A nurse is assisting with preparing a presentation for newly hired nurses about self-care of the nurse. Which of the following examples of self-care routines should be included?

Rationale:

A. Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of self-care. Nurses often work long, irregular shifts, which can lead to skipped meals or reliance on fast food. Maintaining balanced, nutritious meals provides energy, supports immune function, promotes mental clarity, and reduces fatigue. A nurse who practices good nutrition is better able to focus, respond to emergencies, and manage the physical demands of patient care.

B. While exercise is an important self-care activity, occasional exercise is insufficient for maintaining overall health and stress management. Regular physical activity—such as daily walking, aerobic exercise, or strength training—is needed to improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, maintain weight, and prevent musculoskeletal injuries common among nurses. Sporadic exercise does not provide the same benefits and may leave nurses more vulnerable to fatigue and burnout.

C. Engaging in relaxation practices is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, mindfulness, hobbies, or leisure activities help reduce stress, lower anxiety, and prevent emotional exhaustion. Regular relaxation supports resilience and coping skills, enabling nurses to provide compassionate care without experiencing compassion fatigue.

D. Healthy boundaries involve defining limits regarding workload, emotional involvement, and personal time. Nurses who fail to set boundaries may take on excessive responsibilities, overextend themselves emotionally, and experience burnout. Setting boundaries ensures a sustainable work-life balance, protects mental health, and maintains professional effectiveness while allowing nurses to prioritize self-care without compromising patient care.

E. Even short breaks, such as a lunch or rest period, are critical in high-stress healthcare environments. Taking breaks allows nurses to refuel physically, clear their mind, and restore energy, which improves focus, decision-making, and patient safety. Skipping breaks can increase physical fatigue, cognitive errors, and emotional stress, negatively impacting both nurse well-being and quality of care.