Nurse Smarter, Not Harder: 5 Shift-Saving Hacks for Nurses

Nursing is a rewarding but tough job -- there are long hours, fast-paced environments and a lot of time spent on your feet. Here are ways to make your shifts smoother, your feet a little less sore and your brain a little clearer. 

Compression Socks are a Must Have
Nurses are on their feet a lot. Studies estimate that a nurse can walk anywhere from 4 to 6 miles during a 12-hour shift. Compression socks are snug-fitting socks that help improve circulation, reduce swelling, prevent varicose veins and ease leg fatigue. They work by applying gentle pressure to your legs, which helps blood flow back up toward the heart, reducing the risk of pooling and pain — especially by the end of a long shift.  

Create a Pocket Inventory System
A pocket inventory system means assigning specific tools or items to consistent pockets every shift. As a nurse you are constantly multitasking. You’re starting IVs, scanning meds, taping dressings, writing quick notes and more.  Having the essentials on you keeps your workflow smooth and your patient care uninterrupted. For example:

• Right pocket: Alcohol pads, flushes, and IV caps.
• Left pocket: Tape, scissors, hemostats.
• Top right chest pocket: Pens, Sharpie, highlighter.

Practice Cluster Care Finding extra time during a shift is rare, but it can be done. Cluster care is a helpful way of grouping your tasks so you can complete multiple interventions in one room visit — reducing how often you enter and exit. This method of care can help you save time and improve patient satisfaction. Just be mindful that it’s about being efficient and not rushing patient care.

Document in Real Time Document patient care and observations in real-time or as soon as possible. Efficient documentation means more time with your patients and helps reduce errors, improves clarity for other team members, and keeps your stress levels lower.

Stash a Mini Survival Kit
Fill a small pouch with essentials: lip balm, gum, deodorant, Tylenol, hair ties, extra pen, phone charger, and an energy bar or your favorite snack. These small comforts make a big difference in your mood and energy level when you’re 10 hours into a 12-hour shift.

With the right mindset (and a few hacks up your sleeve), you can make your nursing shifts a little easier. For more information on current nursing opportunities at Baton Rouge General contact one of our nurse recruiters at 985-606-9061.