How to keep track of time when you're constantly on the move?
As a busy nurse, keeping track of time is crucial but can be challenging when you're constantly moving between patients. Having a reliable watch is essential to stay on top of medication schedules, treatment plans and other time-sensitive tasks.
Choose a durable, easy to read watch
- Look for a watch with a large, clear face that can be read at a glance.
- Make sure the band is made of a durable material that can withstand frequent washing and sanitizing.
- Consider a watch with a stopwatch or timer function to keep track of timed tasks.
Prioritize key features
The most important aspects of a nurse's watch include:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Water resistance | Withstands frequent hand washing |
| Readable dial | Viewable at a quick glance |
| Timer/stopwatch | Time tasks requiring precision |
Strategically wear your watch
- Wear your watch on your dominant hand for easy visibility.
- Make sure the watch face is on the inside of your wrist so you can subtly check it when with patients.
- Have extra wristbands available in case one gets dirty or damaged while working.
Investing in a high quality nursing watch optimized for your on-the-go work style will help you provide excellent care while staying on schedule.
How to stay on schedule during long shifts at the hospital?
Working 12+ hour shifts in a busy hospital environment makes staying on top of your tasks challenging. With some planning and time management strategies, you can stick to your care schedule despite the hectic nature of the job.
Use a timer watch
- Wear a watch with timer and stopwatch functions.
- Time yourself when completing key tasks to help pace your day.
- Set timers to keep you on track with medication administration and treatments.
Plan your shift
At the start of your shift:
| Tips | Reasons |
|---|---|
| Review your patient list and room numbers | Familiarize yourself with assigned patients |
| Note times of key tasks | Medication passes, treatments, procedures |
| Block time for paperwork | Avoid it piling up |
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Schedule breaks
- Factor in set break times for meals and rest.
- Take breaks away from your unit when possible.
- Delegate tasks during breaks to ensure coverage.
Being organized, using a timer watch, and scheduling regular breaks will help you provide excellent patient care while maintaining your own stamina.
How to have a reliable watch that can withstand frequent hand washing?
As a nurse, having a watch that holds up through constant hand hygiene is a must. With the right features and care, you can find a durable watch to withstand frequent washing.
Key watch features
- Water resistance to 50m or greater.
- Scratch-resistant watch crystal, like sapphire glass.
- Stainless steel, ceramic or silicone band.
For example, a watch rated to 50m could endure spray from a sink without damage. Sapphire crystal is more scratch-proof than mineral crystal. Silicone bands resist cracking better than leather in hospital conditions.
Proper wear and care
- Take watch off before using harsh cleansing agents like bleach wipes.
- Thoroughly rinse watch after hand washing to prevent chemical buildup.
- Dry watch fully after getting it wet to avoid skin irritation.
Over time, bleach can degrade metal components. Letting soap or sanitizer dry on a watch can cause skin reactions. Staying on top of drying and rinsing will extend its life.
Routine maintenance
- Check bands for cracks and replace when worn.
- Have watch battery replaced every 2-3 years.
- Consider an annual watch servicing.
Well-cared-for watches can last decades with proper maintenance. Investing in a quality watch suited for nursing will provide years of reliable timekeeping.
How to quickly check vitals without fumbling with your phone?
Having to juggle your phone to check the time while taking vitals can disrupt your workflow. A nursing watch optimized for taking vitals can help.
Prioritize key nursing watch features
- Second hand for counting pulse and respirations.
- Timer or stopwatch mode to time vitals.
- Easy to disinfect surface.
These features allow you to efficiently assess vitals without wasting time accessing your phone.
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Strategically position your watch
| Position | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Inside of dominant wrist | Subtly viewable while taking radial pulse |
| Face on top of wrist | Easier to press buttons when timing |
Have a routine
- Take vitals in the same order each time.
- Glance at your watch as you move between assessments.
- Enter vitals into EHR right after to avoid forgetting.
Having a practiced routine will help you quickly gather vitals. Invest in a nursing watch designed to simplify the process without the hassle of a phone.
How to find a watch with a durable band that won't easily break?
As a busy nurse, having a watch with a sturdy, long-lasting band is important. The right band material can withstand frequent washing, contact with fluids, and general hospital wear and tear.
Consider these band materials
- Silicone - Flexible, waterproof, easy to clean.
- Stainless steel - Robust, anti-corrosion, withstands scratches.
- Ceramic - Extremely scratch-resistant and durable.
Silicone bands are comfortable and impervious to fluids. Stainless steel offers ruggedness. Ceramic is virtually indestructible though less flexible.
Watch the watch details
| Feature | Sign of Quality |
|---|---|
| Band width | Wider than 14mm |
| Lug bars | Solid screw pins |
| Band attachment | Secure, seamless |
Assess for durability
- Review band material thickness and density.
- Check for strong, smooth flexibility without cracks.
- Confirm attachments are robust, not flimsy.
Taking time to inspect band construction will ensure it lasts through years of wear in a busy healthcare setting.
How to have a watch with a large, easy to read face to glance at while multi-tasking?
When juggling countless responsibilities on the job, being able to subtly check the time is essential. Look for a nursing watch with a clean dial design and large markers for quick readability.
Optimal watch face features
- Face diameter of 38mm+
- High contrast colors
- Minimal text and complications
- Luminous hands and markers
Larger watch faces are easier to read at a glance. Bold, luminous details stand out in any lighting. Too many tiny sub-dials can be distracting.
Prioritize key design factors
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Numeral style | Large, bold Arabic numerals |
| Hand style | Sword shape with lume fill |
| Index markers | Long luminous lines or dots |
Test readability
- Assess watch at arm's length in bright and dim lighting.
- Time a glance - can you read it in under 2 seconds?
- Evaluate from different angles - is it clear when off-center?
Prioritizing an uncluttered, luminous dial will ensure optimal readability for busy nursing tasks.
