Why stress matters in the nursing world

I recently had an interview for my first job as a Nurse Practitioner when I graduate this spring. It was a whirlwind of a day, let me tell you–nothing like the typical interviewing process I grew accustomed to over the years. It was more of a marathon than a sprint. I believe I met and interviewed with at least six different key players that I would be directly involved with at the job.

I’m not here to talk about interviewing tips, or the interview itself (although I can proudly say I got the offer and I accepted); I’m here to discuss one aspect of the interview.

Stress.

I was asked, "How do you deal with and/or relieve stress." My immediate response was, "I exercise." Which was an honest and very real answer. I make a valiant attempt to exercise, at the very least, three days a week.

What struck a chord with me, though, is how others answer this question. Do they answer it quickly, do they have to think of their answer, make up an answer, or jokingly quip that they don’t have any stress?

If you claim you have no stress in the world, then you are just lying to yourself and those around you. AND, if you’re a nurse claiming that you have no stress, you need your head examined!

Stress and stress management is as much a part of nursing as taking vital signs. You either deal with it in a healthy manner, or you avoid it in the most unhealthy ways.

Employers want to know how you handle stress. Do you admit to having it, and how do you ensure it doesn’t wreak havoc

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