Questions
- What cancers are linked to bone metastasis, and how would you assess a patient for chord compression?
- What are the various treatment options available to patients that have been diagnosed with bone metastasis?
I couldn't think of anything about bone metastasis that could spark a lively or interesting discussion - so, this month's discussion will come from a favorite article of mine. The article addresses the stereotype of the "nurse angel," and also tackles the topic of self care, or the need for nurses to not constantly place the needs of others before their own. Feel free to agree or disagree - I can't wait to read your thoughts and opinions! I'm no Angel
Please forward your answers to - melissa.luebbe@ctca-hope.com
I found this article very interesting to read and it is easy to relate to. I do find myself constantly taking a lunch at 2pm only to scarf down a few bites of food because I am in a hurry to get a patient prepared for discharge or take report on an admission coming or get my patient their medication that they are requesting. Nurses are known to put their patients' needs before their own, sometimes at the sacrifice of their own well-being... but it is also important to make sure we take care of ourselves too. It does no good to our patients if we are running on empty- we are more likely to make a mistake if we are suffering from burnout,running on little sleep and food- and this is a huge safety concern for our patients. I know I personally have also been trying to make a conscious effort to take better care of myself so I am able to perform more effectively as a nurse. I know it is more easily said that done, but it is essential for me to be the best nurse I can be
ReplyDeleteNicely said Amy!
DeleteI like your take on this Amy. I feel very similarly in the fact that I need to also improve my self care efforts to better care for myself and my patients at the same time.
DeleteI agree with you on this Amy, the hardest thing ever is to prove how good of a nurse you can be with out doing so much self sacrifice. I believe that it will always take time to perfect what they call prioritization to prevent sacrificing our own needs in the expense of patient care. I know we will get there and when that time comes Im sure we will all laugh at it.
DeleteIt's also hard for "nursing" nurses to get time to pump for our babies. Sometimes it is almost impossible to pump enough times in the day. I don't know about you but I feel so guilty when I don't take time for my baby. Not to mention the pain of engorgement ;).
DeleteWe need to encourage and support each other in taking care of ourselves. There's no need to compete with others to see who can be the "most dedicated" nurse - meaning working harder, taking fewer breaks, sacrificing all the time. That's not dedicated, that's destructive. We need to be kind and encouraging each other to take care of ourselves.
DeleteThis was an interesting artlicle. At times, I felt like the author was kind of cold and didn't have a place in nursing; And then I thought that nurses do need to do a better job of caring for ourselves. I know I generally put other's needs before my own and take much better care of my patients than I do myself. I should probably work on a happy medium that would include taking great care of my patients and myself!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Tina. A happy balance between caring for ourselves and our patients should be expected, but sometimes we forget that.
DeleteI agree with Tina that it we need to take care of ourselves but it is hard to do when there are needs of the patients to be taken care of first.
DeleteTina, I agree. When I was first reading this, I was very surprised at how blunt she was. But after thinking about it, I realized that I am guilty of putting my own needs last. I, like so many other nurses, need to take better care of myself.
DeleteAs you've pointed out, the author seemed cold to me too. We all have met people who shouldn't be in their profession (what ever it might be) and others who have met their calling. I do feel that the Nursing profession is a noble calling.
DeleteI think this article is very interesting. I think it is charming that people appreciate nurses to the extent that they refer to us as angles. But, I don’t think we truly are… We chose this profession for whatever reason and we do things that some people just would not be able to do. But I could say the same thing in regards for other professions. I could never work for the military (risking my life for the bigger cause) or cosmetology (I can barely put my hair up in a ponytail). Like Blecher stated someone needing help to the bathroom may be embarrassing to them but it is something we deal with every day, it’s just the nature of the beast.
ReplyDeleteI do believe though that we do not take care of ourselves enough in this profession. I remember when I started; I never took a lunch because there was always something else that needed to be done, a never ending task list. But then I became pregnant and decided right then that I will take a lunch come hell or high water; since then I always try to make a point to take care of myself, because I don’t focus on caring for myself, no one else is going to be looking out for me. And if I don’t care for myself, how can I care for others?
Absolutely, your last statement, "And if I don't care for myself, how can I care for others?" is so true. Developing a good balance between self care and patient care is very difficult and developing boundaries is important!
DeleteYou're absolutely right Lauren on your last statement but because of the kind of patients that we cater to sometimes it becomes harder to deal with our needs first before our patients. That is the reason why as nurses we can delegate and prioritize so we dont feel that we deprive ourselves also of our right for breaks and time outs if we need to.Sometimes we become too engrossed in what we do because we don't want to be reprimanded, blamed, or we dont want to hear that we are not good nurses for not doing such a task, but let me tell you If we get sick because we did not pee for 12 hours or did get an ulcer because of not eating, or even collapsed because of dehydration, what does that tell you about yourself? It is not wrong to put yourself first because only you and only you will be the first one to care if something happens to yourself.
DeleteI appreciate what you have said here Lauren. There definately needs to be a balance in taking care of ourselves so that we have the strength, energy and creativity to take care of others. I don't think it is healthy to go to ne extreme or the other
DeleteVery well said Lauren,We do need to take care of ourselves so we can better take care of other people . but sometimes its so hard to do that with the type of patient that we have.
DeleteWe definitely need to continue to clarify the public image of the nurse. We are not just angels or magical, but also we are professionals with education and care and compassion. We chose this line of work because we felt compelled to help others in their time of need. ALso, I think it would great to start self care in nursing school, even have a class or two. It needs to become a habit just like taking a blood pressure. That way, we may reduce our turn over and burn out of good nurses!
ReplyDelete.Great post sarah! Selfcare should def be taught in nursing school. Often being reminded that rule of thumb if i dont care for myself how can i provide care for others is a great concept and i refer to this rule of thumb ofter just as a nice little reminder to take a minute breathe and refresh!!!
DeleteHi Sara,
DeleteI agree about portaying ourselves as professional. I used to cringe when patients would yell out "NURSE!" and ask for a menu or something--the shout-out always seemed so cold and belittling, when I had since introduced myself and wrote my name on the board. Sometimes I would get upset at overhearing patients or family members, who did NOT understand how overloaded we were in the Infusion Center, with double the amount of patients we should have infusing, saying things like "they aren't even here to get the beep," or "these nurses just want a paycheck." It would make me so upset--these rare cases were people who just did not understand how our environment failed us.
I love your suggestion Sarah! Incorporating a self-care class in the nursing curriculum can prove to be VERY beneficial and decrease burn out/turn around. Self-care can be as simple as taking a deep breath, step out of the unit for a minute or two, or simply just take a 30 minute lunch break. By caring for ourselves, we are better able to care for others!
DeleteYes i believe that often when patients look at us as angels or magical, for me anyway i feel that in a good way i let them know that i am no angel i enjoy what i do, I take great pride in my work and i do what ever i can to help them, to be that step in making sure there needs are being met to thee fullest. We are no angels we are human beings that enjoy taking care of others and finding great pride in the people we meet, the care we provide and making sure by being that advocate to the patient things are getting done solved and the patient is being cared for to the best of our ability!! :)
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Lauren we do enjoy taking care of our patients and take great pride in what we do. But self care is just as important and we need to sometimes just take the baby steps towards self care. It is in no way being selfish. I like when you said we are no angels but human beings.
DeleteBeing a nurse has always been my dream....I planned for this all through middle and high school years. I had picked my college by my sophomore year in high school. There was never a doubt in my mind that I would be a nurse. It is a calling, wanting to help others, to "fix" something broken. But all that does not mean that I have to be broken in the process. Taking care of both of us ( Nurse and patient) is the balance we all strive toward. Some of us are lucky to have supportive co workers who have our backs, and remind us to nurse ourselves. That is where the nursing becomes more than a job.....
DeleteI really like your comment Judy! There is nothing better in the world than to feel as if others have your back! While it is wonderful to work in that environment, I need to be cognicient to actively support others as they strive to take care of themselves.
DeleteThis author appears to give being called an angel or magical a negative connotation. While I am not an angel or magical I do pride myself on the profession I chose to take part in. In reality there are many times where we are not able to take the time for self-care during our work shift. It’s not that we do not wish to provide ourselves with self-care it is the outside factors of caring for others that prevent our own self-care. Because we care for people and things can change at the drop of a hat we cannot schedule bathroom breaks, snacks, or even lunches. We as nurses can however provide ourselves with self-care outside of the work day. This is where many of us fall short as outside commitments get in the way of that as well. As nurses we do need to learn and take the time to provide ourselves with self-care. I love what I do even on the days where I am the last one to be cared for by myself. Nursing is a profession and we do have an education to support our profession but it is also well known that we fall short when it comes to self-care.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
DeletePam, I do agree with you. I am proud of my profession and it is my job. I am no angel or have magical powers. I do it because it is who I am and how I care to be.
DeletePam,
DeleteI agree with everything that you said about nurses putting ourselves last when we take care of others all day long; the unfortunate things is that is what is defined as a good nurse.
The best nurses are selfless and put the needs of others first and stay focused on the task at hand and seeing a bigger and better cause. I am learning daily to put me first and remind myself that I am my VIP patient...if I am not ok, then how can I be available to take care of others.
Thank you for sharing your post.
V/R,
Samantha :-)
applaud this author, nursing is a job. A profession yes but still a job. As far as I know I have no wings on my back nor do I carry a wand. Nursing was a calling for most of us, but for others let us be honest. It was a job we could be proud of and find a professon in. For others it was a option set forth by their parents, between a military school or a nursing school, OK that was me. I also would never diminish nursing because it has offered me many opportunities and alot of memorable experiences. At times thou the job of nursing not the profession has caused the compassionate fatigue. We do need to be honest with ourselves and be able to speak with our voices together. Let the secrets be heard in a safe enviroment and learn to take care of one self, prior to caring for everyone else. This includes patients, caregivers, families and friends. Having the opportunity to attend Holistic nursing classes and becoming a certified holistic nurse as reinforced the need for the practice of self care. It is not about being selfish, it's about keeping your self healthy, physically and mentally. In the end self care will help keep you in the profession of nursing.
ReplyDeleteI think the article was interesting but the author seemed cold, distant and without compassion. Nursing is a profession where we put the patients first. I find it sometimes difficult to take care of myself when there are the needs of the patients to be taken care of. I think with nursing we should work on a medium in taking care of the patients and ourselves.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Jennifer. She did seem cold and distant. Almost as though she is just in it for the routine and the paycheck, not to actually make a difference in anyone's life. We are there to put our patient's first and to actually in our hearts want the best that we can give them while they are under our care.
DeleteI read this article and found my self bristling at the way this author described nursing...just a bowel movement to chart, and emesis to measure.....and I was thinking to my self, this is a hard person,... has she lost her compassion? is she burned out ? She reminded me of the nurses I met as a young grad nurse....You all know the kind....." the ate their young!" Maybe she should have taken her own advice to nurture herself and maybe the reason she became a nurse will reappear.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Judy! It was a real downer to read, personally!
DeleteI have to agree with Judy. And if I'm being honest, a bowel movement may just be a bowel movement in other hospitals... but we often times celebrate them here. A daily function for many and may sound so simple - but to a patient focused on having a BM and to eleviate pain etc - it's a positive. I feel the same for NGT's - patients with them in are miserable; but when they come out - it brightens up the world with their smiles. So I disagree with the author - taking out a NGT is more than just notating in the chart.
DeleteI agree with the author, I'm no angel.but I have chosen to help the sick get through difficult procedures by holding their hand, listening to your deepest feelings you can't share with your family, and being a friend when you need one. I'm eat my food to fast , don't drink enought water and only pee once on my shift, and don't have clear pee by three. But at the end of the day I feel good in what I have given to my patience.
ReplyDeleteI agree with many others in this post that this is a profession that I have chosen and that this is what I enjoy doing. I hardly ever eat, drink water, or use the bathroom while at work. I am exhausted and spend my days off recovering from the hustle and bustle of my 12 hour shifts. This job is all about combining compassion and skills and putting your whole heart into your work while you're there for your shift. These patients count on you and while we may not be angels, we still must nurture our patients. I myself have been trying to be better about self care because I know that I cannot be my best self as a nurse if I am not caring for myself properly. I am a new member of this profession and I know I have a lot to learn not only about nursing itself, but about self care/work balance. This is something that I am working to improve, so that I do not get to the point of being constantly burned out and losing my passion for this job and the people I serve every day. I feel as though we have such a different patient population in our hospital that helping people get through this terrible time battling this terrible disease may sometimes burn us out, but helps us to see how precious life is and that we need to care for ourselves to stay as well as we can for as long as we can to continue to help these patients during their times of need.
ReplyDeleteStephanie,
DeleteSelf-care is in every profession and it is part of all human resource packages. Selfcare was not discussed back in the 70's. Things have changed in the workforce for the positive. The nurses that did not have children were scheduled to work every holiday and that is the way it was! We also celebrated New Years Day in the delivery room with champgane and there were ashtrays mounted on the walls between each patient room! The landscape of selfcare in nursing is not where it should be, as it is not for many professions, but things have grealty improved. We need to take ownership and responsibility for ourselves - very hard to learn and I work on this everyday because of the expectatins of the past.
Before I decided to become a nurse, there are so many reflections and signs that I asked from God before entering this profession. The many times I've procrastinated and put aside the schooling for nursing has made me realized that I have wasted so many times and years that I could have been the wind beneath the wings of the patients that really needed my help. For me, nursing is not just a job because you want to earn good money because if that's the case I would have jump to a profession that make more than what we make, but for me nursing is a calling and a commitment that gives us every different emotions and feelings depending on how we did our job and how we face the challenges of our role as a nurse.
ReplyDeleteWhen I first started to be a nurse, I am not only thrilled that finally I get to make my decisions for my patients different from my role as a CNA who is just around the scene for support because you are not a nurse and you can't be very much involved in the accountability with your patients, but as the days and years go by I finally realized that nursing is more than just doing the tasks and the interventions that you wanted to implement to but also over the years you continue to grow as a complete person because you learn to be more caring and to be compassionate. Sometimes, it's hard and painful when the nursing profession is looked at as a "down and dirty" profession because of what we deal on a daily basis, but for those that doesn't know because of the things that we dealt in, "we save lives", and for that we can commend nurses as one of the unsung heroes of this day of age.
When I read the article, I can feel the melancholic tone that the writer wanted to expressed. Sometimes it makes me think if "Am I not good enough for my job because I am not appreciated?" or " Will I stick to this job because this is what feed me at this time?" If I am to answer this questions at this time, I will still say that I am proud of becoming a nurse not because I do or don't do a good job or because of the compensation that goes with it, but because I learned to commit not only to the profession but as well as to the patients. And for me commitment is something valuable even in the expense of your own self sacrifice. I enter this profession not knowing what expectations or rejections I may get, but my conscience above all is saying ' I am doing a good job" because God knows how I pour my heart, sweat and tears to deliver the best possible care for my patients all the time.
To my patients, "Ill be your cloud up in the sky, I'll be your shoulder when you cry, I'll hear your voices when you call me because I am not just your nurse...... but also your angel.
p.s. Love your write-up, Richie! I agree that the author of this article was melancholic. A real downer!
DeleteRichie, it is from that "down and dirty" that Florence Nightengale instituted handwashing and the rest is history! The writer had valid points but she might need to be recharged.
DeleteThank you Richie!!! Your personal response to this article is priceless.
DeleteRIchie, thanks for sharing why you became a nurse and for sharing how you've grown in your profession. You are doing a good job with caring for your patients. Take care of yourself, so you can continue to be a nurse for many, many, many more years. The patients need you!
DeleteHi! The author had some strong statements. I am not upset that the perception of nurses as being "angels" is out there. I think we are, or can be, in times of need. What I get upset about is that our environment, in direction pateint care, does not lend itself to proper self-care. If direct-patient care nurses are not paid for a 30-min mealtime, then that time is their own--they should not have to also concurrently take care of patients, and spread their meal over 2 hours. What our profession needs is a culture change, whereby nurses who are ALSO free of a patient load ASSUME another nurse's full load, so that she/he can take an uninterrupted break. I feel very strongly about this. So, to that end--nurses ARE angels, because they work tirlelessly all throughout their shifts!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Theresa :)
Deletei totally agree with you. How many times did i try to get my lunch break and get called to go back to the floor because my patient need his/her painmeds?
DeleteI'm a PCT and at my young age of 24 I have worked with Oncology patients for 6 years now ( almost 4 in this hospital). I can't count the number of times I wiped tears, gave hugs when needed, held vomit bags and cried with patients due to bad news. It is who we are in the healthcare field we are CARING people, we always care and we always wanna help. Although the author of this article seems a bit self-fish and cold I think she made a valuable point. A point I've heard many times from various people in this calling/profession as I'm crying "you have to learn how to distance yourself ". Like the old saying "you can't love someone else unless you love yourself and so it should also be that You can't take care of someone else unless you take care of yourself...
ReplyDeleteElvia, You have a great outlook on life and the nursing profession. If I ever quit caring about my patients then it is time for me to quit this profession because that is the whole purpose, to care and give to others what they can not do for themselves.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis article was a little shocking to me. I have been referred to as an angel a few times and have always taken it as a compliment. When people are in a very vulnerable position and someone takes care of their pain, private issues, and any little need that they can't do themselves they are very appreciative. Angels aren't God. They don't do miracles or healing, but they do minister to people, and that is what nurses do. No, nurses do not have wings, halos, and harps, but I really don't think anyone means that when they refer to us as angels. We just care for people, whether it's our calling or just our job, it's what we do. I love my job and I love the opportunity to make someone's day a little better. So, call me an angel or a sweetheart or whatever...I will take it as a compliment.
ReplyDeleteSome valid points were made in the article about self care which I find to be very important. So much of that is in the attitude with which you approach things. The smallest things you do for yourself can be uplifting if that is your intention. Like a short walk out in the sun, lighting a fragrant candle as you read at night, or laughing and playing with your dog. It is not about being selfish or counting how many things you did for others that day. It is more about having a positive attitude and a grateful heart.
“I am a nurse. I do a good job. That is enough.”
ReplyDelete“I am a teacher. I do a good job. That is enough.”
“I am a garbage man/woman. I do a good job. That is enough.”
“I am an IT support (please pray that never happens). I do a good job. That is enough.”
“I am a telemarketer. I do a good job. That is enough.”
“I am a dishwasher. I do a good job. That is enough.”
“I am a camp counselor. I do a good job. That is enough.”
“I am a resident assistant in the dorm. I do a good job. That is enough.”
...............
Every profession has it's "angels" from the teacher to the counselor to the poor soul on the IT help line that just assisted me. I was taught and have instilled in my children that every"job" you have you give 200%+++. I have worked many of the jobs I listed above. You can take the word nurse out of this article and insert any profession. Do every thing with love and gusto.
One of my treasured awards: I used to volunteer as a camp nurse and I rec'd the first "staff award" that they had just started. And you ask why I rec'd this. Not because I was the "Nursee" as they called us, but they were short staffed - yes this does happens in other professions, and I volunteered and took over the cleaning of the KYBO. You ask what the KYBO is - :Keep Your Bowels Open" - the bathroom. The toilets sparkled. I enjoyed hosing down the floor (and getting a few kids wet when they walked in the door) and they knew they better not leave toothpaste in the sink! The KYBO shined and I was proud. I was the angel of the KYBO and proud of it!
Love what you do, give more than 200%. If you need to move on than take the positive and negatives and mold them into your new profession. Be the best wastebasket emptier or the best nurse. This is your profession, your pride. When it becomes a job then you need to take a step back, reevaluate, recharge, maybe move on to another career or another "nursing avenue". We all get stagnant - it is our responsiblity to seek out the resources abvailble to us to help us move on or ramp up. The second responsiblity is to care for ourselves - yes this is our responsibility. We are not the only "job" "career" that misses lunches, bathroom breaks.....Ever watched Undercover Boss? Garbage lady carried around a coffeee can to urinate in because the of the route...We are our own advocates and it is our responsibility to advocate for our career now or our future career- wherever you are led.
“I am a nurse. I do a good job. That is not enough. The toilets need to sparkle".
Pat
Wow! I love it! Thank you!
DeletePat,
DeleteThere is no doubt why you are a second time Daisy Award winner. I am most impressed with your work, and you as a person.
You know what they say, "Surround yourself with beautiful people, and you yourself become one."
I am proud to be a peer of yours. Thank you for teaching by example.
Pat, Well said with many good points. Be the best you can be in the profession you have chosen. That is a great thought and so true and you are an exemplary role model to all nursing.
DeleteAwsome Pat ! I remember you as Nursee, and was thankful you were my son's Camp Nurse !! You have always had a great work ethic!! Happy to be your peer and friend for over 30 years. You are an Earth Angel to many!!!
DeleteThank you Pat!!! Very well said. I completely agree.
DeletePat, you amaze me! I personally did not connect much with this article...to each their own right? But that being said, I connect very much with what you posted. Every job/career has it's pros and cons. Sure we delay bathroom breaks and cut lunches short, sometimes skip self care all together. But that is not unique to nursing, it has happened in every job I have ever had. At a fast food place, fresh fries come before bathroom breaks, in retail the customer comes before lunch, in insurance that accident in the middle of the night comes before sleep. And in nursing, our patients needs sometimes trump gettting off work on time. But I promise that every time I got off late, my patient was well taken care of, and at the end of the day that is not a sacrifice for me, it's what I signed up for and it made me feel great to know that I did a good job. I'm no angel...I don't even play one on TV.
DeleteI applaud Pat for her comments and agree with the responses.
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ReplyDeleteIm not sure i have ever viewed nursing from the authers perspective, i CAN honestly say however that in have heard the term "angel" used to describe nursing and i take that completely as a compliment coming from a patient perspective. I believe that putting your all into nursing care can definetely give any patient the best care and allow them to call that experience whatever they see it as. I am a firm believer that nursing is a respected role from a patient perspective and i have heard so many times over the years that we are special and there arent enough of us to go around. I recently recieved the Daisy Award Nomination and the patient who nominated me called me her personal Angel-and that is absolutely an rewarding feeling.
ReplyDeleteI am not an angel now or before. That is not a goal of mine.
DeleteI agree with you Jolie! I take the word angel as a compliment when coming from a patient. Congratulations on your Daisy Nomination!
DeleteI agree! Anyone can pass meds, do an assessment, etc. but it is the compassion we give as nurses that makes the difference.
DeleteAfter reading the article, I agree and disagree with some parts of it. Nursing has always been considered a noble profession. We teach our patients, we advocate for our patients, we sacrifice for our patients. Because of that, we earned the term, "angel" from many people. We walk in the room when a patient just heard depressing news and offer them a hug. Personally, sometimes I feel that God places me in certain places at certain times to do his work and become an "angel." Does that mean that I sacrifice myself sometimes? Yes. But most of the time, I am acutely aware of my needs as a person and have the capacity to control and nurture those needs. I feel like I owe it to myself, and I owe it to my children to be healthy for them.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you Kari! Nurses are often placed in "the right place at the right time" to make a big difference in the care/life of the patient. Nurses need to be proactive in giving themselves self care each day to be able to come to work with a new mindset and be ready to help the patient's that require energy from the nurse.
DeleteI thought the article was great! I see many nurses running themselves ragged, getting to committee meetings, getting that next degree or certification which are wonderful accomplishments. But our families, friends and our health are sometimes left behind. Those things are important to me. Life outside of nursing is where I am nurtured. I love my work as a nurse and get extreme satisfaction from what I can offer my patients. But very high expectations are placed on nurses to always push for more. The type of work we do causes high burnout. Yes, we are here for the patients in all ways possible and we are lucky to finally live in a time and work in a place where we are learning to give self care too. It has taken time to learn, but without my health, I can be nothing for anyone else. It is my job and I do the best I can.
ReplyDeleteIts all about work life balance, I agree, I get my fulfillment outside of my career. It does seem that we are pushed to accomplish more and more professionally and sometimes made to feel less than adequate if we don't .
DeleteI worked at a Catholic nursing home in the past where the Catholic Sisters that were also RN’s were far from angelic. One example (I have many more) is when I was calling a code and needed help with a patient who became diaphoretic and unconscious. I pulled the call light, called 911 on my cell phone and stayed by the patient while sticking my head out of the doorway calling for assistance. A Catholic Sister was walking slowly down the hallway, turned her head and looked at me, smiled and walked away. The Sister was then later reported, but no reprimand was given. This kind of behavior happened multiple times from “Angels of God.” The facility was reported to the state many times but nothing was ever done to my knowledge. I believe that no matter what profession you are in, nursing, Sisterhood, or missionary work, healing and helping people takes a certain kind of person. But we all are human beings, we make mistakes, and there are good and bad nurses, unfortunately. I pray every day that God will help guide all nurses in our paths and in all that we do.
ReplyDeleteYes, I am not an angel. I am a nurse. I use book knowledge and experience to do my job.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree. Just like any job done well you are trained to do it and you do it.
DeleteI've been a nurse for 36 yrs. Before that, I worked as a nursing assistant. I worked along good nurses and not such good nurses and, as a young mother who could see that one day, I would need to support my children, I was keenly aware, that the nurses made more money, than I did. It made me think, "I can do that." I also watched my older sister, a nurse, start and stop nursing jobs, and choose different shifts, based on the needs, of her family. I chose nursing, because it was a practical choice for a woman. I couldn't have done it, if it hadn't been that way. I was blessed to, also, like the work.
ReplyDeleteBut, it is hard work. Exhausting work, both physically and mentally. If you did your job today, you probably didn't have lunch, a break, or been hydrated or toileted. You probably took care of a patient that is closer to dying, than not. And, you may have felt taken advantage of, in one way, or another. So, I don't find fault with Margaret Belcher's piece. If we didn't have voices like hers, who knows where nursing, as a profession, would be. I can tell you, there was no talk of "self care", when I was a new nurse!
The goal is to have the hard things peppered with some of the "Good stuff" that Richie and Pat talked about. I think how much each of us needs of that, varies, from person to person and from day to day and doesn't necessarily predict what kind of nurse we are. Some days an angel, some days, not.
I loved Richie's (a new nurse) and Pat Dillow's (not such a new nurse) pieces.
I too, agree Margie. I have been a nurse for more than 40 years and too do not remember being taught the concept of self care. Nursing is continually to evolve. I think too, some days angels, some days not. But as Pat Dillow says we still need to sparkle.
DeleteWhile I do my best to tuck my angel wings in... (LOL) I both agree and disagree with the author. Yes, she brought up situations of delayed bathroom and eating breaks...but I somewhat disagree the stereotype of angel is a horrible thing. I believe patients find comfort in a smile or a hug when needed. Nursing goes beyond my "job responsibilities" and therefore notion of angel is created. I believe angels exist across many careers. Since I work in an area of pretty stable patients - I believe it is my choice to wait a moment longer to use the restroom etc and does not necessarily contribute to "burn out". I am thankful to work in a place where employees are appreciated and the nurse to patient ratio is staffed appropriately so that I can spread my wings.
ReplyDeleteI like your post, and I have to agree. The idea of a nurse being an angel, even though it is not necessarily true, may have its benefits. The idea of it providing emotional comfort in itself may be therapeutic. I also think it is my choice to not take a lunch break, or use the bathroom etc. We need to know our own personal limits, and allow ourselves a break to prevent burn out.
DeleteI don't really consider my an angel in my profession. I chose this career because it offered flexiblity, and the ability to earn a decent income in addition to being in a people helping profession. Taking care of our patient population enhances my life, they are ther real angels.
ReplyDeleteYes- I believe our patients are the angels, too!
DeleteI agree, patients add a lot to our lives also. I also believe that a nursing career offers a lot of benefits that can help fulfill our needs in our personal lives.
DeleteWorking in MRMC for 10 years, I had few patients who called me as an Angel, It's a very good feeling that your care has been appreciated and noticed. As we all know we prioritize our patients than ourselves. Sometimes you wouldn't notice how things going when you focus on that special moments. Doing Treatments, talking and lestining to there needs. Simple things could be very important to our patients. Yes there is no such thing as a Nurse Angel, but in the eyes of our patients if they meet there needs, and well taking cared of, then you're an Angel.
ReplyDeleteThe author sounded disgruntled. It seems like she has lost her compassion, and may be burnt out. It sounds almost mechanical to me. We see the problem, we fix the problem, and we document the problem. It was very cold. I chose this profession because I was interested in the medical profession, I wanted to help sick people. I love being a resource finder, and advocate, the flexibility, and the variety options, and settings for which a nurse can work.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Angela, the author sounded somewhat hard. We do not work with cogs or on an assembly line.
DeleteVery good point Angela! I couldn't put my finger on it until you used the term burnt-out. Yes, the author appears to be very matter-of fact and disgruntled. Unfortunate.
DeleteI agree, Angela! I particularly did not like her mentioning the patient's emesis as simply "something to document." I would not want a nurse that had so little empathy/compassion/regard for me.
DeleteI am not offended when I am called an angel. I see this as a compliment and term of endearment from the patient. I am privileged to work with so many interesting, complex, and varied personalities within the nursing profession. I am challenged intellectually and mentally each day. I am lucky to be in a profession where I am valued. Somenone once told me how fortunate I am to make a difference every day in someone's life, having that personal contact which gives support & positive energy, even in dire situations, as the person I was speaking with was a stock broker and said in his job, he makes rich people richer, he found little to no satisfaction or social value in his daily work. So yes, I feel privileged. I do understand the author's frustration with lack of bathroom breaks or lunches. With many years of experience and maturity, I now just stop and take the time I need for my needs, It is ok to finish what I am doing, then calmly proceed to the next patient requesting my attention. When it is not an emergency, it is ok if the patient waits a few minutes for me to complete my task or I ask for help from a colleague so I do not have such a chaotic day. We often let ourselves get pulled into other commitments outside of work, being angels at home and in our children's schools. Sometimes I step back and say it's ok not to bake for the school bake sale this time, I cannot volunteer this time. It is ok to leave your cellphone in the car when you are working out at the gym, so no one can interrupt, it is your time, you do not need to be an angel on call to everyone constantly. We control how much we give to everyone, time has taught me it is ok not to be available at every moment to everyone.
ReplyDeleteI agree Donna, listen to and heed your words of wisdom-"time has taught me it is ok not to be available at every moment to everyone"-ie: health club guy:-)
DeleteWell said Donna. I am not offended to be called " You're an Angel ", I believed that compliments like that is very rewarding. I think nurses can be very hard to themselves despite hard work and sacrifices. We don't consider rewarding ourselves. We wait for someone to notice our job well done. As evidenced with our own Stakeholder 2 Stakeholder recognition awards. In our meetings they are always asking nurses to nominate co workers and collegues. Being called an angel is not a magical fantasy but a gratitude from a very satisfied patient. Being a good nurse entails education, experiences, compasiion, hard works and what nots. I consider Nursing as one of the noble professions. We do not only care for these patient but the entire family, we are educators, advisor, advocates, confidants,care givers and so on & so forth. We should not forget to take care of ourselves, too. Actually I am one of those mentioned in the article to forget bathroom breaks if needed, or eating late because you have a very sick patient or have a code blue that you need to take care of.Maybe it is not right but as A NURSE you became or born LIKE THAT.So KUDOS to All good nurse's out there Especially our nurses in CTCA/MRMC
DeleteWE ARE SOME KIND OF A BREED. And we should not forget that.
Nursing profession is for the brave heart,i have nieces who wants to go to nursing and i told them , you have to have passion to be in this field. When I went to nursing, i am fully aware of the sacrifices and im willing to do it because it is by childhood dream, it is not just a nurse, we are teacher, advocate, we are almost everything to them.It is very important that we take care of ourself, we should be physically , emotionally well to better take care of our patients.
ReplyDeleteI agree and disagree with Margaret Belcher and the article she wrote. I did not become a nurse to be elevated to angel status, it never crossed my mind as a new young nurse. However, I remember vividly one of the first times I was told I was an angel by a mother whose child was hit by a car and we ( the ER team ) worked feverishly to save her child and did. I and the others were" just doing our job." To that mother we saved her baby. I received and angel ornament from the little girl when she recovered and a huge hug and thank you. Her mother called me her daughter's angel. I still hang that ornament each year on my tree 33years later. It reminds me why I love what I do and it is not just a job!
ReplyDeleteI always looked up to you and the other nurses when I was volunteering in the ER many years ago. You all influenced me in different ways to become the nurse I am today. I still consider you a mentor as we continue to progress through our careers. Thanks:-)
DeleteI do not disagree with all the points in this article but when I read one line, I chose to read no further. "What patients don’t understand is that to me theirs are just a bowel movement to document and emesis to measure." I myself am still currently in nursing school and hope that in no point in my career do I take on this attitude.While I do agree that I see many nurses day to day not able to take a lunch or run to the bathroom in a timely manner, this matter is not just an issue for nurses alone. There is the lawyer who worked all night to prepare his case for the next morning, the janitor who worked a double to buy his children new tennis shoes, the teacher who stayed late to help a student in need. The feeling of being overworked is a common problem of any career choice, one that I feel now and I am not yet a nurse. Even being overwhelmed on a daily basis with the things I need to get done, I still feel the need to look at each patient I speak with as someone who needs my help. If they didn't need assistance, they wouldn't be here. I refuse to look at them as just a bowel movement or just another voicemail I have to listen to, but a human being! Here at CTCA we make it a goal to never make ANY patient feel like just another medical record number but an individual. An individual that we get to know, love, and help to the best of our ability. When you help someone with their basic needs of life that they are accustomed to doing themselves but can no longer, they may view you as an angel. While you may not strive to be viewed this way, it just may happen. I can only hope to affect a patient's life that way when I finish school!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Kristen. I hope you never become someone who has this type of attitude. I have been working as a nurse for 7 years and i too, like many, have been called an angel by patients or family members. While, i don't see myself as an angel, i don't dislike or get upset that i am being called that. There are far too many worst things that have been said to describe a nurse than an angel. We help patients when they are at their worst and because of that they see us as angels and there is nothing wrong with that. You don't have to agree with it but i also feel that it is not something to be upset about.
DeleteI am a nurse. I am educated. I went to school to learn how to do a job, a good job. I was born with compassion for others and the love of all people so I chose to become a nurse. I am no angel. I am full of flaws and don't feel I should be looked on as an angel. I think people have a difficult time expressing gratitude and use the term for a lack of a better word so it doesn't offend me in any way but the fact is that I am no angel.
ReplyDeleteI think "angel" is too dramatic and fantasy-like for me, but that is just my opinion. I would rather be respected for doing a good job and helping people get through their worst days, just like I would hope those in other professions would help me get through mine(auto mechanic, HVAC guy, vet, tax/accountant, clergy, etc).
ReplyDeleteThis article sounds like a burned out nurse who is venting! I don't disagree with all the points she made, but I do feel like she was looking at nursing from a cynical point of view. Her hypersensitivity to the word "angel" when referring to a nurse dumbfounded me. In my experience, when the word angel has been used it is referring to the excellent care and kind-hearted nature of the nurse - not "magic" and other supernatural powers the author seems to coorelate with the word angel.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more. I don't believe a patient that refers to their nurse as an angel is implying they are a magical creature, but simply using the term as an expression of their appreciation of excellent care!
DeleteI agree, Brittney. She sounds like she was writing while she was angry with her job as a nurse. She may be the example of compassion fatigue that she spoke of. I also don't consider myself an angel, just someone who cares. If someone wants to call me an angel though, I won't fight it!
DeleteThis article stirred up many emotions for me as well. I do not think of "angel" as a stereotype or negative term. I would take it as a compliment. I believe there are in every profession some days that require self sacrifice.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading Pat's post and the comments that followed. I truly enjoy reading all the posts which make me proud to be part of the nursing profession.
I have to say this article was very interesting. I do think it is nice to hear a different perspective from another person. I'm not sure that I agree with this nurse.
ReplyDeleteIn the past I have worked in occupational health as a nurse. In that roll I have felt like an angel.... Meaning, I actually saw horrible trama & severe injuries to my patients. I was able to take care of them on site. Follow through with their care, save their jobs, and return them safety to work. I fought hard to make sure that my patients/employees were well taken care of and that their employer followed FMLA / OHSA protocols. In this roll I do feel like I was very effective at my job. I love being a nurse. I love helping patients. I think when you are passionate about your job, it becomes very easy.
I'm no angel, and that is a fact. But if my patient referres to me as being an "angel", it is not offensive to me. I have been a patient in severe pain before, and my nurse left me crying in pain for well over 4 hours until the patient across the hall complained about the crying. The nurse (not the same one that neglected me) that came in just to provide some comfort while she checked into getting my pain meds, certainly qualified in my book as an angel. In my pain riddled state, I may have even told her she was an angel for helping me get some pain relief. It was meant as a compliment. But contrary to what the author, Margaret Belcher suggests, I knew my nurse was a nurse, and not a angel existing on a higher plane. I love being a nurse, and I enjoy helping my patients, and for me this is a calling. Sure it is a job too, but I could not be a nurse and do what we do if I wasn't compelled to do this line of work. It is hard and challenging work, but It brings me joy and fullfillment. Sometimes headaches and backaches too, but I am a nurse, and a good one at that, so I know that some really good self care will put me right back on track and back to doing what I love. That is enough...at least it is for me.
ReplyDeleteChristi
Christi I enjoyed reading your post. Sometimes our patient need to see us in this way to give them hope or help them cope with not being able to perform their ADLs. I do think that there is a need for a nurse to have compassion otherwise our patients can sense that they are not being fully attended to.
DeleteI liked this article but I wouldn't say that I agree. I don't view being a nurse as "just a job", if that were the case I wouldn't have gone to school to be a nurse. I would have just found some other job. I became a nurse to feel like I am helping others that need me. Yes, there are many times I have waited hours to use the washroom, heard my stomach growl countless times, and gone home so tired I caught myself nodding out on the way home. But I am not selfish, that's why I'm a nurse. I don't necessarily need the help that these people do so I'm ok with being a little hungry, tired, or having an occassional UTI. It's not ideal at times but I'm looking at the bigger picture. I don't need to be seen as an angel, just to be seen as I am.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Lindsey! If I did not get some satisfaction from helping people/caring for people who need me, this would not be my "job" of choice!
DeleteI can't say that I agree with the author. Unfortunately, I think nursing is the only profession she's ever had, or had close contact with. Drawing on my own experiences, from years of working in a cubicle, there is a different world out there, where work is monotonous and can be very removed from connecting with people. I had a chronically ill toddler and saw throughout her several hospitalizations what an impact a good nurse had on our stay and what a negative impact a bad nurse made. Call it cliche, but I definitely felt a calling to be a nurse. I had such gratitude and respect for the good nurses - seeing how they spent the majority of the time with us - Not the doctors. I've met nurses who have helped me that are definitely angels. Their positive impact on our lives in a time of great stress inspired me to become a nurse. I feel sad for someone who just sees it as a job and punching a time clock. She might have more appreciation for her work if she spent a few days in a cubicle with flourescent lighting overhead, fake plants and Muzak playing in the background.
ReplyDeleteThis was definitely a wonderful article and one that truly hits home. I work in the Infusion Center and I have received those angle pins from the gift shop that patients have given me. I felt weird when the patients gave them to me because this is my job and I am committed to showing up to work every day and showing my patients that they are cared for. Unfortunately in the field that we all work in, there is that need for hope that our patients look to have and sometimes they see that in us nurses as we are the ones rubbing their backs or holding their hands as they cry.
ReplyDeleteI do see the point of this author that we do need to take care of ourselves so that we may better take care of others. There are many times when we have patients and don’t feel like we have the time to pee but you won’t be any good to your patients if you call in sick next week because of a UTI. There are some things that can wait and some that can’t. I can remember a time when a clinician called me and said that they needed an appointment for chemotherapy and there were none available due to sick nurses being out and that patient would have to wait. The clinician said “this patient needs chemotherapy”. Steroids for cord compression or something else is urgent but a chemotherapy that the patient has to come the next day for Neulasta is not life or death. I know that we are all under pressure to give our patients the Mother Standard of Care but sometimes that means that they have to wait because it will be safer for them.
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ReplyDeletePerhaps I am too new to nursing (3 years) to take this cynical perspective. This is a caring profession and that is something in which I take pride. As a nurse, I know that nurses are not angels, myself included. However, if a patient sees me that way, I feel like I am doing my job very well. Many of the oncology patients we see are in pain and feeling vulnerable and frightened. To them, someone who is warm and caring and meets their physical needs in a timely manner may seem like an angel and I don't understand the author's hypersensitivity to the word. If I considered nursing just a job and a paycheck with no caring component, I would do something else entirely.
ReplyDeleteI believed the author has CF syndrome to publish the article. Being complimented as an ANGEL is not a magical fantasy. I believed a sign of Gratitude for a job well done. It is very rewarding when a patient or family member recognize your hard work. Working in MRMC for so many years easpecially dealing with oncology patient is very draining mentally, emotionally & physically but when somebody ask you how everybody is so nice and good, or, is there some kind of training, and where we came from because they can't find our kind of nurses anywhere, make everyone so PROUD and selworth flying high.On the other side, she is right that nurses neglect to do self care. although it is hard, we should really make a big effort to do it. We will be more of help to others if we are healthy/
ReplyDeleteI think that our patient's view most nurses here at MRMC as angels, because you are right in what you said; "they can't find our kind of nurses anywhere." I feel it is our hiring process, along with emphasizing the mother standard of care that sets us apart. Being called an angel from our patients is the utmost complement. Self care ensures that we will be able to remain in our position as nurses longer to be able to serve and care for our patient's longer.
DeleteI enjoyed this article. Like many above, I am who I am and made the choice of being a nurse. I am a nurse. I am not a angel or a magician. I do it because of the love of it. Yes, I do put my job ahead of myself and do see that I must refuel my self with self care to continue to provider the care that I do to my patients, family, friends and loved ones. We are who we are...we are nurses, mother, friend, wife, husband. That is who we are!
ReplyDeleteI have to say that it has been most interesting to read all the comments this article has prompted!!
ReplyDeleteI believe that there are angels among us!!
I believe that angels exist within the nursing profession. I have been fortunate enough to have had my life blessed by a few very special “angels.”
I also believe that angels exist within all professions and are not isolated to nursing. I do not see being referred to as an angel anything but positive. I can only hope and pray to some time, in some small way be an angel to others and have that profound of an influence in their life.
I have been called an angel from several patient's here. Yes, I take it as a complement, but I don't feel as if I am an angel. I feel that I am just doing a job that I love to do, along with serving others. Angels do exist in all professions, and I feel that if a person loves what they do, it is not a JOB to them. In return, they give it their best, are happy, and willing to go out of their way for others.
DeleteI think you can be an angel in any profession that is chosen. I feel like being called an angel is a compliment. Yes, there are good and bad people in all professions but I feel we should be our best each and everyday. It is important to take care of ourselves. In oncology, there are many sad and relatable stories. We need a way to express these situations and communicate with each other.
ReplyDeleteI think the author was trying to express that we are nurses, not to be put up on a pedestal or worhipped like an angel. I think that this article goes well with this quote- “Our job as nurses is to cushion the sorrow and celebrate the joy, everyday, while we are ‘just doing our jobs.’”
ReplyDelete- Christine Belle, RN, BSN
A thought provoking article and great comments above. I chose the nursing profession because I truely wanted to help people. I feel the author of this article may need to take time off and smell the roses and realize that what we do is a gift to be able to do. So many people are in ill health and we in good health are able to help others. I agree that nurses can get burned out by not considering their own needs, but the discussion is out there and each nurse should evaluate when a change is needed and to take the needed steps to get the help they need. It is great when patients compliment us. It is said that there is no greater compliment but to have someone imitate you. So does that mean that patient's see our actions imitating what they think an angel would do?
ReplyDeleteI agree, I think the nurse that wrote this may not appreciate at this time what she does. We all have moments and need to know ourselves well enough to take a step back in those moments.
DeleteI have truly enjoyed reading everyone's responses! I think it is good for us to look at this and get fired up one way or another about it. I personally think that being called an "angel" by a patient is one of the best compliments I could receive for the care I provide. To me it says that my efforts are appreciated and I have made a sincere difference in their lives. I think in almost any profession there is an opportunity to make a difference and help others. However, with nursing, I think we are just lucky to have an opportunity to help others during some of their most difficult times in their life. And that perhaps, is why our assistance stands out more than in other professions.
ReplyDeleteI am a nurse because I love to care for others and enjoy the intellectual and personal challenges it brings with it. I am guilty of not caring for myself the way I should at times, and I know I should lead by example. I tell my patients the importance of rest, and drinking fluids, and eating a health diet, etc. and should "practice what I preach". I will work on this, but I hope I never lose my passion to make a difference in the lives of others.
I completely agree! I hope that the passion we have to care for our patients never gets lost. I also like how you tie in other professions because everyone has the capability of impacting another life in a positive way. Being an angel is a good thing and one must work hard or do something so special to be referred to as one.
DeleteI believe it takes a special person to be a nurse. Many times we skip lunch or dont use the restroom because we are preoccupied with caring for those who are sick. I've been called an angel many times and I just take it as a compliment that I'm doing my job well.
ReplyDeleteI agree to an extent. I think that yes we do not always take care of ourselves in the ways we need to. We sacrifice ourselves to give our patients the care they need and or want when they need it. We do need to take care of ourselves. I also think that it does take a special type of person to become a nurse. This special person can connect and form bonds with their patients can really impact the care the patient recieves. Patients appreciate us knowing them and remembering them.
ReplyDeleteThe way i see it, it takes a special person to be a great nurse. Not just a nurse, who sees his or her job as just that, a job, but someone who sees how much of a positive impact they can have on someone. For many of our patients, CTCA is their last hope. They come here knowing that there might not be anything anyone can do for them. We as nurses take care of them and make a difference in their lives. If they see us as angels then so be it.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine ever not feeling complimented when a person calls me an angel however I do understand the writers point. I think it comes down to your person feelings and what may be happening in your life in the moment. I've never heard a nurse say he/she got into the field because they didn't want to help people. It's in our blood and 'm glad that it is. it's what makes us unique!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely. Angels are unique that's why they are so special. Nurses are special Angels.
DeleteI believe anybody who goes above and beyond continually for somebody else is an angel! which definitely includes nurses as angels! It takes true feelings of caring to be a nurse. Individually we express how we feel differently but when a patient or another person is able to recognize it you are an angel.
ReplyDeleteI think the artical, "I'm No Angel" brought up some good points that nurses don't really talk about often. Waiting all day to go to the bathroom, eating lunch at 3:00 if you even find the time then, all because you have meds to pass before the expiration time, or you need to get that patient off to surgery, or your patient takes a downturn, and/or you get called to a code. There are so many variables to a nurses day every day, and then if you don't punch out on time, you can get written up. There is not enough time in the day to get everything done, so we try to become "super heroes", and forget about eating, or going to the bathroom to accomplish the next to impossible amount of tasks that are required of us in order to maintain or "image" that we can do it all. I recently injured my back at work when I changed a patient's abdominal dressing (a quick 3-5 minute dressing change) while she was sitting in the chair in her room rather than having her get back into bed which would have taken probably 10 minutes due to her status. I just bent over. It wasn't just the bending over that made my back go out, but the lack of caring for myself over the past few months. Putting the needs of my patients, and my children over my own self-care needs. Sometimes it takes something like this happening to us to make us realize hopefully the importance of caring for ourselves first, before we can fully care for our patients. It may sound selfish at first, but I was out of work for four days not being able to care for my patients. Self care is so important! Learn from my mistake, and take time to care for yourself. It is not selfish, but good nursing practice.
ReplyDeletei agree we Brenda-we nurses need to start taking better care of ourself so we can provide for others.
DeleteHere in CTCA, I have yet to see a staff that put themselves before others. We are always on the lookout how we can help others. We have the education and experience to do for others what they cannot do for themselves. We care about people and we wanted to help them on a grand and practical scale. Examples of these are: listening to patients;hug, touch and reassure them; help them eat and drink and assist them with bodily functions. As nurses, we constantly place the needs of others before our own needs. Constant sacrifice leads to burnout and compassion fatigue.
ReplyDeleteThe following are examples of self-care to prevent burnout and compassion fatigue:
1. Physical self-care= eat well, exercise, get enough sleep, get medical care as needed.
2. Psychological self-care= reflections, writing journals, engage in leisure activities like playing bingo with friends , let others help you PRN
3. Spiritual self-care= pray, meditate, attend retreats
4. Create team rituals= such as team building in sctu where in we went to a hotel and had bonfire, yoga exercises and had picnic style outdoors.
5. Professional self-care= take a break, take a vacation, balance case loads, attend seminars, dinner inservices to be kept updated with the new drugs
6. Balance Plan= among work, family, relationship, rest and play.
I felt the author was not real proud of her own profession as a nurse. Maybe she had a bad day? Most people are not usually offended when called an “angel” by their patients, it’s intended to be a compliment and not an insult. I did not agree with the author’s comment that nursing is not a noble profession. Any profession is noble, including nurses. I believe it takes a lot of sincere compassion to be a nurse. I do think we can work on taking better care of ourselves and put our own health as a priority. Often times, nurses feel guilty to put themselves first as they are constantly putting everyone else first. A better balance between work and home life should be a priority for everyone.
ReplyDeleteI am not an angel but being called one by a patient I take it as a great compliment.Many of us nurses put patient's needs ahead of ours because it's who we are -caring, compassionate and kind.So if a patient called me an angel i know I'm in the right place and I am making a difference.
ReplyDeleteI agree, it does make it feel like you are doing your job and so much more when complimented like that by a patient. It reaffirms our reasons why we became a nurse.
DeleteI totally agree with you Malgorzata.It is great compliment..
DeleteI believe WE are all angels. The author in this article did seem like she was having a bad day, or was just negative. The care, compassion, and knowledge that we have learned throughout our lives have made us into who we are today. Take that pat on the back if your patients consider you as an angel. We all deserve to be callled angels, and deserve to win the daisy award too!
ReplyDeleteYes, she seemed like she was having a bad day, or a rough patch in her work. Yes, there are nurses who believe what they do is just a job, and that's OK if they do it to the best of their ability and with compassion. I believe that nursing requires compassion, in addition to all the other things we have to know & be able to do. We work with human beings, and there has to be compassion and caring for others, otherwise, it really is just a job.
DeleteI definitely don't see myself as an angel, but I do have some sort of issue with the author claiming that you don't necessarily need to have compassion to be a nurse. Well, you don't, that's true, but then are you a good nurse? Maybe I guess. I truly believe though that our patient population especially needs to be shown compassion in order to aid in the healing process. Honestly it was never my desire to be a nurse. My mother even told me not too. My thought process was basically that there is a always job availability and that was comforting to me. But I have truly learned compassion through the process. That being said, yes nurses need to learn the art and balance of taking time for themselves. Just as we prioritize our patient care we need to prioritize our self care.
ReplyDeleteI completey agree Krista. It is an art that needs to be learned to have the type of compassion our patients need. But it is a balance, one that as nurses we struggle to have, but we need to remember that our sincere compassion without any self-care in return leads to burn out and compassion fatigue.
DeleteI had mixed feelings when reading the article. A part of me agreed and the other disagreed. I strongly believe it is extremely important to care for ourselves. Once at work, our minds are racing going at the speed of light. We often rush to get the task at hand accomplished ONLY to move on to the next. Unable to stop for a bathroom break or catch a breather. YES! we or most, entered the profession with a desire to help others and do for them what they are unable to do themselves. This however, does not mean we must sacrifice ourselves. I was the nurse that skipped lunches and clocked out "on time" only to sit back in the nurses station to finish charting well after my shift. Now a days, I take a full lunch and take better care of myself. Because if I don't, no one else will.
ReplyDeleteI agree that we shouldn't sacrifice taking care of ourselves in order to take care of others. I used to do the same thing - rush, rush, rush to try and get done what needed to be done, always putting myself last. I only ended up getting worn out, sick, and burned out. So true, if you don't take care of yourself, no one else will. It's kind of like what they say on airplanes - "put your oxygen mask on before helping others". If you don't - you won't be breathing for long and won't be able to help anyone else. So, if we don't take care of ourselves, we won't be able to take care of anyone else.
DeleteI'm not offended when people refer to nurses as "angels". I don't think that diminishes a nurses education, experience, knowledge, skill, or expertise. Yes, perhaps the "angel" RN is a stereotype, but I don't believe it's demeaning. Some people look at RNs as angels because of the love, kindness, compassion, healing, comfort, peace, and help that RNs often provide. And sometimes it's because RNs help save lives. We can do all those things BECAUSE we're experienced, educated, skilled, and knowledgable. Those attributes and the concept of RNs being angels aren't mutually exclusive. That being said, we need to remember that even if RNs are angels, we're still human and so we have human needs and shortcomings. We're not superhuman and need to take care of ourselves. We shouldn't sacrifice everything in order to live up to the "angel" myth. I can understand and appreciate the author's viewpoint. In a way, I'm sorry and sad for her that she thinks we can't be "angels" and human at the same time.
ReplyDeleteI felt the author was trying to convey that although patients may see our actions/ demeanor as being "angelic" but really this is all part of the job. Others may see it as going "above and beyond" but this is "every day" practice to her. I think that she wants to think of herself as a "nurse" and not an "angel" she doesn't believe the words are interchangeable.
ReplyDeleteAmy,
DeleteI agree with you, I also think that the author was more focused on the stereotyping conception more so than the significance of what we do as nurses.
After reading the article, I was left with mixed emotions. We all have met people who shouldn't be in their profession (whatever it might be) and others who have met their calling. I do feel that the Nursing profession is a noble calling for those who aren't in it just for the paycheck. I certainly agree that we do need to practice selfcare routinely and am grateful that we have the Holistic Council helping to remind us and empower us to take better care of ourselves.
ReplyDeleteAngels are God's servants, and as Christians ,we are too. We are commanded to love each other and bear one anothers burden, to help each other.So to be called an angel simply means, a person with a servant's heart.Calling Nurses as angel is just a patients way of thanking you for all your hard work, and patience.
ReplyDeleteI agree to the thoughts that sometimes as nurses we put others’ needs before our own. Always remember to care for ourselves first; in order to being able to care for others. There are sacrifices made with any professions, perhaps to those who work in the medical field the sacrifices are greater, compared to those in the non-medical field. Furthermore this profession can be taxing; working long hours, dealing with a complex patient/family, because of this, we gain knowledge and experience, we learn how to deal with these situations, and this is invaluable. At times we may “sacrifice” our self-care philosophy in order to care for others, not being able to take a bathroom break, eating a late lunch (if you are lucky). But those sacrifices made will help heal, and improve other’s medical condition. We are not looking for glorification, but in some situations patients, family members express their gratitude, and that is sufficient- that gives us a simple good reason why we chose this profession.
ReplyDeleteHortensia
As nurses we spend a great deal of time learning to take care of others and little time focused on how to take better care of ourselves. Even in nursing school the priority is not on the self but on others, so it is only logical that we put ourselves last.
ReplyDeleteNursing is not just a career to me but the essence of who I am and less of what I do. I see nursing as caring, giving, sharing, healing, etc.; knowing that everything that we do can change the dynamic of someone's life. To me this is what makes nursing so important is because we focus on the "whole" and give completely of our selves that we make a great impact on our patients.
Like most of the others that have posted, I am horrible with self-care. I don't take the breaks, the lunches and anything that says I am important because I feel that my patients need that time more than I do. But, all those missed opportunities add up and can take more time away from the patient if I am sick and or burnt-out than it would have been if I would have just taken the daily 30 minute breaks.
Our profession is on that is selfless and that is something that I am proud about and why nursing was so important to me. As I work daily on leaning to put self first, I am reminded by the author that I am one of many that fail this test but look to tomorrow for another opportunity to give and share of myself. I am proud to be a nurse and I know that the moments I miss on myself can save a life, warm a heart and change a mind. That is why I do what I do because it is just who I am.
V/R,
Samantha :-)
This is was such a wonderful article with a fresh perspective. I have always been a “people pleaser” far before taking nursing into a profession, and I have often struggled to maintain my own self-care and have often neglected myself to care for others. With no surprise, that same mentality grew as I became a nurse. I have been a nurse now for over two years here at CTCA and I learned that the more I gave myself to my patients, co-workers, and even my family, my “self” began to sacrifice in my neglect for my own care.
ReplyDeleteAll that to say, I did not realize I was not prioritizing my own self-care until I started my Holistic Program last year in March. I began to slowly realize that as a nurse, yes I am to care for others sacrificially, but that does not mean that care of myself should be replaced; it is a delicate balance of the two. I am grateful that I can now identify this in my life, and learn to balance my patient’s care and my own care, but I have by no means mastered this technique. This article helps to remind me that just because I am a nurse does not mean I should neglect my own self, which would only lead to burnout and compassion fatigue.
- THank you for another wonderful posting!
Samantha
I also feel like many nurses put everyone else's needs above their own including myself. I started the holistic classes last year and it has hade a huge difference if my life both professionally and personally. It has changed my life for the better. I am less stressed and do self care at least daily. I wish I would have found out about the holistic way a long time ago.
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