Learning time management
Are you a new or frustrated nurse struggling to juggle the demands of patient care, paperwork, and the fast-pace of healthcare? As an experienced RN, I've been there too, and I understand the challenges that come with managing your time effectively in a healthcare setting. In this blog post, I will review practical time management tips to help you stay organized, reduce stress, and excel in your nursing career.
1. Prioritize Tasks
One of the first skills you need to master as a nurse is the ability to prioritize tasks. Start your shift by identifying the most urgent and important tasks, such as administering medications, assessing patients, and handling emergencies. Create a to-do list and tackle the high-priority items first. My list starts with bedside report, tackling any issues with pain, needed IV's or lab results that need to be addressed. My "brain" has been designed over the course of years to work for me since the priority shuffle occurs throughout the shift.
2. Delegate When Appropriate
Nursing is a team effort, and you aren't the boss of everything. Learn to delegate tasks to nursing assistants or other team members when appropriate. Delegation not only lightens your workload but also empowers your colleagues to contribute to patient care. Also be willing to help other nurses when you can, and expect to have reciprocated assistance.
3. Efficient Documentation
Documentation is a crucial aspect of nursing, but it can be time-consuming. To manage your time effectively, develop efficient documentation habits. When you have multiple patients, I find it helpful to have a checklist of each big documentation task. I cross off one item on my brain on my assessment. I write FACE on each of my patient blocks for Falls, Allergies, CarePlan, and Education and each gets crossed off when done. When my safety checks are done, I cross off that time written as a number. Those numbers are also circled, squared or triangled as signals of when medications are due.
4. Time Blocking
Consider time blocking to structure your day. Allocate specific time slots for tasks like medication administration, assessments, charting, and breaks. For example, report is first. Then you do any emergent tasks, then review charts. Pass meds and assessments. Document if you can as you go. Stick to your schedule as much as possible to prevent tasks from piling up.
5. Avoid Multitasking
While multitasking might seem like a time-saving strategy, it can lead to errors and increased stress. Focus on one task at a time to ensure thoroughness and safety in patient care. Some tasks can be career breakers if not done properly.
6. Use Technology Wisely
Utilize technology to your advantage. Many hospitals have software and apps that can help with medication administration, charting, and communication. Familiarize yourself with these tools to streamline your tasks. Use the worksheets provided, get to know whichever computerized charting system you use thoroughly. This will speed up your documentation.
7. Take Breaks
Nursing can be physically and emotionally demanding, and you need breaks to recharge. Don't skip your meal breaks, and take a moment to step away from the unit when you can. A short break can help you return to your duties with a fresh perspective. I find that if I haven't sat in 90 minutes, sitting for 10-15 minutes to document and review my brain always helps. The best thing to prevent flash burnout to me is to always take a break. You will start to become familiar with true emergencies when you cannot leave and a time period you can.
8. Learn to Say No
New nurses often feel compelled to take on extra tasks or shifts, but it's essential to know your limits. Don't be afraid to say no when you already have a full schedule or need time for yourself. Prioritizing your well-being is crucial. Practice self care with your days off. If you always say yes, your management will go to you first. Default to no, then say yes for your reasons, not someone else's.
9. Plan for the Unexpected
In healthcare, you must be prepared for the unexpected. Patients' conditions can change rapidly, and emergencies can arise. Be flexible and ready to adjust your schedule as needed. Re-prioritize throughout the day. You never know when your most well patient will become your number one priority.
10. Continuous Learning
Time management is a skill that improves with experience and learning. Don't be too hard on yourself when you make mistakes or struggle with time management. Continuously seek opportunities to enhance your skills and seek advice from experienced colleagues. Even when I switch jobs I found I had to refine my time management in the new place.
11. Self-Care
Caring for others is your profession, but you need to do the same for yourself. Prioritize self-care to prevent burnout. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress-reduction activities are essential for maintaining your physical and emotional well-being. Have something to look forward to, have something you do every day for fun, and treat yourself at least as good as you treat your patients.
12. Seek Mentorship
Experienced nurses are valuable resources for guidance and support. Seek out a mentor who can provide tips and insights into time management, as well as offer emotional support during challenging times.
Conclusion
Effective time management is a skill that can make a world of difference in your nursing career. As a new or frustrated nurse, it's normal to encounter time-related challenges, but with practice and dedication, you can overcome them. Remember, you're not alone, and the nursing community is here to support you. By prioritizing tasks, delegating, and implementing these time management tips, you can navigate the demanding world of nursing with confidence and success. Good luck on your journey, and always remember that you're making a significant difference in the lives of your patients.