Protecting our health is top of mind for many
The flu season is well underway, and if you’re a travel nurse, that means it’s time to start thinking about ways to stay healthy on assignment.
Follow these five simple health tips to help keep you healthy on the road this season.
Get vaccinated against the flu – it’s not too late!
While the vaccine isn’t perfect, it’s still the best way to protect yourself from the flu. And if you do happen to get sick, getting vaccinated can help lessen the severity of your symptoms.
Plus, since you work in a healthcare setting, getting vaccinated helps protect your patients as well.
Wash your hands regularly and often, especially before you eat
Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly – this is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of infection.
Make sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds, and be sure to wash your hands often throughout the day, especially before you eat!
Speaking of eating, eat a well-balanced diet
To help support your immune system eating a nutritious diet helps to keep your body strong and better able to fight off infection. A healthy diet can also help you manage stress, which can also take a toll on your immune system.
So make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit sugar and saturated fats.
And don’t forget to stay hydrated!
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help keep your immune system strong
Drinking plenty of fluids helps to keep your body hydrated and also helps to flush out toxins. Water is always the best choice, but herbal tea and fresh fruit juice are also good options.
Of course, we nurses love a good cup of coffee, too – just don’t overdo it!
Get enough sleep each night so your body can fight off infection
When you’re tired, your body is weaker and less able to fight off infection. So make sure you’re getting enough sleep each night – aim for at least 7-8 hours. While it is hard to sleep after a long shift, try to take a nap during your off days if you can.
If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about ways to improve your sleep hygiene.
The final word
The flu season will soon be underway, and if you’re a travel nurse, that means it’s time to start thinking about ways to stay healthy on assignment.
These tips provide a good foundation for staying healthy during the flu season, but it’s also important to be proactive in your approach to health and hygiene. If you’re feeling sick, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention – it’s better to be safe than sorry.
And finally, remember to take care of yourself both physically and mentally; after all, a healthy nurse is a productive nurse!
To learn more about the travel nursing opportunity and cities across the country, visit Bestica Healthcare and start planning your next assignment today.
No responses yet