Keeping Healthcare Workers Healthy in the Wintertime
Winter is a particularly challenging time for healthcare workers. This is true because healthcare workers often find themselves interacting with sick patients where the risk of spreading germs is high. The good news is that there are things you can do to stay well this winter.
Recommend by the CDC, for a healthier winter workplace, consider these suggestions. Keep close tabs on the percentage of healthcare workers obtaining flu shots.
All healthcare employees should be encouraged to get a flu shot. The CDC is very specific on the importance of flu shots and why they are needed. It defines healthcare workers as including, (but not limited to).
Why Get Vaccinated?
Influenza (the flu) can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death.
Anyone can get very sick from the flu, including people who are otherwise healthy.
You can get the flu, you can spread it to others even if you don't feel sick.
Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body, it is best that you get vaccinated so you are protected before influenza begins spreading in your workplace or community.
The viruses in the flu shot are killed (inactivated), so you can not get the flu from a flu shot.
Flu vaccination may make your illness milder if you do end up getting sick.
By getting vaccinated, you help protect yourself, your family at home, and your patients.
Among unvaccinated healthcare workers who did not intend to get the flu shot during the flu season, the most common reason reported for not getting it was they don't think the flu shot works. The second most common reason was that they don't need it.
Although you can come up with many reasons why or why not you should get the flu shot, the bottom line why should you take the chance of getting sick if you can avoid it. Especially, if you are working around patients all day long.
Tips to Stay Healthy ANY Time of the Year
Chat with your co-workers instead of sending email
Eat a nutritious breakfast every single day
For every hour of work you do, take a 5 minute break away from your desk or station
Wipe down your keyboard, phone, and mouse once a week
Create a meal plan, Packing a lunch saves money and calories
Put some inspirational quotes/photos in your workplace to stay motivated
Wash your hands after using shared spaces like the break room or bathroom
Work out at your desk!! Try Shoulder shrugs, arm swings, and knee raises
Park farther away from the office to get a brisk walk in before and after work
Get some fresh air, go for a lap or two around the building during your break
Snack right. Bring Almonds, fresh fruit, or chopped veggies to work
Keep your work area clean and organized to relief stress and prevent germs
