Part II: Zombie-Proof Shift Survival Guide

When we talk about being a “zombie nurse,” it’s not just about fatigue, it’s also about the choices that shape our path. In a season where the cost of living in California keeps rising, where every dollar of rent, gas, or groceries feels heavier, strategy matters more than ever.

It’s not only about how many shifts we grind through, but about asking: What do I value? Where do I want this effort to take me?

For me, strategy looks like zooming out, acknowledging the state of our economy, the healthcare system, even the global shifts and then zooming back in to make choices aligned with both survival and sustainability. It’s less about moving fast for the sake of speed, and more about moving in rhythm with my values so that I don’t burn out before I reach my destination.

Because here’s the truth: the system is unpredictable. Policies change, wages rise and stall, and inflation creeps (like Casper the not-so-friendly ghost, chasing down every bit of your Peace of Mind Fund). But our personal strategies; how we spend, save, study, rest, and plan become anchors in all that noise.

So when I think about avoiding the zombie mode, it’s not just rest and recovery. It’s also about being intentional with the long game, reminding myself that every decision carries weight. Strategy is self-care, too.

Here’s the thing about being a nurse right now: it’s not just about surviving your shift, it’s about surviving this economy. Every decision feels heavier than it used to. That’s why strategy isn’t optional anymore, it’s essential.

For some of us, that means taking the longer, slower route through school so we don’t drown in debt. For others, it means holding onto jobs with benefits, even if the pay isn’t sky-high right away. Strategy looks different for each nurse, but the goal is the same: build a future without burning out.

Because let’s be real, healthcare is changing fast and the system doesn’t always take care of us. But when we are strategic about our choices, we take back some control. That’s how you keep from turning into a full-time zombie nurse: not just with rest and recovery, but with a plan that keeps your values front and center.

Some nights, you’re the super charged, charting Queen. Other nights? You’re just making sure your badge still works and your warm cup of coffee doesn't go cold before you can enjoy it. This is for those nights. The “zombie nurse” protocol, a low-brain, power-friendly plan that keeps you safe, your residents cared for, and your sanity intact.

For those shifts where your brain is somewhere between “Do Not Disturb” and “Reboot Required.”

Start with the essentials

•Do a quick walk-through of your residents/patients, just eyes, ears, and vibes.

•Prioritize anything urgent or safety-related before diving into anything else.

•Keep your report sheet tidy but minimal.

Chart light, chart smart

•Recycle your most recent nursing notes and update only the changes.

•Use pre-made phrases/templates for common findings.

•Chart in real-time if possible so you don’t have a midnight mountain of notes later.

Batch the boring stuff

•Combine similar tasks into quick “rounds” so you’re not zig-zagging everywhere.

•Save low-stakes tasks (stocking, wiping down counters) for when you’re in autopilot mode.

Energy hacks for the undead

•Sip water or tea every 30–45 minutes.

•Light protein snack > sugar crash.

•Stretch or walk every hour to avoid turning into a stiff hallway gargoyle.

Celebrate the small wins

•Got everyone settled and safe? ✅ Victory.

•Finished charting on time? ✅ Crown yourself queen/king of the zombies.

•Left the unit better than you found it? ✅ Go you.

Final Thoughts:

Not every shift will be your peak performance moment, and that’s okay. The zombie-proof plan is here to make sure even your lowest-energy nights are still safe, steady, and patient-centered.