All radiologic technicians and technologists experience points in their day when they get dog-tired and the day just seems to drag. Lack of energy can really sap your enthusiasm for your work and cause you to come across as unfriendly to patients, many of whom are already under stress as they undergo various diagnostic procedures and diagnostic imaging exams. Therefore it pays, in terms of your interactions with patients and fellow health care staff, to find ways of maintaining your energy level in a job that has you on your feet all day long.

First of all, you have to quit relying on the quick fix. While coffee and other caffeinated beverages give you a boost at the start of your shift, the inevitable caffeine crash is sure to show up by the afternoon, particularly after a big lunch. If you insist on caffeinating yourself, at least plan to bring some sort of pick-me-up for the afternoon. However, phasing out caffeine as much as possible in your diet is not only the first step to maintaining your energy level without a stimulant, but it can also help you fall asleep earlier and sleep better.

It is important to get a full night’s sleep of 7-8 hours every night. The best way of going about this is to start a routine of going to bed at the same time each night and setting your alarm for the same time each morning. After a while, your body will get into a rhythm, and you’ll find yourself not even needing an alarm anymore because your body is “preset” to wake up at a certain time. With adequate rest, you will discover higher productivity at work, a heightened ability to concentrate, and less overall irritability.

Another way to stay energized is to eat a healthy breakfast every morning. People who routinely skip breakfast may not have stopped to realize that their body has not taken in any food in at least eight hours, meaning their blood sugar is very low. This does much to sap your energy early in the morning. Get in the habit of eating something quick that will boost your energy, such as oatmeal made with skim milk and a piece of fruit.

While exercise is probably the last thing on your mind at the end of a long day on your feet, it is important to get your blood moving in some way each day to keep your body energized and in good condition. In fact, going running before your morning shower is better for your energy than caffeine could ever be.

By incorporating some of these lifestyle changes into your day, you will notice those days that drag become few and far between.