One of the easiest ways to keep in the loop with current events, research and tips from fellow industry professionals is to listen to podcasts, which are also a perfect way to relax. So, to give you some ideas to start with, we have put together a guide to eight of the best nursing podcasts.

What Are The Best Nursing Podcasts?

Having filled nursing jobs at our medical agency for many years, we most definitely recognise that working as a nurse means that you are always on the go. Having a tight schedule and working overtime quickly becomes the new normal, which means that most days, there really is no time to sit down and read through forums, news channels or newspapers.

With a podcast, on the other hand, there is no need to make any changes to your routine, as you can pop your favourite episodes on in the background as you continue your day. Whether you listen during your commute to work, during your lunch breaks or while you are cooking dinner, it’s never been easier to keep yourself in the loop!

There are absolutely tonnes of nursing podcasts to choose from, depending on your mood and what you enjoy listening to. From those that offer frequent industry updates to more chatty channels that share funny stories, podcasts are ideal for helping you through even the hardest of days on the ward. So without further ado, let’s take a closer look at our favourites:

• Work Life & Medical Podcasts For Nurses
• Nursing Experience Podcasts
• Funny Nursing Podcasts
• Nurse Podcasts For Students

Work Life & Medical Podcasts For Nurses

If you’re always wishing you were more informed on the current developments in the healthcare industry but simply don’t have the time or energy to sit down and pour over medical journals, these digestible podcasts are the ideal solution. Learn about new scientific advancements, time management and all things nursing while you relax at home or get on with household duties.

NRSNG

As the number one nursing podcast series year after year, NRSNG is hugely popular amongst those working as a full-time, student or locum nurse. The brains behind NRSNG are committed to offering as many resources as possible to help nurses not only pass their training but also feel confident when taking on responsibilities. Their goal is to eventually educate enough healthcare professionals to end the shortage of nurses, making the role as enjoyable as possible without the stress of understaffing.

When browsing through the vast collection of podcasts on NRSNG, you are guaranteed to come across a topic that strikes your interest as they cover virtually every topic that you may need guidance on. There are also episodes with tips on how to improve your grades when working through your nursing qualifications and how to master time management. Although most episodes are focused on student nurses, they will most definitely also prove useful for those in the latter stages of their careers.

Nursing Standard

The popular weekly magazine Nursing Standard now has a podcast that includes all of the information featured in their articles. This is the perfect choice for those who have little time to read through magazines but still want to remain updated with the latest industry news, research and career advice.

Hosted by the editor of Nursing Standard, Flavia Munn, and Dr Richard Hatchett, an experienced senior nurse, the podcast runs through the most recent topics that will impact those working as healthcare professionals in the UK. It is relatively new to the world of nursing podcasts but is most definitely a worthwhile listen for everyone working in the industry. Topics range from tips for students to investigations into the latest scientific findings. The best way to listen to this podcast is on the official Nursing Standard website.

Nursing Experience Podcasts

These podcasts offer valuable perspectives on the developments, experiences and flaws of the healthcare industry that any nurse can benefit from listening to. If you’re looking to strengthen your understanding of the industry by delving into tricky topics, these podcasts are for you.

The Q Word

Working as an emergency nurse can be one of the most stressful roles in the medical industry yet is often overlooked. The Q Word shares first-hand experiences of two long-term college friends, Nyssa, a trauma nurse and Lisa, who works alongside pre-med university students. Together, they take you on the journey of Nyssa teaching Lisa about the ups and downs of working in the emergency department, covering even the most taboo of subjects. If you are considering a career in a similar field, you’ll be pleased to know that you’ll also pick up a host of handy tips and tricks from the pair.

Not only will you have two years of regular podcasts to work your way through, but also a range from 15-minute catch-ups to over hour-long episodes to fit with the amount of free time you have to spare. On their website, Nyssa and Lisa also share a collection of their favourite podcasts so that you have plenty of inspiration on those to listen to in the future.

The Gritty Nurse Podcast

The Gritty Nurse Podcast is exactly what it sounds like: a podcast made by nurses for nurses (and anyone else it may interest) that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable or taboo topics. Hosts Amie and Sara use their experience as nurses to address current issues faced by nursing and the healthcare system. From racism in healthcare to palliative care, the podcast tackles a variety of controversial topics, raising awareness surrounding important issues and de-stigmatising them. With a new episode every week, listening to this fantastic podcast is a brilliant way to stay informed on the current problems affecting healthcare and nursing.

Funny Nursing Podcasts

Sometimes we all need a good laugh, especially following a tiring shift or week at work. These lighthearted podcasts are full of amusing stories that will be hilariously relatable to any nurse! Why not pop an episode on while you commute to work or complete chores to brighten your day?

Nurse Coffee Talk

If you’re looking to listen to a podcast that doesn’t beat around the bush, Nurse Coffee Talk is perfect for you. Nurses Jamie Baker and Sarah Matthews discuss the important issues facing healthcare in order to raise awareness and push for change, all while mixing in some funny patient experiences and stories! The combination of serious topics and lighthearted comic relief makes for an enjoyable, educational listening experience that isn’t too draining.

Through listening to this podcast, fellow nurses can gain valuable insight into various topics, from workplace issues to career tips and work-life balance. Moreover, the funny patient stories are certain to be relatable to any nurse and are great for unwinding after work, especially when in need of a chuckle after a tough day!

Two Humerus Nurses

Two Humerus Nurses is the ultimate comedic podcast, not just for nurses and aspiring nurses, but for anyone who likes to laugh! Hosts Kelly and Alisha chat informally about a huge variety of topics related to nursing, from their craziest stories from being on the job to serial killer nurses and the psychology behind them. The podcast offers an unfiltered insight into what it’s like to be a nurse, including plenty of humorous moments! This makes it perfect for those in need of a pick-me-up after a long day at work, nurse or not. The podcast is available to listen to on the Two Humerus Nurses website, as well as on Spotify.

Nurse Podcasts For Students

These podcasts are our top picks for nursing students and aspiring nurses! They offer plenty of helpful tips and advice while also covering topics that you will be studying. Listening to these podcasts is a brilliant way to consolidate and expand your knowledge while on the go.

Straight A Nursing

The Straight A Nursing podcast explains concepts, procedures and best practices in a way that couldn’t be easier to understand, making it perfect for accompanying your studies. Due to the nature of the episodes, this is definitely more of an educational podcast rather than one used for entertainment. The episodes will help you to be one step ahead of your course, designed to help the processes of gaining your qualifications as stress-free as possible. You will be able to find the same topic explained in several different ways to fit with your learning style, making it far easier to follow than traditional, complex study guides.

Although this podcast is targeted at those during the first stage of their journey as a nurse, it also comes in handy for those who want to refresh their skills later in their career. Whether you are going back to your studies or simply want to boost your knowledge, Straight A Nursing is guaranteed to prove incredibly resourceful.

Nurse Becoming

The Nurse Becoming podcast is the perfect supplement to your nursing education, no matter how far along the journey you are. Nurse practitioner Amanda Guarniere hosts the podcast, leading conversations about growth and progression in the nursing career. Nurse Becoming is perfect for aspiring nurses looking to get inspired by those with years of experience in the profession. It also discusses important self-care advice and offers tips that will help prepare you for a successful and impactful career in nursing. The podcast is available on The Resume RX website and on Spotify.

The Best Podcasts For Nurses

With many years of experience in healthcare recruitment, we understand the importance of properly unwinding between shifts. We hope that you are now eager to sit back, pop your headphones in and give one of our recommended podcasts a listen while you relax. Whether you are heading to work or trying to stay awake during your night shift break, podcasts are an excellent way to use your free time to your advantage. You are certain to find a podcast that suits your interests, from those that discuss the latest industry changes to others that focus on sharing experiences!

For more educational resources for nurses, why not check out our previous article? If you are interested in potentially filling one of our nursing positions, please feel free to get in touch with our team, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in contact.

Our Guide To How To Become A Mental Health Nurse

Unlike in the past, mental health issues are now widely recognised and increasingly understood in society. Thankfully, this recognition has led to the development of specialised mental health services, including mental health nursing. These nurses play a crucial role in helping patients with mental health struggles to cope with their symptoms, manage their conditions, and ultimately achieve a better quality of life.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in mental health nursing, there are a few essential steps you will need to take. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on becoming a mental health nurse, from the necessary qualifications to the skills and traits required to excel in this rewarding profession.

Whether you are a student just starting out on your educational journey or an experienced nurse looking to specialise in mental health, this guide will provide you with the information you need to achieve your goals. Here’s what you need to know:

• What Is Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing?
• Skills Of A Mental Health Nurse
• Where Do Mental Health Nurses Work?
• How To Become A Mental Health Nurse UK

What Is Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing?

A psychiatric mental health nurse is a healthcare professional who specialises in supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges and promoting their recovery. They are responsible for assessing patients, developing treatment plans, administering medication, and providing emotional support. Mental health nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community health centres, and private practices. They work with patients of all ages, from children to the elderly, who are experiencing a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and personality disorders. This involves working closely with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the patient is looked after to the best possible standard.

It is important to note that while mental health nursing can present various challenges, such as dealing with complex cases and managing patient crises, it is also a highly gratifying field that allows the potential to significantly impact your patients’ lives in a positive way. By providing compassionate care, offering support, and promoting recovery, you can help individuals with mental health issues improve their quality of life and achieve their goals. As a result, mental health nursing can be an incredibly fulfilling and meaningful career choice for those passionate about helping others. This video from Oxford Brookes Health & Life Sciences dives further into this, as the nurses explain the reality of working as a mental health nurse.

Skills Of A Mental Health Nurse

Becoming a mental health nurse is an extremely meaningful career path but requires certain skills and qualities to excel. These fundamental characteristics include empathy, strong communication skills, a non-judgmental attitude, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. By possessing these essential traits, nurses can provide the best possible care to their patients. So, if you’re interested in this career path, developing these attributes will be a vital part of your journey.

The role of a mental health nurse can vary depending on the setting in which they work; we cover this in more detail in the next section, Where Do Mental Health Nurses Work? Some of the key responsibilities of mental health nurses and their typical daily tasks include the following:

• Assessing Patients: Mental health nurses are responsible for assessing patients to determine the severity of their mental health condition, identify any underlying causes, and develop an appropriate treatment plan. To do this, they may use a range of assessment tools, including interviews, observation, and questionnaires.
• Developing Treatment Plans: Mental health nurses are responsible for developing treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. This may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, among other interventions.
• Administering Medication: Mental health nurses are responsible for administering medication to patients as prescribed by a doctor. They must have a deep understanding of the medications used to treat mental health conditions, including their side effects, interactions, and dosage requirements.
• Providing Emotional Support: Mental health nurses provide emotional support to patients and their families, helping them to understand their condition and providing reassurance and encouragement throughout their recovery journey.
• Collaborating With Other Healthcare Professionals: Mental health nurses work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, psychologists, and social workers, to ensure their patients receive the best possible care and support. They may also work with community organisations and support groups to help patients access additional resources and support.

Where Do Mental Health Nurses Work?

As touched on previously, mental health healthcare jobs can come up in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community health centres, and private practices. Sometimes, they can also work in specialist settings, such as forensic mental health services. Typically, the day-to-day tasks of a mental health nurse will vary depending on the environment in which they’re working.

In a hospital setting, mental health nurses may work on a ward with patients who are experiencing acute mental health problems, such as those experiencing a psychotic episode. Here, they are responsible for monitoring patients, administering medication, and providing emotional support. Mental health nurses in a hospital setting may also work with patients admitted for longer-term care, such as those with chronic mental health conditions.

In a community health centre, mental health nurses may work with patients who are experiencing mental health challenges but do not require hospitalisation. The nurses may provide individual and group therapy, case management, and crisis intervention in this setting. If you were to become a mental health nurse in a community health centre, you’d likely work with patients who have a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse disorders.

In a private practice setting, mental health nurses will work with patients who are seeking treatment for mental health challenges. Mental health nurses in private practice settings play a critical role in advancing the mental health and well-being of individuals seeking assistance. Through their expertise in counselling, medication management, and referrals to other healthcare professionals, they help individuals with mental health challenges achieve their treatment goals and improve their quality of life.

How To Become A Mental Health Nurse In The UK

Becoming a mental health nurse in the UK requires a specific set of qualifications and training, as well as the distinctive personality traits we have already covered. To begin, you must obtain a nursing degree from a university or college recognised by the NMC (Nursing And Midwifery Council). As an aspiring mental health nurse, you can choose to pursue a degree specifically in mental health nursing or to complete a general nursing degree and then specialise in mental health nursing later on.

The next step is to become registered with the NMC. To do this, you must complete an NMC-approved pre-registration nursing programme. This includes a combination of theoretical and practical training, whilst undertaking placements in healthcare settings to gain hands-on experience. The length of the programme varies depending on the degree, but typically ranges from three to four years.

After completing your degree and registration with the NMC, you can officially apply for nursing jobs – working in hospitals or community health centres as a qualified mental health nurse. These settings provide excellent opportunities for gaining practical experience in mental health nursing, and for developing a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by patients with mental health conditions.

Working in a hospital or community health centre will also provide opportunities for you to gain additional qualifications and training. For instance, you can pursue postgraduate certificates or diplomas in specific areas of mental health, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or child and adolescent mental health. These additional qualifications can help you to develop your knowledge and expertise, and improve your career prospects.

How To Become A Child Mental Health Nurse

A mental health nurse who specifically focuses on supporting children is referred to as a child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) nurse. It is one of the most challenging yet most rewarding nursing specialism and requires a lot of work to get into. The minimum education requirement necessary to become a CAMHS nurse is a bachelor’s degree which the Nursing and Midwifery Council approves. Typically, a CAMHS nurse will obtain a degree in nursing or mental health nursing which usually takes three years to complete.

Alternatively, you can take the vocational route and get hands-on with a degree apprenticeship. Healthcare apprenticeships allow you to work in a healthcare setting while completing your studies. They usually take around four years to complete on a full-time basis due to the mixture of on-the-job training and academic study. It’s a good idea to take on some voluntary work in the healthcare sector to develop your skills and distinguish yourself in a competitive sector.

Once you’ve achieved your qualifications, you’ll need to undergo a background check because you’ll be working with children. Then, you can register as a nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council to stay on top of networking opportunities and job listings.

Start Making Your Difference Today

Do you think a career in mental health nursing is right for you? If you’re interested in pursuing a career in mental health nursing, it is essential to obtain the right qualifications, gain experience in the field, and possess the key skills and qualities required for the role. However, if you are an empathetic and compassionate individual with a dedicated mind and the ability to work under pressure, you are precisely what the mental health sector needs. As we have discussed, the process of becoming a mental health nurse in the UK requires significant amounts of dedication and commitment, but the outcome is worth it in every way.

Overall, mental health nursing is a challenging but rewarding career choice, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. With the right qualifications, experience, and personal qualities, anyone with a passion for promoting mental health and well-being can pursue a successful career in mental health nursing. So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step towards your dream career and discover the world of mental health nursing today.

For those interested in exploring healthcare jobs in the mental health sector as a locum nurse, contact us to speak with one of our talented nursing recruitment specialists today to learn about available opportunities and gain insight into the industry.

Whether you’re considering swapping to temporary roles or would like to take on locum shifts alongside your permanent employment, there are many factors to consider. This article will guide you through the benefits and what to expect, ultimately answering the question, what is a locum?

What Is A Locum? A Comprehensive Guide

Having spent decades working closely with locum healthcare workers to secure roles across the country, our team prides itself on taking a personal approach. We are committed to ensuring that all of our healthcare professionals are happy with their decision to take the locum route and can continue to fulfil a rewarding career regardless of their workplace requirements.

This article provides a stepping stone towards your career as a locum, detailing what you can expect from the role, the fantastic benefits and the journey to becoming a locum. And as always, if you have any further questions, our team are always more than happy to help.

• What Is Locuming?
• Benefits Of Becoming A Locum
• How To Become A Locum

What Is Locuming?

The word ‘locum’ is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase ‘locum tenens’, which means ‘place holder’. It is used to describe a healthcare professional that temporarily fills the role and rota gap of a regular staff member in a healthcare clinic, hospital or medical practice. Typically placements are on a short-term basis to cover an absence, cater to an increase in patients or fill a shortfall in a rota. However, it isn’t uncommon for a locum role to cover an extended period of time, such as maternity leave.

A locum nurse, doctor or other healthcare worker fulfils the same responsibilities as a permanent member, providing direct patient care, administering medications, assisting with procedures, monitoring patients’ conditions, and communicating with other healthcare team members to ensure coordinated and quality care. In other words, they are crucial for ensuring that operations can continue running smoothly, even if regular members of the team are on leave.

Locum healthcare workers have the flexibility to work in different healthcare settings and locations. Both private and NHS facilities welcome locum professionals and use specialist agencies, such as our healthcare recruitment team at MLG Healthcare, to fill gaps in their rotas.

Benefits Of Becoming A Locum

There are many advantages awarded to those who are interested in locuming, from flexibility to financial benefits. Learn more about why thousands of professionals continue to opt for locum healthcare jobs every year:

Time Control

As a locum, you will have the freedom to choose when and where you want to work. You can take on placements that fit your schedule and personal preferences, allowing for a better work-life balance. This is not only ideal for those with family commitments but also for healthcare professionals who have spent many years working long hours and want to ease the pressure – many even opt for locuming as they reach retirement age to slowly wind down their hours.

Financial Flexibility

The flexibility of locuming means that if you need extra income, you can simply pick up more shifts and then revert to your regular hours once you are in a comfortable position. Unlike in a permanent role where you will need to change your contract altogether, as a locum, the process will be as straightforward as contacting your recruitment agency to temporarily scale up or down your shift requirements.

As well as the option to locum full-time, many healthcare professionals also opt for picking up locum shifts alongside their permanent role. This, again, is ideal for earning additional income as and when it is needed.

Higher Earning Potential

Locum healthcare workers often have the potential to earn higher wages compared to regular staff. The demand for temporary healthcare professionals can lead to increased pay rates and additional benefits, so if you are happy to take on last-minute shifts in possibly trickier facilities, you may see your financial rewards increase.

Test-Drive Different Settings

For healthcare professionals who are considering a permanent change in their career, working as a locum allows you to “test-drive” different healthcare settings before committing to a specific facility or specialty. For example, at MLG Healthcare, we fill placements across many sectors, from midwifery to mental health nursing. The possibilities are endless, and providing that you have the relevant qualifications for the role, locuming offers the perfect opportunity to experiment. For more information on the many different specialties you can consider, take a look at our previous article.

Develop Your Experience

Working in diverse healthcare settings and specialties can broaden your skill set and knowledge, making locuming particularly popular amongst newly qualified healthcare workers who want to build up their CVs before seeking a permanent role. Exposure to various medical cases and practices is guaranteed to make you more versatile, allowing you to develop empathy, adaptability, and resilience as you face new and unique circumstances. And even better, the more placements you fill, the broader network of professional contacts you build, which can be valuable for future career opportunities.

How To Become A Locum

Much like any role in the healthcare sector, becoming a locum involves several steps to ensure you gain the training, qualifications and experience needed to provide patients with the highest level of care. Here is what you can expect from your journey:

Obtain An Undergraduate Degree

You must ensure you have studied the correct and necessary A Levels related to medicine, such as biology, chemistry, maths and physics, which are most medical schools’ minimum requirements. From here, you can apply to study medicine at an undergraduate level at the university of your choice; this will prepare you and provide you with all the base knowledge you will need for a job within the healthcare industry.

Gain Experience

Whilst at university, one of the best ways to broaden your experience at an undergraduate level is through internships, either during or outside of your term time. These may involve working in several different facilities or environments that are new to you, such as hospitals, clinics or GP surgeries. For more intense environments, you may want to enlist with a reserve military as an intern combat medic which will have beneficial and transferable skills for further career development prospects.

Postgraduate Degree

After obtaining your undergraduate degree, the medical industry requires you to get a postgraduate degree in a specialist field or general practice at a medical school or university. This will provide you with valuable and extensive experience that will further prepare you for the actual working life of a locum, as it involves more advanced research and learning opportunities.

Register With A Professional Regulatory Body

To become a locum, you must register with the relevant regulatory body, such as the Nursing & Midwifery Council and General Medical Council. These provide you with a licence to grant you permission to practise, which also counts as the right to work in the UK. After this, you will be able to register with our services and continue your journey to becoming a locum healthcare worker.

Join A Locum Recruitment Agency

The best way to secure placements as a locum is to register with a recruitment agency, as they will find shifts that meet your requirements on your behalf. At MLG Healthcare, we work in partnership with both public and private sectors nationwide, offering a 24/7 365 service.

Once you have registered with us, you will be paired with a dedicated consultant who will manage all of your placements. With an extensive database of clients across the healthcare sector, we ensure that you find roles that suit your training, experience and personal preferences. For more information on our nursing jobs, please do not hesitate to contact our team.

Begin Your Journey With Us Today

If you believe that becoming a locum is the correct career path for you, then please do not hesitate to register with us now, and we will connect you to a skilled and qualified consultant who will assist you in finding the most suitable placements for you. Being a locum nurse, doctor or other healthcare worker requires many years of hard work, commitment and hard dedication, however at the end of the road, with our assistance, you will finally be able to allow yourself to settle and feel relaxed in your career path, whilst also reaping all of the benefits we outlined in this article!

The key to staying cool, calm and collected, no matter how stressful the situation may be, is to prepare in advance. Our top tips for dealing with working night shifts promise to help you on your journey, and even better, they couldn’t be easier to factor into your routine!

Our Top Tips On Working Night Shifts

Whether you are approaching your first night shift or have tried a few and struggling to power through, there are many easy ways that you can prep yourself. As the famous Benjamin Franklin quote goes, “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail”, so taking time to get yourself ready for your night shift will always work towards your advantage.

Having specialised in healthcare recruitment for many years, we have worked with hundreds of healthcare professionals at all stages of their careers. We have been lucky enough to pick up a host of tips on how to prepare for the night shift and adapt to your new routine, ensuring that you not only stay alert but continue to feel healthy while doing so. Our guide will run through the following:

• What Is A Night Shift Like?
• How To Prepare For A Night Shift
• What To Eat On A Night Shift
• How To Stay Awake On A Night Shift
• How To Sleep After A Night Shift

A What Is Night Shift Like?

Let’s start at the beginning: what is the night shift in the healthcare industry like? An overnight shift will involve the same duties as you would have throughout the day, but there are likely to be fewer colleagues on the ward or unit. Typically, you will be working from 8pm to 8am, but this can vary.

You will always start the shift reading through the day shift report, familiarising yourself with the patient’s circumstances, when medication is next due and whether any overnight testing is taking place. It is always recommended to then take the time to meet each of your patients and assess their condition, administering medication along the way where necessary.

The next few hours will then differ based on the unit or ward you are working on. For example, if you work in A&E, you’ll have a constant turnover of patients to examine; however, for those on a ward, you’re likely to care for the same individuals for your entire shift. Regardless of the location or type of nursing, you must stay alert at all times; patients’ health can change, new patients will need treatment, and developments in patient care will need to be considered. This means that you must remain alert at all times to ensure that patients are cared for and their condition is monitored.

Throughout your shift, you’ll need to keep on top of documentation, ensuring that you have filled in progress notes, care plans, etc. We recommend trying to allocate time to this during the hours you feel most alert. It is important to stay alert throughout your shift, so we recommend ensuring you have food or snacks that keep your energy levels high.

How To Prepare For A Night Shift

As experts in healthcare jobs, we work closely with healthcare workers to ensure they are fully prepared for every stage of their careers. Each person who registers with MLG Healthcare is paired with a dedicated consultant who will always be a phone call away for advice. The recommendations we often give on how to prepare for a night shift include:

1. Tell Your Friends & Family

The hardest thing to adapt to when working night shifts is the unsociable hours. As your loved ones begin to unwind for the evening, this is when your day will start and vice versa. This can become particularly frustrating when living in a busy household, whether this may be with your partner, children or housemates. So, the first thing on your preparation list should be to let your friends and family know about your night shift schedule. By making everyone around you aware that you’ll be operating in a different time zone for a few days, you can ensure that you get the sleep, peace, and quiet you need. They may even be nice enough to save you some dinner and leave it out for you to enjoy when you get home!

As well as telling your friends and family, you would also benefit from rescheduling any parcels that are due to be delivered on the day that you finish your shift. There would be nothing worse than falling into a deep sleep only to be woken up by a delivery driver knocking on your door. If you cannot reschedule your slot, you could always ask a friendly neighbour to sign for your parcel.

2. Pick Up A Reusable Water Bottle

On a night shift, it can be easy to turn to coffee for a pick-me-up, and while one cup is not a problem, it is essential not to rely too much on caffeine. Why? Because caffeine dehydrates the body, which will cause you to feel even more tired. The key to keeping both hydrated and energised is to drink plenty of water, so ahead of your night shift, don’t forget to invest in a reusable water bottle. If, like many of us, you are more likely to use something if it looks great, then treating yourself to a nice bottle will encourage you to drink more water. We suggest choosing a bottle that holds at least 500ml of water and is ideally designed in stainless steel, as this will keep your drink nice and cool – we love the ranges over on Chilly’s!

3. Get Your Uniform Ready

There would be nothing worse than rushing around to get ready for your night shift only to find that you have forgotten to wash, dry or iron your uniform. This will not only put you behind schedule but cause stress, kicking your shift off on the wrong note. So, to ensure that the lead-up to your night shift is as smooth as possible, spend time getting your uniform ready in advance. Many people opt for freshening up and ironing every set of uniforms all at once, ready for the week ahead. Once clean, neatly hang your uniform up so that all you need to do before your shift is grab it out of the wardrobe, and off you go!

While on the topic of your uniform, we would also recommend investing in a pair of comfortable shoes – we promise it’s something you will thank yourself for! Shoes that are durable, supportive and lightweight will help to prevent pain and discomfort when you’re on your feet for many hours at once. Crocs are often a popular choice amongst healthcare staff as they are super comfortable as well as slip-resistant. You can find more highly reviewed options on mybest.

By now, you’ve probably noticed a pattern in how to prepare for your night shift, and it’s all about organisation. The more tedious tasks that you can get out of the way in advance, the more likely it will be that you can start your night shift feeling fresh and ready to take on any situation you may be faced with.

4. Give Your Home A Quick Tidy

After a night shift, the only thing on your mind will be jumping into bed, so the last thing you want to be faced with is a messy home, whether this may be piles of clothes on the bed or dishes in the sink. To ensure that you can thoroughly relax once you get home, try to give yourself an extra 15 minutes before leaving for your shift to give your home a quick tidy. Once complete, if you still have a spare few minutes, why not prepare a post-shift snack and pop it in the fridge or lay out comfy clothes that you can change straight into when you get home?

5. Be Sure To Fit In “Me Time”

Last but most definitely not least, when working night shifts, don’t forget to fit in some “me” time. Our experts in nursing positions understand that it can be so easy to fall into the routine of worrying about what your shift may bring before you even get into the ward, meaning that work can quickly take over your free time. So, to help maintain a good work-life balance, ensuring that you put some time aside for something that you thoroughly enjoy will be vital. Whether it may be soaking in a warm bubble bath with a book or an hour workout at the gym, always keep in mind that caring for yourself is just as important as caring for your patients. For more tips on how to achieve a work-life balance as a nurse, take a look at our previous article!

Along with taking the time to enjoy the things that help you to unwind, don’t forget to keep an eye on your own health. It can be beneficial to invest in a health and fitness tracker, such as a Fitbit or an Apple Watch. These devices will accurately track your sleep, monitor your heart rate and calculate the number of steps you’ve taken or floors you’ve climbed. Using the official Fitbit app, you can also add your calorie intake for that day and analyse your sleep stages. This will help you ensure that you are eating and sleeping enough to keep your body healthy and energised.

Several times a year, it may also be worth booking yourself in for a health assessment. Bupa offers this service, which is made up of a set of tests and examinations that will give you an overview of your current health. Their website states that, on average, 60% of people who’d invested in a health assessment consequently felt better able to deal with stress afterwards. It also states that 55% of those people also improved their sleep following the test. This could be a worthwhile investment to benefit both your mental and physical health.

What To Eat On A Night Shift

Keeping yourself energised is all about fuelling your body with nutrients and goodness, which is only possible if you are eating the right foods. During a night shift, it can be so easy to reach for comfort foods or sugary snacks from the vending machine for a quick boost. But the problem is just that; they give you short-term energy, meaning that in an hour, you will be back to square one – sleepy, hungry and most likely agitated. A far better option would be to get yourself organised and put together a meal prep plan. There are many tasty meal and night shift snack ideas, so this couldn’t be more straightforward. If you can prep food for the whole week at once, then perfect, but do not worry if not; there is no harm in putting together one meal at a time for the following day.

When preparing meals and snacks for your night shift, the key is to avoid meals that will make you feel heavy and sluggish, such as pasta or burgers. Instead, opt for fresh foods which are not only healthy but will also benefit your energy levels. If you are someone who prefers a more hearty meal, then a homemade soup is an excellent route as you can make batches at once, which will last you the next few days. For something lighter, on the other hand, raw vegetables with hummus, salads and wraps are all delicious choices. Simply prep your meals, pop them in a reusable tub, and you’re ready for your shift!

In terms of snacks, you most definitely will not be short of ideas, and you’ll be pleased to know that we’re not going to say no to treats. Fruit and nut bars are always a keen choice, along with apple slices dipped in peanut butter and popcorn. Take a look at Women’s Health for 30 healthy but tasty snack ideas – and even better, they’re all under £2.50!

How To Stay Awake On A Night Shift

When your body is used to a sleeping routine, for example, from 11pm to 7am, it can be tricky to adapt to your new schedule and switch to the opposite. This means that if you struggle to stay awake during your night shift, try to slowly ease yourself into the routine a few days before. Instead of sticking to your usual 11pm bedtime, stay up a few extra hours, then sleep in for longer, which will help to shift your sleeping pattern. If you can do this for a couple of days before your night shift, you can reduce fatigue and tiredness throughout your shift.

In some instances, during busier periods, you may find that you have to switch from a day to night shift with as little as a day in between. This lack of time will make it super tricky to adapt your routine, so there will be nothing wrong with taking a nap during the day a few hours before you’re due to start. Everyone’s body is different, and what may work for one nurse may not work for the other, so experiment with different sleeping patterns to find those that keep your brain alert and body healthy.

How To Sleep After A Night Shift

While it may seem obvious before any shift on the ward, now more than ever, a good night’s sleep is essential. Not only will a night shift impact your sleeping pattern the day of the shift, but you are also likely to find it tricky to get into a routine for a few days after. This means that you may see yourself relying on that one deep sleep to see you through the next couple of days.

With this in mind, we know it can be super tricky to force yourself into a deep sleep, especially when you’re not particularly tired, so investing in items that will help you drift off will always prove beneficial. Blackout curtains or blinds will be your best friend as they’ll allow you to enjoy a good sleep, even during the day. Most healthcare workers also pick themselves up an eye mask and earplugs, which are particularly useful if you share your home with others who do not work overnight. Lastly, don’t forget to skip the caffeine a few hours before you’re planning to go to sleep; otherwise, you’ll definitely find it hard to dose off!

Follow These Tips For Night Shift To Help Stay Cool, Calm & Collected

When it comes to tackling a night shift, you’ve probably now guessed that preparation and organisation are key. Whether it may be putting together tasty snacks or hanging your uniform up ready to grab while you get ready, you’ll always be grateful for the extra few minutes you spent getting prepped for your shift.

If night shifts are something that you are yet to experience but you are interested in, then our specialists in nursing jobs would always be more than happy to help. We have a host of healthcare jobs available in an array of roles so please do not hesitate to contact us to get started!

Stay Prepared With Our First Day At Work Tips

Regardless of the industry that you specialise in, it is inevitable that you will feel nervous about starting a new position. As a nurse, there can be a lot of pressure to get things right instantly, but the key is to remain as open and receptive as possible, treating every situation as a learning curve. Together this will help you to strive in your career, ensuring that you can give every patient the very best care. So, if you are in the lead up to your first day in your new agency nurse position, let’s take a closer look at our ten tips:

• Invest In Comfortable Footwear
• Prepare The Night Before
• Plan Ahead For Travel
• Arrive 15 Minutes Early
• Always Ask For An Induction
• Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions
• Introduce Yourself To Colleagues
• Take Lots Of Notes
• Always Remember The Basics
• Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself

1. Invest In Comfortable Footwear

As a locum nurse working in a busy hospital, most days are likely to be spent rushed off your feet, which means that comfort will be essential. So, before starting your first day in your new placement, if you are yet to invest in reliable, comfortable shoes, then this should most definitely be on your to-do list!

There are many qualities to look out for when searching for the best shoes to see you through even the busiest of shifts, and the first should always be support. Any job that requires you to be on your feet for hours at a time can lead to lower back pain, painful feet, swelling legs and much more; however, with correctly fitting footwear, you can lower the risk of these issues occurring. More qualities that you should keep in mind include the following:

• Breathable – Always look out for shoes designed with breathable, lightweight materials which will prevent your feet from overheating and causing painful infections.
• Easy To Clean – Working in healthcare means that all manner of spillages can find their way onto your shoes, so you must be able to remove any contaminants and disinfect the material easily.
• Protects Your Feet – Especially in the summer, it can be tempting to wear open-toed shoes to keep your feet cool, but these are not able to protect them against falling objects.
• Slip-Resistant – In an emergency or on a busy ward, you are likely to be rushing around, so your shoes must be slip-resistant to prevent injury.

For inspiration, Best Reviews Guide has put together a helpful guide to the ten best-rated shoes for nurses. Alternatively, you can head over to PLS Shop, which specialises in nursing footwear.

2. Prepare The Night Before

Regardless of the position that you are taking on, whether it may be in a hospital, care home or any other healthcare facility, it always pays to be prepared. The first few hours before your first shift are likely to be slightly nerve-racking, even if you are an experienced locum nurse, which means that you want to make the lead up as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Rushing around will only make you feel flustered before you have even had the chance to leave the house!

Our best advice is to prepare for your shift the night before as much as possible. This includes ensuring that your uniform is washed, ironed and hung up ready, your ID badge is packed, you’ve checked your shift location, and you have all of the relevant paperwork. You may also want to consider rustling up a tasty lunch to look forward to on your first day, so all you will have to do in the morning is grab it from the fridge and pop in your bag. If you are stuck for inspiration, The Nerdy Nurse has a great guide, including 20 quick and easy packable lunch ideas!

When preparing for your shift, if you are unsure of what you may need to bring along, then your recruitment consultant will be more than happy to help. Here at MLG Healthcare, our healthcare recruiters are always there for support at every stage of the process, so can guide you through how to prepare for your first day.

3. Plan Ahead For Travel

There is nothing more frustrating than being stuck in traffic when you must arrive at your destination at a specific time. So to prevent any mishaps on your way to your placement, be sure to plan well for travel, factoring in any travel issues that you can encounter. For example, if you must travel in rush hour, then always factor in extra time or perhaps, leave early and grab a coffee while you wait for your shift to start. For those who commute, on the other hand, consider catching the train or bus before the one that you would typically get. Again, being slightly earlier is far better than being late and allows you extra time to relax before starting your first day.

4. Arrive 15 Minutes Early

Arriving early to your first day applies to any role in any industry, but even more so for those in the healthcare sector. Not only will allowing at least 15 minutes before your shift starts make a good impression, but it will also give you the chance to read any handovers. Regardless of whether you are a new starter or have been in your role for many months, every nurse is entitled to a complete handover at the start of their shift. This will include everything from patient medication to any scheduled procedures; essentially, ensuring that you are fully briefed for the day ahead and know what will be expected of you. Through arriving around 15 minutes early, you will give yourself plenty of time to read through your handover and make any necessary notes.

5. Always Ask For An Induction

All new staff should always be given an induction, which will involve being shown the layout of the unit you will be working on. Your colleague will also run through any policies or procedures specific to the unit, as well as where to locate equipment. If for any reason, you arrive at your first shift and are not given an induction, it is imperative to ask for one to be arranged as soon as possible. There will be some instances where your colleagues will be rushed off their feet and may have to stop your induction to see to an emergency, but it is important to ensure that this is continued the moment that they are available again.

6. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions

If you have chosen a nursing role, then this is because you are a friendly and compassionate person, who is great at communicating with others. So, when it comes to your first day, remember the importance of communication skills and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Everyone has been in your position once, even your most senior colleagues, so they will always be happy to run through any topics that you may feel a little less confident on. There is no such thing as a stupid question, especially when it comes to saving lives. If you’re not too sure what questions you should ask, keep in mind the following:

• Do you have all of the login information you need to access charting software? If not, ask for your personal details and whether a colleague can run through how to document client data.
• Do you know where all of the medication is stored? Have you been shown what key opens which storage drawer or cabinet?
• Have you asked where all supplies are stored? Are there any supplies that you are expected to keep with you throughout your shift to use in the event of an emergency?
• Are you confident that you know what to do in the event of an emergency? Do you know who to call? Do you know where emergency exits are?
• Do you have a rough idea on how to navigate the unit? Are any of your patients in different wards?

7. Introduce Yourself To Colleagues

As an agency nurse, you will be expected to adapt to the job quickly, and this includes feeling comfortable with your new colleagues, allowing you to communicate efficiently. It is unlikely that there will be a settling in period, so the best approach is to jump straight into the role and take it upon yourself to introduce yourself to your team members. Be open, friendly and receptive; the sooner you can build rapport with others, the easier it will become to work together. You will then be able to maintain constant communication with ease, working in harmony with one another to ensure that your patients receive the very best care.

Taking a transparent, proactive approach to gelling with your new team will also work towards your advantage if you have any questions. You would have overcome the first hurdle of getting to know your colleagues, so there will be no awkwardness if you need a little extra help with something.

8. Take Lots Of Notes

As a nurse, there is no such thing as too many notes. You will be responsible for caring for several patients, each of which has their own concerns, so it is impossible to keep every piece of information in mind. Before your first shift, treat yourself to a new notebook and a multi-pack of pens (you will go through them far quicker than you would ever imagine, so always keep back-ups!).

Start taking notes in your induction – we can almost guarantee that you will be referring back to these for at least the first few weeks. Write down any essential information, such as where to find controlled medication or supplies, as this will help you to adjust to your new unit. You could even jot down the names of the colleagues that you will need to refer to for particular queries, again, helping you to build rapport. Ultimately, anything that you feel is important, write down in your notebook, then after your first shift, you can spend time recapping your day.

If you have experience in any healthcare role, then you will know that taking notes is not limited to your first few days in a position. Jotting down any essential non-confidential patient information will not only help you to keep on top of your care, but also prove ever so helpful when it comes to filling out paperwork. For more information on the importance of good record-keeping as a nurse, take a look at Nursing Times.

9. Always Remember The Basics

Regardless of whether it is the first day or last day of your placement, always remember the basics of your nursing role. On a busy shift when you are rushed off your feet, it can often feel as if the priority is to tick tasks off your list and work your way through the mountains of paperwork, meaning that the small gestures can be put to one side. However, it is the simple qualities of nursing that are appreciated the most by your patients and their families. Whether it may be taking the time to adjust a patient’s position to make sure they are comfortable or asking them about themselves, remembering to show your compassion is the key to success. These small acts of kindness take a matter of minutes yet are guaranteed to help your patient’s feel respected and confident in your care.

10. Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself

There can be a lot of pressure to ace your first day when, in reality, everyone takes a few days to settle in and begin finding their feet. With this in mind, our last tip is not to be too hard on yourself and feel disheartened if your day hasn’t gone perfectly. Your colleagues will not expect you to learn everything in a day and will be happy to give you time to adjust, providing that you show that you are doing your best.

After your first day, take the time to recap everything you have learnt, and if you feel as if you would benefit from sharing your experience, your loved ones are always just a phone call away. Your first day can be very daunting and tiring, so don’t forget to treat yourself to something nice afterwards. Whether it may be a relaxing bath with a book or your favourite takeaway, you deserve it!

Make The Most Out Of Your First Day!

Adjusting to life as an agency nurse can take time, and some settle in quicker than others. Unlike when working in a permanent position, you will become accustomed to moving between different healthcare facilities, picking up new skills along the way, so use every experience as a learning curve. On the other hand, if you are interested in becoming a locum nurse, then please do not hesitate to get in touch with MLG Healthcare. With many years of experience in nursing recruitment, we have an array of different positions available across the country and will work with you to find the perfect role to meet your requirements.

With this in mind, having worked in the medical recruitment industry for many years, we have been lucky enough to watch the journies of hundreds of locum nurses. During this time, we have also picked up a whole host of handy nursing tips and tricks, promised to make your life just that little more straightforward!

Our Top 8 Nursing Tips & Tricks

Once you have overcome your first few years in the healthcare field, your experience will mean that you feel far more comfortable beginning to tailor your tasks to the processes that you find most convenient. You will also begin to pick up useful hacks, which will allow you to complete jobs quicker without compromising on the quality of your care. Uncovering your own unique quirks is the beauty of being a nurse, helping you to strive in your role, making the most out of every day on the ward.

Although you may be manoeuvring yourself through the medical field, finding personal hacks, even the most experienced nurses will agree that there is no such thing as too much learning. Knowledge is power, which means that the more tips that you can keep in mind, the more composed you can stay when dealing with trickier situations. To top up your treasure chest of nursing hacks, we have put together a handful of our own:

• Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions
• Practice Dealing With Difficult Patients
• Make Home Your Safe Place
• Use Quick Hacks To Stay Clean
• Invest In Comfort
• Perfect Your IV Process
• Keep On Top Of Your Documentation
• Staying Positive Is Always Key

1. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions

As a nurse, it is your job to ensure that patients are getting the care and treatments that they require, which as you will be aware, is a lot of information to retain. This means that, even if you have decades of experience, there is absolutely no harm in asking questions when you are a little unsure. Particularly if you work in a high-paced environment such as an A&E ward, you will be dealing with your fair share of life or death situations, in which you will need to structure your plan of action as quickly as possible. In working as a team with your fellow medical professionals, asking questions and sharing the information that each of you have, overcoming complicated situations will become considerably less stressful.

Along with asking questions to tackle hurdles, it will also be essential to familiarise yourself with what has been happening over the past few hours at the beginning of your shift. Consider arriving at your shift a little earlier than your scheduled start as this will allow you plenty of time to read through any handovers, then ask questions on areas that are unclear before your colleagues leave for the day. A good start to the day sets you up for success, so allocating just that little extra time to get organised will make a world of difference.

2. Practice Dealing With Difficult Patients

While it may be rare, every nurse will experience a difficult patient at some point in their career, so it is vital to be equipped with the knowledge you need to deal with these trickier situations and ensure that the patient leaves happy.

The key to tackling difficult patients is to keep in mind that the reason behind their reaction is most likely because they are incredibly stressed and anxious, so staying composed will be crucial. Always avoid arguments or using a harsher tone of voice, as while you are of course entitled to share your opinion, this should be done in a calm, respectful manner. Be empathetic towards your patients, allow them to express why they are feeling agitated, then propose a way that you plan to resolve the situation. Ultimately, difficult patients need the reassurance that you have listened to their worries and are working towards finding a solution, so communication and engaging in conversion will be imperative.

For those who are treating a young child or an individual with a condition, you may find that they become much more restless when administering medication, for example. In this instance, the best route would be to create distractions for the patient while you complete your responsibilities. This could involve asking questions, telling stories or physical distractions such as games. You would also benefit from ensuring that for the duration of their stay, if you have been the first nurse that they have spoken with, you continue to treat them. Interacting with only familiar faces most definitely helps towards keeping patients calm, helping to build trust and therefore, make your job much more straightforward.

For more helpful tips on how to deal with difficult patients, take a look at The Doctor Weighs In.

3. Make Home Your Safe Place

While your role may be based on caring for others, you should never overlook the importance of self-care. You should always try to create a safe haven which will encourage you to unwind after even the most stressful days on the ward, and your home is the ideal place. The moment that you arrive home from a shift, there should be an instant weight off your shoulders, but how can you say goodbye to a troubled day and begin to relax? Although it may sound strange, the journey starts with the appearance of your home. There is nothing worse than opening the front door after a busy day to see the space filled with clutter; it will not only make you feel stressed but also gives you a list of tasks to complete before you can truly relax. With this in mind, we suggest considering leaving even as little as 15 minutes to spare before you set off for your shift to give your home a tidy. Put away any clothes that are lying on the bed and do those last bits of washing up, so you can arrive back to a tidy home, ready to put your feet up. Freshome has put together a great guide with a host of tips on how you can make your home feel more relaxing, from the living room and kitchen to the bedroom.

In some cases, you may arrive home and struggle to switch off after a day on the ward, which means that finding ways to clear your head will be essential. There are a number of different ways that you can do this, and it’s likely to take time to uncover which method works best for you. While some find that writing down their thoughts in a journal is beneficial, others prefer to take time to practice yoga and meditation.

4. Use Quick Hacks To Stay Clean

Working in the medical industry means that you can never quite anticipate what you may be faced with throughout your shift. One common downside to being a nurse is that this may involve getting a little messy and let’s be honest, it’s never going to be the most pleasant of things. However, there are many super handy hacks which will help you to stay clean; these include the following:

• Prepare For Emergency Changes – Keeping an extra set of your uniform either in your car or inside your locker will mean that you are prepared should you ever need to get changed.
• Cover Up During Lunch Breaks – Many nurses opt for popping on an isolation gown while they eat their lunch to prevent any spillages from ruining their uniform.
• Stock Up On Hydrogen Peroxide – In some cases, there may be no choice but to stain your uniform, whether this may be blood or other bodily fluids. This is where hydrogen peroxide will be your best friend as it acts as an instant, easy stain remover.
• Punch A Hole In Gowns – If you are wearing a gown that is not designed with holes, then you may find that it slides down, meaning that your wrists and arms are no longer covered. To resolve this, simply use your thumb to punch a hole in the sleeve then put on gloves over the top.

5. Invest In Comfort

When you are non-stop throughout your shift, you will always be thankful for opting to dress comfortably. It is for this reason that our next nursing hack is to invest in comfort, including not only cushioned, supported shoes but also quality uniform.

When it comes to tracking down your perfect nursing shoes, there are a number of factors that you should consider. The first is how much support the shoe provides not only your feet but also your ankles, knees, hips and back. Many nurses find that later in their career, by the end of their shift, they are experiencing immense pain and discomfort, which can have a significant impact on your health, along with how much you enjoy your role. The key to preventing this is a quality pair of shoes, which offer reliable arch support, as well as plenty of cushioning. You should also keep an eye out for those that are lightweight and breathable, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. Head over to our article on LinkedIn for a guide on the best shoes for nurses.

If you do not work in a facility which provides you with a uniform, then you will need to invest in your own. In this instance, we recommend paying a little extra for those that are soft and breathable. Cheaper alternatives are often designed with a stiff, itchy material which will cause a lot of discomfort throughout your shift.

6. Perfect Your IV Process

One of the most common responsibilities for a nurse is to handle IV’s, which for many, can be incredibly daunting, even after many years in the role. It isn’t uncommon for some patients to require several attempts to insert an IV line, which means that perfecting the process that you use is essential in making the task as straightforward and fuss-free as possible.

An excellent tip that will help towards inserting an IV line with ease is to place a warm cloth over the area of insertion before going ahead. This will encourage the veins to become plump, making it far easier for them to be located, increasing your likelihood of success on your first attempt. We recommend holding a cloth on the area for no less than five minutes and remember, if the cloth is too hot, you may need to place something between the fabric and the skin to prevent burning the patient.

When you eventually need to remove the IV, we recommend using an alcohol wipe to ensure that pulling away the tape does not hurt the patient. For patients with more hair on their skin, you may also want to consider placing a small piece of gauze between the skin and tourniquet so that it doesn’t pull out the hair when removed.

7. Keep On Top Of Your Documentation

When your passion is caring for patients, the last thing on your mind will be completing tedious paperwork; however, this is an essential task as a nurse. Documentations are vital in making sure that all team members are equipped with the knowledge they need to care for patients, allowing optimum care to continue even once you have finished your shift. It is for this reason that we advise all nurses to stay on top of their paperwork throughout the day, rather than leaving it all until the end of their shift. Complete your charting on each patient as you go while the information is still fresh in your mind; not only will this save you from having to stay after your shift fill in all documentation, but it also ensures that all notes taken are accurate.

8. Staying Positive Is Always Key

Our last nursing hack may sound like a phrase that you have heard time after time again, but one of the most important secrets to striving in your role is to stay positive. Although this may seem almost impossible when dealing with tired or angry patients, it really can make a significant impact on your mindset towards your role. If you have managed to stay positive throughout your shift, then you will leave feeling far more accomplished than if you were to let negative thoughts take over. There are many ways in which you can maintain positivity, not just for yourself, but also for your team and patients. Some tips for staying positive include:

• Take A Moment To Breath – Take a few minutes to stand outside in the fresh air and breath; it can quickly refresh your mind. Very Well Mind has a range of breathing techniques to help with anxiety, feelings of stress and much more.
• Remember To Smile – According to NBC News, smiling can actually trick your brain into thinking that you’re happy, making it a simple and easy way to boost your spirits.
• Spend Your Breaks Wisely – There is no reason why you cannot spend your breaks enjoying something that you love. Whether you take the time to read a few extra chapters in your book, video call a loved one or listen to a podcast, taking a little ‘me time’ is guaranteed to keep you positive.

Making Every Day Count!

Working in the medical industry is, by far, one of the most rewarding roles; however, this doesn’t mean that you will not be faced with your fair share of challenges. The key to success is to keep an open mind and continually adapt your processes to meet the demands of the role. Our years spent as healthcare recruiters has meant that we have worked with a host of professionals at different stages in their career; all of which utilise their own hacks. Take time to uncover these and we promise that you will be thankful for it!

If you are a locum nurse and hoping to take on new positions, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. With extensive experience as a reputable nursing recruitment agency, our team will work hard to pair you with your perfect role.

Types Of Nursing Specialties in UK

To become a speciality nurse, you must first gain a degree in the nursing field. You can choose to either embark on a general nursing degree, then train in your area of interest or jump straight into a degree in the field of your choice. Before beginning your studies, there are a number of factors that you must consider, such as the working environment that you can expect, as well as your responsibilities and the demand for roles in the particular sector. Many experienced nurses opt for retraining further into their career and experience different situations, which is the beauty of working in the medical industry. You most definitely do not need to be tied down to one role for the duration of your career, and you can choose to take on a new path at any stage, providing that you have the dedication to learn the theory behind the speciality.

If you are considering the different types of nursing specialities, then we have put together a list of the most common nursing specialities in UK, along with what you can expect from the role. As we provide medical recruitment, we also have a number of nursing positions available, which are perfect for those considering the locum nurse route.

Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the following:

• Certified Midwife Nurse
• Neonatal Nurse
• Paediatric Nurse
• Critical Care Nurse
• Psychiatric Nurse
• Orthopaedic Nurse
• Theatre Nurse
• Geriatric Nurse
• Respiratory Nurse
• Cardiology Nurse

1. Certified Midwife Nurse

One of the most fulfilling careers in the nursing industry is midwifery and is the perfect route for those with a caring, empathetic nature. Certified midwife nurses are responsible for caring for both mothers and babies during pregnancy and labour, as well as the first stages of the postnatal period. Not only do they monitor health and wellbeing but also provide support and guidance on how to tackle life with a newborn. For many expectant parents, their midwives are often seen as teachers and their first port of call if they have any questions regarding bathing and feeding the baby.

To become a midwife, there are a few options that you can consider. If you are beginning from scratch, then you will need to complete a three-year, full-time midwifery degree. For those who are already a qualified nurse, on the other hand, shorter programmes are available to allow you to begin practising within a shorter period. For more information on the job profile of a midwife nurse, take a look at the Prospects website.

2. Neonatal Nurse

If you are interested in caring for newborns, yet want to remain settled in one hospital, then you may want to consider neonatal nursing. When a baby is born either premature or suffering from a condition, then they will spend their first few weeks or months in a neonatal and special care baby unit, cared for by a neonatal nurse. The role will include several responsibilities, from preparing medication and recording the care of the baby to supporting the parents. For parents with a newborn in hospital, this can be an incredibly stressful and worrying time, so a neonatal nurse must be able to provide them with the reassurance that they need.

When working as a neonatal nurse, you must expect varying shift patterns, both during the day and overnight, as the babies in the unit will require 24/7 care. You are likely to work alongside other healthcare professionals such as midwives and dieticians, who will ensure that babies are in the best possible health before being discharged. The NHS North Bristol website has a fantastic page written by Amy, a registered neonatal nurse who runs through a typical day in the role.

3. Paediatric Nurse

A paediatric nurse, also known as a children’s nurse, works with all ages under the age of 18, making it a super flexible role. It comes alongside great employment prospects meaning that from this field, you can then move into many other specialties. Typically, a paediatric nurse will be responsible for assessing the requirements of the child before ensuring that they are paired with the correct level of care. They will then spend time observing the condition of their patients, recording data such as their pulse and temperature, as well as administering any necessary medication. As every child is different, every decision must take into consideration many factors, including their development, medical history and family circumstances, meaning that you are likely to be faced with tricky situations. Nevertheless, one of the most important aspects of being a paediatric nurse is the ability to communicate with neonatal units, as parents need to continually be updated on the condition of their child.

4. Critical Care Nurse

Taking on the role of a critical care nurse requires extensive experience in the industry, meaning that it is not a responsibility that you can expect to take on during the early stages of your career. You must already be a registered nurse then complete further training to equip you with the knowledge required to make critical, prompt decisions in fast-paced situations. Patients are likely to be battling life-threatening conditions and will require constant monitoring, as well as specialist treatments.

As a critical care nurse, you will be expected to take a thorough approach to care for patients, completing comprehensive assessments and performing tests. You will also have to feel confident performing particular invasive interventions, including inserting arterial lines. During each shift, you will be working collectively with others involved in the patient’s care, such as surgeons and intensive care doctors.

5. Psychiatric Nurse

A psychiatric nurse takes on the role of supporting patients tackling mental health issues, meaning that although it can be incredibly demanding, the position gives you a real chance to make a difference in patient’s lives. As opposed to working with different patients every day, you will spend time developing relationships with individuals, building their trust so that you can gain an accurate insight into their situation. This will also allow you to identify particular triggers so you can intervene ahead of time.

Working as a psychiatric nurse means that you have the opportunity to travel across various environments, not only in a psychiatric ward in hospitals but also in prisons and community centres, for example. You are also likely to find that you regularly visit the home’s of parents to provide support.

6. Orthopaedic Nurse

For those hoping to work in a less fast-paced environment, orthopaedic nursing is a fantastic career to consider. As an orthopaedic nurse, your role will be to work with patients to aid their recovery from surgery or an injury. The aim will always be to get the patient back to their daily life as quickly as possible, so it will require you to be hands-on with fitting casts, splints and dressings. They will look to you for reassurance and advice, so remaining positive and confident will be of utmost importance.

Although, as an orthopaedic nurse, your primary responsibility will be working directly with patients, you will also have to complete paperwork and documentation to keep track of their recovery. This may include ordering additional supplies and materials required to continue your care.

7. Theatre Nurse

One of the most common nursing jobs that we receive vacancies for is a theatre nurse and is a role that can prove incredibly interesting. As a theatre nurse, you will be involved in every stage of a patients surgery, meaning that you will have the opportunity to work in a larger team filled with medical professionals from surgeons and anaesthetists to even healthcare scientists. On your day-to-day shift, you will guide patients through the four phases of their perioperative care; these are:

• Preoperative – This involves an assessment of the patient, running them through what they can expect from the operation, including risks and benefits, answering any questions they may have.
• Anaesthetics – You will be responsible for supporting the anaesthetist, as well as preparing aspects such as equipment for the operation.
• Surgery – During the surgical phase, you will need to prepare the necessary equipment and be ready to hand these over to the surgeon upon request.
• Recovery – When the patient reaches the post anaesthetic care unit, you will need to support them in their recovery, monitoring their condition and providing them with any necessary treatment.

8. Geriatric Nurse

Focused on providing care to the older generations, in particular, elderly patients, geriatric nursing is a broad field that allows you to work in a host of different environments. As opposed to only being based in a hospital, you are likely to find that you will become accustomed to other settings such as care homes, hospices and outpatient departments. You could also consider working as a geriatric nurse in A&E and acute care wards. You will be working very closely with other teams, whether this may be your patient’s GP, carers or social workers, which means that communication skills will be imperative.

As a geriatric nurse, your ability to remain upbeat and positive will be vital in striving in your role. You will begin to build relationships with your patients, many of which are likely to find the ageing process incredibly daunting. This means that you will need to take a calm, friendly approach to keep them in full health, encouraging patients to remain updated with their medication and be transparent if they are beginning to feel unwell. More information on what to expect as a geriatric nurse can be found on Every Nurse.

9. Respiratory Nurse

There are a number of respiratory conditions, both acute and chronic, which means that continuous care is crucial in ensuring that the health of patients does not deteriorate. This is where the role of a respiratory nurse comes in, who will be responsible for addressing these health issues and treating patients. They will work closely with patients to monitor their condition, recording any changes and making sure that they are aware of the symptoms that their health is worsening. From here, respiratory nurses will then begin to piece together a treatment plan, whether this may be medication or devices which will assist breathing.

Much like many of the other specialties discussed, there are several different settings that you can work in as a respiratory nurse. Although many stick to a hospital or clinic, you could consider other environments such as assisted living facilities or private offices.

10. Cardiology Nurse

As a cardiology nurse, you will be working as part of a team that specialises in treating cardiovascular problems, whether this may be through surgery, medication or spending time putting together a lifestyle plan. Your responsibility as a nurse will be keeping track of patients medical history and performing tests to diagnose any underlying issues. You will also spend time with the patient and their family, helping them to understand the nature of their condition and what to expect in the future.

Along with treating patients with a diagnosed condition, you will also care for those who have recently experienced a heart attack, for example, or are recovering from surgery. Again, you will work with patients to piece together a plan of action to keep them healthy after their recovery, modifying their daily life to promote a healthier cardiovascular system and scheduling regular assessments.

Finding The Perfect Speciality For You

There is nothing more rewarding than working in the healthcare industry, and as a nurse, there are endless ways that you can make a real impact on the lives of your patients. Room for growth will always be available, and there are a host of wonderful opportunities to train in alternative roles.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team about our nursing recruitment positions, where we are more than happy to discuss our nursing roles in more detail.

With this in mind, having many years of experience filling nursing positions, we have picked up a number of helpful tips that we share with our candidates. We’ve compiled these in this article to create a comprehensive guide for those working 12 hour nursing shifts.

How To Get Through A 12 Hour Nursing Shift

There are several different benefits of opting to take on 12 hour shifts, as opposed to the regular 8 hours, the first of which is fewer handovers. When working on a unit that has a frequent turnover of staff throughout the day, it can prove tricky to stay organised with reporting and communication. There will be a constant relay of information from one nurse to another, increasing the likelihood of miscommunication. Working with the same group of professionals, on the other hand, means that everyone will remain organised with their tasks.

Another key advantage of working longer shifts is that it often becomes easier to maintain a steady work-life balance. 12 hour shifts are likely to be scheduled in 3-day segments with a 4-day weekend to follow. This will allow nurses extra days off to spend time with their family, enjoy their favourite hobby or even pursue further education in an area they have a particular interest in.

Although often seen as tedious, 12 hour shifts are actually a fantastic way to advance in your nursing career. Whether you are approaching your first longer shift or are experienced yet hoping for some fresh advice, our ten tips for working 12 hour shifts are guaranteed to make working on the ward more manageable.

• Prepare Your Uniform The Night Before
• Bring Plenty Of Food
• Stay Hydrated
• Wear Compression Socks
• Leave The Unit During Breaks
• Invest In Comfortable Shoes
• Stay Busy
• Be Organised
• Get Lots Of Rest
• Correct Deficiencies

1. Prepare Your Uniform The Night Before

Preparing your uniform the night before is a super easy lifestyle change to adopt and ideal for helping your day to start stress-free.

The night before your shift, make sure that your uniform is washed, dried and ironed. You can then hang it up, ready to pop on the following morning. In doing this, you can avoid any last-minute panics right before you’re due to leave. It will give you just that little extra time to make a nutritious breakfast, watch the news or simply relax with a cup of tea. A morning free from hassle is the perfect way to begin your shift in a positive, productive mood.

2. Bring Plenty Of Food

Working in a hospital means that you may not always get to take your breaks when you had hoped. If an emergency begins to unfold, naturally, this will need to be seen to before you head off for your break. Due to this, we strongly recommend keeping plenty of nutritious snacks handy. This means that if your break has been rescheduled, you can quickly refuel before your energy levels begin to plummet. When choosing snacks, aim to go for those that will provide slow-releasing energy instead of a quick sugar fix. Bananas are an excellent source of energy, along with granola bars and nuts. More information on snacks for nurses on the go can be found on Daily Nurse.

When it comes to your lunch break itself, we recommend avoiding heavy, greasy foods since these can negatively impact your energy levels. There are so many delicious, nutritious and energy-rich options that can be prepared ahead of time and taken with you to your shift. The Nerdy Nurse has put together a list of 20 easy lunch ideas, from BBQ chicken salad to lemon pesto pasta.

3. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is vital in not only keeping you alert but also ensuring that you stay healthy. Dehydration can have a detrimental impact on the body, causing you to feel lightheaded, tired and nauseous – the last thing you need during a 12 hour shift!

Not everyone naturally drinks their daily intake of water, and many have to force themselves to stay hydrated. Luckily, there are a number of different ways that you can get into the routine of drinking water, including the following:

• Use An App: Most nurses keep their phones in their pockets during their shifts, which means downloading a hydration app would be ideal. Daily Water is a great app which not only allows you to track your intake but will also send regular reminders.
• Marked Water Bottles: Seeing your progress is a fantastic way to keep you motivated. Water bottles that are marked with the hours of the day allow you to keep track of how far you are towards meeting your goal. Marked water bottles can be picked up from Aqua Tracker for less than £10.
• Herbal Tea: Many avoid drinking water merely down to the fact that they are not keen on the taste. If this is the case for you, experimenting with herbal teas is a great way to encourage yourself to stay hydrated. Herbal teas not only help you to drink your daily intake but also come alongside a plethora of health benefits. You can find out more about this on Develop Good Habits.

For more ideas on how you can begin drinking more water, take a look at Self.

4. Wear Compression Socks

You have probably had plenty of patients who have been advised to wear compression socks after operations, but you would be surprised how much they can help you during your long shifts.

Twelve hours shifts involve 90% being on your feet and rushing around the ward, which can begin to impact your health. Those that spend a vast majority of their day on their feet are at high risk of varicose veins due to the lack of blood flow. Varicose veins can begin to cause discomfort, making your legs ache, feet swell, and muscles cramp. Wearing compression socks will promote healthy blood flow and stop swelling, reducing fatigue and the amount of lactic acid that builds up in the legs. These socks can be picked up for a low price from sites such as Day Long.

5. Leave The Unit During Breaks

Staring at the same four walls for 12 hours straight is going to make you feel tired, unproductive and, let’s face it, grumpy. With this in mind, we suggest using your break to your full advantage. Instead of eating your lunch at the nurse’s station, leave the unit for a change of scenery. Whether you sit outside or drive to a nearby location, venturing away from the workplace will help you to clear your mind and recuperate your thoughts. You will arrive back at your shift feeling revitalised and ready to take on the last few hours.

During your break, try to find something that will help you to take your mind off the hustle and bustle of the ward. Whether you read a book, listen to music, or pop on a nursing podcast, find a method that will help you to relax.

6. Invest In Comfortable Shoes

Comfortable shoes that support your feet will be one of your most valuable investments as a nurse. As covered in tip four, you will be spending almost all of your shift on your feet, so you need shoes that will stop aching and blisters forming. Some important factors to consider when searching for shoes are:

• Slip Resistance: The flooring on units is regularly cleaned to ensure the environment remains hygienic, which means that slip-resistant shoes are imperative. You can rush around as much as you need without worrying about slipping hazards.
• Lightweight: Wearing heavy shoes means that you will leave your shift with super achy, swollen feet. Instead, opt for a lightweight pair of shoes that feel comfortable.
• Support: Ensuring that your shoes provide back and ankle support means that you will prevent the risk of pain, strains or injuries. Test out the shoes and their level of support before making the purchase.

If you’re stuck for inspiration on what type of shoes would be best, take a look at Runner Click for the ten best-reviewed.

7. Stay Busy

The busier you are, the quicker the time will fly. While there is nothing wrong with taking ten minutes to relax in quieter moments of the day, perhaps to grab a coffee, sitting any longer will make your shift drag.

Aim to be as proactive as possible, spending your free moments helping out other members of the team. Helping to tick a few tasks off their to-do list will not only ease stress but also help you build relationships. You never know; there might be a day when you are rushed off your feet, and their help will prove invaluable.

Not only will grabbing extra opportunities with two hands forge strong relationships with colleagues, but it will also enhance your learning and professional development. You might get the chance to learn a new skill or further your knowledge on a topic you’re a little unsure about.

8. Be Organised

A lot can happen in the space of 12 hours, which means that staying organised is vital in ensuring that you do not forget any tasks.

Always arrive a little earlier than when you’re due to start to give you plenty of time to read through your handover. Use this, along with basic nursing tasks, to create a tick list for the day. You will then be able to keep track of what has been completed and what may need to be passed on to the next nurses. Keep your list with you at all times to tick off as you go along and add on any additional tasks.

9. Get Lots Of Rest

Getting plenty of rest is vital in keeping you healthy, both physically and mentally. Lack of sleep will not only reduce concentration and productivity but also impact your immune system.

If you are struggling to get a good night’s sleep and seem always to feel tired, we suggest experimenting with the Sleep Cycle app. The Sleep Cycle app will analyse your sleeping pattern, tracking your movements and determining how long you stay in each phase. The information will then be used to set your alarm to wake you when you are at your lightest sleeping stage. Waking up during a light stage will make you feel immediately more awake from the moment you jump out of bed.

10. Correct Deficiencies

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause tiredness and low mood, both of which have the potential to affect your ability to cope with 12 hour shifts at work. As experts in healthcare recruitment, we highly recommend that all medical professionals take the time to be assessed for nutrient deficiencies, should they experience any signs of deficiency. This way, they can take supplements as recommended by their doctor to correct any deficiencies. This should resolve resulting fatigue and brain fog and help protect health in the long term. However, supplements should not be used as a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet; rather, they should be taken alongside sufficient, nutritious food when recommended. Taking too many vitamins can also be harmful to health, which is why it’s important to talk to your doctor before beginning any kind of dietary supplement.

Follow Our Tips For Nurses Working 12 Hour Shifts

Taking on 12 hour shifts is an incredibly exciting step in your career. It will provide you with a whole host of new experiences, skills and knowledge that will help you to progress in your role. As experts with many years of experience in filling nursing jobs, we can testify that longer shifts are most definitely made easier when you take the time to care for yourself, ensuring that you maintain optimum health and energy through your shifts. For more tips on coping with the stressors of being a nurse, check out our previous article for our work-life balance tips for nurses. If you would like to become a candidate for nursing positions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team, who are more than happy to assist and answer any questions you may have.

Those who work in the nursing profession often feel the most significant strain. Not only are nurses responsible for providing optimum care to their patients, but they must also ensure that they stay on top of all important documentation while providing support to fellow team members.

With this in mind, it is imperative for each working day to be thoroughly planned out to ensure that all tasks are carried out to the highest standard. Our handy tips for improving time management in nursing will help you improve productivity while keeping stress to a minimum.

How To Improve Time Management In Nursing

Whether you are entering the world of nursing for the first time after finishing your degree or have been in the industry for many years, there is always room for improvement. Even the slightest of lifestyle changes are capable of making a massive difference in what feels like an increasing weight of continuous tasks and responsibilities on your shoulders.

Having spent years as one of the leading medical recruitment agencies, we recognise the high demand for those who provide care to the public. We aim to bring enjoyment back to working in the medical industry by providing a variety of different tips to ease stress and allow you to focus on what you do best: providing care to those in need.

• What Is Time Management In Nursing?
• The Importance Of Time Management Skills For Nursing
• Time Management Strategies In Nursing

What Is Time Management In Nursing?

By definition, time management is the process of organising how your time will be divided between each activity. The goal is always to put together a plan that will boost efficiency and improve productivity, ultimately helping you work smarter.

When working as a locum nurse, time management can be one of the most challenging skills to crack, as no two days are the same, and you can never quite predict what your shift will involve. Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean that it is impossible. There are many ways that you can stay on top of your responsibilities, even in high-pressure scenarios where time is tight.

The Importance Of Time Management Skills For Nursing

Nursing jobs are an incredibly demanding role, which means that remaining proactive will be crucial in ensuring that you can stay cool, calm and collected. Through effective time management, you can begin learning how to balance your patient care and responsibilities with administrative tasks. It will also prove beneficial in terms of personal obligations as if you can leave your shift feeling accomplished and pleased with your progress, you will find it far easier to unwind without having the looming stress of tasks that you did not get to complete. You can find more tips on how to achieve a work-life balance as a nurse in our previous article.

When registering with MLG Healthcare, you will always be paired with a dedicated consultant who will offer ongoing support before, during and after your placement. If you find that time management is becoming a challenge and you are overwhelmed with your role, you are always free to get in touch with your consultant. Alternatively, you can speak with the Clinical Team at MLG Healthcare to discuss options and find a solution to ensure that you continue to enjoy your role.

Time Management Strategies In Nursing

Building on your time management skills in nursing can take time; however, do not feel underwhelmed if you do not get your day organisation spot on straight away. Much like any other personal skill, this will become easier the more you practice, but in the meantime, we suggest starting your journey with the following tips:

• Punctuality: Arrive At Your Shift Early
• Proactiveness: Take Plenty Of Notes
• Prioritisation: Prioritise Your Jobs
• Delegation: Don’t Be Afraid To Delegate Tasks
• Self-Care: Always Take Your Break
• Communication: Regularly Talk With Patients
• Patience: Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself
• Organisation: Avoid Trying To Multitask

Punctuality: Arrive At Your Shift Early

You would be surprised how much of a positive impact even an extra ten minutes to prepare can have on your day. Aim to get into the routine of arriving at work a little earlier than the time you are scheduled to begin your shift; most opt for around 10-20 minutes early. While that additional few minutes in bed to snooze may sound rather tempting, choosing a slightly earlier start is guaranteed to help your day run considerably smoother.

By arriving at work slightly early, you allow yourself the opportunity to grab a cup of tea, sit down and thoroughly read through all reports and handover sheets before the hustle and bustle of nursing life begins. Starting off the day feeling flustered and in a rush is only going to cause a snowball effect, throwing you off course for the remainder of the day.

As waking up a little earlier as opposed to getting extra sleep isn’t the most appealing of tasks, we suggest considering purchasing a gentle wake-up call alarm. Designed specifically for those who would like to gradually wake up with ease rather than a sudden burst of sound, opting for a quiet alarm clock is ideal for easing you into earlier mornings. Glam have put together a helpful guide to gentle wake-up calls, so it is most definitely worth a read!

Proactiveness: Take Plenty Of Notes

Although some people have exceptional memory skills and are capable of keeping mental reminders throughout the day, it is always highly beneficial to take physical notes for peace of mind. Working in the medical industry means that no two days will be the same, and while you may think that your day is entirely planned out, it is more than likely a host of extra tasks will creep up.

Keeping a small notepad and pen set in your uniform’s pocket at all times is ideal for jotting down any reminders or creating a to-do list to work your way through during your shift. Any tasks left over can be placed in a handover for the next set of staff to accomplish when they arrive.

Pen Heaven have a fantastic range of leather journal and pen sets guaranteed to keep you super organised!

Prioritisation: Prioritise Your Jobs

Many different duties are included in a nurse’s daily routine, from taking patient samples and administrating medication to writing records and providing pre or post-operation support. One of the most effective ways to manage time is to build a list of tasks and organise them in order of priority.

Regardless of whether you are a new or experienced nurse, you will be familiarised with the types of patients requiring urgent care and the tasks that will have potentially fatal consequences if not carried out immediately; these should always take the top position on your priorities list. Aim to keep in mind an estimated amount of time that you think each task will take to ensure that all high priorities are completed before the end of your shift. Taking a strategic approach to prioritising tasks is a proven way of reducing stress while increasing productivity. Nothing gives more of a sense of relief than the ability to cross another job off the list!

Delegation: Don’t Be Afraid To Delegate Tasks

It can often prove somewhat tricky to achieve a balance between not always saying yes and taking on everyone else’s extra tasks yet still remaining a team player. An essential aspect of working within a team is the ability to delegate tasks to those most fitting to the role, so don’t be afraid to take responsibility and begin allocating to other members of the team. If you have critical tasks that must be completed immediately, do not feel as if you sound selfish by asking someone else if they mind taking on the less important tasks in the meantime.

Self-Care: Always Take Your Break

On a super busy day where there is a continuous flow of tasks, it can feel like the best solution to ensure that all work is completed is to skip your lunch and carry on working. However, this is never the case and will cause more harm than good. Although your break does give you some extra working time, it is almost guaranteed to cause you to burn out and become even more unproductive by the end of the day, especially if you haven’t eaten anything.

Your body and mind need time to unwind and re-energise; otherwise, they will no longer be capable of working to their full ability. The more stressed you are, the less in control you will be, so this is the perfect time to take a breather and a quick break away from the workplace. Taking your break allows you to clear your mind, collect your thoughts and have a bite to eat, allowing you to return to work ready to take on any challenge.

During your break, we recommend snacking on a healthy snack packed with nutrients. Self.com have put together an excellent guide to dietitian-approved lunches guaranteed to keep you energised.

Communication: Regularly Talk With Patients

When working in nursing positions like a fast-paced hospital or doctor’s surgery, it can be easy to get caught up in paperwork, administering medicine and transferring information between professionals. This can mean that you can begin to lose touch with the real reason as to why you chose this particular career path – your passion for providing care, support and assistance to those in need. On even the busiest of days, don’t forget to talk and listen to your patients, get to know them and show the compassion that you are lucky enough to hold as a key personality trait.

Conversing with your patients will not only bring joy and the rewarding feeling back to your role but can also work towards your advantage when managing your time. Talking personally to patients will allow you to grasp an idea of how they are feeling, any changes in their condition and their priorities, all of which will help you to organise your day.

Patience: Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself

Just like any other aspect of your job role, time management takes practice to perfect. Being thrown straight into the deep end and beginning your career in a sector such as A&E comes alongside a whirlwind of emotions, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Take every obstacle as a learning curve and use weaknesses to your advantage to set goals for the future.

Many of the tasks that you will be faced with will be completely new to you, so it will be hard to manage your time efficiently in the initial stages because you will only have a vague idea of how long tasks will take. Don’t complete tasks half-heartedly in the hope that you will be able to tick more points off of the ‘to-do’ list. Take your time, learn thoroughly, and you will instantly notice your progression.

Organisation: Avoid Trying To Multitask

Understanding when and where it is an appropriate decision to multitask can be difficult, which means it is recommended not to attempt to carry out too many tasks at once until you feel confident. Multitasking can prove to be incredibly beneficial when done well yet potentially disastrous when attempted during a task that requires your sole attention.

It has been scientifically proven that when the brain is trying to alternate between tasks, it tends to push aside information from one and replace sections with points from the other, causing details to become muddled. For example, when preparing medication for an individual patient, do not try to skim over other patients’ notes during the process to save time; a crossover can quickly occur, causing a patient to receive the incorrect type or dosage of medicine, risking their health.

While combining more than one task can appear to save time, do not put too much pressure on yourself to try to master the art of multitasking; the medical industry has too many associated risks if the information is crossed over. As mentioned previously, prioritise each task and carry them out one by one at your highest ability.

Time Management For Nurses Made Easy!

Whether you’re working on a temporary basis as a locum nurse or have a full-time role in a healthcare facility, learning how to manage your time effectively is vital. With the constant hustle and bustle of working in healthcare jobs, it can often be tricky to stay on track and avoid becoming overwhelmed by the fast-paced requirements. Using a combination of our eight top tips and ensuring that you spend time in advance planning your day is guaranteed not only to reduce stress but also to improve productivity. If you’re looking for a medical recruitment agency to help you land your dream job, be sure to get in touch with MLG Healthcare.

These soft skills are just as important when it comes to caring for patients and their families. The ability to keep calm in stressful situations, share a compassionate smile and lift the spirits of those on the ward are traits that every patient under your care will appreciate and fellow nurses need after a long and arduous shift.

It takes a special type of person to be a locum nurse, combining compassion and knowledge to provide exceptional care at all times. There are several other essential nursing skills that are key to not only being successful in your career but also creating a positive atmosphere around you. As leading specialists in nursing recruitment, we have pieced together the most essential skills a nurse should portray to help you in your personal development and improve career prospects.

What Are Some Of The Most Important Nursing Skills?

Nurses play an invaluable role in the healthcare sector, providing patients with care that helps improve recovery while offering reassurance that they are in safe hands.

As a nurse, you will have two vital roles; providing physical and emotional care. This is why it takes a particular type of person to become a nurse, as you require the relevant knowledge and soft skills to offer a calm experience that lowers stress levels for colleagues and those you are caring for. As a nurse, you will be learning and developing an array of skills during your time on the ward, including the following:

• What Skills Do You Need To Be A Nurse?
• Communication Skills In Nursing
• Leadership Skills In Nursing
• Mental Health Skills In Nursing
• Transferable Skills In Nursing

What Skills Do You Need To Be A Nurse?

Nursing is one of the most popular career choices, with over 750,000 registered nurses in the UK alone. Among the hundreds of thousands of nurses working today, a few common skills help the best excel. These attributes can be broken down into four categories: communication, leadership, mental health and transferable skills. So, if you’re looking to start a career in nursing or further your professional development, focusing on these key areas is a great place to start.

Aside from honing your skillset, there are plenty of ways to make nursing as rewarding and enjoyable as possible. Whether that’s finding an effective work-life balance or figuring out an area you’d like to specialise in. So, be sure to check out our blog for top tips and tricks to help you make the most of your nursing career.

Communication Skills In Nursing

Communication is key for any job role. However, your ability to communicate with clarity and precision becomes even more important when you are responsible for patient treatments and care plans. Effective communication with other team members allows you to stay focused and carry out tasks to the highest standard.

1. Practice Excellent Communication Skills

A nurse will use communication throughout their shift, whether to inform doctors and other nurses of patient care at the end of their shift so that they can provide ongoing support or with patients to keep them calm. Not only is communication itself essential, but a nurse must also be able to adapt the way in which they communicate depending on who they are speaking to. For example:

• Older patients – elderly individuals may get easily confused and begin to panic.
• Non-English speakers – not understanding what is going on and the care they are receiving can be daunting.
• Younger patients – children are unlikely to understand what is going on and are likely to get upset and frustrated easily.
• Family members – in a tough situation, family members are more concerned about being next to their loved one, and when they are unable to do this, reasoning with them can become difficult.

Poor communication can heighten a stressful situation, making it a key skill for nurses. You can find additional information on why communication is important and how to further develop your communication skills on Patient Engagement Hit.

2. Know When To Ask For Help

Whether you have just graduated as a nurse, or working in a new department after working with our experts in healthcare recruitment to find your dream job, there are likely to be some aspects of the job that you are unfamiliar with. It is always vitally important that you provide a patient with the care they need, and if you are unsure or questioning your decision, then there is no harm in asking your fellow nurses for a helping hand. Combined, a team of nurses can do pretty much anything, so be sure to use the skills and experience of those around you.

Leadership Skills In Nursing

As a leading nursing recruitment agency, we’ve helped thousands of healthcare professionals grow their nursing career. While your passion may lie in caring for patients, everyone wants the opportunity to grow – this is where leadership skills come in. The more leadership skills you showcase, the more you will be recognised for your efforts.

3. Strong-Willed

Particularly when you take care of a patient for a long time, it is hard not to get attached, making it extremely difficult in the worst-case scenarios. Being the first port of call for patient and family support can make it hard to remain strong-willed, putting their well-being and emotions before your own. It is important to remember that dealing with upsetting situations will be challenging, and no one expects you to feel and act emotionless when on the ward. However, knowing when and how to be strong-willed while with a patient and their family is essential for all nurses.

The best way to keep your emotions at bay when with a patient or fellow staff member is to take deep breaths and continuously count to ten. By focusing on breathing and counting, you can take your mind off the emotions while still providing care for them. Practising mindfulness meditation at home will also help with your well-being, which is essential when looking after yourself as a nurse. We suggest taking a look at the ECPI University’s article on managing emotions or reading through our previous post on the best podcasts for the perfect pick-me-up.

So how does a strong-willed personality link with leadership skills? One of the key traits of a leader is the ability to stay calm, level-headed and methodological in stressful situations. A team leader must support their team and reassure them that there is always a solution. This energy will instantly portray to the rest of the group, creating a calmer and, therefore, more productive workplace.

4. Prioritise Tasks

In just one shift, you can find yourself having to deal with multiple situations at the same time. However, rather than multi-tasking and potentially making a mistake, you will need to prioritise tasks to ensure that the right care is given to your patients. While you may have a long list of tasks to complete, when an emergency or potentially life-threatening situation occurs, you must be able to prioritise tasks without neglecting treatments, care and patients.

Usually, this is a skill that you develop after your studies and on the job through experiencing pressurised situations and learning how to handle them. If you are a new locum nurse, then we suggest having a quick read of an article published by Nursing.com for tips on what nursing tasks you should always prioritise and how to stay calm under pressure. If you need help in time management as a nurse, take a look at our previous article!

Learning how to prioritise tasks and work smarter will become invaluable as you progress in your career and take on more responsibility. An organised, productive nurse will always make a fantastic team leader!

Mental Health Skills In Nursing

As society’s understanding of mental health has developed, it’s become evident that nurses need excellent mental-health-specific skills to support their patients, colleagues and themselves. Some of these skills might come naturally, and others will require practice, but if you can nail these mental health skills, you’ll give your career the best chance at excelling.

5. Emotionally Support Other Nurses

One of the most important aspects of nursing is working as a team, as it gives you the support and guidance required to make informed decisions under pressure. Whether you are in a stressful situation and need a helping hand or don’t have the experience to provide the best care, your fellow nurses are there to help physically and with their own knowledge.

These high-pressure situations can cause nurses to experience upsetting moments, but with the loving arm of a colleague, these situations are made considerably easier to handle. Emotional support is vital for anyone in a stressful position, and by opening your arms to another nurse experiencing a difficult moment, the same gratitude will be displayed when you find yourself in a similar situation.

6. Share Compassion & Empathy

Emotional support is most commonly referred to as being compassionate, which is another essential trait for nurses to portray to colleagues and patients. When a patient is in care, it can be an extremely upsetting and stressful time for the individual and their family. As a nurse, compassion and empathy are at the core of your role; having compassion allows you to provide support for patient families while also having concern for patients suffering so that you can provide accurate care. By understanding the patients suffering, it allows you to place yourself in their shoes, taking into consideration how scared they may feel and how worried their families must be. Through this, you can make what is an extremely heartbreaking and stressful situation that little bit easier.

Transferable Skills In Nursing

Many skills you gain throughout your experience as a nurse will boost other areas of your life. They will help you to build relationships, take on more responsibility and even win over employers should you change your career path.

7. Remain Professional

As a nurse, it can be hard to distinguish the difference between being caring and kind to a patient and remaining professional. While being compassionate is a key trait for a nurse, you must also learn to stay professional at all times to ensure that patients are well-informed and provided with the best care possible. When you are a professional nurse, you can:

• Be responsive
• Be supportive of colleagues
• Provide quality work and guidance
• Hold yourself in stressful situations

8. Ability To Adapt

Every day on the ward is unique, from the patients you care for to the sudden and unexpected situations you must deal with. This means that, as a nurse, you must be able to adapt to various environments and under pressure situations. Additionally, anything could be thrown your way, and you may be required to learn something new or handle a new situation quickly and effectively. Healthcare jobs and the healthcare industry are constantly evolving, which means that you must be able to adapt to new treatments and care.

The Most Important Skills In Nursing

While being a nurse can be stressful at times, it is one of the most rewarding careers in many ways. By learning and developing key and essential nursing skills, you can ensure that not only do your patients have the best possible and quality care, but you feel confident in your decisions and progress in your career. If you are looking to take the next step in your career, then why not speak to our specialist and experienced recruiters? We’ve been among the leading medical recruitment agencies for many years, so our consultants are expertly placed to help you find your dream job and support you in developing your essential nursing skills.