Nurses are special people. It is no less difficult being a
nurse as it is becoming a nurse. Nursing school is challenging,
and the vicissitudes of the job experience can be emotionally
draining. Most people are too preoccupied with the notion of
sickness and their own well-being around nurses to think about
how the nurses feel.
It is not uncommon for nurses to experience "burnout." They
spend a short time with many patients and the patients are
always in a state of not being well. It becomes difficult to
experience relationships with people in these conditions.
The good news is that nursing is a very rewarding and noble
career. Nurses must keep in mind that people are concerned for
their own welfare during these situations and they are heavily
dependent on nurses in taking care of them and providing them
with reassurance of their recuperation.
Suggestions to ease stress
There are ways for nurses to avoid "burnout." The following are
suggestions in diverting a jaded nature before it starts:
-Talk to other nurses in your profession; especially nurses in
different stages of their careers. Nurses with more experience
will be able to relate success stories and will be able to call
upon good memories of their time in the profession. Younger
nurses will lack the experience, but their attitudes can be
inspirational. Nurses enter the profession because they want to
make a difference and help others; it is nice to be reminded of
these qualities in others and yourself.
-Keep a journal of your own memories and experiences. Sometimes
a "bad day" can stay with us more easily than a "good day."
Recording thoughts from better days will help remind you of why
you enjoy your profession and what an impact you are making on
people's lives.
-Enjoy your time away from the profession. The act of being a
nurse is emotionally and mentally consuming. A great deal of
energy is channeled outwards; find the time to generate more
energy inwards. It is okay to find some time for yourself when
so much time is spent on others. This could be done by doing
things that you enjoy: reading, exercising, spending time with a
loved one, etc.
-Exercise and meditation are two ways to relieve stress and
gain more energy. Mental exhaustion can take its toll on the
physical body, so tension needs to be released. Some people find
benefit in lifting weights, bicycling, jogging, yoga, etc.
-Confiding in a close friend or a professional counselor can be
highly beneficial. There are confidentiality issues pertaining
to the names and ailments of patients, but generalities or
pseudonyms can be used. Talking about feelings and concerns is
helpful; especially when a part of your own job is listening to
the concerns of others. It can be emotionally draining for
someone to regularly listen to other's concerns without relaying
their own.
-Take a class that focuses on the stressful nature of nursing.
The class may be able to offer suggestions and tips into
handling the pressures of everyday nursing. It will also be nice
to know that there is an instructor and other students who feel
the same way about the trials of nursing and that you are not
alone.
Conclusion
Nursing may not be for everyone. It takes dedication and a
tenacious attitude. There are stressful aspects of the job, but
the good news is that the same experiences that cause stress can
also cause satisfaction. Nursing is a highly emotional job, and
a nurse can learn to focus that energy into positivity.
About The Author: Western
Schools(
http://www.westernschools.com/)is the largest provider of
home study continuing education for nurses in the United States.
Founded in 1978, the school has sold courses to almost 1 million
students.
08-03-2007, 01:13 AM
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