Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1287383
16 Working Nurse l WorkingNurse.com September 7–October 5, 2020 KEEP YOUR COOL OR BURN OUT That isn't always easy these days. The pandemic has dis- rupted everyone's daily routines. The news is full of doom and gloom, and many of your usual haunts may be closed for the duration. Socializing with people outside your household is tricky, and even going out to walk the dog means masking up. However, nurses are nothing if not inventive. Here are some healthy recommendations to keep the stress in check. How Are You Feeling? Let's Revisit Some Coping Strategies THE BASICS — FOOD AND WATER: In a crisis situation, it can be hard to avoid junk food, but good nutrition is important to maintaining your energy and your immune system. With the recurrent closures of indoor dining in California, many of us have rediscovered our kitchens. Some nurses are grow- ing their own fresh produce or taking up baking. Some of us are focusing on staying well-hydrated. I have a hard time swallowing eight glasses of water a day, so I make up daily bottles of water to keep with me. BREAK A SWEAT: Perhaps you used to hit the gym after work to let off steam. That's not an option now with the lockdown orders (and probably not a good idea even in areas where gyms are open), but nurses are finding other ways to stay physically active outside of work. Daily walks and hiking are still options as long as you wear a mask and remember social distancing. (If you're planning on going for a hike, be sure to check first that trails are open.) So are jogging, biking, tennis and golf. Most swimming pools are currently closed in L.A., but if you can make it to the beach, swimming and kayaking in the ocean are okay. Remember that you don't always have to leave home to stay active. If you have a stationary bicycle or other exer- cise equipment that's been gathering dust, this is a great time to give it a whirl. Even if you don't, there are lots of free online exercise videos that require little or no equip- ment — and you can get a surprisingly vigorous workout with just a jump rope. However you do it, getting enough exercise will help you reduce stress and assist you in getting a better night's sleep. ✚ Welcome to 2020 and the worldwide pan- demic called COVID-19. Although you would have to be a hermit living in a moun- tain cave to not know about the pandemic, the various offi- cial guidance and orders have shifted repeatedly, which can make it hard to keep up. This multiple-choice quiz will test how well you know the current California guide- lines. (If you need a refresher, visit covid19.ca.gov.) 1. In California, all of the fol- lowing must close indoor operations EXCEPT … (Select the best answer.) A. Dine-in restaurants B. Movie theaters C. Hospitals D. Zoos and museums E. Wineries 2. In counties in the "Widespread" status tier, the following must either close or switch to operating out- side with social distancing: (Select all that apply.) A. Gyms/fitness centers, yoga and dance studios B. Places of worship and cultural ceremonies like weddings or funerals C. Aquariums and zoos D. Grocery stores E. Museums 3. What are the most common symptoms of COVID-19? (Select all that apply.) A. Dry cough B. Fever (temperature above 100°F) C. Sore throat D. New loss of taste or smell E. Diarrhea 4. Employer resources are supported by which govern- ment programs to protect employees and reduce spread of COVID-19? (Select all that apply.) A. COVID-19 sick leave B. Workers' compensation C. Paid Family Leave D. Vacation time 5. Who is at the greatest risk of contracting COVID-19? (Select all that apply.) A. Young adults B. People with low immunity or who are immune- suppressed C. The elderly, especially those with other health conditions D. Children under 12 California Guidelines How much do you know about our state's COVID–19 rules?