DiversityNursing Blog

Every Nurse knows that a well-stocked bag can be the difference between a smooth shift and a chaotic one. While hospitals and clinics provide the basics, seasoned Nurses carry their own arsenal of essentials to ensure they’re ready for anything. We asked Nurses from various specialties to share what’s always in their bags. Here’s what they said:

The Must-Haves

Stethoscope – This is a given, but many Nurses opt for high-quality brands like Littmann for better acoustics. Some even carry a backup in case theirs goes missing.

Penlight – For neuro checks, pupil assessments, or just trying to find something in a dimly lit supply room.

Scissors and Hemostats – Trauma Nurses swear by their bandage scissors, while OR Nurses keep hemostats handy for a variety of quick fixes.

Pens (Lots of Them!) – Black ink is standard for charting, but colorful pens help highlight important notes. One Nurse admitted she carries extras just to lend out (because they never come back!).

Sharpies and Dry-Erase Markers – For labeling IV bags, patient belongings, or whiteboards in patient rooms.

Notepad or Pocket Notebook – Essential for jotting down patient details, reminders, or that elusive password.

Personal Survival Kit

Hand Sanitizer and Alcohol Swabs – “I use these more for myself than for patients,” one Nurse joked. The hospital might stock them, but it’s never enough.

Lip Balm and Lotion – Constant handwashing takes a toll. Most Nurses keep a small bottle of lotion and a reliable lip balm within reach.

Snacks – Energy bars, nuts, or protein-packed snacks keep Nurses fueled through long shifts when meals are a luxury.

Water Bottle or Coffee Tumbler – Hydration is key, and caffeine is survival. Many Nurses keep a reusable bottle to stay energized throughout the shift.

Compression Socks – Not in the bag, but definitely on the feet. Many Nurses stash an extra pair in case they need a fresh set.

Hair Ties and Headbands – “If I forget a hair tie, my shift is ruined,” one Nurse admitted.

Tech and Extras

Watch with a Second Hand – Vital for counting respirations or checking pulses when digital monitors aren’t available.

Portable Phone Charger – Some hospitals have limited charging stations, so a power bank lets Nurses stay connected in case of an emergency.

Reference Cards or Apps – Quick drug calculations, EKG interpretations, or lab values. Having a pocket guide or phone app can be a lifesaver.

Extra Scrubs or Socks – For those unfortunate moments when bodily fluids end up where they shouldn’t.

Personal Items

Essential Oils or Menthol Rub – A dab under the nose helps mask unpleasant smells in certain patient care situations.

Tampons and Pads – Even if you don’t need them, a coworker might.

Small First Aid Kit – “We care for patients, but sometimes we need a Band-Aid too,” one Nurse pointed out.

Mini Deodorant or Body Spray – A quick refresh between back-to-back patient rounds.

Final Thoughts

No two Nurses pack exactly the same bag, but the goal is always preparedness. Whether it’s a lifesaving tool, a time-saving hack, or a personal comfort item, these essentials help Nurses navigate the challenges of every shift.

What’s in YOUR bag? Share your must-haves in the comments!

Becoming a Nurse is a rewarding yet challenging career path. It’s a calling filled with moments of joy, frustration, and constant learning. While Nursing school does its best to prepare you, there are many things you can only learn through experience. If you’re considering a career in Nursing or are just starting out, here are some things I wish I had known before stepping into this field.

Nursing Is Emotionally Demanding

I expected the physical demands of Nursing, but the emotional aspect took me by surprise. You will deal with loss, grieving families, and patients facing their worst moments. It’s essential to develop emotional resilience. However, it’s okay to feel vulnerable. Seeking support from colleagues, friends, or a therapist is not a sign of weakness; it's a necessary part of self-care in this profession.

You Can’t Do Everything on Your Own

In Nursing school, you're often focused on individual performance. But real-life Nursing is a team effort. You rely heavily on your colleagues, from Physicians to support staff. Learning to delegate and communicate effectively is key. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it—it’s better for the patient and for you.

Time Management Will Make or Break Your Shift

One of the biggest challenges Nurses face is managing time effectively. You might have 10 things that need to get done at once, but prioritizing tasks is critical. As a new Nurse, it took me time to learn how to organize my day, manage interruptions, and still provide quality care. I wish I practiced more strategies for time management early on—like clustering care tasks, minimizing distractions, and always having a plan, but being ready to adapt when emergencies happen.

You Will Make Mistakes—And That’s Okay

No matter how well-prepared you are, mistakes happen. The key is to learn from them and not let them define you. I vividly remember the first time I made an error with medication. I was devastated, but I quickly realized mistakes are part of the learning process. The important thing is to be transparent, own your error, and take immediate steps to ensure patient safety.

Your Feet Will Hurt!

Standing, walking, running between patient rooms—it’s a constant physical strain. Invest in high-quality shoes and compression socks early on. I didn’t, and trust me, my feet paid the price. Also, take breaks when you can, stretch, and stay hydrated. Nursing is a marathon, not a sprint.

Documentation Is an Art Form

One of the biggest adjustments after Nursing school is realizing how much time you’ll spend documenting patient care. At first, charting can seem overwhelming. But it’s vital for patient safety, legal protection, and continuity of care. I learned to chart in real-time as much as possible and to focus on key points—clear, concise, and accurate. The more efficiently you chart, the more time you’ll have to actually care for patients.

You Will Be an Advocate

One thing I didn’t fully grasp before becoming a Nurse is how much advocacy is a part of the role. You’re the patient's voice when they can’t speak for themselves. Whether it’s questioning a medication order, ensuring they understand their discharge instructions, or communicating their needs to the care team, advocacy is an integral part of Nursing. It can be intimidating, but it’s necessary to ensure patients receive the best care.

It’s Okay to Not Know Everything

As a new Nurse, I felt an immense pressure to know all the answers. The reality is, you won’t. Medicine is always evolving, and each patient presents a unique case. It’s important to stay curious, ask questions, and continue learning. Experienced Nurses are a wealth of knowledge—tap into their experience and never be afraid to admit when you don’t know something.

Work-Life Balance Can Be Tough

Shift work, long hours, and the emotional toll can make it difficult to find a good work-life balance. I’ve learned it’s crucial to set boundaries. Taking time off, engaging in hobbies, and connecting with loved ones helps prevent burnout. Nursing is demanding, but your personal well-being matters just as much as your professional responsibilities.

Nursing Is Incredibly Fulfilling

Despite all the challenges, Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers out there. The satisfaction of helping others through some of their most difficult times is unparalleled. You’ll build relationships with patients, witness recovery, and be a part of life-changing moments. No 2 days are the same, and the work you do genuinely makes a difference.

Nursing is not for the faint of heart, but if you have the passion for it, it will be one of the most fulfilling journeys of your life. These lessons are ones I wish I had known early on, but they’ve shaped me into the Nurse I am today. Remember, it's okay to grow, to ask for help, and to learn along the way. If you can embrace the challenges, you’ll find that Nursing is not just a career—it’s a calling.

Nursing is a rewarding yet challenging profession. Long hours, demanding tasks, and the need to stay organized can make shifts overwhelming. To help you navigate your day more efficiently, here are some practical hacks to streamline your tasks and improve your overall workflow before and during your shifts.

Prepare the Night Before

Pack Smart: Lay out your uniform, shoes, and any necessary accessories the night before. This eliminates the morning scramble and ensures you start your day smoothly.

Meal Prep: Prepare your meals and snacks in advance. Pack high-protein snacks, fruits, and vegetables to keep your energy levels up throughout the shift.

Check Your Schedule: Review your schedule and any patient updates before heading to bed. This helps you mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Optimize Your Shift Start

Arrive Early: Arriving a few minutes early allows you to settle in, review patient charts, and prioritize tasks before the official start of your shift.

Organize Your Workspace: Take a few moments to organize your workstation. A tidy workspace reduces stress and helps you find necessary items quickly.

Create a To-Do List: Outline your tasks for the day. Prioritize them based on urgency and importance to ensure nothing crucial is overlooked.

Streamline Your Tasks

Batch Similar Tasks: Group similar tasks together to save time. For example, if you need to check vital signs for multiple patients, do it in one go.

Use Checklists: Create checklists for recurring tasks, such as patient admissions or discharges. Checklists ensure you don’t miss any steps and help you stay organized.

Delegate Wisely: Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to Nursing Assistants or support staff when appropriate. Delegation frees you up to focus on more critical duties.

Maximize Patient Care Efficiency

Prepare Supplies in Advance: Before entering a patient’s room, gather all necessary supplies. This minimizes the need to leave the room repeatedly, saving time and maintaining patient focus.

Document in Real-Time: Document patient care and observations in real-time or as soon as possible. This prevents backlog and ensures accurate, up-to-date records.

Use Technology: Utilize technology, such as mobile apps or digital reminders, to keep track of medications, appointments, and other important tasks.

Take Care of Yourself

Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle with you and sip regularly. Staying hydrated maintains your energy levels and cognitive function.

Take Breaks: Use your breaks to relax and recharge. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or a short walk can make a significant difference.

Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, into your day. These practices reduce stress and improve focus.

Foster Teamwork and Communication

Communicate Clearly: Clear and concise communication with colleagues ensures everyone is on the same page, reducing errors and improving patient care.

Support Each Other: Foster a supportive environment by helping colleagues when possible. A collaborative team reduces individual stress and improves overall efficiency.

Share Tips and Tricks: Share your own Nursing hacks with your team and be open to learning from others. Collective wisdom enhances everyone’s efficiency and effectiveness.

By incorporating these Nursing hacks into your routine, you can streamline your tasks, improve efficiency, and provide better patient care. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your patients. With a bit of preparation and smart strategies, you can make your shifts more manageable and enjoyable. Happy Nursing!

Being a Nurse means you will most likely have to spend a holiday or two a year working a shift. It can be disappointing to forego your holiday traditions and festivities with your loved ones to head to work instead.

Although having to work the holidays can be difficult, it is important to remember that your presence can make a huge difference in the lives of your patients. Follow this holiday survival guide to continue spreading holiday cheer, even if you must spend the holiday in your scrubs.

Put Your Mental Health First

Nurses have a physically and emotionally exhausting job, and the emotional toll can become especially hard during the holidays. It is important to prioritize your mental health, especially during the holiday season. Set time aside to recharge before, during, and after your shift by taking a short walk, a bubble bath, or reading a good book.

Prioritizing your mental health while working the holidays will set you up to enjoy celebrations in your personal life.

Find Ways To Celebrate the Holidays at Work

Just because you must work the holidays, it doesn't mean you can't celebrate them. One of the best ways to spread the holiday spirit and enjoy your time at work is to bring the celebration into your shift.

Consider organizing a holiday party at work where everyone brings a dish to share, wear holiday accessories or scrubs, or even plan a Secret Santa with your coworkers. Although working the holidays can sometimes feel like a drag, these simple holiday traditions can make all the difference.

Think About Your Patients

If you are disappointed to be spending the holidays working and away from your family, odds are your patients are feeling the same way, maybe even worse. Be cheerful when interacting with your patients and tell them they are not alone.

You could decorate patient rooms to spread holiday cheer or help them call or Facetime their loved ones to help lift their spirits. A great way to uplift your mood is to boost the mood of others, and a little extra holiday cheer can make a huge difference in the lives of our patients.

Stay Connected to Friends and Loved Ones

It can be challenging to work the holidays instead of spending time with your friends and family, but staying connected the best way you can is essential. If possible, arrange with your loved ones to move your usual holiday traditions to a different day so you can attend. This way, you can still enjoy time together celebrating the holidays. Because at the end of the day, all that matters is time spent with loved ones, even if you celebrate the holiday on a different day.

If you work as a travel Nurse and distance is a struggle when trying to stay connected, arrange for a virtual celebration so that you can stay connected despite the physical distance.  

Splurge on a Gift for Yourself

One of the perks of working the holidays is holiday pay or bonuses. If you are working during the holidays and find yourself with a little extra cash in your pocket, consider buying yourself a gift to celebrate your hard work. Nurses put so much of their time and energy into caring for their patients. You deserve to celebrate your hard work with something special.

Prioritize your Rest to Combat Fatigue

The key to success in surviving the holidays is remembering the basics of self-care, and this includes prioritizing your rest. Caring for yourself and getting enough sleep between your holiday shifts is essential to combat the physical and emotional fatigue that comes with working a busy holiday shift. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to help unwind and reset your mind for a good night's sleep.

Maintain Boundaries

We all know, the holiday season is a busy time of year. It can be challenging for Nurses who work off shifts to coordinate attending specific gatherings, especially when it seems like there is a gathering planned every day of the week.

 It is important to set clear boundaries between your work and personal life. When you are off-duty, focus on relaxing and enjoying the time with your loved ones and not overcommitting to social events if you need the time to recharge between your busy holiday work shifts.  

Balancing work and your personal life can be challenging, and the holidays are no different. The best way to survive the holidays is to plan appropriately and prioritize self-care so you can enjoy the season and continue to take great care of your patients.

One of the most extraordinary things about Nursing are the endless opportunities that lay at your feet the second you enter the profession. Here are some tips and advice to set you up for success in your Nursing career.

Continuing Education and Learning

Nursing is a dynamic career field with constant technological advancements and best practice updates. Nurses should strive to stay on top of industry trends by attending conferences, online classes, independent study programs, and on-the-job training.

Continuing education credits can ensure you stay updated with industry trends and broaden your skill set, making you stand apart from others in the job market. 

Nursing Specialization

Nursing specialization allows you to become an expert in a chosen area of interest within the Nursing profession. Registered Nurses can choose to become board-certified in various Nursing specialties, including but not limited to, Emergency Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, and Critical Care.  

Nurses who specialize in a specific area of Nursing can influence Nursing practice, education, and healthcare outcomes by sharing their expertise and patient care experience. Not only does pursuing a specialization look excellent on a resume, it also helps shape the healthcare industry's future and promote better patient care. 

Networking

Networking in Nursing can unlock unexpected and significant career opportunities. Networking contributes to personal growth and development within your career by allowing Nurses to connect with colleagues, mentors, and experts in the field to share knowledge and experience.

These connections provide Nurses with opportunities for learning from the experiences of others, developing professionally, and staying updated on advancements in healthcare. Becoming a member of a professional Nursing organization or association and finding a Nurse mentor are great ways to expand your network and unlock limitless career advancement.

Diversify and Seek New Experiences

A rich and productive work environment comprises diverse individuals with broad experience backgrounds. The best career candidates provide valuable experience and knowledge in different areas of Nursing practice.

To diversify your background and become an ideal career opportunity candidate, seek out new experiences to broaden your skills and knowledge by participating in volunteer opportunities, internships, and residency programs. Experience in various areas of Nursing makes you a well-rounded medical professional with knowledge and experience to share, which looks great on any job application.

Create a Strong Cover Letter and Resume

When seeking new career opportunities, a strong cover letter and resume can set you apart from other candidates and help you to stand out.

The cover letter is the first document a potential employer reads. It should capture the reader's attention and set the tone for the rest of your application. From there, your resume should showcase your strongest achievements, skills, and experiences. A quality cover letter and resume may unlock or block you from career opportunities.

Consider an Advanced Degree

Advanced Nursing degrees can unlock extreme career potential and open the doors to new and prosperous opportunities. Advanced Nursing degrees empower Nurses to take on more specialized, leadership-oriented, and impactful roles in the healthcare system.

They provide a pathway for career growth, increased responsibilities, and the opportunity to contribute significantly to patient care, education, research, and healthcare policy. If you are looking for a new career opportunity, there is no better way to open more career goals than to work toward completing an advanced degree.

To unlock Nursing career opportunities and achieve the greatest success, Nurses must have a unique combination of education, skill development, networking, and a proactive approach to career planning. A successful Nursing journey can look different to everyone, and how you reach ultimate career satisfaction is an individualized process. Nursing at all levels takes skill, dedication, and passion. As long as you keep the goal of providing high-quality patient care, you will achieve career success.

Promoting work-life balance is crucial to ensure the overall well-being and job satisfaction of Nurses. It not only benefits your personal life but also enhances your ability to provide quality patient care. Here are some effective strategies that can help you achieve a healthier work-life balance while maintaining your passion for your profession:

Establish Clear Boundaries: Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential. This means avoiding checking work emails or taking calls during off-hours. Communicating these boundaries with colleagues and supervisors can help ensure personal time is respected and protected.

Make Self-Care a Priority: Nurses must prioritize self-care and make it a non-negotiable part of their daily routine. This includes scheduling regular exercise, healthy meals, sufficient sleep, and relaxation activities. By prioritizing self-care, you can recharge physically and mentally, enabling you to provide better care to your patients.

Effective Time Management: Efficiently managing time at work is crucial for maintaining work-life balance. Utilizing tools such as to-do lists, prioritization techniques, and time-blocking can help you stay organized and focused, reducing the need for overtime. By managing time effectively, you can accomplish your tasks efficiently, leaving more time for personal activities outside of work.

Delegate and Collaborate: Nurses should not hesitate to delegate tasks and collaborate with colleagues. Teamwork can help distribute the workload, prevent burnout, and ensure a more balanced work environment. By working together, you can support one another and create a positive and collaborative atmosphere.

Practice Stress-Relief Techniques: Stress is inevitable in the Nursing profession, but you can manage it effectively by practicing stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness. These techniques can help you relax, reduce stress levels, and maintain a sense of calm, both at work and in your personal life.

Maintain Proper Hydration and Nutrition: Proper hydration and nutrition are crucial for Nurses to maintain their energy levels, focus, and overall well-being. As a nurse, it's easy to get caught up in the demands of the job and neglect your own needs, but taking care of yourself is essential for providing quality care to your patients.

One way to ensure proper hydration is to always carry a water bottle with you during your shifts. Staying hydrated throughout the day not only helps to prevent dehydration but also keeps your body functioning optimally. Drinking water regularly can help improve your concentration, prevent fatigue, and boost your overall mood.

In addition to staying hydrated, packing nutritious meals and snacks for your shifts is vital. As a nurse, you are constantly on your feet and need sustained energy to keep up with the demands of your job. 

Consider preparing meals in advance that are easy to grab and eat on the go. Avoid relying on processed or fast food options, as they are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and added sugars. These types of foods may provide a temporary energy boost but can lead to crashes and leave you feeling sluggish. 

Remember to listen to your body's hunger and fullness cues throughout the day. It's easy to skip meals or eat on the go when you're busy, but taking the time to sit down and enjoy a balanced meal can make a significant difference in your energy levels and overall well-being. Also, don't forget to include healthy snacks in your bag, such as fresh fruits, yogurt, or nuts, to keep you fueled between meals.

Stay Connected: Maintaining strong connections with friends and family outside of work is vital for Nurses' emotional well-being. Social support provides a sense of belonging and helps you decompress and recharge during your downtime. Whether it's spending quality time with loved ones, participating in social activities, or engaging in hobbies and interests, staying connected with others outside of the healthcare setting can greatly contribute to your overall happiness and well-being.

Friends and family can provide a listening ear, offer words of encouragement, and provide a much-needed break from the stresses of work. They can provide a safe space for you to share your thoughts, concerns, and triumphs, allowing you to process your experiences and emotions in a healthy way.

Spending time with family and friends can act as a reminder of the things that bring you joy and fulfillment outside of work. It can help you maintain perspective and prevent burnout by reminding you of the importance of work-life balance.

Unplug: Take breaks from screens and digital devices during your downtime. Constant exposure to screens can contribute to burnout.

In today's digital age, it's become increasingly difficult to disconnect from screens and digital devices. Whether it's checking emails, scrolling through social media, or binge-watching our favorite shows, our lives seem to revolve around screens. However, it's important to recognize the negative impact that constant exposure to screens can have on our well-being.

Unplugging gives your eyes a much-needed rest and also allows your mind to unwind and recharge. Constant exposure to screens can lead to eye strain, headaches, and even sleep disturbances, all of which can contribute to burnout.

By consciously unplugging from screens, you can create space for reflection, creativity, and self-care. It allows you to be fully present in the moment and truly engage with the world around you. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for your phone or turning on the TV, take a moment to pause and consider whether unplugging and engaging in a screen-free activity might be a better choice for your well-being.

Vacation and Time Off: Make use of your vacation days and time off. Disconnect from work completely during these periods to recharge.

Taking regular vacations and time off from work is essential for Nurses to maintain their well-being and prevent burnout. It is important to prioritize your mental and physical health by allowing yourself time to relax and recharge.

So, when it's time to take your vacation days or time off, be intentional about disconnecting from work completely. Set up an out-of-office email response to inform colleagues you are taking time off and will not be available. Resist the temptation to check work-related messages or tasks, as this can disrupt your relaxation and defeat the purpose of taking time off.

Remember, your vacation days and time off are meant for you to relax, recharge, and enjoy life outside of work. Embrace this opportunity to prioritize self-care and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. By disconnecting from work during these periods, you can return to your profession with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Seek Support: If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek support from a counselor, therapist, or support group. Talking about your challenges can help you gain perspective and coping strategies.

When facing the demands of a Nursing career, it's important to recognize that seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards self-care. Nurses often experience high levels of stress and emotional exhaustion, and it's crucial to have a support system in place to navigate these challenges.

Consider reaching out to a counselor or therapist who specializes in healthcare professionals' mental health. They can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to express your concerns, fears, and frustrations. 

Support groups specifically tailored for Nurses can also be beneficial. These groups create a sense of camaraderie and understanding among individuals facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences and learning from others' perspectives can provide validation and reassurance that you are not alone in your struggles. Online forums and communities can also serve as valuable sources of support, allowing you to connect with Nurses from around the world.

Additionally, seeking support from your colleagues and supervisors can make a significant difference. Establishing open lines of communication and developing a supportive work environment can help alleviate stress and prevent feelings of isolation. Share your concerns and limitations assertively, expressing the need for support and understanding. By advocating for yourself, you can contribute to a healthier work culture that prioritizes the well-being of Nurses.

Remember that seeking support is not a one-time action but an ongoing process. Regularly check in with yourself and assess your emotional well-being. If you notice signs of burnout, increased stress, or difficulty managing your emotions, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical well-being.

Self-care is not selfish; it's a necessary aspect of maintaining your overall health and well-being. By prioritizing these strategies, you can better manage the demands of your profession while leading healthier and more fulfilling lives both inside and outside of work.

Patients become difficult for many different reasons. They sometimes become challenging due to diseases that affect their reasoning, like dementia or Alzheimer’s. Other times, patients can become verbally or physically abusive due to high-stress situations or unmet wants or needs. Regardless of why some patients become difficult, Nurses can help handle and diffuse difficult patient interactions with these 5 helpful tips.

Stay Calm

It may be challenging to stay calm when dealing with a problematic or irrational patient, but controlling your emotions is one of the most important things you can do during a confrontation. Reacting to a patient with anger can only escalate the situation and make it worse.  

When dealing with a difficult patient, remember in most cases, they are only being difficult to get their needs met and not to cause trouble. However, other times, patients may be misdirecting their feelings of fear or uncertainty onto you, and it is our job to help them navigate their feelings and de-escalate the situation. Some Nurses have found practicing meditation and yoga helps to develop healthy coping methods and strategies to navigate stressful patient interactions.  

Control Your Body Language

It is only natural to become defensive during a controversial situation. Your body language can often speak louder than spoken words. When interacting with difficult patients, it is important to evaluate your nonverbal communication and ensure it is portraying the right message. You should also avoid standing with your arms crossed, as it can be interpreted as rude or standoffish. Learn to control your facial expressions, gestures, and posture during difficult interactions to help diffuse the situation.  

Listen

When a patient becomes loud or argumentative, it’s natural to respond with anger and defensiveness. In these times, it is essential to remember that the patient is coming from a place of needing to be heard. Whether their request is reasonable or not, we as Nurses must listen to their concerns or complaints.

If you set aside your own feelings about the situation and listen to what the patient is saying, you may be able to get more insight into the situation and come up with a better solution to the conflict. Many times, you may not need to come up with a solution for the patient. They just need someone to listen to them and feel heard. We have to remember, patients are usually in a vulnerable state when being cared for and can be scared, frustrated, or hurt. Listening is one of the easiest ways we can connect with our patients and help them to heal both physically and mentally.  

Have Empathy

Empathy is one of the most important traits of a Nurse. When dealing with difficult patients, it is important to remember they are going through a tough time, and they may be displacing their anger onto you as their Nurse. Make sure you always try to put yourself in your patient’s shoes to better understand where they’re coming from. Patients are only human. They want to be heard and understood. If we connect with them through empathy, it will help to diffuse many uncomfortable situations.  

Set Boundaries

As Nurses, it is our job to provide for the wants and needs of our patients, but it is important to do so within your set boundaries. Sometimes, patients demand things that are unreasonable. Make sure they understand the limitations of your role. As a Nurse, it is important to find the balance between meeting your patient's needs and also standing your ground and not letting a patient push you around. Some patients may try to take advantage of your kindness so it is important to set boundaries and stick to them.

Unfortunately, every Nurse has had the unfortunate experience of dealing with a difficult patient. Next time you find yourself in a challenging situation with a patient, keep these helpful tips in mind so you can get back to providing your patients with exceptional Nursing care. 

Choosing the right Nursing specialty can be a challenging decision, as there are many areas of Nursing to consider. Here are some steps that can help you choose the right specialty:

Assess your interests

Think about the areas of Nursing that interest you the most. Do you enjoy working with children or adults? Do you like working in a fast-paced environment or a more relaxed one? Do you prefer working in a clinical setting or a community-based one? Weighing your choices based on your interests and personality traits will help you narrow down your options.

Research Nursing Specialties

Once you have identified your interests, research the specialties that align best with them. Look for information about the scope of practice, work environment, patient population, salary, and required education and certification. You can also talk to other Nurses who work in these specialties to get a better understanding of what it's really like to work in these areas. 

Johnson and Johnson offers A Nursing Specialty Quiz to help guide you in learning more about specific specialties that fit what you're looking for.

Consider Your Strengths

Think about your strengths as a Nurse. Do you excel at critical thinking and problem-solving? Are you skilled at patient education and counseling? Do you have strong leadership skills? Are you able to work well under pressure? Looking at the areas you excel in will help you pick a specialty that suits you.

Think About Career Goals

Consider your long-term career goals and how a particular Nursing specialty can help you achieve them. Do you want to advance into a leadership role? Do you want to work in a specific healthcare setting or with a particular patient population? Understanding your career goals can help you better choose a specialty that aligns with them.

“One of the best things about being a Nurse is your career can change and flex as you grow,” says Ashleigh Woods, Clinical Assistant Professor of Nursing at Berry College. “Nursing is versatile. Unlike other professions, as a Nurse, you can specialize in ICU medicine, but then after a few years, you can become a specialist in another area.”

Gain Experience

Once you have narrowed down your options, try to gain experience in different areas through clinical rotations or job shadowing. Some Nursing schools offer part-time work for interested students which would allow you to make money and gain experience. Hands on experience can help you get a better sense of what it's like to work in these areas and make an informed decision about which specialty is right for you.

Ultimately, choosing the right specialty is a personal decision that depends on your interests, strengths, career goals, and experience. Take the time to explore your options and gather information before making a decision, and don't be afraid to seek guidance from experienced Nurses and healthcare professionals.

1. Set your phone or digital watch to military time. In healthcare, the 24-hour clock is generally used in documentation of care as it prevents any ambiguity as to when events occurred in a patient's medical history.

2. Get to know your team. Don't hesitate breaking the ice, introduce yourself, others are probably wondering who this new person is! Once you get to know everyone, try keeping a close group of people you can rely on and talk to when need be. Every one needs a helping hand or shoulder to lean on time and again. 

3. Don't be afraid to ask questions, no matter how small. It's better to not know and ask, than act like you know and risk a patient's safety. Listen, watch and learn from seasoned Nurses. Learning is a never ending part of the job. 

4. Seek a mentor. This one-on-one experience provides a safe space for new Nurses to ask questions and learn the social and professional inner workings of their profession.

5. Self care is important. If you aren't caring for yourself, you won't be able to care for others.  Be mindful of how you feel and recognize when you need to give yourself some extra love and attention. Even small 15 minute breaks during shifts can make a world of difference. 

6. Never stop learning. Invest in continuing education, keep certifications up to date and seek knowledge in places outside the hospital setting. 

7. Buy good shoes! Nurses are on their feet constantly so invest in a pair that are comfortable and durable. Also try wearing compression socks.

8. You may not be able to do everything yourself, but together we can do anything. Offer help when you can and accept help when you need it. 

9. Carry many pens with you!

10. Remember why you started. It will help you get through tough times or when you're feeling down or burnt-out. Nursing is stressful, but also rewarding. 

You might be a recent graduate and are worried about what to do when you get a difficult patient or maybe you are an experienced Nurse and are looking for new tips or ideas to try. We created a list of ways Nurses avoid or diffuse challenging situations with patients.

1. Don’t take it personally

It’s easy to think a difficult patient is upset with you personally, but that’s almost never the case, according to Julianne Haydel, veteran nurse turned nurse consultant at Haydel Consulting Services.

Remember that the patient is dealing with unfortunate circumstances and likely isn’t in the best mood. Continue to do your job and don’t let their negativity get in your head. “Just knowing that the nastiness is not about you is a good start,” says Haydel.

2. Stay Calm

When dealing with trying patients, the best approach is to remain calm. Remember that the patient is not attacking you personally, but rather acting out on feelings of anxiety, a perceived lack of attention or resistance to what has happened to them. Remaining calm will allow you to keep control and address the patient in a way that will defuse the situation.

3. Show that you care

Sometimes difficult patients make a fuss about minor requests because they feel like no one is listening to them. Set aside your frustration with the patient and do what you can to meet their needs, as long as it doesn’t take away from other patients’ level of care.

Nurse Angelis recalls swallowing his pride and getting a second cup of coffee for a particularly irritable patient: “I stayed gracious and her whole demeanor changed. She just wanted to know that someone cared and she wasn’t going to be ignored.”

4. Set Boundaries

When it comes to difficult patients who make seemingly endless or unreasonable demands, a useful approach is to set limits. Let them know you will check on them again in 15 minutes or a half hour, and then follow through. In some situations, you’ll need to set boundaries to keep yourself safe. Doing so can help avoid escalating anger.

5. Realign Your Body Language  

Charlene Berube, chair of the undergraduate nursing program at Simmons School of Nursing and Health Sciences in Boston says, “When I start to get frustrated because I’m not making progress with a patient, I take little breaths." Berube also says, “We both need to refocus at that time. If the patient is becoming demanding, and I’m getting frazzled, those energies need to be refocused. And when you do that, your body language realigns.”

Patients come to nurses with mental health issues, mood disorders, depressions, anxiety and a host of other complications. They have lives or lifestyles that you may not understand or even agree with.  But none of that matters.  Each patient deserves the best nursing care you can give them. Remember that you need to find the calm in yourself, be objective and be honest with them. Showing empathy and giving them your undivided attention and time could make a big difference in their attitude and soften those hard edges.

If you have other tips or advice please comment below we would love to hear what you have to say!