Working in healthcare can be a toll on the body and mind. While on your travel assignments, it is super important to practice self-care. Here are some of the best self-care tips for travel nurses.

Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for a nurse working long shifts. Most shifts are between 10 and 12 hours, which can be very tolling on the body. It is recommended to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night. This will ensure you are rested and full of energy for the long shifts you will work.

Healthy Diet

It is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet as a nurse. Eating foods with a good nutritional balance is a great way to maintain energy, keep your body healthy, and boost your overall mood. It is easy to eat out and get fast food when you have a busy schedule. Meal prepping is a great way to ensure you are fueling your body with nutritious foods. It can also be a fun activity on your day off.

Staying Hydrated

Staying hydrated along with eating balanced meals can help you physically prepare for working long hours. It is important to remember to keep hydrated before, after, and especially during your shifts. It is recommended for men to consume 15 and a half cups of water a day, and women 11 and a half cups a day.

Communicate with Family & Friends 

It is important to reach out to and utilize your support system and stay in touch with loved ones while you are traveling. Having this support system outside of work can make a huge difference and help you to feel relaxed and motivated. Rather you call, video call, text, email, or contact them on social media, it is important to remember you have people to support you!

Embrace Work-Life Balance

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is important, especially when working in healthcare for long hours. Make sure to schedule self-care, “me-time”, and time with family and friends in the surrounding area. Remember, you may be in a new city, there will be plenty of things to explore – rather it is the beach, the mountains, historical areas, or entertainment. Enjoy what is there for you in your new city!

Explore Nature

There are many benefits of being in nature, especially walking or jogging outside. It is important to still move your body even after long days at your shift. The CDC recommends one hour of exercise daily to keep your mind and body refreshed. Rather you go to the beach or on a hike, it is great to spend time outdoors!

Prioritize Mental Health

Mental health is extremely important and should be a top priority for healthcare workers. Practicing self-care is one of the most important ways to combat stress and burnouts from work. Rather you journal, talk to loved ones, do a face mask, or just do something you enjoy, make sure to make time for yourself and your mind!

Setting Boundaries 

It is extremely important to set boundaries for a proper work-life balance while working in the healthcare industry. No matter how much you love your job, it is critical to set boundaries and make time for yourself. Before starting your new assignment, make sure to solidify your schedule and make it clear what your boundaries are.

About Voca

Voca is a relationship organization focused on uniting talented healthcare professionals across nursing and allied, as well as travel and local with exceptional companies. Headquartered in Blue Ash, OH, Voca works coast-to-coast supporting national, regional, and local healthcare companies. Voca is proud to be certified by The Joint Commission, which evaluates and accredits healthcare staffing agency organizations and programs in the United States. We are committed to creating and maintaining a workplace in which all employees have an opportunity to participate and contribute to our mutual successes and are values for our skills, experience, and unique perspective. For more information, visit https://myvoca.com/