NOW!

It's officially here...fall! Cool, crisp air. Beautiful warm colors in nature. And, cold and flu season. Yep, it's that time once again where we get to endure the pleasure of sniffles, coughing, sore throats and the list goes on and on.

As a nurse, you are far more susceptible to getting sick because of the environments you work in. It's important for your health and for your patients' who depend on your care that you take extra care of your body as we enter the prime season for getting sick. Follow these quick tips to help prevent yourself from getting the flu or a cold this season:

1. Get plenty of rest. Strive for at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night.

2. Keep your hands clean. Aside from washing your hands regularly it's a good idea to keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in your purse or at your work station. It's also a good idea to disinfect door knobs regularly-think of how many dirty hands are in constant contact with them.

3. Bump up the nutrients. Eat more fruits and vegetables to support a healthier immune system. Foods high in vitamin C are exceptionally good for promoting health.

I work in an office at The College Network, and like you I am constantly surrounded by others. Some of the things I do to try and prevent myself from catching other peoples' germs are wash my hands regularly, use Clorox wipes on my desk, computer keyboard and phone, and use my elbow to open doors when I can so I don't have to touch the handles. 

Best of luck in warding off the ugly cold and flu bugs this season! And, although we can't help you not get sick, The College Network is here to help you reach your educational dreams by offering degrees from top universities. Just call us at 1-800-395-1014.