D.Saa Project
2
Rough Draft Self-Care Project
Dennise Saavedra, RN
College of The Florida Keys
Laura Cox MSN-Ed, RN, CCRN-K
NUR 3295
October 31, 2023
Step 1
Healthcare workers face unique stressors and require specialized coping skills. Rink et al. (2023) found that heavy patient caseloads, extended work shifts, and the emotional demands of patient care cause stress in healthcare professionals. The study suggests that these demands may cause healthcare workers to burnout and become emotionally exhausted. Stress management training and peer support are coping mechanisms within this paradigm. The research emphasizes the need for therapies that address these pressures to improve healthcare workers' well-being and patient outcomes.
Flaubert et al. (2021) examine ICU staff coping mechanisms in this research. The research notes that intensive care unit (ICU) staff employ debriefing, mindfulness, and emotional expression to cope with psychological suffering. This research also emphasizes the need for hospitals to provide comprehensive support, including mental health services, to help healthcare professionals manage the unique stresses of high-intensity settings like the intensive care unit. The findings emphasize the necessity for specialized coping techniques to address the particular stress healthcare practitioners encounter. This method benefits healthcare workers and patient care.
Step 2
A thorough investigation of my stress triggers and coping mechanisms has shown many vital factors that affect my stress as a healthcare practitioner. The emotional toll of patient care is a significant factor. Seeing misery and helping in emergencies may be emotionally draining. Work and time restrictions, which frequently lead to long hours and exhaustion, may also provoke a reaction. If not managed, these tensions may immediately harm my health and long-term. Immediately, these variables might cause stress, worry, and emotional tiredness, affecting my ability to serve patients well. Chronic stress may cause stress-related health problems.
Managing stress has included several coping mechanisms. In the present, mindfulness and relaxation help restore attention and reduce stress. These methods temporarily relieve me and boost my productivity. However, over time, more major coping methods become necessary. Peer assistance and talks about difficult situations have been essential for emotional catharsis and healthcare team cohesiveness and effectiveness. These meetings help team members bond and understand one another, improving collaboration. To successfully address the long-term effects of stress, I have been exploring wellness programs and stress management courses that promote healthy coping mechanisms.
Self-reflection has shown me that specific short-term coping methods may not be sustainable. Healthy coping methods like peer support and professional training help me and my healthcare team build resilience. Our team can enhance patient care by improving emotional well-being and communication. This shows the necessity for a holistic approach to healthcare stress management that considers present and future factors.
Step 3
Interview 1: I asked our unit manager, Sarah, about her Covid pandemic coping techniques. Sarah found comfort in meditation and mindfulness to handle the emotional toll of managing a high-stress team. She said she needed frequent contact and encouragement from her supervisors to remain healthy. Sarah's emphasis on personal and organizational well-being showed her commitment to a robust healthcare team.
Interview 2: I spoke with hospital environmental services team member John. John stressed the need for a disciplined life outside of work. He said a regular training routine and outdoor activities reduced stress. He also enjoyed laughing and exchanging anecdotes with coworkers. John's coping techniques showed the need to seek balance and companionship outside of healthcare to counter professional stresses.
Interview 3: Maria, a long-term patient at our institution, provided a unique viewpoint on COVID-19-era coping techniques. Maria said drawing and writing helped her relax. Virtual support groups gave her spiritual comfort by connecting her with people who understood her challenges. Maria's resilience and flexibility in adopting creative and virtual outlets to deal with healthcare stress showed the necessity of a holistic approach to well-being, even for patients.
Conclusion
Through this self-care effort, I have explored my stress triggers and coping techniques and learned from varied healthcare professionals. Mindfulness, organized routines, artistic outlets, and peer support helped me cope. This technique emphasized overall well-being and interacting with individuals from different backgrounds. Healthcare professionals' stress levels vary but require help and a work-life balance. Thus, I am driven to explore novel coping techniques and create a supportive atmosphere for my healthcare team to improve patient care.
References
Flaubert, J. L., Menestrel, S. L., Williams, D. R., & Wakefield, M. K. (2021). Supporting the Health and Professional Well-Being of Nurses. In www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. National Academies Press (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573902/
Rink, L. C., Oyesanya, T. O., Adair, K. C., Humphreys, J. C., Silva, S. G., & Sexton, J. B. (2023). Stressors Among Healthcare Workers: A Summative Content Analysis. Global Qualitative Nursing Research, p. 10, 233339362311611. https://doi.org/10.1177/23333936231161127