Hand Hygiene: Shocking Statistics & How To Take Care of Your Hands
We’ve done the math on how many times nurses perform hand hygiene, plus some shocking facts and a few tips on how to take care of your hands as a nurse.
Our relentless research goes beyond shoes. Capsol allows us to talk all things nursing, from career advice and current news to self-care and mental health. These conversations with you, the community, and the world at large help us put our best foot forward when creating the best nursing shoes on the planet.
Naturally, feelings of refreshment, renewal, and hope often accompany the start of a new year. Thus, the ever-impending New Years Resolutions (how are those coming so far?). But coming off a year like 2020, many of us entered 2021 exhausted, weary, and anxious about what’s to come with the continued pandemic.
Every heard the old adage, “Focus only on what you can control”? So, so, so much is out of your hands right now – and that can be pretty nerve-wracking. But, when things are hectic or unsure, it can help to narrow your focus on what’s in front of you and do the best you can with what you have.
So, here’s what we’re thinking: Let’s do just that. Let’s get 2021 started in the best way possible. So, if you’re in week two of 2021 and already feeling it, take a deep breath – you’ve got this, and here’s 10 tips to help.
Don’t burn yourself out by working or parenting or “adulting” around the clock with no breaks in between. Regularly give yourself time to breathe and reset – you’ll be a better nurse and a better YOU for it.
You’re a nurse – you have a ton to do, pretty much always. Even if you’re the best and most experienced nurse in the world, things are going to feel even more overwhelming if you don’t have a clear picture of what needs to be done and if your environment is cluttered and disorganized. Take some time to organize yourself and what you need to do each day; use your phone, smartwatch, or a calendar to help. It also helps to keep any workstations clear of clutter.
Plan for the changes you want. Whether it’s furthering your education, making a career change, or taking a trip to that adorable bed and breakfast you’ve had your eye on; evaluate your goals and work towards them. Take small steps and remember – no matter how small the goal is, it’s just important to keep yourself propelling forward.
When you’re always on the run and working long shifts, eating a healthy meal can seem like a distant dream. Here’s the thing, though: your health and your productivity go hand-in-hand with how you fuel your body. Try to pre-pack your lunches at home (we have some great ideas here) and keep some healthy and easy-to-grab snacks on hand. You’ll be thanking yourself later.
You knew this one was coming next – but it’s seriously so, so important. We know exercising is the last thing on your mind when you’ve been on your feet all day, but as a nurse, you know it’s a must. Here are some great workouts you can do right in the breakroom.
You advocate for your patients all day, but don’t forget to advocate for yourself. You are your own best hero – remember this the next time you’re gunning for that new position, or your uncomfortable with a situation, or you feel you’re being looked over.
Not only do check lists help keep you organized, but they can be extremely satisfying as you check off those boxes. Keep your lists short so you can complete them often before moving on to the next one.
Because you’re on your feet all day, you’re often prone to having more foot or lower extremity pain and health issues than average. Prioritize taking care of your feet. Here’s more on that and what you can do.
With the pandemic and your extremely hectic schedule, it can be easy to feel isolated at times. Make an extra effort to stop and chat with your coworkers, your kiddos, and other loved ones, even for just a moment. It feels good to feel connected.
How is your 2021 so far? What are you doing to get the year started right? Let us know in the comments below!
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We’ve done the math on how many times nurses perform hand hygiene, plus some shocking facts and a few tips on how to take care of your hands as a nurse.
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