Ohio University—Zanesville Faculty offer stress reduction tips

 To view photo, visit: http://www.zanesville.ohiou.edu/pr/OUZ%20SNAZ%20stress%20reduction%20presentation%2010-25-06.htm

Sally Fusner PhD, RN and Sharon Staib MS, RN of Ohio University—Zanesville’s (OUZ) nursing faculty presented “Preparing Nurses to be Health Care Leaders of Tomorrow,” for nursing students at OUZ. 

During their presentation, Fusner and Staib shared tips and tricks on the importance of stress management and health topics to help them cope as students and in their lives.  In addition, Amanda Ferguson of Cambridge,, Briah Hardesty of Columbus, and Chad Stoltz of Gahanna, student officers of Student Nursing Association, Zanesville Chapter (SNAZ), spoke about the benefits of joining the student organization.

The local chapter is part of a national organization that provides professional development and career counseling for nursing professionals.

“SNAZ is going to help all our nursing students be better nurses through our Brown Bag lectures and be better leaders by attending state and national level student nurse conventions,” said Susan Stoner, nursing faculty advisor.

The local chapter is planning a series of lunchtime lectures that will cover subjects appropriate for nursing professionals.  The first in a series, the recent presentation offered suggestions for exercise, balanced diet, time management, and other stress reduction tips.

While the presentation was primarily for nursing students, the tips offered were universal for anyone who works or attends school.  For example, the presenters reminded students that exercising at least thirty minutes a day, three times a week, not skipping meals, and taking time for yourself are all critical components of a well-balanced life.

Gregg Shaffer, a first-year student at OUZ, said the presentation brought to light “ideas you might not think of when you’re stressed out.”  “We can all be reminded of the importance of stress management techniques,” adds another student.

“We are so encouraged by the student leadership and organizational abilities,” says Claire Tiberio, nursing faculty member.  “The skills the SNAZ members are gaining will serve them well as they enter the nursing profession.”

Staib and Fusner are part of the Ohio University—Zanesville Speaker’s Bureau.  To find out more about presentations available to community and service organizations, visit www.zanesville.ohio.edu/pr/speaker.asp.