The World Health Organization defines self-care as “what people do for themselves to establish and maintain health, and to prevent and deal with illness.” As nurses, we often neglect this for ourselves.
Why Self-Care Matters During Exam Preparation
“You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Nursing is physically and emotionally exhausting. Adding exam preparation on top of work and life responsibilities increases stress. Without intentional self-care:
- Stress impairs memory and cognitive function
- Burnout reduces motivation and focus
- Physical exhaustion affects test-day performance
Donna Wilk Cardillo says it well: “Nursing is not for everyone. It takes a powerful, intelligent, and compassionate person to address the world’s ills with passion and purpose. No wonder we’re exhausted at the end of the day!”
Self-Care Strategies
Build these practices into your exam preparation period:
| Physical | Regular exercise, adequate sleep (7-9 hours), nutritious meals, limited caffeine/alcohol |
| Mental | Study breaks, mindfulness/meditation, positive self-talk, realistic expectations |
| Emotional | Connect with supportive people, acknowledge your feelings, celebrate small wins |
| Social | Maintain relationships, ask for help when needed, set boundaries around study time |
Recognize Compassion Fatigue and Burnout
⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch For
- Emotional exhaustion or feeling “numb”
- Decreased sense of personal accomplishment
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Physical symptoms (headaches, sleep problems, GI issues)
- Withdrawal from colleagues, friends, or family
- Cynicism or negativity about your work or certification goals
If you notice these signs: Talk to a trusted colleague, supervisor, or mental health professional. The certification can wait—your well-being cannot.