Last week, I talked to you about the dangers of becoming burned out in your nursing field. As promised, I want to offer some suggestions to prevent burnout. These same techniques may help you with coping strategies if you feel that you already struggle with burnout at your job.
In an ideal world, one solution would be to simply relocate or to find a new job! However, you find that you are limited by travel restraints, seniority in your unit or hospital, the need for insurance offered by the employer, family schedules, etc. Additionally, you may simply love your specialty area, but simply feel overwhelmed by long hours, heavy patient loads, or the intensity of emotions involved in caring for critically ill patients. Whatever the limitations, I encourage you to think outside the box, and see if there is help available within your hospital, clinic, or facility.
Many hospitals offer summer programs or extended leaves for nurses during times of low census. If you can afford this option, it can be used as a time to renew and refresh yourself without sacrificing your position or seniority. You could also consider cross-training in another unit or area. Yes, I know that it can be daunting to consider stepping outside of your comfort zone, but it can be a very empowering feeling to master new skills or to become more proficient in areas where you felt insecure. You might think that this suggestion would only add to burnout, but from personal experience, it can be a nice change. You may even find yourself a better “fit” in a different area.
If you work in an area with a high rate of burnout, such as NICU, oncology, or ICU, you can lighten the mood and find an outlet to express yourself professionally by offering to teach within the hospital, work in skills fairs, or become an instructor for BLS, ACLS, etc. This option works well for some, and can offer a much needed break from the intensity of your chosen specialty.
On a more personal note, it is important to recognize that you need to make time for yourself. This is much easier said than done, but this simple step is THE MOST important way to lessen the effects of burnout. As nurses, we often feel like we give to others until we are completely drained. This type of mental exhaustion can take a toll on your health, both mentally and physically. It is essential that you find ways to pamper yourself and rejuvenate your mind. Here are a few ideas that have helped some of my coworkers:
- Yoga
- Gardening
- Mini-vacations (sneaking off for the weekend, sometimes without the kids)
- Developing a new hobby (suggestions included recipe clubs, horseback riding, couponing, pilates, painting, joining a fitness club)
- Having a day set aside on a REGULAR basis to get a massage, pedicure, manicure, facial
- Exercise, preferably outside. Get some fresh air!
- Learn to JUST SAY NO
Would you like to share some of your ideas to prevent burnout? What has worked for you? Leave a comment below; we would love to hear from you!
