While many businesses close down for the holidays, professionals working in the healthcare industry don’t always have the luxury of shutting down and enjoying the holidays at home. If you’re a healthcare professional who will be spending their holidays working, here are some tips to help get you in the holiday spirit and bring joy to your patients.
How Nurses Can Spread Holiday Cheer
Working a holiday shift and missing family time could make you sad—but with some creative effort, you could make the extra effort to make your time on staff more positive by sharing joy.
We know the job is stressful and you’re busy. But could you find the energy to help organize your unit’s holiday decorating? Is there something you could do to make your area feel more festive? Can you wear holiday gear? Could you host a visit from Santa? There are all kinds of creative, low-cost ways to share the spirit. You could even call your marketing team for some creative suggestions.
What about organizing a potluck? You could have all of the nurses bring in leftover plates that you can share. Or, maybe even better, see if the hospital will spring for delivered meals for your team. You’ll support a local business but also give your staff a much-needed lift.
Connect with your family while they’re doing family things during the holiday. Is your Mom baking cookies right now? Try FaceTiming to connect with her. Or, you can set this up for your patients (with their permission, of course) so they can reach out to distant loved ones. Do you have any patients who may struggle with technology? Perhaps you could facilitate a Zoom call from their room so they could speak with their families.
What about singing as you work? This is only a suggestion for those nurses who actually like to sing, mind you. There’s something about singing a holiday song that just gets people into the mood. Of course, wearing a Santa or elf hat is optional. Even wearing holiday scrubs may put you in the mood.
While you’re spreading holiday cheer, take the time to put in for time off. Go ahead and ask for your PTO early for the next holiday season. Also, take care of yourself. If you’re feeling burnt out, take some time off or take time for self-care. We know nurses are the worst at caring for themselves, even as they’re taking care of others. Exercise and eating right are absolutely imperative when stress is high—especially around the holidays.
AG Globe understands the difficulties of working during the holiday season. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and searching for your next assignment, search with AG Globe Services!
