ClintMaun
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Jan 19, 2010, 9:12 AM
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Fatigue Got You Down? The Importance of Sleep Hygiene for Healthcare Professionals
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By Clint Maun, CSP
The more obvious signs of fatigue include drowsiness, mood changes, loss of energy and appetite, and depression and anxiety. Individuals suffering from fatigue may also have headaches and/or a lack of motivation, concentration and alertness. It's also worth noting that symptoms can manifest themselves differently between men and women. For example, men may be angry where women may express more sadness and mood changes.
So what can healthcare professionals do to combat fatigue? Focusing on good "sleep hygiene" is a great place to start. Just like you would think of personal hygiene, these are the things that must routinely be done to get a good-night's sleep. For example, sticking to a consistent bedtime, making sure you have an appropriate sleep environment, and keeping track of your effective sleep habits are primary items to incorporate. The key, then, is to repeat those good sleep habits over time. This type of good sleep hygiene can work wonders to fight fatigue.
Chronic fatigue and sleep disorders are common issues for healthcare professionals, especially those who work the second and third shift. If you're fatigued, you are much more likely to be less productive and more prone to illness. Fatigue also serves as a distraction. Therefore, if you come to work fatigued, you are more likely to be involved in a safety incident.
"Over the years your bodies become walking autobiographies, telling friends and strangers alike of the minor and major stresses of your lives."
-Marilyn Ferguson
By Clint Maun, CPS - www.maunlemke.com
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(This post was edited by ClintMaun on Jan 19, 2010, 9:22 AM)
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