Ways To Support and Invest in Your Nursing Team

Over the last few years, nurses and frontline health professionals have had a lot on their shoulders. They’re a major key to our patient’s health and rehabilitation. As nurse leaders, fostering education and professional growth in your team of nurses will motivate them to continue their careers. Showing gratitude and appreciation to your nurses to celebrate them for their hard work will help create a more positive environment and work culture.

Here are four ways to support and invest in your nursing team.

Create Mentorship Opportunities

There’s no “I” in team. Nursing requires a team effort, which makes having a mentorship even more important. Knowledgeable nurses with extensive experience can show beginner nurses the ropes of your facility. Encouraging a positive and vibrant working environment will help create a natural advancement pathway.

Develop Employee-Kudos Programs

Another way to support and invest in your nursing team is by creating reward programs they can participate in. Encourage your staff to nominate one another for their hard work, helping hands, and positive attitudes, or if you noticed them doing something nice for others. This will help build support among nurses, supervisors, and managers while encouraging others to be kind to each other.

Promote Self-Care and Other Wellness Support

Working in health care can cause burnout, depression, fatigue, and other symptoms of strenuous scheduling. Sometimes, we get so caught up in taking care of others that we forget to take care of ourselves. Ensure that your staff is making an effort to take care of themselves. Encourage them to take time to go on self-care trips, hang out with friends, or relax at home. This will help them achieve great health and wellness and improve your workplace environment.

Recognize Their Efforts and Achievements

Show support to your staff by recognizing their efforts and achievements. Did a staff member go back to school? Congratulate them! Did you see a nurse solve a difficult problem? Share that during a meeting with your administration! Another way you can recognize achievements and efforts is by having an appreciation luncheon or gift card giveaway.