As the winter season sets in, individuals from countries experiencing winter take measures to enjoy the season with limited or no injuries. The all-white season can be beautiful as well as unpredictable and dangerous for everyone talkless of those who have to be at their job sites every day like nurses. 

To survive the unpredictable season, nurses have to take the necessary precautions to stay safe, healthy, and productive.

As a nurse, what measures can you take to enjoy this season without sustaining injuries?

Practice road safety measures

What characterizes the winter season is snow. Though beautiful, it can cause some hazards for anyone making movements during this period. As someone whose profession demands that you work almost round the clock, it’s important you consider some road safety measures. 

First things first… 

Before you hit the road, make sure your car is in good shape. You should have enough gas that will take you to your destination. Be sure that your windshield is full and that you have scrapers for your car. You can also get snow tires to help you drive during snowy days.

With your car set, check the weather along the route you’re taking. The challenging weather would require you to drive slowly. Never be in a rush to reach your destination. To achieve this, make it a habit to leave the house earlier so that despite the slow drive, you will reach your destination on time. While on the road, make sure there’s enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Stay connected

During this season, it is always important to stay connected. Contact your boss to know if it’s necessary for you to show up at work. While on your way to work, make sure your radio is tuned so that you stay informed of the weather and road conditions.

Always make sure your gadgets (phone, torchlight…) are charged in case of any emergencies.

Dress for the season

To avoid health risks during winter, you need to dress warmly. Have a warm jacket and blanket in your car if you’re on the night shift. Get yourself winter hats and gloves. Putting on the right outfit during this season is very necessary. It’s important that you put on bright colors to make yourself visible when crossing the streets if you don’t have a vehicle.

Having the right footwear also matters. Go in for flat-soled shoes and boots with rubber and neoprene composite rather than plastic and leather soles. Snow spikes that fit under the bottom of your footwear help to provide more traction.

Eat healthily

With nurses working full-time and under time constraints, it’s important you eat healthily.  With the cold weather, you will need to keep your immune system strong, making sure you do not catch a cold. Eat many fruits and veggies, not forgetting to take food supplements if you can.  

Eating healthy is one of the surest ways to stay safe in any season.

Sleep adequately

Sleep can never be taken out of the equation when it comes to taking precautions during the unpredictable winter season. It’s best to sleep between 7 to 9 hours to have proper rest. Darker evenings during the winter season often make you sluggish which can have a negative impact on your mental health. Thus, during this period, it’s important you maintain a good sleep routine.

The life of a nurse during the winter season isn’t a very comfortable one. While others are tugged in their blankets or spending time with loved ones, you’re out there taking care of patients. This period is a period where you have to take care of yourself.

With COVID-19 and other hazards that come as a result of the snowy season, it’s important that you practice self-care and put these tips into use to stay safe during the winter season.

Do you have other tips to share? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

Wishing you all a safe winter season!

Featured Image Credits: NursingCenter

Tags: Nurses, Nursing, Winter

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