An effective end of shift stretching routine should target key muscle groups that are commonly strained during nursing duties. Some essential stretches include:
Neck Stretch: Gently tilt your head towards each shoulder, holding for 15-30 seconds on each side. Shoulder Stretch: Extend one arm across your body and use the opposite hand to press it closer to your chest. Back Stretch: Perform a cat-cow stretch by arching and rounding your back while on all fours. Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the floor and extend one leg while reaching towards your toes. Calf Stretch: Stand facing a wall, place one foot back and press your heel into the ground.