Determining where and how to set boundaries in the workplace as a nurse practitioner is never an easy task. Nurses who have advanced their careers can expect this challenge more than ever – if not from colleagues then from patients who may perceive them as overprotective or unreasonable.
Communication Is Key
Neglecting to speak with those under your purview can be an easy mistake to make when managing a team and setting boundaries as a nurse practitioner. Communication is key – making sure that all individuals involved understand their duties and how they should act towards one another can help create a harmonious work environment.
As a nurse practitioner, you’re in charge of communicating essential information regarding healthcare laws and regulations, as well as ensuring that your team members are well-informed about their practices at all times. To facilitate this exchange of information, consider providing regular updates on policies and procedures.
When it comes to communicating in the workplace, it is advisable for both employers and employees alike to take advantage of tools such as email, messaging applications or even face-to-face conversations if necessary.
Not Answering Calls/Emails Outside Of Work Hours
It can be quite exasperating when a colleague incessantly calls you late at night, requesting assistance even though you expressly stated on your work phone that it should not be answered after hours. Fortunately, there are ways of preventing this from occurring – such as enabling caller ID and setting up call-waiting.
By disabling voicemail, in addition to establishing a distinct work number for your employer; those seeking assistance can anticipate receiving an immediate response while providing the utmost convenience for both parties involved.
Maintaining Work/Life Balance
Nursing is an arduous profession that demands constant attention. Don’t neglect your personal life if you want to maintain optimal wellness. To ensure this, set aside time for relaxation and disconnection with other responsibilities in order to stave off burnout.
To achieve work/life balance, it’s essential to establish realistic expectations of yourself regarding the amount of effort you wish to expend on each aspect of your life. It is also important to be mindful of your own limits when it comes to prioritizing them; allowing for some flexibility when making decisions can help ease any anxiety associated with balancing competing demands upon you.
Be Respectful Of Other People’s Time
Just like in our personal lives, those who are busy typically don’t appreciate clanging bells. It is imperative that you refrain from interrupting anyone in their workday; rather, wait patiently until it’s convenient for them to see you.
Unsolicited advice can be a minefield for nurse practitioners, as people are often distracted by their own affairs and may have limited patience with such matters. Thus, it is prudent to abstain from offering unsolicited assistance unless absolutely necessary.
Have A Routine For Productivity During Work Hours
Productivity is a vital keystone in any efficient nursing practice, which is why it’s essential for you to establish procedures for your daily work schedules. Establishing this can help maximize efficiency and eliminate wasted time as well as create more opportunities for success.
With today’s hectic schedules, it can be extremely difficult to accomplish everything on one’s agenda without succumbing to procrastination; however, by adhering to a routine when working during the day can provide some much-needed structure that may prove beneficial.
Creating these simple routines will not only assist in ensuring that you remain focused and productive throughout your workday but also could potentially help towards enhancing organizational skills as well as fostering greater self-discipline.
Do Work Within The Scope Of Your Job Responsibilities
Many companies have taken advantage of their employees by assigning tasks that are outside of their job description, while simultaneously underpaying them for their work. This practice is a form of exploitation that is designed to increase profits for the company while taking advantage of the workers who are unable to refuse due to the current state of the economy.
Another form of exploitation is when companies pay employees incredibly low. This practice is unethical and can have serious implications for both the company and the employee. In some cases, the company may be held liable for back pay and other damages if the underpayment is discovered.
Some employers may attempt to exploit their employees through the use of independent contractors. This practice is illegal in many states, as it allows employers to avoid paying Social Security, unemployment, and other applicable taxes.
As a nurse practitioner, you possess the knowledge and expertise to provide help to patients in urgent situations. However, it is essential that you bear in mind that people’s lives may be at stake; therefore, it is vital for you not to take on any case which requires immediate attention. Rather, allocate sufficient time for all requests so that each can proceed at its own pace while still ensuring that all are adequately taken care of.
