No matter what holidays you may celebrate, being home with loved ones is generally preferred. Sadly, the healthcare system is a round-the-clock animal and nurses are needed on the front lines 365 days a year. To ensure you don’t miss out on every celebration, prioritize the holidays that are most important to you, and then put in a request for those days as early as possible. Also recognize that you’re not in it alone. You are going to have many people working with you that day and you can share in the joy with your co-workers, who often become your extended family.
Remember, too, that medical professionals aren’t the only ones separated from family during holidays. In-patient stays don’t magically end on the day before a special celebration, and thousands of patients end up stuck in the hospital. Some patients may not have any family to speak of, thus they may see you as their substitute family. Giving a little extra and spreading holiday cheer to your patients can help them and you to enjoy the season even if you have to work on a special day.