The 4th of July is an important day in American history and is filled with festivities and events that bring people together to commemorate the birth of our country’s Independence. And while most people will take this day off to celebrate with friends and family, nurses often find themselves working during this festive occasion.
However, working the holiday doesn’t have to be a total Debbie downer. As a matter of fact, with a little creativity and a positive mindset, nurses can still find ways to enjoy this holiday and embrace the 4th of July spirit while on duty.
Are you a nurse scheduled to work on independence day? Here are a few ideas and activities that you and your nurse colleagues can implement to truly enjoy working on the 4th of July.
Why Do Some Nurses Like Working the Holidays?
Did you know that working during the holidays can actually be something to celebrate? That’s because nurses who work during the holidays can benefit from certain perks that don’t exist on regularly scheduled days. From smaller nurse-to-patient ratios to noshing on delicious holiday office treats, there are plenty of reasons why some nurses love working on the Holidays.
What’s more, is that nurses—specifically Per Diem nurses— who work the holidays may earn higher compensation than permanently scheduled nurses. That is to say, a per diem nurse (PRN) who picks up a last-minute shift on a major holiday can receive a competitive hourly rate since they don’t receive benefits such as health insurance or paid time off. Additionally, PRN nurses can be scheduled last minute to fill gaps in coverage at a medical facility, which may lead to an increase in earnings. Consequently, many PRN nurses enjoy working on the holidays due to a significant increase in hourly pay. At the same time, permanent nurses can reap the benefits of holiday pay by speaking with their supervisors before an anticipated holiday shift.
Aside from pay perks, nurses can celebrate holidays working while on duty by participating in themed celebrations at work and finding moments of gratitude amidst a busy shift. As a matter of fact, research shows that fun team engagement activities, like catered lunches, can boost employee morale and improve productivity at work. With that in mind, if you are a nurse who will work on the 4th of July, you may be rewarded with a delicious catered office meal during your break—think creamy potato salad, oven-baby back ribs, fruit salad, and more!
What are Some Tips for Working the Holiday as a Nurse?
You can celebrate the 4th of July at work as a nurse by doing all the things you would do outside of work. That’s right! From breaking out your most festive 4th of July scrubs to surprising your coworkers with red, white, and blue decorated cupcakes, it’s easy enough to bring the pride of 4th of July inside your workplace.
Here are some quick tips for creating a festive atmosphere that boosts morale and brings joy to both your colleagues and patients:
- Bake a 4th of July treat: Surprise your coworkers with cupcakes, apple pie, or an epic 4th of July-inspired salad. If you want to host a more lavish 4th of July celebration, talk to your supervisor about having a catered event. In both scenarios, leave treats in the breakroom for all to enjoy.
- Make fun patriotic-themed crafts: Encourage both your coworkers and patients to participate in the spirit of 4th of July by making patriotic-inspired crafts like star-spangled banner wood pins or playful American flag hats. If you work as a pediatric nurse, ask your young patients to come up with patriotic art that can then be displayed around the medical facility.
- Wear your holiday scrubs: Have a pair of red white and blue scrubs that you stowed away just to make their grand entrance for the 4th of July? Now’s the time to put your holiday scrubs to use and bring the holiday spirit to work. At the same time, make sure you check in with your supervisor about dress code protocols. Once you get the green light, strut your 4th of July scrub energy in style!
Make the Most out of Working the Holiday
Guess what? It’s totally normal to feel disappointed that you have to work the holiday as a nurse. With that said, the fact that you are sacrificing your time to take care of others during the holiday season is admirable.
In the meantime, if you are a nurse who will be working this 4th of July, keep your head up. Incorporating some simple yet impactful festive activities in your workplace can set you up for an enjoyable nursing shift. We appreciate all your hard work and wish you the best 4th of July, whether it’s at work, at home, on location, or in a backyard BBQ.
