Ever faced that heart-dropping moment in the OR when someone asks, “Where’s the specimen?” This guide dives into why specimens go missing, how it really feels as a nurse, and practical steps to stay calm, trace it fast, and keep patient safety—and your own sanity—at the center.
Feeling overwhelmed by the hospital system abroad is something many expats and traveling nurses experience. But it doesn’t have to stop you. From finding local mentors and breaking tasks into smaller steps, to quick breathing techniques and reconnecting with your purpose—these 7 practical tips will help you cope, regain calm, and move forward.
Discover the art of saying no without guilt as a nurse. Learn why setting boundaries matters, practical ways to say no kindly, and how it protects your well-being and patient care. Embrace self-care and make saying no a healthy part of your nursing journey.
In the operating room, I used to work tirelessly hoping to be seen—especially by a colleague who never acknowledged my efforts. No matter how hard I tried, the recognition never came. I realized I was caught in a cycle, trying to prove myself to people who had already decided not to see me. That day, I made a choice to stop chasing validation. I focused on my work, showed up with purpose, and found peace in doing my best—for myself. Sometimes, not proving anything is the bravest thing you can do. And surprisingly, that was more than enough.
Stepping into the operating room for the first time can feel like entering a different world—one defined by precision, teamwork, and an unspoken language of tools. For beginner nurses, understanding basic surgical instruments is the first step toward confidence and competence. From scalpels that start the incision to retractors that hold the path open, each tool serves a vital role. This guide introduces the foundational instruments you’ll encounter, offering clarity and familiarity before you even scrub in. Whether you’re assisting or observing, knowing your instruments isn’t just practical—it’s part of becoming a trusted presence in the surgical team.
still remember my first surgical count like it was yesterday—my hands were shaking, my mind blank, and I was terrified of making a mistake. The pressure felt overwhelming, knowing a patient’s safety depended on my accuracy. But with guidance, practice, and support from my OR team, I learned to master the surgical count. In this blog post, I’m sharing everything I wish I knew back then: the step-by-step process, what items to include, when to count, and real tips that helped me stay calm and focused. If you’re new to the OR, this guide will help you feel prepared.
When I first started working in the operating room, the pressure and fast pace felt overwhelming. I quickly learned the nurse coping strategies were essential—not just for my patients, but for myself. From leaning on trusted colleagues to finding moments of calm during hectic shifts, these habits helped me survive and even thrive in the OR. In this personal story, I share what really made a difference: simple self-care routines, honest communication, and staying grounded amidst chaos. If you’re an OR nurse struggling with stress, my journey might give you hope and practical ideas to keep going strong.
Working in the OR comes with intense pressure, but OR stress management makes it manageable. From micro-breaks to mindset shifts and support networks, small habits protect mental health and patient care alike. Discover practical, nurse-tested strategies to stay balanced, resilient, and present—no matter how stressful your next shift gets.
Long shifts, heavy lifting, and nonstop standing—nursing takes a toll. Musculoskeletal strain creeps in quietly but can derail your energy and joy if left unchecked. This guide empowers nurses to protect their bodies with smart habits, supportive tools, and a mindset that values strength through care—for others and themselves. Let me know if you’d like an alternate version for Instagram or your podcast intro!
Nursing shifts can feel endless, but staying energized in long shift is possible with small, powerful habits. Hydration, mindful breaks, smart snacks, and leaning on your team can transform exhaustion into steady strength — helping you care better for your patients and yourself. Here are 10 nurse-tested ways to keep going.
Hi, I’m Kristel—a passionate Registered Nurse with a heart for the operating room and a mission to empower my fellow OR nurses. Throughout my journey in surgical nursing, I’ve experienced firsthand the triumphs and challenges of working in this high-stakes, fast-paced environment. I’ve learned that while technical skills are crucial, having the right support, guidance, and camaraderie makes all the difference.
Kristel RN is my way of sharing what I’ve learned along the way. Whether it’s practical tips, heartfelt stories, or professional insights, my goal is to help you thrive both in and out of the operating room. Think of this space as your resource hub for growth, connection, and encouragement—because when one nurse succeeds, we all succeed.
So grab your scrub caps and let’s make OR life a little easier, one story and strategy at a time!
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