• Take care of yourself; make your own health a priority
• Take breaks, eat lunch, and take advantage of stress reduction opportunities
• Take responsibility for the unit/office environment, reduce clutter, keep supplies up-to-date and promote efficient systems

Practice quality nursing care

• Review the Nurse Practice Act: Standards, Peer Review, and Safe Harbor
• Review Standards of Care for your specialty
• Be an advocate for nurse representation and serve on workplace decision-making committees
• Review workplace grievance policies and procedures
• Join and participate in professional nursing organizations
• Learn about the Workplace Advocacy Program developed by Texas Nurses Association (1-800-TNA-2022)
• Become active in health-related legislation and policy advocacy efforts; communicate with legislators and policy-makers

Contribute to collegiality and team effectiveness

• Be a positive role model and mentor for new employees and students
• Use assertive and problem-solving communication techniques
• Discuss issues in appropriate places with appropriate people
• Appear to look like you enjoy your work
• Identify yourself as a registered nurse to patients, family members and other health professionals