds and other nuts
- Turkey roll-ups
- Edamame
- Popcorn
- Apples
- Bananas
- Dark chocolate
4. A retractable pen
You might think that pens are a dime a dozen in the nursing field, but the truth is that having a reliable pen on hand can be a real time-saver for nurses. But not just any old pen – a retractable or click pen is best. You may have to mark critical information on a patient’s chart. Or sign off on important paperwork and you won’t want to deal with a pesky ball-point pen. When you’re in a rush. You only need one hand to use a retractable pen. You are less likely to lose it because you can easily clip it onto your pocket or clipboard.
Nursing Jobs Near Me
There is an increasing need for qualified nurses in Pittsburgh and other areas of Western Pennsylvania. Where the healthcare industry is growing. If you are interested in joining the nurse workforce, look online for “nurse jobs near me.” Many nurses choose to work with a healthcare staffing agency like CynaMed to get matched with the nursing job that fits their schedule, skill set, and work preferences.
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