Thriving in Your Nursing Career as You Age
Nursing is a challenging job that can be physically and emotionally taxing. Over time, especially as nurses reach or surpass the age of 50, the demands of bedside nursing can become overwhelming. Many seasoned nurses still have a strong passion for their work and find it hard to envision doing anything else. Fortunately, there are several strategies to help ease the burden and a variety of career options available that can leverage their years of experience. Here are some practical tips for aging nurses to help them thrive.
### Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Accommodations
“Nurses shouldn’t hesitate to request accommodations from their employers to help them stay in their roles,” advises Joan Borgatti, an author and education expert. If you’re uncomfortable in your current position, consider asking for a different role. Employers might be willing to reduce your shifts from 12 hours to 8 hours, especially if you’ve been a long-term employee. Seasonal or part-time work could also be an option to lighten your load. Additionally, some employers might invest in equipment like hoists and lifts to make your job easier. When discussing changes, frame your request positively. For example, saying, “I love my job here, but I would appreciate a different role,” can be more effective than complaining about physical discomfort.
### Change Units
If altering job duties isn’t possible, try transferring to a different unit. Units like outpatient surgery or pediatrics, where patients are more mobile, tend to be less physically demanding than areas like rehabilitation or orthopedics. This change can also provide new experiences and broaden your skill set.
### Support Each Other
“Nurses often take care of each other as much as they do their patients,” says Barbara Janusiak, an intensive care nurse. Teamwork is crucial for nurses in their 50s and 60s. For instance, Janusiak’s team took extra care of a nurse returning from a shoulder injury to ensure she didn’t reinjure herself. Helping each other with physically demanding tasks can prevent injuries and support a healthier work environment.
### Take Time for Self-Care
Nurses are typically very giving, often neglecting their own needs. Balancing responsibilities for both their children and aging parents can add to the stress. It’s important to seek community resources or support from family members. Pay attention to your diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and monitor your mental health.
### Recognize Signs of Burnout
Burnout is a common issue that needs to be taken seriously. Be aware of symptoms like constant fatigue, loss of enthusiasm, feeling underappreciated, detachment from patients, frustration, and irritability. Persistent exhaustion, disinterest in work, and feeling cynical about your job are all signs of burnout that should prompt immediate action.
### How to Deal with Burnout
Addressing burnout promptly is vital. Here are some actions you can take to manage it:
– **Switch Specializations**: Moving to a less demanding specialization can provide relief.
– **Get an Online Degree**: Pursuing further education online can open doors to roles that are less physically demanding.
– **Move to an Administrative Role**: Focus on paperwork, mentoring, or other non-clinical duties.
– **Work from Home**: Remote roles such as medical record reviews or telehealth can reduce physical strain.
– **Work as a Teacher**: Educational roles allow you to share your knowledge without the physical demands of bedside care.
– **Start a Business**: Utilize your expertise in a new venture, such as a nursing agency or childcare center.
### Getting an Online Degree
An online nursing degree can help you transition to a more accommodating role. These programs are flexible, allowing you to study while working. Always check for accreditation, clinical requirements, and program specifics to ensure you get the best education.
### Non-Hospital Jobs
There are numerous non-hospital opportunities for nurses. Pharmaceutical companies often hire nurses for sales roles due to their medical knowledge. Other options include forensic nursing, which involves providing medical insights during trials and can be quite lucrative.
### Start a Business
Consider starting your own business, like a nursing agency or childcare center. These ventures allow you to leverage your experience in a new way, potentially offering both financial rewards and greater autonomy.
Aging as a nurse comes with its challenges, but there are many ways to adapt and maintain your well-being. Explore all the options available to you and don’t hesitate to make a change if necessary.
