One of the downsides of the nursing profession is that nurses typically have to work on one or more holidays per year. After all, hospitals and healthcare facilities can’t close just because it’s a holiday. So, you’re taking on a shift over the holiday while your family is celebrating without you — how do you make the most of it? Let’s take a look at some easy ways you can still celebrate.
Enjoy the Food
More than likely, there will be some kind of tasty treats in the office around the holidays. Cookies, cakes, pies, crackers, and cheese… the list goes on and on. If you don’t know that your supervisor or a fellow employee is bringing something in, take the initiative and pick something up yourself. Indulge in a holiday goodie or two during your shift — you’ve earned it.
Dress the Part
Check with your supervisor to see what kind of festive clothing you might be able to wear on your holiday shift. Of course, you’ll want to avoid anything that violates the dress code or safety standards. It’s even possible that your facility doesn’t allow nurses to wear anything but their usual scrubs. But if you can wear something festive without breaking company policy, it’s a great way to spread the holiday cheer!
Decorate
Decorating your area is another great way to celebrate the holidays even when you’re stuck at work. Depending on the policies at your facility, you might be able to decorate nurses’ stations, hallways, the lobby, or even patient rooms — it’ll put a smile on the face of everyone from your patients to the top administrators. Talk to your supervisor to see what you might be able to put up without violating any policies or safety standards.
Give Gifts
Try bringing in a few small gifts to hand out to your coworkers. You can even try organizing a semi-official gift exchange, like a “secret Santa” or “white elephant” game. Giving and receiving small gifts while you’re at work makes the whole shift fly by.
Spend Time With Your Patients
Spending quality time with your patients over the holidays makes everyone feel good. It’s also very useful for reminding yourself that you’re working on a holiday for a reason — to ensure the safety, happiness, and health of those under your care.
Is It Time for a Change?
Ready to take the next step and advance your nursing career with a job you deserve? We’re here to help with that. Call BOS Medical or visit us online today.
