Holiday Season Tips for Anesthesia Staff

The holiday season is a wonderful but busy time, especially for those of us in healthcare. For anesthesia staff, dealing with increased workloads and patient safety while trying to enjoy the holidays can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you manage it all and still find time for the joys of the season.

Keep patients safe

The holidays can be distracting, but it is important to stay focused in the operating room. You should double check patient information, medications and equipment settings to keep the patients safe. Long shifts and extra work can also be tiring. Make sure you're getting enough rest and consider rotating duties to keep everyone fresh. Maintain your usual sleep routine as much as possible. It may be disrupted by a party or two, or by holiday travel. But if you can maintain a consistent bedtime and waking time on as many days as possible, your body will be able to withstand the stress that comes your way.

During this time, you may be working with temporary or new employees. Good communication helps prevent misunderstandings. If you are a manager, let your staff know that the organization recognizes that everyone has obligations and duties outside of work. Even though business obligations must always be fulfilled, you understand that the holiday stress can be challenging.

Self-care is important

It's easy to feel pressured to work extra hours. While teamwork is important, dont overextend yourself. It's okay to say no when needed.

Give yourself some time. Take a walk, take up a hobby or spend a peaceful evening with family. This relaxation preserves your mental well-being and helps you refuel. Remember to enjoy the happy and restful moments whenever you can.

During the holidays, patients and their families frequently experience increased anxiety. A little empathy can make a big difference. A comforting smile or a kind greeting can have a major effect. Make sure that patients and their families understand post-operative care and procedures. Having clear information can help them be less worried, so spend a few more minutes providing a thorough explanation.

Adding a little festive brightness to the hospital can help patients feel better. To promote a feeling of community, think about having a holiday party or just bringing in some cupcakes. It can help everyone feel more connected and supported.

Work as a team

The holidays are a perfect time to bring the team closer. Little celebrations or fun activities can lift everyones spirits and help you all feel more connected. These moments can make a big difference in reducing stress and creating a stronger team. Take a moment to appreciate your colleagues' hard work.

Planning with your schedule can make things a lot easier. When everyone knows what they need to do, it takes the stress out of coordinating work and family plans. This helps you balance both your job and personal life, so you can enjoy the holidays without rushing around at the last minute. Having a plan in place makes it simpler to handle both work and family time.

Conclusion

Everybody must be reminded occasionally that the year-end holidays should be a time of joy rather than anxiety. Encourage everyone to do everything in their power to create a productive and healthy work environment and support their efforts to convey this message to their teams. Happy holidays!