Although I don’t think most nurses are at risk for this same phenomenon, many hospitals are starting to implement wellness programs that try to help employees lose weight, quit smoking and get healthier. At my hospital, they even have a walking group that walks at their lunch break and sometimes does Tai Chi or Yoga!! Fun times!
I heard about a nurse who clocked how many steps she took in a shift while working in the ER. Apparently it was close to 8 miles. I don’t know if this is urban myth or fact but I think we can all agree that every step counts! So put down the donut and do an extra lap around your department. Figure out how to beat the battle of the sedentary bulge and burn those extra 120 calories every day. IV Pole race anyone?