Helping patients as an in-home nurse is a rewarding experience, but it is one that demands a great deal of attention and care. While most enjoy the unique nature of the job, it’s common for nursing professionals to experience fatigue—a problem that can lead to poor work performance and dissatisfaction if left unaddressed. Fortunately, if you stay prepared, you can fight fatigue and boost your stamina. If you’re looking to maintain balanced energy levels as a professional caregiver, try these strategies.  

5 Ways Home Care Nurses Can Boost Stamina

1. Choose Energizing Foods

Processed foods that contain refined sugars can cause dramatic spikes in blood sugar levels, while those with unhealthy fats can slow digestion and prevent absorption of stamina-boosting nutrients. To avoid these fatigue-inducing effects, choose foods known to boost energy in a healthy fashion—such as high-fiber fruits and veggies, whole grains, dairy, and lean protein.

2. Exercise for the Job  

Being an in-home nurse can be physically demanding, so it’s important to prepare your body for the job. Regular strength training is highly recommended as a way to help you lift and assist patients without straining. Aerobic activities—such as running and swimming—can also help boost your energy levels by enhancing your metabolism, burning excess body fat, and building endurance.

3. Avoid Stimulants

While coffee, caffeinated soda, and energy drinks may give you a temporary boost of energy, they will ultimately cause you to crash and experience extreme fatigue. Instead, drink beverages that provide nutrients and keep you hydrated.

4. Schedule Time for Sleep

Missing out on regular rest due to odd work hours can cause in-home nurses to experience increased exhaustion, stress, soreness, and focus problems on the job. To help your body replenish its natural energy levels and avoid these dangers, sleep for at least seven solid hours in a cool and dark environment, and stick to a routine as much as possible.  

5. Take Time for Yourself

By spending a day in the park, eating dinner with family, or hanging out with friends, you’ll build a balanced life outside of work. Adding variety to your life will help you avoid caregiver burnout—and the low energy levels that come with it.

Placing employee satisfaction as a top priority, we at J&D Ultracare are committed to helping our in-home nurses establish an attractive work-life balance. As a nursing staff agency focused on pediatric home care in the Hudson Valley, Westchester County, and Bronx, NY regions, we will work to place you with clients that fit your specialized skill sets and schedule. To help reduce the stress of daily life, we also offer comprehensive benefits—including free educational programs, 401(k) plans, and health, vision, and dental insurance. Visit us online to learn more about our current nursing jobs or call (845) 357-4500.