Go Ahead, Take Your Breaks

Hospice nursing can be so intense that you forget to take breaks. Eating lunch? What’s that? I’ve gone through entire days without stopping—no pause, no lunch around noon—and before you know it, it’s 3 p.m. You wonder, Where did the day go?

As you already know, doing this day after day is not good for your physical or mental health. I know this full well because it certainly isn’t good for mine.

So my advice to you is simple: incorporate breaks into your day. Yes, I know—some days it feels literally impossible. On those days, I end up eating on the run while driving.

But I’m telling you, even on days that feel so tight you think you can’t take a break—yes, you can. Take 5–10 minutes. It’s not a catastrophe if you’re a few minutes behind schedule for your next patient. Just call and let them know.

You know what families usually tell me when I call to say I’m running a little late?

They say, “Don’t worry—we’re here. We’re not going anywhere.”

They understand the pressures hospice nurses are under.

So take that break—even if it’s just a few minutes. Breathe. Take out your lunch. Let your mind rest from work for a moment. That’s the beauty of hospice nursing: you are in charge of your day.

Be good to yourself and pause to regain your sanity. Some days you’ll have more time than others, but make this small act of self-care a priority.

You’ll be thankful you did.

An Affirmation for You

I give myself permission to pause.

Taking a break does not make me less dedicated—it helps me sustain the care I give.

I am allowed to take care of myself, too.

Self-Care Tip

Choose one intentional pause in your day—just 5 minutes.

It might look like:

• Sitting in your car before the next visit

• Eating a few bites of your lunch without rushing

• Taking 3 slow, deep breaths with your eyes closed

Before you move on, remind yourself:

“This moment matters too.”

Even a short pause can reset your mind, steady your emotions, and help you return to your patients with more presence.

#Hospicenurse, #Nurseselfcare, #Compassionfatigue, #Healthcarewellness