When nurses care for their own health they can better care for their patients. By eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, living smoke-free, and getting immunized, nurses can set an example on how to live a healthy lifestyle. But focusing on their own wellness can be challenging for nurses who work long hours under stressful conditions. Additionally, nurses risk exposure to hazardous chemicals, violence, bullying, needle sticks, infectious disease, and injuries from manually moving patients. With all these challenges, it’s crucial that health care employers encourage healthy habits and offer nurses easy access to healthy lifestyle choices.
Official Position on Nurse Wellness
When nurses are tired, there is an increased risk of error that may compromise nurse and patient safety. ANA encourages nurses and their employers to set schedules that provide adequate rest and foster a safe and healthy environment. Read ANA’s official position statements.