We kick off another year of Journal Club with a topic everyone can relate to both personally and professionally. Acetaminophen is easily obtained and is one of the leading causes for liver failure and liver transplantation in the United States. Patients and caregivers typically express surprise when I explain the reason behind the 24 hour dose limitations they are given for acetaminophen, or opioids containing acetaminophen. Many patients are also not aware that Tylenol and Acetaminophen are one in the same. For every patient or caregiver that I teach acetaminophen risks to, I ask them to pass this information on to at least one other person or family member. Perhaps you could do the same in your practice.
In regards to the article chosen for the October post, I have no ax to grind with Johnson & Johnson or its subsidiary McNeil Laboratories, the manufacturer of Tylenol. I also have no affiliation or relationship with the Peterson Firm who sponsors the website that I took this article from. Out of the10 articles I read for this post, it was the most comprehensive and did not require a PhD to read. All About Tylenol ( Acetaminophen)
*SInce October 2014 the daily recommended adult limit for Acetaminophen dropped to 3000 mg from 4000 mg. Opioids containing Acetaminophen now contain 325 mg acetaminophen per tablet versus 500 mg.
Questions
You are working with a patient that has been prescribed Norco (hydrocodone-acetaminophen 10/325) for chronic low back pain. Explain to them why they need to monitor and limit the amount of tabs that they take during a 24 hour period. Include in your teaching warnings about choosing over the counter medications for other symptoms they may be experiencing.
Using the October post and the following link for reference, present at least four distinctions between how opioids differ from non-opioids. Opioids Versus Non-Opioids
Discussion Question
Miss Colorado, Kelley Johnson, made a talent presentation at the Miss America Pageant that generated mocking comments from the hosts of television's "The View". The backlash from these comments lit up social media and cost the show millions of dollars in sponsorships. This event brought a lot of positive attention to our profession. It also brought to the forefront that many people just don't know what nurses do. Have some fun with this discussion question and either add a sentence or two to the "Seven Things" already listed, or add your own "Thing" you want everyone to know about nurses. Responding to someone else's blog is optional. Seven Things Nurses Want You to Know
Please send your answers to melissa.luebbe@ctca-hope.com .
#8. We are the ears and eyes of our doctors. We spend hours per day with patients while they spend only 30 minutes per day or less. If there is something going wrong with the patient, more times than not it is the nurse bringing it to the attention of the doctor. We will have listened to the patients complaints, assessed their mind, and assessed their body hours before the doctor even makes their rounds.
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DeleteYes exactly. I see very quick assessments by the doctors. I see a lot as an in patient nurse. I get to know the patients very well through head to toe assessments, accessing ports, assisting with toileting, turning, bathing etc. We definitely need to keep the doctors informed as to what is going on.
DeleteNurses are the eyes and ears of the healthcare field, specifically when talking about doctors. We are at the bedside and are able to recognize what is going on long before the physician is even aware of changes. The role of a nurse is almost undefinable as our scope is so broad and critical to the health of patients.
DeleteTheresa Minniear - Clinical Research
ReplyDeleteI really love this discussion post! My comment is more so geared for the community at large: Nurses are professionals. We are educated, have advanced certifications and degrees, and can think critically, just like a physician. Gone are the olden days (I hope) where nurses are viewed as subservient and solely female. I agree with Kari--we are the "eyes and ears" for one's physician.
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DeleteYES!!!!!
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ReplyDeleteWe advocate for ours patients! Nursing bedside manner allows nurses to connect on a deeper level with patients. When we demonstrate active listening it allows us to learn challenges the patient is facing that surround the main reason they are in the hospital. Nurses then communicate with other health care professionals like: Doctors, Physical Therapists, Social Workers, Psychiatrists etc. to address the patient's needs.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Brittney, we must listen to our patients with keen attention to fully understand their needs.
DeleteAgreeing with Brittney and Mary. Our listening skills need to be fine tuned in order to serve our patients well.
DeleteThis situation had a silver lining - a chance for nurses to illustrate what it is we do. Nurses have a wide range of practice options from clinics, bedside nursing, wound care, infusion, navigation, research coordinators, managers, advanced practice RNs, & educators - just to name a few. We influence nearly every area of patient care and are the backbone of medical care. We are highly educated and life-long learners. A nurse caring for you may have a Bachelors, Masters, or Doctoral degree. We have practical, social, psychological, and technical training. I'm always impressed by my fellow nurses and all they accomplish in the name of our patients!
ReplyDeleteI've read this not too long ago in one of the BMT book and this is just one example of a special regards of a transplant scientist that truly give a great respect to our profession.
ReplyDelete"Oncology BMT (Blood & Marrow Transplant) Nurses play a major role in the success of Stem Cell Transplantation. The Nursing Team in particular is responsible for the day-to-day care of the patients. NURSES not only provide bedside management of complex protocol studies but also bear the burden of emotional support through the difficult hospital period. They are the most readily available source of information for the patients and families day and night. Without the strong nursing team, the entire BMT program is jeopardized" - Forman et al.,1994 (Transplant Scientist)
And whatever unit or area we're working, the care, concern & heart that each and every nurse is truly amazing!
The nurses in the Radiation Oncology dept here are the backbone. We explain, support, look out for and treat for the side effects of radiation here.
DeleteYes Mary, we do:-) Everyday:-)
DeleteMaricel, this is a great exerpt to share (go stem cell!). I feel physicians and the patients defintely agree wtih this and see it firsthand, however, the general population still has some misconceptions to a nurse's true knowledge level and abilities. Nursing as a profession continues to evolve and hopefully with that will become better understood.
Delete6. We wish we could do more for you:
ReplyDeleteWe always want to go above and beyond for every single patient. It can be very frustrating when the nurse knows the path the patient is heading down and there is nothing more we can do. Very heart breaking.
2. We never forget our patients:
There is always something unique and special to each person I take care of, whether I’m learning more about a disease process from my patient, or they are telling me things they used to do for fun back when they were young.
Nurses treat patients as individuals! Not a medical record number or diagnosis. We sit, we listen, we touch, we feel, we comfort, we care!!! We do more than ask about symptoms. Patients look to nurses for further direction, for recommendations, as well as clarification. We make eye contact and sometimes that is all that it takes.
ReplyDeleteAgreed, Jess! It's our relationship with them that makes all the difference, for them AND for us.
Deletemy number one priority as a nurse is to be each and every one of my patients advocate. I do my best to be sure that all that can be done is being done and know that education (both mine and that I provide to the patient) is the key to the best care possible.
ReplyDeleteAgreed Jess! Advocating for patients is at the core of nursing. :)
DeleteNurses treat ill patients as a person, not as the one with COPD and lung CA or the person in room 322. I was looking through a journal I used to write about my patients when I last cared for inpatients. My patients really cared for us nurses. frequently it is the nurses that know the patients better than the physicians.
ReplyDeleteNurses are committed to improved patient care. We are continuously learning and provide evidence based research to find the best outcomes and solutions to problems. We strive to look for to better the patient. We take our profession seriously and treat each person the way we would want to be treated.
ReplyDelete#3 "We shed plenty of tears"
ReplyDeleteThis couldn't more true! Tears could be shed for many reasons. I can recall crying about numerous patients throughout the years. The hardest being when you make a special connection with a patient and their family and they pass. Working here, especially when I was on the floor I would take care of patients for days and many admissions and re-admissions before finally succumbing to the terrible disease that is cancer. I still remember a few of those patients like it was yesterday, they have forever made a difference in my life and I believe it happened the other way around as well.
4. We're working even when we're off the clock.
ReplyDeleteStudying doesn't come to an end when nurses get licensed.
"Medicine is constantly evolving. Practices are constantly changing," says Kleber. In addition to completing a certain amount of education to maintain their licensure, nurses must stay up-to-date at their facilities.
Often nurses come in on days off to do online education modules about new procedures
#4- so true! The more medicine advances, it seems the more advancements there are to be made. We need CE’s, we practice Evidenced base, we work to attain national certifications (and this takes lots of time for studying). Kudos to nurse for staying abreast a very dynamic career!
I agree with Candi , thats what i thought that after graduation im done with studying, I didnt realized that i have to study more and attend all these inservices and attain certain certification. i have to be updated with all the new technologies a nd medications that are available so i can be a better help with my patients.
DeleteAgreed Candi-our work is ongoing-it is an exisitence:-)
DeleteI would add to "Seven Things list," "Nurses are on call to family and friends 24/7." As a nurse, I am often called upon by family and friends for my opinion on a diagnosis or treatment, usually cancer related. Even at the health club, the guy attending the desk wants my opinion on his diabetes or his anti-hypertensive diet. I have been asked difficult questions such as, "how long does my dad have to live?" (Her father had glioblastoma.) I am surprised by the types of questions I am asked when I don't know the patient, the path, the stage, etc. I don't even know the person on the other end of the phone, as they have been a friend of my niece or the neighbor of an in-law in Florida. This is why I feel we are on call 24/7, not with our employers, but with our families and friends. We are resources and we are trusted.
ReplyDeleteI think #4 is very true and this also relates to Donna's blog. Nursing never stops.
DeleteI also want to say that I always wanted to be a nurse. Many, if not all of us, could have chosen to be a MD or any other profession but we CHOSE to be a nurse. It is frustrating at times that many lay people think we became a nurse as a second choice. It is also frustrating at time when any person wearing scrubs is assumed to be a nurse. We are professional, caring and educated individuals who have a love for taking care of our fellow human beings.
I agree. You have to love when someone calls you, stops you etc. for medical advice and once you tell them you do not know and that they should go to the doctor, you get the response "well you are a nurse aren't you ". Just because we are nurses does not mean that we know every GYN, pediatric, orthopedic, etc. issue that you are having.
DeleteI totally agree with The "Seven Things List". I believe a lot of people really do not understand what nurses do and see nursing as a "easy profession"; but it is far from it! Nursing challenges us every day mentally, physically, and emotionally. We are at the bedside more than any other discipline and are the patient's advocates!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree Amy. People don't realize how much goes into our day to make certain things run smoothly for our patients.
DeleteI agree. We are all the professions put inside one little uniform!
DeleteI love #2 "We never forget our patients." I've been a nurse, since 1979. I remember the first person, I gave an IM injection to, the first one I gave blood to. So many patients. I worked nights, the first years of my career and I can remember getting a call, from a husband, one night. His wife's teen age niece had been killed in a car accident and he asked me to tell his wife, when she woke. I loved that patient and so didn't want to give her that news. I was also there, to say good bye to her, after the doctor told her, there was nothing more that could be done, for her. I still remember her name! And I still think of her, some 35 years later. So many patients for so many nurses, mine is just one's story. Our patients live within our hearts - forever.....
ReplyDeleteMargaret,
DeleteI do agree with you, there are some patients that leave a long lasting impression in our lives- as a person and as a nurse. We will always have that particular patient that you will remember for a long, long time.
Hortensia Aiello
I personally like the 7 things listed that everyone should know about nurses. Where do you begin and end? The list is long. But I think this summary captures the core of nursing. It rises above the task orientated role and zooms in on the heart and sacrifices that are so much a part of being a nurse. I especially like the mention that we are forever changed and impacted by the patients we have cared for.
DeleteI absolutely agree!!! There are patients that come into our lifes and make us better nurses and better people. Those are the people your heart can't forget.
DeleteWe wish we could do more. I myself have had so many patients that i felt i wished i could do so much more. We listen to their stories any watch the progression of a disease take their daily lives and while we do whatever we can to help them and care for them, many times what we can do is not enough to save them. Nursing is so much more than our proffesion its our heart and souls caring for amother hear and soul. i am proud of what i do every day whether it brings tears of sorrow or joy, i enjoy being a nurse.
ReplyDeleteAgreed, Jolie. Nurses matter, and what we do, how we care, matters.
DeleteI agree with the 7 things especially with We wish we could do more and we never forget our patients, no matter what. Even on a personal level, we always want to do more, and revisit over and over what could of been different especially with outcomes that are not so favorable or positive. Our families and friends look up to us and come to us as resources, even if we do not have the answers , we look for them.
Delete. I enjoy being a nurse and the interactions I have . I gain something from each interaction no matter how small.
I agree we never forget our patients and wish there is more we can do for them.
DeleteI agree, as nurses we always wish we could do more for the patient and or family.
DeleteI believe that all nurses function as liasons to almost every department in the hospital. The more complicated a patients care the more we interface with multiple departments. We must always place ourselves in the shoes of a patient so that we can continue with compassionate care.
ReplyDeleteIt really is hard to choose just one of these 7 things. I really believe that most nurses' chose their job because they were called to do so. Most likely, you know if you are cut out to be a nurse. You know that you have to choose someone elses needs over your own most of the time. You know that you have to be willing to advocate for someone elses needs/rights. You have to be the eyes/ears to the doctor and be willing to notify the doctor no matter what time it is if you feel that it is necessary. We always want to do more for patients and caregivers and it is hard for us when we there is nothing more that we can do. We always remember those that either we have touched or that have touched us. We often take our work home with us and need to learn how to leave things at work. We love what we do because we do make a difference in healthcare.
ReplyDeleteWe take our work home with us. I was enjoying a beverage at a late night establishment several years ago. A middle aged man approached me and said, Kate? My boyfriend quickly moved to my side to assess why this man was speaking to me and my eyes lit up. He was a patient in the overflow ER that I took care of on my last night as a nurse at Good shepherd. I called in rapid response due to his increasing pallor, general malaise and alarms firing from the EKG monitor. They decided to take him to the cardiac unit, and I finished my shift with no further knowledge on his wellbeing and had no follow up due to changing jobs the next day. Well, this guy introduces me to his 22 year old daughter, and through a tear stained face she said is this her, the nurse that saved your life? She hugged me and said thank you for saving my dad. What I didn’t know about that night is that is that he had a major arterial blockage and ended up with a triple bypass later that night. My intuition knew something wasn’t quite right, although I didn’t have the knowledge as to what was wrong. However on this night as he is elevating my boyfriend’s view of his heroic girlfriend, I notice the pack of cigarettes and beer in this gentleman’s hands. I swiped both the pack and the beer and smiled and said, don’t make me save to your life again. I did give him his belongings back, but smiled and said we don’t control everything in our lives, but we can stop making bad decisions at any time.
ReplyDeleteGreat story! Thank you. I know that we (nurses) make a difference everyday. Some patients tell me and some don't. You just know they're grateful for us.
DeleteThat's a wonderful story! I can't imagine a better feeling then being stopped by someone you helped. What a great feeling!
DeleteIn addition to the cares provided to the patients in this setting, and as we interact with them as inpatients/outpatients- we become some sort of “adopted/extended” family members to them. We are their family away from home. As we all know the majority of these patients (in some situations) will spend long periods of time in the hospital, or receiving services as outpatients (chemo, radiation, consultations, follow up appointments, etc.) We learn about them, they share pictures of their children/family with us, they come by and see the staff when they return for treatments, etc. It is always nice to hear about the progress and some circumstances (sadly enough) to hear about their declining condition, we listen, we celebrate, we are saddened, and we cry along with them.
ReplyDeleteHortensia Aiello
Nurses put their patients first. We make sure our patients have food before we eat, they use the bathroom before we take any break. We answer the call light every 5 mins at 2am. We laugh and cry with our patients. We read to them and visit after our shifts. We are the first faces they see after surgery when they're scared and in pain.We are they're caregivers, friends, and at times confident.
ReplyDeleteI can't tell you the last time I finished a "hot" cup of coffee or warmed up my lunch and found a quiet place to eat....As nurse's our needs always come last. We joke that we need to wear leg bags during our shifts because we have no time to stop for a potty break. It's true that nurse's suffer the most diagnoses of UTI's. But we do all these things without thinking or complaining. I recently had a patient that was new to our hospital who was very stoic in the beginning but by the end of my assessment they broke down and showed how scared they actually were. At that time, I stopped the questions and came to sit closer to them to comfort them. I made a real connection to this patient and feel that is really what my job entails.
DeleteShelley, I completely agree. Breaks do not exist for us. We really should a way to allow for one, but there is usually no time for it.
DeleteIf I might add a #8, please understand and encourage us when we practice our much needed self-care, as we care better when we are well cared for:-)
ReplyDeleteBreak, what is a break? We are lucky if we get a chance to take one, and that includes a bathroom break. We feel helpless at times when there is not much more we can do, because we are problem solvers. We have the need to fix things. Put the stereotypes aside, because no one could every possibly imagine how difficult this job is without walking in our shoes. We wear so many different hats, and it definitely takes a certain kind of person to do this.
ReplyDeleteMany people do not understand what the roles of registered nurses are. We need to continue to educate others that nurses are not only caregivers, but we are also secretaries, counselors, care managers, researchers, mentors, educators, and even computer technicians. The comments made by the show were meant more as a joke than an insult on the nursing profession. I think that “in today’s world” things are taken way too personally. Soon we won’t be able to have a conversation with people because we will be too afraid of everything that we say will offend them. Also, whenever there is a tv show involved, there is always bias, politics, and show ratings that should be considered.
ReplyDelete#2. We Never Forget Our Patients
ReplyDeleteThis is very true. I have worked many years in the medical field and I still remember patients from years and years ago. Sometimes it's the random memory that pops in your head... or wondering how a patient's family is coping after you know the patient has passed... it could be their favorite food they were craving with a NGT in place... or a joke they told... a compliment you received that touched your heart. Each time you remember someone - it always seems like something different you remember about them. Nursing is more than just a job and while I remember my past patients - I think about my current patients too... if I'm off the weekend enjoying time with my family - I sometimes think and pray for a patient that I know is still inpatient in the same room, same hospital bed, that wishes they could be home with their family enjoying the same things.
I have read the responses to this discussion question with interest. Nursing is an elite fraternity – and being a member should instill a sense of pride. Nursing practice is bases on a holistic model that differs greatly from the model that trains medical doctors. I would add this to the “seven things” about nurses. Nurses are not doctor “wannabes.” The DNPs, or doctors of nursing practice, understand their role in nursing very clearly. Nurses chose their profession based on the philosophy of caring for patients as a whole: mind, body, and spirit. Nurses are still consistently at the top of Gallup Polls for the most trusted profession.
DeleteI think all this is boils down to our commitment to serve humanity, whenever and wherever we might be in the possession of time. I am inspired by Florence Nightingale Pledge and to quote a paragraph, “I shall be loyal to my work and devoted towards the welfare of those committed to my care.” We hold a prestigious profession and we all should uphold to the expectations of the people waiting for us to care for them. Everything that we ought- to- know about nurses enlisted here are only a parcel of the entire commitment we have to the public. I think Miss Colorado portrays a very key quality of being a compassionate nurse. We need to make known to the public that we definitely use stethoscope to provide excellent care to our patients don’t you agree?
ReplyDeleteThe moment I wake up to the moment I fall asleep I have my patients in my heart. I am so grateful to have a job I love. I like to share my smile with patients with the intentions of making there day a little brighter. No matter what, when being in the nursing field “our patients always come first". We all have busy days but in the nursing field we look past busy and continue to do. We not only administer medications or just wear a stethoscope; we are here to make our patients feel safe by comforting their pain and sadness. In health care there are no breaks, we stop what we are doing to tend to a patient in need.
ReplyDelete#2. We never forget our patients. It is almost mind blowing how much we remember about so many patients we meet. My patients have such a huge part of my heart. I pray for them every night. I think about them the next day when I know they have a procedure and I'm off for the day, but know that they are feeling nervous. I find myself remembering small things they like and dislike and get in a groove where I just know what they need, and that makes them feel so loved and cared for. Our hospital is filled with nurses that do those very things hourly. And even when patients pass and are no longer coming to see us every month or every few months, we remember them and the footprints that they left on our hearts. Some patients are just impossible to forget because they shaped who you are as not only a nurse, but a person.
ReplyDeleteStephanie,
DeleteI agree! I have had so many great patients and also challenging patients. I think the challenging ones stick in my mind the most though. That patient that no one can seem to get a smile out of, the patient that has given up and hates the world for it, these are the patients that I am pulled to because when I can get them to crack a smile or chuckle it is something I will never forget. It's something simple that can make a patient's day and it goes the same way for us nurses. So I may not remember a name but I will certainly not forget those moments!
Being a nurse who cares for cancer patients is not where I imagined myself when I started my career. It has been the most rewarding experience of my life. Cancer patients have taught me so much about life, my life and why I am a nurse. We give so much of ourselves unconditionally. Emotionally it takes a toll on all of us, but for me to be able to help them on their journey makes it all worth it. They are amazing and so are we (nurses). God Bless us all.
ReplyDeleteI so agree, the rewards are endless!
DeleteReading and reflecting on the comments above really hit home for me. I also feel that
ReplyDelete"1. Yes, we do wear stethoscopes — because we use them." is such a critical piece for the public to be aware of. I am thankful that the nursing profession has become a focus of attention this will help remove barriers of what people think nurses do. Using a stethoscope is one important assessment tool, along with the critical thinking skills and being able to communicate in a kind, therapeutic manner are the cornerstone for nurses. Not everyone is able to complete nursing school and become a nurse. It takes guts and brains!
"2. We never forget our patients. I often think oh how our patients are doing when they finish their treatments and go home. I am always glad to see them when they come in for their follow-up appointments. I stll remember the patient that I held in my arms when she started crying and told me there wasn't anynthing else that can be done for her. She had a son and I oftern wondered how he was doing. Nursing is a rewarding job that helps many patients that come through these doors asking us to take care of them. It is one job that I enjoy no matter how stressful it gets.
ReplyDeleteRe: “Seven Things Nurses Want You To Know”. One I’d like to add (alluded to in #4) is that nurses are smart! We are expected to have a depth and breadth of medical/scientific/nursing knowledge. We are expected to maintain that knowledge, and add to it regularly. We are always learning, always maintaining competencies, always growing. And a hearty Amen! To #7. I DO love my job. Many say, “I don’t know how you can work there.” I count it as a privilege to stand with our patients in the fight. Nursing is tough, and not for the faint of heart. But our hearts are enlarged by it. That’s what I want people to know.
ReplyDeleteI can relate to your comment about how many say that they don't know how you can work here. Working in oncology, there have been many times that people have made a very similar comment, such as "It must be really sad working here". The thing is, I don't find it to be a sad place. Yes, there is sadness, but there is also joy. Sometimes that joy is when a patient experiences regression of disease, or reaches a milestone that they might not have reached without treatment. In oncology, we meet many very strong, wonderful people, and I don't find that sad. We are here to help them on their journey, and that is a wonderful thing, not a sad thing.
DeleteI can somehow relate to all seven! 1) I was shocked as I'm sure many were by the stethoscope statement. I don't use my stethoscope often now but when I worked on med-surg it was attached to me. I was lost without it! 2) I have had many, many patients in the last five years of my nursing career and there are certainly ones I will never forget. Ones that have changed me as a nurse and ones that I have changed. It's a really good feeling to have a good impact on someone. 3) Don't get me started on the crying! Haha! I may hold it together in front of the patient but I can be a big baby when I've left the room. 4) I have caught myself thinking about work and what I could have done, etc hours after leaving. I have actually had dreams about working! 5) I occasionally will have a patient that needs to undress or that passes gas and they apologize or become embarrassed but I always tell them, "we have seen, heard, and smelled almost everything". They always laugh and seem a little more at ease. 6) I always hope the best for my patients, always. It really pulls on some heart strings when things don't always go that way. 7) I absolutely love being a nurse. I wouldn't change it for anything. Going to college for nursing was the best decision of my life.
ReplyDelete7 Things Nurses wish you knew:
ReplyDeleteI identify with number 6 I wish I could do more.
I used to struggle with feelings that I there was so much nore that I could do, but felt restricted by the RN role. As I matured in my profession, and practice, I learned that there is so much more I can do than I ever imagined. I realized that by empowering my patients with information on self care, that I was doing more. I was gaining a partner in my efforts and also empowering the patients to be proactive in their care. I now make every effort to educate and reinforce teaching on self care, diagnosis, and treatment with patients and caregivers. This is my MORE !
I completely agree
DeleteMight I add that “Nursing is not for the faint of heart”? Ok so I’ve cried several time after..or during..a bad day at work, but I’m assuming it’s making me stronger. I find my job very difficult and very stressful. I believe you have to be a strong person to be in this profession. We have to know so much. We have to have medical knowledge as well as psychological knowledge, organizational skills, delegating skills, and the mental capacity to be able to handle it all. I come home in shambles a lot. It’s hard not to take out my bad day on my family. It’s hard when I know they don’t understand what I have been through that day. I do love nursing as a profession, and of course I have good days also. Be strong nurses!
ReplyDeleteKrista you are an awesome nurse!!!! I completely understand
DeleteI would like to add, that we wish we had the exact or correct answers to our patients questions. Patients rely on us for so many answers and our constantly asking Our opinions. As nurses we have to be careful with our answers to prevent letting down our patients or giving the wrong answer and then being held responsible in the future.
ReplyDeleteI just got back from Magnet and their is a new challenge called "The Florence Challenge" which is a certificate of commitment for nurses. My addition will echo this chanllenge. I am a nurse and am committed to my myself, my co-workers and the patients that I/we all serve through:
ReplyDelete1. Being emotionally positive - turning every complaint into either a blessing or a constructive suggestion (this is called the Pickle Pledge).
2. Self-empowered through the self empowered pledge of :resposnibility, accountablity, determination, contribution, resilience, perspective and faith.
3. Fully engaged - engaged in my work, passionate, take intitiative
and stewardship, foster a spirit of belonging, fellowship and most important taking pride in my work, my profession, my organization and myself.
I never want to hear "I am just a nurse". We are present in all we do.
Pat, I agree that it is wrong for nurses to say "I am just a nurse". We work hard for our degrees and to have nursing viewed as a profession not just a job. It takes special people to do be nurses and really be 100% engaged with coworkers, physicians, and our patients. Great post!
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ReplyDeleteI will always remember the places I've worked previously to CTCA. The patients that I have cared for over the years, some still make me smile and some still make me cry. I remember the little boy receiving a round of vaccines at the Navy base - crying into his mother's arms. Both of them were singing "Jesus loves me". When I was in nursing school. Not sure which one of us was more scared. I knew that I could do this and still comfort my patients at the same time. I really enjoy being a RN.
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ReplyDeleteLisa Hammons RN
ReplyDeleteNurses are highly educated, caring, professionals and should be treated as such. “Basic” nursing education is anything but basic, it is very rigorous, and it does not end when the RN license is earned. The number 4 of 7 things nurses would like you to know article pertains to that issue. Nurses are constantly learning on the job and outside of the job. There are mandatory in-services so that nurses are up to date on the latest equipment and medications, and there are also CEU’s that must be earned to keep up with the latest, and there is learning that the nurse takes upon his or herself such as preparing for certifications or even pursuing higher degrees, or even just reading nursing articles that enhance knowledge so that patients are benefited. Nurses do those extra things because they are professionals who love what they do and take it seriously.
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ReplyDeleteOver the years, nurses have played different kinds of role in the community, yet some have seen this profession as merely compared to maids, governess or etc. It is sad when people look at nurses as somewhat just being paid for to do their job but not as someone who is willing to sacrifice everything just to save someone else's life. How many times has the profession of nursing put in a pedestal??? More often than not nurses are being treated like a thrash, and are sad to think that this is what reality is to this profession.
ReplyDeleteI myself did not choose to become a nurse just to be treated this way. I am a nurse because I care and I have my own philosophy and dignity. People can hurt me in any way, say things at my front or back, or discriminate me in any form, but in the end what’s most important is I have that respect for myself that no one can ever take away from me. I’ve only been a nurse for 2 years and 5 months yet I have experienced a lot of things during those times, but only one thing that I’ve learned from this is that you can never please everybody. At some point, there will be people who will criticize you, mock you, or even put you down, but the question is, are you going to allow them??? Personally, I just want to let you know that we are all in this profession because we chose to and we are all the same nurses whose main motivation is to offer our healing hands and care for people that we provide care. How many times as nurses did we hold our pee just to finish our dressing changes, finish our charting, or attend to the most melancholic stories of our patients? How many times did we skip our lunch just to change IV tubing so that a patient will not get a bloodstream infection or attend to a code just to save a person’s dying body??? Lots of people tell us “We don’t know how you can be a nurse! I could never do what you do.” Well, the thing is, we have all those same feelings too. Some patients and families do not realize that indeed we love them. They can be a royal pain in our asses sometimes, but when we get to be the ones that take care of them the hardest times in their lives and we do it out of pure love without expecting anything in return. No amount of money could make this heart breaking work and thankless job worth it than to see that our patients walked out of the door healthy and happy on their discharges knowing that we made miracles in their lives.
When people ask me what I do, I'm so proud to say I'm a nurse"! For me, this is a badge of HONOR! Nurses are special. Not only highly skilled, but also very kind and compassionate. We are fortunate enough to be able to walk with our patients during some of their most difficult journeys, and make a positive impact. We touch lives in such a powerful way! It really is a joy to be a nurse, and a joy to be in a profession that can make such a difference! We ARE talented, and I really appreciate Miss Colorado for showcasing us!
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Delete#8 We make a difference. Whether or not our patients know it we do something to improve their outcome. We question a doctor's order if we don't understand it or are concerned that it may not be correct. We teach them what they need to know even if someone else has done the same, we make sure they understand what they were taught. We hug them when they cry and give them a shoulder to lean on. We follow up with them to make sure they are taking the medications correctly and question if they are improving as they should be. We are a support system for their loved ones often without the patients knowing because their loved ones want to appear strong for them. We are often there so they don't die alone or afraid that they will be alone when their loved ones can't make there in their time of need or if they have no loved ones. We make a difference every day is so many ways to so many lives.
ReplyDeleteAs nurses we make a big difference in so many ways. We are at the bedside, out in the community, in different health care settings... We can be change agents, can help shape health care, and can improve the lives of everyone we meet, because of our knowledge and caring. As nurses, we can change the world!
DeleteI will add a #8. "We do it all" What other profession can say this: I am a hairdresser, I am a cook, I am a waitress, I am a manicurist, I am a stylist, I am a house keeper, I am a social worker, I am pastoral care, I am a CNA, I am a pharmacy, I am wound care, I am PT, I am OT and more. I think it is safe to say, I am..... your Nurse. I think we have done it all.
ReplyDeleteAMEN!!!
DeleteWe are all psychiatrists, therapists, financial planners as well.
Delete#8. Out patients are more than just a MR number or diagnosis. We CARE what happens to them and we want the best outcome for them. We rejoice with them and grieve with them.
ReplyDeleteshould have read OUR, not out. lol
DeleteI will add #8. "We are the patient advocate." We inform and support the patient. We have excellent communication skills, especially when it comes to speaking and listening. We keep attention to detail, and we think quickly and address problems as or before they occur. #3 "Shed plenty of tears-for the patient's who I have had a connection with since working here. Always wish more could be done-#6 But overall #7-Love what we do as nurses!
ReplyDeleteI agree with the list of 7 and the addition of number 8. For me this brought alot of thought on how hard we work to get our nursing degrees and for many continue on with our professional education. We are moms, nurses, therapists, doctors, and many more roles when we deal with our patients. We develop relationships and a trust that most professions do not get to experience. We become the pateints confidants while they pore their hearts and souls out to us. It becomes a mutual respect for one another. Nursing is definetely humbling and makes me thankful for all that I have in my life and for being a part of our patients lives and making that difference for them. Nurses often are not recognized for all the things they do and that is okay because at the end of the day I can be proud of what I have done and hopefully have made a difference in someones life.
ReplyDelete#3 We do shed PLENTY of tears for our patients both happy and sad tears! We go through good and very bad times with our patients. They celebrate small accompishments and share in the saddness of set backs. #8 We are cheerleaders, hope givers and sound boards for our patients! And we love every second of it.
ReplyDeleteThe word nurse can be used as both a verb or a noun. The origins of the word are Middle English. It was first used in the fourteenth century. Some synonyms include: to do for, to look after, to take care of, to wait on. As nurses, we indeed perform these tasks. However, we are more than just "go-fers" or tools for a means to an end. We are educated professionals that are trained to be clinicians. I work as an RN in surgery. I meet patients from every region of the United States. I am always impressed by their positive attitude, especially considering that some of them do not have a good prognosis. One thing that I wish people knew about me as a nurse is that I am always trying to make a personal connection with the patient. This is sometimes difficult, considering the short time I have to interact with them. As a surgical nurse, I am required to take call. Therefore, I would also like people to know that my dedication to the patient continues throughout entire weekends when I am on call
ReplyDeleteI like #6 - We wish we could do more for you. As a clinic nurse in an outpatient oncology setting, I often worry about my patients after they return home, about the side effects they may experience following the chemo they will receive after seeing me that day, that they will not remember how to take their supportive medications properly, and about the news they may hear when they have scans with the MD next visit. I only see them for a 30 minutes - 1 hour, but they are often on my mind long after they leave the clinic. I know that their lives are hard, and wish that I could do more for them than I am able in the short time they are with me. #7 - That being said, I do love what I do and feel that I am able to make a difference in the lives of our patients. :)
ReplyDelete# 8. Nurses do a lot of things they will never be recognized for. But they do them anyway because they want to.
ReplyDelete#3. As nurses, we are compassinate people. When our patients celebrate, we celebrate with them and when they are upset, we console and comfort them. Both happy tears and sad tears have been shed with patients and that lets them know that we care about them and what they are going through. This can also relate to #6 of wanting to do more for them. We want what is best for them and their families and often feel like what we do isn't enough. I find myself concerned for some patients when they leave the clinic because I feel like I should be there for them because they don't have the support they need. I am grateful for the job that I have and that I am able to make a difference in so many lives and I truly love what I do. We are not 'just' nurses. We are so much more!
ReplyDelete2. We never forget our patients.
ReplyDeleteThis couldn't be more true! I've cared for patients for an extended period of time and you definitely get close to them and their family. I can remember patient's I have taken care of when I was a brand new nurse and I will continue to remember them throughout my nursing career. In addition, as nurses we are advocates for our patients because we are the ears and eyes caring for them around the clock. Nursing is a wonderful profession and I believe it takes a special individual to do what we do on a daily basis but I wouldn't trade my decision to become a nurse even on the most difficult day.
-Sanah Zayed
Our patients really impact our lives and we are the better for it :)
DeleteI have many patients I will never forget. Patients and family members that have touched and changed my life. We spend many hours with them and get to know them well. When I learned of one of my patients passing away it shook me to the core. I will always remember him and his wife and I'm a better person for having been their nurse.
DeleteThose seven things are very true! But I truly love what I do and the moments I share with each patient. We have so much we can teach them and provide for them, but we also receive so much. I would add that yes we do shed tears and we do not forget about our patients but that we try our best to meet the needs of each patient. We try our best to stay on time for medications and that at times leads to us missing a break or not going to the bathroom. But I love coming to work and creating moments, caring moments, with our patients.
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Delete#6. We wish we could do more for you.
ReplyDeleteCaring for cancer patient's has made me realize that I am grateful for everything that I have and I hate to see patients suffer as well as the family members. I have a great deal of empathy towards my patients and try to always put myself in their shoes while caring for them. As an oncology rn, I strive to advocate for my patients and deliver the mother standard of care.
-Amanda Keller
You are correct. Caring for cancer patients gives me a whole new sense of gratitude for the things I tend to take for granted and to look for the best in situations because I meet so many caring and selfless people who have made an impact on my life.
DeleteNumber 4 really hit home for me! I like to think of this not just as schooling and getting new training and credentials but also as a conscious reflection on my way home from work or when I hear something on the TV or radio and it makes me think of how I could relate it to my patients or practice to improve what I do. I would like to follow this up with number 7 because if we didn't love what we did all the extras from number 4 would feel burdensome but they don't!
ReplyDeleteI believe that all Seven Thing Nurses Want You to Know, applies, I would like to add, we are also Jack of all traits, including being expert in trouble shooting electrical appliances, medical equipments etc.Nursing is a noble profession because we endure a lot. We are also a teacher, caregiver, mother, sister, daughter and what nots. Our duty do not stop when we leave the hospital,clinic or any health facilities we have our responsibilities to take care of our family, too. And to add regarding that incident with the view, it just goes to show that when nurses unites we have a strong voice and people listens, as evidenced of sponsors withdrawing from the network. Nurses are one of a kind, and not because I am a nurse, I salute everyone for the unselfish work they do!
ReplyDeleteThe Miss America Pageant brought out positive attention to Nursing Profession. I also agree to the Seven Things Nurses want you to know
ReplyDelete# 6 We wish we could do more for you . Working with cancer patients everyday made me feel so blessed every day that im healthy. Both my parents have cancer so I know how it feels for the patients and their family.I want to do as much as i can for them to make them feel better , that they are not alone , that they not just a number that they matter.
ReplyDeleteAll seven things listed in the article in addition to all the comments above, are the truth about nurses. As others have already mentioned, we are a lot of things on and off the job. I’ll add to #3 – We shed many tears. We are still human with feelings of our own. Even though we may not always be able to show emotions at work, they are still a real part of us. We sometimes may just need a few minutes to decompress after a difficult moment. Maybe a warm smile or hug can help someone else, you just never know what others are feeling. I commend all of us for the compassionate care we provide each and every day!
ReplyDeleteI agree Gail, sometimes it is hard to move on in your day after a particularly emotional incident but it is wonderful to work with such a compasionate group of people that help you transition back into your day.
DeleteI am not a nurse, but I am a Nursing student and a PCT, so I can relate pretty closely to all of these already. I have already built such strong connections with so many past residents and current patients I work with now. Although the controversy with the Miss American Pageant occurred, the majority of the human race knows that nurses are excellent people to look up to and are people you can count on whenever you need them. Although all seven things listed are 100% relatable, #3 and # 6 stood out to me just because working with cancer patients every day makes me want to help them more then the help they already receiving. We all wish we could find a cure so these poor patients and their family don't have to deal with the stress, tears, and complications they deal with on a daily basis. I am sure everyone has found themselves stepping away to shed a few tears because their heart hurts for their patients. Our patients are just a number, they are important to us just like family!
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, most people in the general public have absolutely no idea what a nurse does. To them, a nurse gives bed baths, bedpans, and medications. They take orders from the doctor and do not know much themselves. I feel too often the role of the nurse is overlooked. It sometimes frustrates me that people do not know just what it takes to be a nurse, mentally, physically, emotionally, and academically. One thing I wish everyone knew about nurses is that we have a lot of knowledge and are often calling the doctor with suggested orders before they order them themselves. We are the ones who are with the patients 24/7 and it is the nurse who continually assesses the patient, monitors labs, monitors vital signs, administers medications, monitors drips, starts IV’s, draws blood, administers tube feedings, inserts foley catheters and NG tubes, performs dressing changes, monitoring input and output, uses nursing judgment and puts all the information together to understand what is happening with the patient. I could go on and list many more skills and tasks that nurses do. I would also like everyone to know that nurses also provide patient teaching and education, we update and comfort patients and family members. We coordinate care between specialties and make sure everything is in order. I also wish everyone knew the doctor is not always on the floor and nurses do and can make decisions. Nurses are behind every task and anticipate every need and every situation to keep patients safe and provide good care. Most importantly of all we do all of this because we care about you and your family and we love what we do.
ReplyDelete#6 We Wish We Could Do More speaks to me. Sometimes medically there is nothing more that can be done. But as nurses there is "more" we do. We not only care for the body, we also care for the heart, mind and spirit of each patient. We hold a hand, we cry and/or laugh with our patients. Often times a gentle touch can help to heal a heart or spirit. To be fully and truly present with each patient and to give myself to them. For me these are my "more".
ReplyDeleteI agree, Cathy. Although there have been many times I know I have done all that I can, but still wish there were something MORE i could do. Unfortunately there often isn't, but I know patients appreciate what we do and know if we could we would do even more :)
DeleteOne thing I would like to add to the list is that we try really hard to be in our patients room the second the call light goes off. However, we also have other patients and can't be in 4 rooms at once and talk to physicians and take phone calls from radiology at the same time. It may seem like nurses forget about patients but I can assure you we do not. We feel badly when we forget things patients have requested but we are human and we have a lot in our heads. We truly do care and we do our best to be everything to our patients.
ReplyDeleteJennifier I have to agree with you 100%.. Unless you have or have had yourself or a family member ill and in the hospital a nurses role is not understood. We as nurses are the ears, eyes and nose for the patients. Nurses will never be given the coodos that they deserve. But I don't know any nurse that walks around feeling sorry for themselves because we are selfless, loving and caring.
ReplyDeleteAnd as a nurse you have to have a strong bladder because as you all know we don't have time to care for ourselves.
# 3 We Shed Plenty Of Tears
ReplyDeleteDon't get me wrong, but guys do cry too. Recently, the wife of a patient that I become close to called to tell me of his passing. I was heartbroken and YES I cried. I tried to make arrangements so I could go to his funeral but to no avail. I end up sending my sympathy flowers to the family.
# 1 Yes, We Do Wear Stethoscopes
Yes, I do still use my stethoscope. When I do, I'm assessing my patient and obtaining valuable information about his/her condition. So I just want to throw this out there " I don't always wear a stethoscope, but when I do, I'm saving lives instead of watching the View. "
One of the things that I would like others to know about nurses is that nursing is both a stressful job physically, but emotionally as well. When our patients have outcomes that are not as we would have hoped, we tend to greive with the patient. We try to look strong and supportive in front of our patients and their families, but many times we cry behind closed doors because we do get close to many of our patients. It is a constant reminder of how precious life is, and that at any moment it could be us, or a family member or friend lying in that hospital bed. Being a nurse has helped me to look at life differently, and to realize that each and every day is a gift. It is important to talk about your feelings with someone which helps, but to also take the time to take care of yourself as well.
ReplyDeleteBrenda Chiappetta, RN
Wound Care
#3. “We shed plenty of tears” Debbra Tyson, RN Rad-Onc
ReplyDeleteWhile we shed tears and our hearts ache on behalf of our patients and their families, we also carry the heaviness of that pain with us as we head home to our loved ones. Years ago, my husband picked me up from a long 14 hour shift in the ICU and asked me: “How was your day?” I broke down sobbing because my patient had died. He then asked me: “Why do you do this? Look at what it’s doing to you.” My response then and now remains the same: “The day it stops affecting me like this, is the day that I need to quit being a nurse”. Who would ever want an uncompassionate and uncaring nurse to take care of them or their loved ones? I truly feel that our compassion for all the lives that we touch, everywhere we go (on and off the job), is at the core of what being a nurse is all about.
Debbie,
DeleteI absolutely agree with you... I have sadly said good bye to patients that are going home on hospice and sometimes I feel like my heart is up in my throat and words are not enough to describe those feelings.
Hortensia Aiello
I agree with Debbie RN I think the moment you loose your compassion for others is the moment you should walk away from the medical field.
DeleteAll seven listed are true! My favorite is # 7 "We love what we do" (well most of us do , otherwise why did you go into this profession).
ReplyDeleteBeing a nurse gives you a well-rounded experience when caring for patients. We teach, we listen, we help patients and their family members cope with their illness, we monitor, we provide and we advocate.
ReplyDeleteI don't think school prepares you for experiencing certain situations when you out in the real world. Yes, they teach you about compassion, and how to teach and evaluate, but once you are working and dealing with certain situations that's when you learn how to manage/deal those challenging and emotional scenarios.
In addition to the cares provided to the patients in this setting, as we get to know them we become some sort of “adopted/extended” friends & family members to them. We are their family away from home. As we all know the majority of these patients (in some situations) will spend long periods of time in the hospital, or receiving services as outpatients (chemo, radiation, consultations, follow up appointments, etc.) It is always nice to hear about the progress and some circumstances (sadly enough) to hear about their declining condition, we listen, we celebrate, we are saddened, and we cry along with them.
Hortensia Aiello
I would like to add two things to the list. First, that nurses are teachers. Nurses are always teaching their patients how to take care of themselves with a new diagnosis, injury, or pre and post surgery. They also teach the patient how to take their medications, when to take their medications, what not to take it with, and what adverse affects to watch for. It takes special ability to teach and convey information to others, and this information can be extremely important and often vital.
ReplyDeleteSecondly, I would like to point out that a nurse is one of the patient's biggest advocates. The nurse spends much more time getting to know the patient by listening to the patient and caring for the patient. The nurse and PCT are the first line of defense in a patient's well-being. We are the first to notice when things are different or not okay, and the first to offer assistance or seek help from another source. I work as a PCT and I am amazed by all that the nurses do. I have so much respect for all the experience and knowledge they have, and how tenderly they care for their patients.
I would start by saying that Nurse's put their patient needs above their own needs. Often times the work schedule doesn't allow for lunch Nurses work long hours before eating or attending to their own needs. Nurse's are one of a kind compassionate and a patient's biggest advocate. And I feel that as PCT's we are not far behind. We comfort many patients in times of need we are a friendly ear and a warm hug. "We shed many tears" we are compassionate and caring and we feel for others.
ReplyDelete6)We think about our patients even after they leave our care.
ReplyDelete7) At the end of the day, I know that I did my best and provided the best care that I could. I always wish I could do more but some things are out of my control and I hurt while my patient's hurt.
We Love of what we do. Working in CTCA Cancer patients is not easy. But we take care of our patients unconditionally by knowing there whole personality to there medical diagnosis, up to the point that we also takes care of there family member. In Stem Cell unit we know our patients from there admission, transplant process until discharge and we are so happy seeing them coming back on there return clinic follow up . As they always tells us "you guys save me". And by hearing that, the more you will love what you are doing as a NURSE. Just proud to be one.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all of the "7 Things Nurses Wish You Knew" they all apply to our profession. Specially the one that states that we are working even when we are off the clock. As nurses we do not have the privilege of saying "that's not my patient". I believe we are on alert 24/7 just in case something does happen and we need to act upon it. Not only are we on alert all the time but we have to do be up to date on all the new medications, policies, procedures, research, and technology that are pertinent to our field to better care of out patients. Most of the time all of this gets done on our free time.
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ReplyDeleteI also agree with all the "7 Things Nurses Wish You Knew". One section that particularly resonates with me is #3) at a certain Celbrate Life. We had a full schedule and many of our patients that day were here for the celebration. Needless to say we had a long standing rapport with these patients and their families. Three patients unexpectedly had progression of disease and had to start treatment after having been stable or in remission. It was an extremely difficult day for the staff, patients and families. I remember crying with a patient and her daughter for a long time while we signed consent forms to start a new chemo.
ReplyDeleteEvery section written in this article rings true. The very first item mentioned- "Yes, we do wear stethoscopes, because we use them" is sooo true. It reminds me of so many times I have had to lend MY stethoscope to a physician to use since they don't ever seem to have one. Over the years, I have also purchased many stethoscopes after my stethoscope "disappeared" after letting a doctor use it and never once had it replaced when the doctor didn't know what happened to it. For all the people who think that doctors wear the stethoscopes- they probably are wearing a nurse's, lol!
ReplyDeleteThis is so true!! I can't remember how many stethoscopes I lost when doctors borrowed them during rounds and never return. I'm glad now that I'm a care manager, I don't have to wear stethoscope around my neck.
Delete# 8. I am a nurse because I chose NURSING as my profession. I didn't become a nurse because I couldn't get accepted into medical school. People used to ask me why I became an RN rather than a physician. Nursing and Medicine are two different professions. Being an RN is not "less than" being a physician. It's just different. RNs and physicians approach health care differently. We are focused on different things and each have a unique role to play in caring for people.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all 7 statements listed. I particularly understand the statement that nurses work into their personal time, as well. Not many of my friends outside of healthcare need to continually study or work towards CEUs, CBLs or Certifications. I invested many of my own hours towards studying to take the OCN exam. These specialty certifications show patients that nurses commit many hours on their own time to furthering their career and becoming better nurses. Nurses give 110%!
ReplyDeleteI've imagined what other non-healthcare individuals think or believe about nurses...so I asked my children. My eight year old son says that a "nurse is an assistant of doctors, they get supplies for the doctors". Although he was unable to put into words what a nurse was, he really had a hard time explaining what their role and importance was. I'm sure he has a better understanding of the emotions and hard work associated with the profession as we talk about my role frequently. There are so many feelings associated with being a nurse, but if there was one thing I would want others to know and understand is that WE LOVE WHAT WE DO.... we are passionate and hardworking, we care deeply and live to live what we do. We wear stethoscopes and carry scissors, but more importantly...We carry our hearts on our sleeve and put our heart into everything we do. It's more than a job or profession...it truly is a lifestyle and WE LOVE WHAT WE DO!
ReplyDeleteBefore I was a nurse I pictured nurses as assistants to physicians. As a nurse I feel I am more of a collaborator and partner with physicians. We have our roles and they have theirs. Nurses have licenses, education and practice separate independent of other professions.
DeleteI love that you asked your kids that! I often ask my husband that as well! He is continually surprised when he hears my stories from my crazy days... or even my normal days! But despite any events my day brings, if i know i spent time relating to my patient in some way or helped them feel more "humanized" while being hospitalized, then my day was accomplished!
DeleteAlthough I agree with all of them, I would say #6 and #7 ring especially true for me. #6 We wish we could do more. I feel that especially working here. Often time we as nurses give comfort, support, education, guidance, etc. but we still leave at the end of the day wishing we knew the cure, the correct treatment, or the "right" thing for our patients to do. There have been many times I have wished I could do more, but knowing I had done all that I could in that moment.
ReplyDelete#7 We love what we do. If we didn't then we wouldn't spend time away from our friends and families on weekends, nights, and holidays. We wouldn't work over time and all the time to ensure our patients are taken care of no matter what day or time it is.
I agree Kristie! Sometimes we work so hard and the patient is still battling pain or nausea, and it feels personal, because we love our patients and want the best. I love educating my patients because I want them to go home and thrive. Wanting to do more and wanting our patients to be well is the heart of a nurse.
DeleteWhile watching the video and reading the article, I can't help but to nod in agreement with what is said or written. Number 6 on the list, made me nod just a little harder. Not only do I wish I could do more for my patients, I do, do more. As many of us have already mentioned, as nurses, we do A LOT! The role of nurse encompasses many things; social worker, advocate, teacher, supporter, encourager. We keep our patients on track and often "babysit" them to ensure that they receive the best care and outcome possible. Sometimes that requires a stern tone of voice while other times a soft, gentle nudge is the best approach. So, while I wish I could do more, it would be nice to be acknowledged for ALL that we do!
ReplyDeleteWe do it because, #7, we love what we do!
We shed plenty of tears-this section really tug on my heart. In stem cell unit, when we admit our patients for transplant, they stay with us with a minimum of 14 days or more. We get to know the patient well and their family. I had a patient who love her dog and she even showed me pictures when she entered her dog in a dog show.
ReplyDeleteOne day when I entered my patient's room, I saw her crying. I asked her why? She told me that she got news that her dog was ran over and died. I felt emotional with my patient and cried, too. So, when doctor made his rounds, he saw us crying and got alarmed. But he was able to breathe easily when we told him that the dog died and not a relative. Recently, our patient came back for follow-up and we saw each other again and she told me that she got a new dog that looks similar to the dog that died.
I would like people to know that we have seen it all and we are not judging them. Nursing is a messy business and nurses are right there during some of the most difficult times of a persons life. We have seen lots of bottoms and bellies, as well as lots of body fluids coming from everywhere. I wish patients could understand they are not the first person to have an accident, to ask us a question or to feel afraid or sad. We are not judging them, we are standing with them. We see the person not the diagnosis.
ReplyDeleteBeena Patel
ReplyDeleteI can relate to all that has been said in the post but the one thing i would like people to understand is that, in healthcare, unlike most other profession, we are constantly attempting to advance if not keep up to date with the current practice. Keep up with all the new medications, for different specialties, that are being approved for multiple diseases and conditions. It is a never ending learning process and we love it.
Christina Moreno- Infusion
ReplyDeleteWe bond with our patients and always think about them. It is hard to work in an oncology unit sometimes because the outcome is not always what we want. I have been blessed with meeting quite a few patients who have changed my life or taught me something new. I never forget my patients and try to follow them to see their progress. I sometimes feel a sixth sense at times when you know that a patient does not have much longer, it makes me feel unsettled.
I remember watching this video for the first time when it initially aired, and this nurse had me in tears. I felt that she spoke the same words from my own heart. I think the part that hits home for me the most was the part of “We shed tears”. I can’t count the number of patient’s I have cried for, cried with, and cried when I think of the patient’s I have lost along the way.
ReplyDeleteI learned that these emotions I feel might not necessarily be unique in our line of work, however, they fuel my passion and empathy for my patients. Obviously, prior to becoming a nurse I had the natural tendency to care for others, but it was through nursing that I became aware of the deep emotions that can be intertwined in the relationship between a nurse and her patient.
I also strongly relate to the section of “We never forget our patients”. I can tell you all the patients I have lost to this battle of cancer over the years; one in particular that I cared for over 3 years ago. I can remember the laughs I shared with them, the extra time I spent with them chatting, listening, or sometimes just being in their presence in their upmost time of need. I know this sounds cheesy or corny, but I truly do love those memories with my patients. They are so close to my heart, and I pray they will always be there. These patient’s have significantly impacted my life and I’m grateful for each lesson I learned from them.
I really enjoyed reading his article and feel like I can releate to all 7. However, the two that stood out to me the most were that we never forget our patients and we love what we do. I have worked at the bedside and now am a care manager. Ultimately, the patients are why I love being a nurse and feel so satisfied (yet exhausted) at the end of the day. I think that being a nurse is one of the hardest, yet most rewarding professions there is. I am so honored to care for people during some of their most vulnerable times.
ReplyDeleteOf course I can relate to all 7, but I want to discuss #7, loving what we do. Nursing is one of the most difficult careers physically and mentally that there is. Yes it's hard, we get burned out, it's stressful and sometimes we can feel under-appreciated, overwhelmed and that our interventions are in vain. But I LOVE what I do and I don't think that there is another career as rewarding. Since 1/3 of our lives are spent at work, loving what we do is important. Getting that "thank you" or hug from our patients/family members makes all the hard work worth it. We need to remember to take time for ourselves to decompress and destress because at the end of the day, we go home to be "nurses" to our families. The job of a nurse never ends- because it's in our blood, it's in our souls, it's what we do, it's who we are. WE ARE NURSES.
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ReplyDeleteClaire Harty (correct spelling), 2nd floor
ReplyDeleteI would like to expand on the first point made in the article: Yes, we do wear stethoscopes - because we use them. I don't know how many people outside of healthcare appreciate how much of the knowledge regarding the patient comes from the nurses. We are instrumental in making sure the concerns of the patient/family are communicated with the rest of the healthcare team, and we are the last stop in the prevention of harm to the patient. We have to use our critical thinking skills constantly and retain so much information! I think many view us as "helpers" of the doctors, or even as subordinate to them, but it truly is a team effort, especially at this facility.