What is a common barrier to self-care for nurses?

• A. Access to self-care programs
• B. Support from colleagues
• C. Demanding and unpredictable schedules
• D. Interest in personal hobbies

Answer: (C)

A demanding and unpredictable schedule is a common barrier to self-care for nurses because the nature of their work often requires them to prioritize patient care over their own personal well-being. Nurses frequently face long shifts, understaffing, and the emotional toll of their responsibilities, making it challenging to carve out time for self-care activities such as exercise, relaxation, or even meal breaks. This workload can lead to chronic stress, burnout, and health complications if self-care is continually neglected.

In contrast, access to self-care programs and support from colleagues tend to promote self-care rather than hinder it, and an interest in personal hobbies typically reflects an individual recognizing the importance of self-care rather than serving as a barrier. Hence, the unpredictable nature of nursing shifts fundamentally impacts their ability to engage in self-care practices effectively.