Simple Self-Care Practices for Nurses: Easy Implementable Wellness Activities for Busy Healthcare Professionals

 Discover proven self-care practices for nurses with expert strategies for managing burnout, maintaining wellness, and thriving during demanding shifts—practical tips from a registered nurse.

Introduction

It’s 3 AM during a grueling 12-hour night shift. You haven’t had a bathroom break in six hours, your last meal was a handful of vending machine crackers, and you’re running on your third cup of coffee. Sound familiar?

In 2024, seven out of ten nurse practitioners reported feeling depressed, burned out, or both, according to  Statista, revealing a healthcare crisis that extends far beyond patient care—it’s about caring for the caregivers themselves. As someone who has spent over a decade working across Emergency, Pediatric, Intensive Care, and General Ward settings, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the demanding nature of nursing can drain even the most passionate healthcare professionals.

I’m Abdul-Muumin Wedraogo, a Registered General Nurse with the Ghana Health Service, and throughout my 10 years of clinical practice, I’ve learned that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a professional necessity. The reality is stark: nurses are at risk for physical and mental health problems associated with stress and burnout, according to  PubMed Central, which ultimately affects not just our well-being but also the quality of care we provide to patients.

This article offers evidence-based, easy-to-implement wellness activities for busy nurses—practical strategies you can incorporate into your hectic schedule without requiring extra time or resources. Whether you’re working day shifts, nights, or rotating schedules, these simple self-care practices will help you build resilience, maintain your passion for nursing, and create a sustainable career path.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and affiliate partner of various medical device retailers, Wadrago.com earns from qualifying purchases. This comes at no additional cost to you and helps support our work in providing evidence-based health information. All recommendations are based on clinical experience and research.

Understanding Nurse Burnout: The Current Crisis

Before we dive into solutions, let’s examine the scope of the problem facing nurses today.

The Alarming Statistics

The 2024 National Nursing Workforce Study revealed that while emotional exhaustion and workloads have moderated since 2022, high levels of stress and burnout continue to impact the workforce, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. The numbers tell a sobering story:

• In 2024, 39% of nurses said their burnout had worsened compared to the year before 
• Twenty-three percent of nurses are considering leaving the profession, according to  Nurse.com
• Only 24% of nurses sought professional help for burnout or depression in 2024, while nearly 40% had never done so, according to  FRESHRN.

What’s Driving Nurse Burnout?

In 2024, 62% of nurse practitioners cited excessive bureaucratic tasks as the top contributor to their burnout, according to  FRESHRN. Additional factors include:

• Inadequate staffing levels
• Long and irregular working hours
• Exposure to workplace violence and harassment
• Limited control over workload
• Poor working conditions
• Inadequate compensation

The Impact on Patient Care

Research from 2024 found negative associations between nurse burnout and various patient safety outcomes, according to  PubMed Central, demonstrating that when nurses suffer, patient care quality inevitably declines. This creates a cycle where burnout leads to decreased job satisfaction, which further compromises care quality.

The Science Behind Self-Care for Healthcare Workers

Self-care isn’t just feel-good advice—it’s evidence-based medicine for healthcare professionals.

The WHO Definition

The World Health Organization defines self-care as the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability, according to  PubMed Central. For nurses, this means intentionally engaging in activities that support physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual Well-being.

The Professional Imperative

Self-care is more than personal—it’s professional. Evidence-based interventions can make a difference in a nurse’s quality of life, including working less than 40 hours per week, working consistent times without rotations, expressing emotions, exercising, participating in support groups, and incorporating designated sanctuary spaces in clinical settings PubMed Central.

The Benefits of Consistent Self-Care

Research demonstrates that nurses who practice regular self-care experience:

• Reduced stress and cortisol levels
• Improved mental health and emotional resilience
• Better sleep quality
• Enhanced job satisfaction
• Lower risk of compassion fatigue
• Improved patient care outcomes
• Greater career longevity

[Table: Benefits of Self-Care Practice]

Five-Minute Self-Care Micropractices You Can Do Anywhere

Studies show that even brief periods of self-care reduce stress and cortisol levels, according to  ScienceDirect. Here are practical strategies requiring no additional time that you can implement during your workday.

1. Box Breathing Technique (2 Minutes)

Box breathing involves inhaling through the nose for four counts, holding for four counts, then exhaling through the mouth for four counts, repeating this cycle five times to calm the nervous system and reduce stress, according to  Nurse.com.

How to practice:

• Find a quiet spot (even a supply closet works!)
• Sit or stand comfortably.
• Inhale slowly through your nose: 1-2-3-4
• Hold your breath: 1-2-3-4
• Exhale slowly through your mouth: 1-2-3-4
• Hold empty: 1-2-3-4
• Repeat 5 times

Clinical insight: I’ve used this technique in the ICU before entering high-stress situations. It helps center my mind and prepares me for critical decision-making.

2. Neck and Shoulder Stretches (3 Minutes)

Gentle neck stretching involves sitting upright with feet flat, tilting the head toward one shoulder for 15 seconds to relieve tension, according to  Nurse.com.

Quick routine:

• Neck tilts: 15 seconds each side
• Shoulder rolls: 10 forward, 10 backward
• Chin tucks: 5 repetitions
• Arm circles: 10 small, 10 large

3. Gratitude Micro-Practice (1 Minute)

Before or after your shift, identify three specific things you’re grateful for. Research shows this simple practice reduces stress and improves mood.

Examples:

• “I’m grateful my patient in room 5 smiled today.”
• “I’m grateful my colleague covered my break.”
• “I’m grateful for the morning sunrise on my drive home.”

4. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (4 Minutes)

This technique involves tensing and releasing different muscle groups to reduce physical tension.

Quick sequence:

• Clench fists tightly for 5 seconds, release
• Tighten arms, release
• Lift shoulders to ears, drop
• Squeeze glutes, release
• Tighten calves, release

5. Mindful Hand Washing

Transform routine hand hygiene into a mindfulness practice by fully engaging your senses—notice the temperature, the scent of soap, and the sensation of water.

Nutrition and Hydration Strategies for Shift Workers

Night shifts disrupt circadian rhythms, which regulate digestion and metabolism, increasing risk for weight gain, insulin resistance, and gastrointestinal discomfort, according to  Nurse.com. Strategic nutrition becomes essential.

The Challenge of Shift Work Nutrition

Working irregular hours wreaks havoc on eating patterns. Eating at night when the digestive tract is prepared for sleep increases risk for gastrointestinal symptoms, obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, according to the CDC.

CDC Guidelines for Shift Workers

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends avoiding or reducing food intake between midnight and 6 AM, using normal meal timing patterns when possible, and eating high-quality foods like vegetables, salads, fruits, whole-grain sandwiches, yogurt, cheese, eggs, and nuts, according to the CDC.

Meal Prep Strategies for Nurses

Sunday Prep Session (60-90 minutes):

1. Batch cook proteins: Grilled chicken breast, hard-boiled eggs, turkey meatballs
2. Prepare complex carbs: Brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes
3. Chop vegetables: Bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, broccoli
4. Portion everything: Use divided containers for grab-and-go convenience

Smart Snack Packing:

Meal prepping ensures nurses have easy access to balanced food options during shifts, reducing reliance on vending machines or fast food, according to  Nurse.com.

High-energy snacks to keep in your locker:

• Mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
• Protein bars (low sugar, 10+ grams protein)
• Fresh fruit (apples, bananas, berries)
• String cheese or cheese cubes
• Hummus with veggie sticks
• Greek yogurt
• Rice cakes with almond butter

Hydration Strategies

Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and brain fog, according to  Healthynursehealthynation.

Practical tips:

• Keep a 32-ounce water bottle visible at your station
• Set phone reminders every 2 hours to drink
• Add lemon, cucumber, or mint for flavor variety
• Limit caffeine after the first half of your shift
• Avoid sugary drinks that cause energy crashes

[Comparison Table: Meal Prep Containers for Nurses]

Physical Wellness: Movement and Rest for Nurses

The Movement Paradox

Nurses are constantly moving, yet studies found nurses who worked in areas requiring manual lifting had 53% higher prevalence of lower back pain, according to  PubMed Central. The type of movement matters.

Exercise Guidelines for Nurses

The CDC recommends 150 minutes of physical activity each week, which can improve mood, concentration, reduce anxiety, and increase immunity, according to the University of Arkansas.

Weekly exercise plan for nurses:

On Work Days (15-20 minutes):

• Morning: 10-minute yoga flow or stretching
• Post-shift: 10-minute walk to decompress

On Days Off (30-45 minutes):

• Moderate cardio: Walking, swimming, cycling
• Strength training: Bodyweight exercises, resistance bands
• Flexibility work: Yoga, Pilates

Exercises that counteract nursing strain:

• Core strengthening: Planks, bird dogs, bridges
• Back stretches: Cat-cow, child’s pose, spinal twists
• Leg stretches: Hip flexor stretches, hamstring stretches
• Foot care: Toe stretches, calf raises, foot rolls

Sleep Strategies for Shift Workers

Studies show sleeping in on weekends doesn’t make up for sleep deficits during the week.

Sleep hygiene checklist:

• Go to bed and wake at consistent times
• Create a dark, cool sleeping environment (60-67°F)
• Use blackout curtains for daytime sleep
• Avoid electronics 30 minutes before bed
• Establish a relaxing nighttime routine
• Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before sleep
• Consider white noise machines or earplugs

Mental and Emotional Self-Care Techniques

Understanding Emotional Labor in Nursing

Studies show harsh self-talk and self-criticism activate the sympathetic nervous system that stimulates the stress response, harming mental health and Well-being, according to  PubMed Central.

Self-Compassion Practice

Self-compassionate people are more likely to engage in perspective taking, which contributes to better mental health, rather than ruminating about problems, according to  PubMed Central.

Daily self-compassion exercise:

1. Acknowledge difficulty: “This shift was really hard.”
2. Recognize shared humanity: “All nurses face challenging days.”
3. Offer kindness: “I did my best with what I had.”

Mindfulness and Meditation

Digital resources like Insight Timer offer free guided meditations, many just a few minutes long, according to  Medline.

Beginner-friendly apps:

• Insight Timer: Free library with thousands of guided meditations
• Calm: Fee-based with some free content, excellent for sleep
• Headspace: Structured programs for beginners
• 10% Happier: Meditation for skeptics

Journaling for Nurses

Journaling helps clarify feelings and thoughts, enhance happiness and Well-being, and reduce stress, requiring only ten or fifteen minutes at day’s end, according to  NursingProcess.

Prompts for nursing journals:

• What went well today?
• What challenged me, and how did I respond?
• What did I learn about myself?
• What am I grateful for?
• What do I need to let go of?

Emotion Regulation Techniques

Empathic distress results from inadequate emotion regulation, while compassion involves empathic concern and motivation to relieve suffering PubMed Central.

The RAIN technique:

• Recognize what’s happening
• Allow the experience to be there
• Investigate with kindness
• Nurture with self-compassion

Setting Professional Boundaries Without Guilt

Why Boundaries Matter

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing defines nursing boundaries as the spaces between the nurse’s power and the patient’s vulnerability, according to  NursingEducation.

Common Boundary Challenges

Over two-thirds of nurses report burnout in their career, making saying no to unreasonable demands essential for avoiding burnout, according to  Achievetestprep.

Scenarios requiring boundaries:

• Picking up extra shifts when exhausted
• Staying late for non-urgent tasks
• Answering work texts on days off
• Covering colleagues’ responsibilities repeatedly
• Accepting inappropriate patient requests

Five Professional Ways to Say No

It’s important for nurses to offer a polite, professional, but unequivocal no to requests beyond core duties or comfort level.

1. The Simple No: “I appreciate you thinking of me, but I’m unable to take that shift.”

2. The Alternative: “I can’t stay late today, but I can come in early tomorrow if that helps.”

3. The Boundary Statement: “I’ve committed to not working more than three 12-hour shifts per week for my Well-being.”

4. The Referral: “I can’t help with that, but have you checked with [colleague] who mentioned interest?”

5. The Honest Response: “I would love to help, but I’m so exhausted it wouldn’t be safe for me to work.”

Overcoming Guilt

By saying no, you effectively set healthy boundaries around preservation rather than being selfish.

Reframe your thinking:

• Saying no to others = saying yes to your Well-being
• Boundaries protect your ability to care long-term
• You can’t pour from an empty cup
• Self-care enables better patient care

Building a Sustainable Self-Care Routine

Start Small and Build

Starting with achievable goals like spending thirty minutes two or three times weekly devoted to self-care helps avoid feeling overwhelmed, according to  NursingProcess.

The 3-2-1 Self-Care Framework

3 Daily Practices (5 minutes each):

• Morning: Intention setting or gratitude
• Midday: Breathing exercise or stretch
• Evening: Reflection or journaling

2 Weekly Activities (30-60 minutes each):

• Physical exercise session
• Social connection (call a friend, coffee date)

1 Monthly Self-Care Event:

• Massage, spa day, or special outing
• Try a new hobby or class
• Nature excursion or day trip

Track Your Progress

Create a simple self-care tracker using:

• Phone apps (Habitica, Streaks, Way of Life)
• Bullet journal spreads
• Calendar check-offs
• Accountability partner

Adjust As Needed

Your self-care needs will vary based on:

• Shift type (days, nights, weekends)
• Patient acuity
• Personal life demands
• Season and energy levels

How to Choose Self-Care Practices That Fit Your Schedule

Assess Your Constraints

Consider:

• Available time blocks
• Energy levels at different times
• Budget limitations
• Personal preferences
• Living situation

Match Practices to Schedule

For 12-hour shifts:

• Pre-shift: 10-minute energizing routine
• During shift: 2-3 micro-practices
• Post-shift: 15-minute wind-down
• Days off: Longer restorative activities

For night shifts:

• Focus on sleep hygiene
• Strategic caffeine timing
• Post-work decompression rituals
• Meal prep for easy nutrition

For rotating shifts:

• Flexible self-care toolkit
• Emphasis on sleep regulation
• Portable practices
• Strong support system

Create Your Personal Self-Care Menu

Quick (0-5 minutes):

• Deep breathing
• Stretches
• Affirmations
• Gratitude practice

Medium (10-30 minutes):

• Short walk
• Meditation
• Journaling
• Bath or shower ritual

Extended (30+ minutes):

• Exercise class
• Meal prep
• Social time
• Hobby pursuit

[Comparison Table: Self-Care by Time Available]

Top Self-Care Tools and Resources for Nurses

Essential Self-Care Products

1. Compression Socks for Nurses

• Why: Reduce leg fatigue and improve circulation during long shifts
• Recommendation: Graduated compression (15-20 mmHg)
• Price range: $15-$30
• Clinical insight: From my ER experience, quality compression socks make a significant difference in end-of-shift leg fatigue.

2. Insulated Water Bottle

• Why: Maintain hydration throughout your shift
• Features: 32-40 oz capacity, easy-clean wide mouth, leak-proof
• Price range: $25-$45
• Best options: Hydro Flask, YETI, Contigo

3. Supportive Nursing Shoes

• Why: Protect feet, knees, and back during 12-hour shifts
• Features: Cushioned insoles, slip-resistant, lightweight
• Price range: $70-$150
• Top brands: HOKA, Dansko, Brooks, Asics

4. Quality Meal Prep Containers

• Why: Make healthy eating convenient
• Features: Divided sections, microwave-safe, leak-proof
• Price range: $20-$35 for a 4-pack set

5. Blue Light Blocking Glasses

• Why: Improve sleep quality after screen exposure
• Best for: Night shift nurses checking charts
• Price range: $15-$40

6. Foam Roller or Massage Ball

• Why: Self-myofascial release for sore muscles
• Usage: Post-shift recovery, back and leg tension
• Price range: $15-$50

7. Essential Oil Diffuser

• Why: Create a calming environment at home
• Recommended oils: Lavender (sleep), peppermint (energy), eucalyptus (clarity)
• Price range: $20-$50

Digital Resources

Mental Health Apps:

• Talkspace: Online therapy for nurses
• BetterHelp: Flexible counseling sessions
• Sanvello: Mood tracking and coping tools

Fitness Apps:

• Peloton: Home workouts, various intensities
• Down Dog: Customizable yoga
• Couch to 5K: Gradual running program

Nutrition Apps:

• MyFitnessPal: Meal tracking
• Mealime: Healthy meal planning
• Yummly: Recipe inspiration

Professional Support Resources

Organizations:

• American Nurses Association (ANA) Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
• State nursing associations

Crisis Support:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Available 24/7
• SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Acknowledgments

I would like to express my gratitude to my colleagues across emergency, pediatric, and intensive care settings who have shared their self-care wisdom and experiences during the preparation of this article. Special thanks to the nursing research community, including researchers at the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, whose evidence-based work continues to advance our understanding of healthcare worker Well-being.

I also acknowledge the Ghana Health Service administration and the Nurses and Midwifery Council of Ghana for their continued support in professional development and evidence-based practice. Finally, thank you to the readers and nursing community for your dedication to self-care and sustainable practice—your commitment to caring for yourselves enables you to continue caring for others with compassion and excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much time do I need to devote to self-care as a nurse?

A: You don’t need hours of extra time. Research shows that even brief periods of self-care reduce stress levels. Start with just 5-10 minutes daily using micro-practices like breathing exercises or stretches during your shift. As these become habits, gradually add 2-3 longer activities weekly (30-60 minutes) on your days off. The key is consistency over duration—regular, small practices outperform occasional lengthy sessions.

Q: Is it selfish to prioritize my own Well-being over picking up extra shifts?

A: Absolutely not. Setting boundaries is professional self-preservation, not selfishness. The ANA Code of Ethics states nurses owe the same duties to themselves as to others—promotion of personal health, safety, and Well-being. When you’re burned out, patient care quality suffers. By maintaining your Well-being, you’re actually ensuring you can provide safe, compassionate care long-term.

Q: What are the best self-care practices for night shift nurses?

A: Night shift nurses face unique challenges due to circadian rhythm disruption. Priority practices include: strategic sleep management (blackout curtains, consistent sleep schedule, cool room temperature), timing nutrition appropriately (avoiding heavy meals between midnight and AM), staying hydrated, limiting caffeine 5-6 hours before sleep, and using light therapy to regulate your internal clock. Meal prepping becomes especially crucial to avoid relying on vending machines.

Q: How can I practice self-care when I’m too exhausted after my shift?

A: Focus on ultra-simple post-shift rituals that require minimal effort: a 10-minute decompression drive with calming music, a 5-minute warm shower to physically “wash away” the shift, changing into comfortable clothes immediately, and having pre-prepped meals ready to eat. On days off when energy is higher, do your meal prep and planning so you have easy options. Remember, rest itself is self-care.

Q: What should I do if my manager doesn’t support self-care boundaries?

A: Document your boundaries and concerns professionally. Reference facility policies, the ANA Code of Ethics, and state labor laws. If direct conversation doesn’t work, escalate to HR or higher administration. Consider joining or contacting your state nurses’ association for advocacy support. Remember, you’re protected by labor laws—you cannot be forced to work unsafe hours. If the culture consistently violates healthy boundaries, it may be time to consider other employment options where your Well-being is valued.

Q: Are expensive wellness programs necessary for effective self-care?

A: Not at all. Many highly effective self-care practices are free: breathing exercises, stretching, walking, journaling, meditation apps with free content, gratitude practices, and connecting with friends. Your investment should be in consistency and intention, not expensive programs. Save money for occasional treats like a massage or quality shoes, but build your foundation on sustainable, cost-free practices.

Q: How do I maintain self-care when dealing with understaffing?

A: Understaffing makes self-care even more critical, not less. Practice micro-self-care during your shift: 30-second breathing exercises, hydration breaks, quick stretches. Document unsafe staffing ratios and report through proper channels. Focus on what you CAN control (your responses, boundaries, off-duty self-care) rather than what you can’t (staffing decisions). Consider joining professional organizations that advocate for safe staffing legislation.

Q: What’s the quickest way to reduce stress during an overwhelming shift?

A: The box breathing technique takes just 2 minutes and can be done anywhere—even in a supply closet or bathroom stall. Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4, repeat 5 times. This activates your parasympathetic nervous system, immediately calming your stress response. Combine with splashing cold water on your face or drinking cold water for additional grounding.

Q: How can I afford healthy meal prep on a tight budget?

A: Buy in bulk (rice, beans, oats), choose frozen vegetables (equally nutritious, less expensive), select cheaper protein sources (eggs, canned tuna, chicken thighs, legumes), and cook once for multiple meals. A Sunday prep session cooking large batches costs $30-50 and provides lunches for the entire week—far less than daily cafeteria or takeout purchases. Shop sales, use store brands, and focus on simple, repetitive meals rather than elaborate recipes.

Q: Should I see a therapist even if I’m “managing okay”?

A: Yes. Therapy isn’t just for crisis situations—it’s preventative care for your mental health. Many nurses wait until they’re in crisis to seek help, making recovery harder. Proactive therapy provides coping tools, processes work stress before it becomes traumatic, and helps you develop resilience. Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) with free confidential counseling sessions. Consider it regular maintenance, like annual physicals.

Q: How do I practice self-care when I feel guilty about not doing more?

A: Reframe guilt as a sign you care deeply, then redirect that care inward. Remember: you cannot sustain caregiving from an empty tank. Practice self-compassion by asking, “What would I tell a colleague feeling this way?” Recognize that by caring for yourself, you’re ensuring you can provide quality care for years to come. Burnout helps no one—sustainable practice helps everyone.

Q: What self-care practices help most with compassion fatigue?

A: Compassion fatigue requires both immediate and long-term strategies. Immediate: emotion regulation techniques (RAIN method), journaling to process difficult cases, debriefing with colleagues, and clear separation between work and home (change clothes, physical transition ritual). Long-term: regular therapy, mindfulness practice, maintaining social connections outside healthcare, engaging in meaningful hobbies, and setting emotional boundaries while maintaining empathy. Remember that compassion for yourself enables compassion for others.

Conclusion

The healthcare crisis isn’t just about beds, equipment, or staffing ratios—it’s about the human beings providing care. As nurses, we’re experts at caring for others, yet we often neglect the most important patient: ourselves.

Throughout this article, we’ve explored evidence-based, simple self-care strategies that fit into even the busiest nursing schedule. From 2-minute breathing exercises to strategic meal prep, from setting professional boundaries to building sustainable wellness routines, these aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities for a long, fulfilling nursing career.

The statistics are sobering: burnout rates remain high, many nurses are considering leaving the profession, and too few seek help when struggling. But the research is equally detailed: consistent self-care practices reduce stress, improve job satisfaction, prevent burnout, and ultimately enhance patient care quality.

As someone who has spent a decade working in high-stress hospital settings—from emergency departments to intensive care units—I can testify that self-care isn’t selfish. It’s essential. Every breathing exercise between patients, every healthy meal you prep on Sunday, every boundary you set with confidence, and every “no” you offer without guilt is an investment in your longevity as a nurse.

Start small. Choose one micro-practice from this article and commit to it for one week. Maybe it’s box breathing before stressful procedures, packing nutritious snacks, or setting a firm boundary about extra shifts. Build from there, adding practices as they become habits.

Remember: you became a nurse to care for others, but you cannot pour from an empty cup. By caring for yourself with the same compassion and dedication you offer patients, you’re not just surviving your nursing career—you’re thriving in it.

Your Well-being matters. Your mental health matters. Your physical health matters. You matter—not just as a nurse, but as a human being deserving of care, rest, and respect.

Take that breath. Pack that lunch. Set that boundary. Your future self—and your future patients—will thank you.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Abdul-Muumin Wedraogo is a Registered General Nurse, but recommendations should not replace consultation with your healthcare provider. Always consult with a qualified physician or healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, diet, or treatment regimen, especially if you have existing medical conditions or take medications. If you’re experiencing severe burnout, depression, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm, please seek immediate professional help through your Employee Assistance Program, healthcare provider, or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

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About the Author

Abdul-Muumin Wedraogo, RGN, BSN, is a Registered General Nurse with over 10 years of clinical experience across Emergency, Pediatric, Intensive Care, and General Ward settings with the Ghana Health Service. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Valley View University and graduated from Premier Nurses’ Training College, Ghana.

Abdul-Muumin is a certified member of the Nurses and Midwifery Council (NMC), Ghana, and the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA). Throughout his decade in healthcare, he has worked with diverse patient populations and witnessed firsthand the challenges nurses face in maintaining their own well-being while providing exceptional patient care.

He combines his extensive clinical expertise with technology insights (Diploma in Network Engineering, Advanced Professional in System Engineering) to provide evidence-based reviews of medical devices, health products, and wellness strategies specifically tailored for Western audiences at Wadrago.com. His mission is to bridge the gap between clinical nursing practice and practical, accessible health information that empowers healthcare professionals and patients alike to make informed decisions about their Well-being.