Nursing

What Does Nursing Mean in Poker?

Nursing refers to the act of maintaining a small stack of chips by playing conservatively and winning small pots, avoiding large bets or risks. Online poker can offer insights into this strategy.

When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Nursing:

Nursing is often discussed in the context of survival strategy in tournaments, particularly when a player is short-stacked and aims to outlast others without risking elimination.

In-Game Example:

You’re sitting with a short stack at a tournament, blinds are increasing, and instead of going all-in, you opt for a series of small raises and folds, focusing on picking up blinds and antes to slowly increase your stack.

Strategy / Tips:

• Best Practice: Identify spots where you can steal blinds with minimal risk, and avoid getting involved in pots with big stacks unless you have a premium hand.
• Common Mistake: Being overly cautious and missing opportunities to double up when you have a strong hand.
• Pro Tips: Use position to your advantage when nursing a stack; playing tight early but aggressive late can allow you to rebuild your stack.

Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online:

In live games, nursing can be aided by reading opponents’ physical tells, while online, you rely more on timing and betting patterns.

Alternative Names:

“Short-stacking” or “chip preservation.”

FAQs:

• Q: Is nursing a viable long-term strategy?
  A: No, it’s more of a survival tactic; eventually, you’ll need to accumulate chips to win.
• Q: Can nursing be used in cash games?
  A: It’s less effective in cash games where chip accumulation is key, but it may be used temporarily until a better spot arises.