Tips to Care For Yourself Over the Holidays

Schedule Some “Me” Time

It’s important to take some time for yourself during the holidays. Whether you read a book, take a bubble bath, or go for a walk, make sure to schedule some time to do things that make you happy. Getting some “me” time will help you decompress and recharge so that you can better handle the challenges of the holiday season.

Holiday Schedule Shifts

Decide if you’d like to take shifts around the holidays. At Vantage Medical Staffing, holiday shifts are not required! You can create your schedule based on what days and times you’d like to work, and we’ll find the right nursing shifts for you. That said, we do offer holiday differentials and last-minute shift bonuses for our healthcare professionals. So, if you’re interested in working over the holidays, just update your schedule in our Vantage mobile app!

Create Boundaries with Family & Friends

It can be difficult to say no during the holidays, but setting boundaries with your family and friends is crucial. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, let them know and explain that you need some space. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it!

Triage Your To-Do List

During the holidays, it’s easy to feel you need to do everything at once. But this is usually not realistic or healthy. Instead of trying to do everything at once, triage your to-do list and focus on the most important tasks first. Doing this will help you stay sane during an otherwise chaotic time of year.

Tips for Caring for Your Residents Over The Holidays

Be Sensitive To Residents

The holidays can be difficult for residents as well. Not only can they be more vulnerable to illness this time of year, but the holidays can also bring up painful memories of lost loved ones or past traditions they may be missing. Go the extra mile for residents to make them feel loved this holiday season.

Patience is a Virtue

Try to maintain a sense of humor and patience, even when things are hectic this season. Remember that your residents and their families are counting on you to provide them with the best possible care, so do your best to rise to the occasion. With a little planning and effort, you can make the holiday season a success for you and your residents.

Alleviating Loneliness

Some residents may not have many visitors during the holidays, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. As a nurse, you can help to alleviate some of these feelings. One way to do this is to make them a card wishing them happy holidays. Include a little note or a drawing that may make them smile. You can also spend extra time with them or help arrange special events at your healthcare facility, like having a children’s choir come to sing or a special game night.