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As Thanksgiving approaches, nurses across the country are excited to create a warm and festive atmosphere in their units. The demands of nursing can make it tough to celebrate holidays, but there are many ways to bring Thanksgiving joy into the workplace. Focusing on community, gratitude, and joy can brighten the day for both colleagues and patients. Here are eight fun ideas that nurses can use to celebrate Thanksgiving on the unit this year! Let's dive into ways Nurses Can Celebrate Thanksgiving this year!
8 Fun and Festive Ways Nurses Can Celebrate Thanksgiving on the Unit This Year!
1. Decorate the Unit
Creating a festive environment can significantly lift the spirits of both staff and patients. Nurses can team up to hang autumn-themed decorations around the unit, such as leaf garlands, pumpkins, and colorful fall flowers.
Adding a personal touch, like a gratitude tree where everyone can hang notes of what they’re thankful for, can promote positivity. For instance, consider placing a tree in a common area and inviting each team member to contribute their thankful notes. This collaborative effort not only beautifies the space but also builds a sense of togetherness among staff.
2. Organize a Potluck Feast
A potluck can be a fantastic way for the nursing team to share their favorite Thanksgiving dishes while enjoying a break from their busy shifts. Each nurse can contribute a dish, whether it’s traditional turkey, stuffing, or homemade cranberry sauce.
Setting up a designated area for the feast allows staff to enjoy a meal together, share stories, and bond over their culinary creations. Research suggests that sharing a meal can boost morale by up to 20%. So, get creative, and let your favorite family recipes bring everyone closer together!
3. Host a Gratitude Circle
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude; why not turn it into a regular practice on the unit? Nurses can hold a brief "Gratitude Circle" where team members share what they are thankful for, either verbally or in writing.
This simple yet effective activity can relieve stress and improve morale. For example, taking just five minutes to share a positive thought can lead to a noticeable increase in team positivity. Amid the high-pressure environment of nursing, taking a moment to acknowledge the good in life can be refreshing and uplifting.
4. Craft Time for Patients
Nurses can engage patients, especially those who are able, in crafting Thanksgiving-themed decorations. Simple activities such as creating handprint turkeys or making gratitude cards enable patients to express their creativity while enjoying the holiday spirit.
These crafts do more than improve mood; they allow patients to actively participate in the holiday. In fact, studies show that engaging in creative activities can reduce feelings of isolation by 30%. These moments can help to lift spirits and provide comfort during a hospital stay.
5. Host a Themed Photo Booth
Setting up a Thanksgiving-themed photo booth on the unit can add fun and create lasting memories. Nurses can gather props, such as oversized turkey hats, fall leaves, and pilgrim hats to enhance the experience.
This activity provides an opportunity for staff and patients alike to engage in light-hearted fun. Encouraging everyone to take pictures and share them can create smiles that resonate throughout the unit. A photo that captures spontaneous laughter is a gift that can be cherished long after the holidays.
6. Volunteer for a Local Charity
Participating in volunteer activities or organizing a charity drive can be a wonderful way to embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving. Nurses might collect items such as canned goods, warm clothing, or personal care items for those in need.
This act of giving back not only fosters camaraderie among staff but also sets an example for patients about helping others. Research shows that community service can increase happiness levels by up to 40%. By spreading kindness, nurses can create positive ripples throughout the community.
7. Arrange a Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt
Inject some fun into the workday with a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt around the unit! Nurses can prepare a list of holiday-related items for staff to find. Items might include finding a pumpkin decoration or taking a photo with a patient.
This engaging activity encourages teamwork and lifts spirits. Not to mention, a little friendly competition can make the day more enjoyable and memorable. A scavenger hunt can promote collaboration and laughter among colleagues, strengthening team bonds.
8. Share Thanksgiving Traditions
As a way to bond with each other, nurses can share unique Thanksgiving traditions from their families or cultures. This can be done informally during breaks or as part of a group discussion.
Understanding each other’s traditions promotes cultural appreciation and fosters a sense of belonging. For example, a nurse might share how their family makes sweet potato casserole, while another shares a heritage recipe for tamales. These exchanges deepen connections and enhance empathy among team members.
Bonus: The RN Network's Comfort Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Looking for a heartwarming dish to share with friends, family, or colleagues? This sweet potato casserole is a crowd-pleaser, blending rich, creamy flavors with a perfectly crunchy topping. Crafted with love (and tested by nurses who know comfort food!), this recipe is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just when you need a little TLC.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base:
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
Pinch of salt
Topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
Make the Sweet Potato Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well blended and creamy.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the pecans.
Assemble the Casserole:
Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato base.
Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven.
Add the Marshmallows:
Sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm and pairs perfectly with a main course or as a standalone treat!
Tips for Success
For extra texture, try adding shredded coconut or crushed graham crackers to the topping.
Swap pecans for walnuts or leave them out if you prefer a nut-free version.
Double the recipe for larger gatherings—it’s always a hit!
Bring a bit of comfort to your next meal with The RN Network’s Comfort Sweet Potato Casserole. Your taste buds (and guests) will thank you!
Celebrating Thanksgiving Together
Celebrating Thanksgiving on the unit doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. With a little creativity and a spirit of collaboration, nurses can honor the holiday and spread cheer. By decorating the unit, engaging in crafts, or sharing gratitude, nurses can make their shifts warm and memorable.
As this Thanksgiving approaches, let's remember that at its core, the holiday is about gratitude and community. Together, we can create an atmosphere filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
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