Dialysis nursing is one of the most mentally and physically draining careers in the medical field. However, it is also the most spiritually rewarding. Learning how to prevent nursing burnout is critical to your career as a dialysis nurse. Your job may be stressful at times but in the words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop to look around once in a while, you might miss it.”

Take Care of Your Mental Health

You spend hours on end caring for other people in need, so it can be easy to overlook your own needs. Take some time for yourself to nurture and protect your mental health.

Exercise

Exercise is key when it comes to feeling mentally sound. Mark McGovern, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University, reminds us that “One of the most exciting changes that exercise causes is neurogenesis, the creation of new neurons.”

Neurons are fundamental units of the brain that receive sensory input from the external world and transform and relay electrical signals. Neurons can become depleted with high levels of stress and mental illness, so it is important to have fully functional if not brand new neurons to aid in decision-making processes and bodily functions.

Ultimately, neurons have a direct impact on your perception of the world and your mood. It is important to exercise so that your brain is at its healthiest. 

Reflect

Take time to reflect on your efforts. Maybe there are instances that occur in your work environment that create stressful situations. In these instances, reflect on what you can do to alleviate stress and tension in order to create a more relaxed and welcoming work environment. 

Having a level of communication established with your coworkers is always important to maintain a healthy work environment. Always ask yourself: “What can I do to change the situation?” Then, take action!

Self-Evaluate

Remember your “why.” There is a reason you wanted to become a traveling dialysis nurse. Always take time to remember your why and let that motivate you throughout your workday.

As a dialysis nurse, you may have one of the most important whys of all: helping others. Helping others has been medically proven to stimulate the brain and create a sensation of fulfillment and relief. 

Take Some Time Off and Enjoy Yourself

As a traveling dialysis nurse, you have some of the greatest benefits in the medical field. You can visit and work in any area in the country as well as take advantage of gaps in your work schedule. Make sure you take time in between shifts or contracts to enjoy yourself!

Visit Must-See Destinations 

Traveling agencies like New Directions Staffing provide traveling dialysis nurses with experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Traveling dialysis nurses have the benefit of visiting some of the greatest and most beautiful parts of America. Taking the time to look around and take in the beauty of a new place can be crucial in alleviating nurse burnout.  

Visit Your Loved Ones

Traveling constantly and working in a profession that requires so much of you can be mentally draining. You should take time to visit those who supported and guided you through the process of becoming a dialysis nurse. Spending time with your loved ones may be all the therapy you need in order to alleviate and reduce nursing burnout.

Consult with Professionals

At New Directions Staffing, we pride ourselves on providing some instances occurtotoa welcoming environment that nurtures and prepares dialysis nurses to travel the country. If you have more questions regarding alleviating nurse burnout, or simply would like more information on the dialysis nursing field, contact New Directions Staffing today!