Even the most unique and rewarding roles, like that of a neonatal nurse practitioner, come with potential workplace challenges. From physicians to families, there is always an opportunity for interpersonal conflict. Still, almost no workplace challenge compares to a coworker with destructive habits, and the field of nursing is no [...]
The signs and reminders are everywhere. Wash Your Hands! There are jingles and timers to help you do it long enough. Hand sanitizer dispensers are conveniently placed in convenient areas, and so are little handwashing sinks. You probably could recite the five steps to a perfect handwash, because after all, [...]
Nursing managers know stress. The nursing management role is not only emotionally draining, but it also consists of incredibly long hours, demanding patients and overwhelming staff needs. The combination of these stressors can overwhelm anyone without proper self-care and support. In 1960, a study revealed that nurse managers suffered from [...]
No, it’s not a bad dream, and neither have you gone back in time to seventh grade. Workplace cliques are a reality that we all must face... even in the NICU. It can be hard navigating the playing field at times no matter if you're new to the unit or [...]
How to cope with mortality and come back tomorrow without falling apart. I still remember the unusual quiet that fell over the unit that morning as I clocked in for my shift. As I walked past the hallway, my eye caught a little butterfly postcard on the door. To [...]
Anyone who has ever started a new job can appreciate how difficult it is to get “settled in.” So much information to absorb; so many new rules, systems, and workarounds to learn. And so little time to get up to speed. Adjusting to a new work environment is downright stressful. [...]
You’ve been on the job for a while now. You frequently receive recognition for the high quality of your work. Your patients adore you; your colleagues respect you. But when it comes to your paycheck, you’re not feeling the love. Or, maybe you found out that a colleague is earning [...]
Let’s face it. The daily life of a NNP is far from easy. In fact, it can be grueling sometimes. You face long shifts, demanding patients and physicians, administrative work, emotional labor...the list goes on. If you don’t take care of yourself — find the proper work/life balance — you’re [...]
Sometimes it’s not easy for us to be objective when we ask ourselves “is this the job for me?” Taking a step back to view your options realistically is often necessary to ensure you’re at the best fit. The more information you have, the better your perspective will be. Get [...]
What’s the one thing that would make your work life go more smoothly? If you’re stressed out before you even get to work, if you feel like a whirling dervish throughout the day — maybe you could use a few shortcuts to get you through your shifts more easily. Here [...]
