erd ecfiued r r

Barbara Peterson Sinclaiv, M N , RhJC, OGNP, FAAN, is chair of the division of

health sciences at California State University,

Dominguez Hills, and editor in chief of

AWHONN Lifelines.

n June, at the AWHONN Convention, I I was quite intrigued when Angela Bar- ron McBride asked the audience if we knew why airplane attendants always instructed adults to put on oxygen masks first and then attach masks for children or babies. The answer makes absolute sense when you consider that to be capa- ble of helping anyone else, you must first help yourself. The analogy is a good one, and I believe the concept is one that nurs- es in particular should value. If we are to be care providers, even at the most ele- mentary level, for patients or family or friends, we must maintain the best possi- ble status for ourselves, be it physical, emotional or spiritual. Positive behaviors benefit health and quality of life.

Behaviors that affect your physical well-being are already known to YOU. I briefly mention the following prevention strategies just to raise your consciousness

with the hope that you might put some of them to good use and actually take care of yourself first. In any event . . .

Eat well: It will help you to control weight, reduce obesity, keep your choles- terol under 200 and meet the body’s need for various nutrients, vitamins and miner- als. Take supplements if indicated. Drink six to eight glasses of water every day and avoid excessive salt, sugar, caffeine and alcohol. Remember that moderation is the key.

cise: Develop a routine and keep to it even if it involves just a short period three to four times per week. Aerobics should be included whenever possible. Brisk walking is great (and I don’t mean down the hospital corridor.) Weight- bearing exercise is good, but swimming may be easier on your joints.

quate sleep, preferably eight hours at a time, and remember that short naps can be rejuvenating. Protect your skin from

Engage in physical activity and exer-

Maintain good health habits: Get ade-

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the sun. Brush and floss your teeth and have regular dental checkups. Ensure that your immunizations are complete and current. Stop smoking or at least cut down on numbers of cigarettes and avoid pas- sive smoke.

Undertake routine screening, testing and exami- nation as recommended for your age and health status.

Assure safety in your home, automobile, work site and personal being. Assure safety for those around you, also.

Reduce high levels of stress. Granted, this is easi- er said than done, but a t least consider possibilities. Be more assertive in the work situation and with your family, ask for assistance in handling difficult situations, reduce your responsibilities or the num- ber of activities in which you are engaged, investi- gate options (e.g., different child care, change of job, advanced education) and carve out some time just for you. Get educated about stress management.

Maintain your emotional security. If needed, improve your relationship with people who are important to you, such as spouse/significant other, children, parents, co-workers, and friends. Consider

a pet-they provide unconditional love. Seek new adventures. Consult a financial manager to assist you in planning for the future. Identify your skills and interests and develop a hobby or new activities, Seek counseling if you are in need of help. Have some fun.

Search for meaning, for your own spirituality. Carefully examine your current circumstances and get personally involved with yourself and your beliefs.

Stay “conditioned”-don’t allow yourself to become “deconditioned,” a state in which your body or psyche are less fit.

I am more and more convinced that by following the above admonition, we will indeed be capable of taking care of others when that need arises. I also realize that although the admonition is a terrific marketing strategy, the reality is that we as individu- als benefit the most when we take care of our- selves-just for the health of it.

any changes you’re making in your lifestyle and health behaviors and habits? I’d love to hear from you at Lifelines@awhonn.org. +

Drop me a line, will you, and let me know about

8 AWHONN Lifelines Volume 5, Issue 5