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6 Ways Nurses Can Beat Compassion Fatigue
NursingLink
2. Recharge at a Retreat
The growing acceptance of burnout in the nursing industry has led to the development of numerous retreats and camps designed specifically for healthcare professionals. There are retreats for any and all nurses, as well as get-aways only open to those holding certain titles. Typically located in relaxing rural settings, retreats encourage nurses to recharge in the company of their peers. Many retreats feature fun activities such as rock-climbing, meditation, and horseback riding along with time to talk our your issues with professionals.
Retreats can last from one weekend to a number of weeks, so there is no need to stress about taking a bunch of time off. If there isn’t a retreat in your area, consider starting one of your own with your co-workers. Not only will this give you a chance to get outdoors and relax, you will also bond with one another and strengthen your connection to the people who make your place of employment so great.
Retreats can last from one weekend to a number of weeks, so there is no need to stress about taking a bunch of time off. If there isn’t a retreat in your area, consider starting one of your own with your co-workers. Not only will this give you a chance to get outdoors and relax, you will also bond with one another and strengthen your connection to the people who make your place of employment so great.
PEARL
3 months ago
6 comments
I started working in heathcare when I turned fifteen I am 56 now. There is always someone you work with that will make life as hard as they can make it for you I believe that is what has burned me out.That one thank you or a smile has always made it worth while for me, I thank god for that everyday.
caregiverwellness
4 months ago
2 comments
For a weekly blog for helping professionals and for Compassion Fatigue Workshops facilitated by former coronary care nurse and trauma psychotherapist, Jan Spilman, M.Ed., please visit www.caregiverwellness.ca.
francoise
4 months ago
2 comments
If you would like more information on strategies to beat compassion fatigue, please visit www.compassionfatigue.ca and www.compassionfatiguesolutions.com
You can also purchase The Compassion Fatigue Workbook which is full of creative tools to transform this occupational hazard. Françoise Mathieu, M.Ed., CCC. Compassion Fatigue Specialist
kjagnew1
4 months ago
128 comments
I am currently working as a psych nurse. It can be dreadful at times and sometimes you feel as though you are developing a psychological issue as well. To prevent me from feeling crazed, dazed and confused or to just keep down my stress level I see a therapist weekly. When I tell some people about this they really do think I'm "crazy" but I have found that I have to do what I have to do to de-stress and keep what little sanity I do have. Burn out can happen quick in this field. I've felt like I was there a few times and never want to feel that way again. I do adore nursing and want to stay in it til the very end.
msrall
4 months ago
2 comments
As a hospice RN I am always dealing with grief and crises with both patients and families. I have realized that when a personal friend or family member is very ill or facing death I am doubly stressed. There have been times when I have had to simply step away from work in order to care for my own (and myself). Luckily, this has always been understood and honored at my place of work. Just remember, even on an airplane you are instructed to put your own oxygen on first! Good rule to live by.
neciankowitz
4 months ago
4 comments
Excellent strategies appropriate for more than just healthcare workers.
saleys
4 months ago
10 comments
This is a great article that deals with the challenges of compassion fatigue. In addition to the comments above about the importance of exercise, another skill to help reduce compassion fatigue is by debriefing. Taking even just a few minutes to process a code or a difficult case can assist in reducing the feelings and emotions that (if blocked) can build up to compassion fatigue. Additionally, if you are a more experienced RN, debriefing can help model appropriate skills for preceptees or less experienced RN's who may not yet have the fully developed skills necessary to manage the stress of acute care departments or situations.
Need additional information? - RN-Coach.com provides consulting, coaching and debriefing specifically for healthcare professionals to assist with managing the stress of fast-paced healthcare environments. Visit us on the web at http://www.RN-coach.com or http://www.criticalS2.us
WeekendWarriorATL
4 months ago
64 comments
This is a great article with some good advice. However it leaves out one of the main issues which is taking care of yourself. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can do wonders to beat fatigue and stress. We get so slammed and busy caring for others that we often forget simple things like exercise and hydration. These are key.