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Web site spotlight: Create a relaxing space for staff

Staff Development Weekly: Insight on Evidence-Based Practice in Education, August 14, 2008

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Do you have a small space from which you can create a relaxing nook for your staff? It may be just a corner of your break room or one end of your locker room. Designate that space as your unit's relaxing nook. You could even make up a catchy name for it: "No Crisis Zone!" "Radiology Rejuvenation Area!" "My Space!"

Don't allow phone calls in the space. Ask staff if anyone has an old recliner they'd donate. Also, see if anyone has a magazine rack they'd like to donate. Have staff bring in magazines after they've read them. Or inspiring, pick-me-up books that can be read quickly, like the Chicken Soup series.

How about a poster or two for the space? A lamp? A couple of throw pillows? A CD player with earphones? A tabletop battery-operated rippling water fountain? A kitchen timer so no one accidentally goes over their allotted break time?

We all know we're more productive when we take a few moments to re-group, yet so often we run from crisis to crisis and never take that opportunity. Think of our staffs, and the number of crises they manage daily. Would they benefit from a small nook designated entirely to replenishing their soul for a few moments? Would our patients benefit?

Editor's note: This excerpt was taken from "No Crisis Zone," found in The Leaders' Lounge at www.StrategiesForNurseManagers.com. Get a free trial membership that will give you 30 days to test drive all the exciting features on the Web site.

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