Those on travel nursing jobs know that the hospital environment can be demanding. Even though long shifts may become tiresome, there are ways to boost energy levels, which can fight off what's known as "decision fatigue."
The phenomenon of "decision fatigue" was found in judges, who are more likely to deny parole at the end of the day than at the beginning. Recently, researchers found the parallel effect existed in healthcare professionals: As the day goes on, physicians may become more likely to prescribe antibiotics even when they are not necessary. The study, which analyzed diagnoses of acute respiratory infections in 21,867 cases over 18 months in primary care practices in and near Boston, was published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Although travel nurses may not prescribe medication, a similar toll may be taken on the care of their patients. A weary nurse may experience lapses in judgment while administering medication, providing counseling or performing physical exams.
Dr. Jeffrey A. Linder, an associate physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, explains that the "radical notion" here is that healthcare professionals are people, too.
"[W]e may be fatigued and make worse decisions toward the end of our clinic sessions," Linder wrote in The New York Times.
Fatigue fighters
However, there are ways to maintain energy levels throughout the day in order to fend off decision fatigue and other forms of tiredness.
1. Increase magnesium intake
All travel nursing professionals know that eating a balanced diet is key to feeling your best. But for those who experience faded energy levels despite eating nutritious meals, it may be worthwhile to check out your magnesium levels.
"This mineral is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including breaking down glucose into energy," New York University nutritionist Samantha Heller told WebMD. "So when levels are even a little low, energy can drop."
The recommended daily intake of magnesium is about 300 milligrams for women and 350 milligrams for men. To ensure you're hitting the mark, add a handful of almonds, hazelnuts or cashews to your diet. You can also eat more fish – especially halibut – and increase your intake of whole grains.
2. Don't skip breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there is research to back it up. Studies have shown that people who eat breakfast report not only having more energy throughout the day, but also being in a better mood.
Furthermore, studies published in the journal Nutritional Health discovered that missing any meal during the day led to an overall greater feeling of fatigue by the end of the day.
3. Lower stress
One of the biggest energy nemeses is stress. Like worry or fear, anxiety consumes a lot of our energy, leaving us mentally and physically exhausted. Over time, chronic levels of stress can erode energy levels.
To help kick stress to the curb, implement relaxation exercises throughout the day. This could include a small break, quick breathing exercises or meditation. Taking breathers during a long shift can help you feel more alert and focused.
4. Drink more water
Dehydration is all too common, and operating on your feet all day can drain the system of much-needed H2O.
"Sometimes, even slight dehydration can leave you feeling tired and lethargic," nutritionist Keith Ayoob, an associate professor at the Albert Einstein School of Medicine in New York, told WebMD.
The old adage of eight glasses a day no longer holds true. Instead, take how much you weigh and divide that number in half. That's how many ounces of water you should drink per day.
All of these steps can help travel nursing professionals feel more refreshed throughout the day.