It’s that time of year again when patients and their families are relying on Nurses to provide excellent care along with a little holiday cheer to the bedside. Of course we can expect to face the normal stress of the job, however many of us will also struggle with being away from our families because holiday shift bidding didn’t go as planned. Even though we understand that this goes with the territory of being a nurse, it doesn’t make being away from our loved ones any easier. Therefore, it’s essential to make the best of our holiday shifts and bring our colleagues, patients and their families the warmth and joy of the season with these three easy strategies:
Demonstrate Gratitude
Start each of your days off by giving thanks for all that you have. It’s easy to get used to all of the comforts and conveniences that we’ve worked our butts off to enjoy, but we should always be wise to give thanks for what we have that’s going right for us, rather than focusing on the negative. One easy way to do this is to consider the fact that we get to go home to our families at the end of our shifts, and that our patients in many cases cannot. We should also be grateful that we have the opportunity and capacity to provide service to our patients and their families during the holidays. Whether they say so or not, I know my services are very much appreciated and that makes me feel good. So when you’re feeling frustrated or feeling down because you are not with your family during your holiday shifts, just think about all the things you are grateful for and your spirits will sure to be lifted!
Join in on the Festivities of the Season
Whether it be caroling on the unit, making holiday cards for your patients, or participating in a pot-luck lunches, be sure to join in on the festivities! We all know that organizing a pot-luck luncheon for staff in a healthcare facility can be a challenge, but when we finally get that chance to break free from patient care to grab a bite to eat – NOTHING is better than having a home cooked holiday meal! Also, be sure to involve your patients and their family members in holiday festivities as well. It’s really something special when you can take a few extra minutes out of your shift to do something so very meaningful for your patients. So instead of being a Grinch because you are stuck at work during the holidays – make sure you have a little fun by sharing in the Joy of the season!
Spend More Quality Time with Your Patients
Nothing means more to a patient and their family than a nurse or nursing assistant who spends a lot of quality time with them. Patients often complain that they get to see their healthcare providers and nursing staff far less than they would like. In order to bring your patients and their families some of that Holiday Spirit, plan to spend a little more time with them. Engaging in conversation about their holiday traditions, about their family members, and even what they plan to do after they are discharged (if possible), will really help to brighten up their stay, and help to pass the time. It’s understandable that you’ll find yourself busy per the usual, but finding an extra 30 minutes or so per patient will mean the world to them!
So if you find yourself working this holiday season, be sure to implement these three simple, yet effective ways to help bring holiday cheer to the bedside!
Best Wishes and Happy Holidays!
-Damion
