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What does your day look like as a staff nurse? Does your mind whirl around with all the things that got to get done? You have doctor orders, call lights, family issues, and the list seems endless? What do you do first? What is next? Is your priorities out of wack? It can be overwhelming and stressful. How can you take more control over your day? Here are 3 easy steps to get your day started on the right direction:

1. Set your priorities straight. Make a quick brainstorming list of what needs to come first. Do this first before you go out onto the floor. Yes everything has a sense of urgency about it. Yes there are fires to put out. However step back and do what is the most important first. Make a list.

2. Things can change. Your day can go into a different direction at times. For instance a patient can become very sick or have to go to surgery right away. Priorities will change. Just do your best to shift gears. Delegate what is important on your list to others. You

already made a list that was the most important things to get done. So this will make it easier to delegate out quickly. Other co-workers are usually more than willing to help. Just ask them.

3. Take a break. Many nurses work very long hours today. Schedule a break. It regenerates your mind, energy, and body. It helps to clear your mind. Your patients will thank you for it.

There will always seem like a lot of priorities to get done in one day. However if you set the ones that are the most important to get done. You will feel better about what you did for your patients that day. There are only so many hours in your day. So make your time worth it. Priorities will help with your day.