May is National Nurses Month—a time to honor and celebrate the incredible work of nurses who bring compassion, expertise, and dedication to every corner of healthcare. This week, we’re highlighting the importance of self-care for those who care for others. At HIMSS, we celebrate members who prioritize their well-being while continuing to lead, inspire, and innovate across the health information and technology landscape.
What does self-care mean to you as a nurse?
As a nurse, self-care is both a personal commitment and an ethical responsibility. I embody Provision 5.1 of the 2025 Nursing Code of Ethics by prioritizing my own health and well-being, recognizing that my ability to care for others depends on maintaining my own physical, mental, and emotional resilience. I actively utilize the resources available to me—professionally, academically, and spiritually—to ensure my cup remains full. Each week, I hold rituals that restore me, such as attending church, walking at least two miles in my neighborhood three days a week, or getting on my exercise bike. These practices help me stay grounded and energized. In a profession that demands so much, I believe that setting boundaries, seeking support, and embracing rest are not just acts of self-preservation but essential to sustaining excellence in patient care, leadership, and lifelong learning.
Nursing can be demanding—have you ever experienced burnout? How did you manage it?
Yes, I have experienced burnout many times. As nurses, we give so much of ourselves, and frustration can build when we see practices we want to improve or populations we hope to impact yet face systemic barriers to change. When I feel this weight, I stop and reassess—checking in with my capabilities, core values, and interests to ensure they align with the work I am doing. This reflection helps me recalibrate my energy and focus on what truly fulfills me. I also prioritize restorative practices. These rituals help me regain clarity and resilience, allowing me to continue serving others without sacrificing my own well-being.
What role do you think healthcare organizations should play in supporting nurses' self-care?
Healthcare organizations must actively support nurses’ self-care by grounding them in core ethical values, particularly the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. This foundation helps both new and experienced nurses align their work with their well-being. Beyond that, organizations should implement meaningful measures to facilitate self-care—whether through policy, workplace culture, or innovative solutions. Engaging nurse design-thinkers in this process is key, as they bring forward-thinking approaches to well-being that reflect the realities of nursing practice. True support goes beyond wellness programs—it requires systemic change that prioritizes nurses’ health as much as patient care.
If you could give one piece of self-care advice to new nurses, what would it be?
Identify and stay true to your personal drivers—your core values and passions. Let these be your North Star throughout your career, guiding your decisions and actions. Remember, these drivers can manifest in various forms, and staying attuned to them ensures a fulfilling and resilient nursing journey.
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