A cancer patient will experience many side effects during their time(s) of treatment. Some of these side effects can be acute and some can become chronic, perhaps lasting for years. One of the side effects that is difficult to measure or treat involves cognitive disfunction. Some providers or patients refer to treatment related cognitive disfunction as "chemo brain". Our readings this month point to possibilities other than chemotherapy that may be linked to changes in cognition during or after treatment.
The Effect of Cancer Treatment on Cognitive Function and Cognitive Changes After Cancer Treatment are this month's reading. And speaking of memory, remember the September introductory post - no credit will be given for answering the questions with either a list or bullet points. Your answers need to be a minimum of two to three full sentences, consider your responses as short essays.
Send your answers to melissa.luebbe@ctca-hope.com. This is our fourth post for the year, nothing will be due for March. Our final articles will be in April and May.
Questions
- You are working with a patient who asks you about "chemo brain". What can you share with them regarding chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy possibilities for cognitive changes?
- Why do you think exercise was included as a possible intervention to improve cognition and memory? For someone undergoing treatment with limited energy, what could you suggest to them for starting an exercise regimen?
Discussion Question
Of course healing requires more than hope and positive emotions, but I still love this essay. The author reminds me of the strong impact nurses can have on their patients. Please enjoy reading The Nurse Who Changed My Treatment and share if there was something a nurse said to you that you will always remember.
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ReplyDeleteMany years ago there was a nurse that had a huge impact on me. My oldest son was almost 3 years old when he burnt himself on boiling water. Even though it was him going through the most painful treatment and therapy, I was having a hard time emotionally through this all. Every day for 3 weeks, my son would have whirlpool therapy to remove the dead tissue and have bandages replaced. There was this one nurse who went above and beyond to get to know my son and was the first person to make him smile. She purchased him in a coloring book of trucks and then a toy truck from the dollar store to go with it. The smile on my son’s face melted my heart. Her simple act not only made my son feel better but was very impactful for myself. I don’t know if she realized how much her actions meant. I did end up writing a letter to the president of the hospital letting them know of her special kindness. Fast forward to many years later and I being on the professional side of nursing, I always remember one simple phrase. Nurses should always use caution with how they say things. Patients will remember how they felt.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
Deleteyes! I find your last statement very powerful and true. I try and be careful with what I say … but what is more important than the words spoken, is how will it make the patient feel. I compliment looking at conversation from a patient perspective. It is all about how the patient feels. In my grief work I find this especially true. Sometimes people with the best of intentions say the most hurtful things. I have a funny story I remember after all these years that I will share. There was a student nurse taking care of me in the hospital shortly after my 16th birthday. I was diagnosed with terminal AML. She looked at me and said “what WERE you going to be when you grew up?”
DeleteThis article was a reflection of what I would call a holistic nurse. At CTCA we are fortunate to have a culture that embraces holistic nursing and treating our patient’s as a whole. The biggest take away that I have from this article is that the nurse demonstrated effective active listening, was able to identify and help with the symptom she was struggling with, and did so in a way that was effective for her.
ReplyDeleteI can not say that there was one special thing that a nurse has said to me to impact me life long but I will say that in October of 16 my mother was actively dying from a complication of her cancer. The nurses in the hospital were wonderful not only to her but to myself and siblings who were with her until the end. It was strange to me to be on that side of the coin and accepting the empathy and comfort that I provide to my patients and their families. Even setting up the hospice was strange as again I help set that up not for my family but for others. The respect and compassion given will always be remembered and made the passing of my mother easier for myself and my siblings. No small act of kindness goes unnoticed. It is the little things we take for granted that may last for others a life time.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing to read about others profound experiences with being taken care of by nurses, such as the example in the article. I do not have a specific example of this that I can remember when being the patient or a family member being cared for. I do, however, have memories of nurses who did not care/provide words of encouragement. I use these memories as examples of "how not to talk/behave" towards others. As Sheila mentioned above "Nurses should always use caution with how they say things. Patients will remember how they felt." So true!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Sarah , we should always be mindful of our behavior , how we say things and how we react to things. it would always made an impact to them. they would always remember that experience
DeleteSarah, Such a good point. Sometimes even our verbal gestures say a lot to a patient even when not meant in a negative way. It is important to be aware of your mannerisms and what you say or don't say when caring for patients.
DeleteI agree, one of my very first managers out of school told me the same thing-pts will not remember how well you started their IV, got that NGT down smoothly, and dressed their wound so beautifully, but they will remember how you made them feel as a person.......
DeleteA profound thing that was said to me by a fellow nurse was that we all need to remember, that what we feel is our worst day could be what a patients is his or her best day. This always serves as a good reminder when Im feeling negativity creep in. I agree with Sarah, lack of certain behaviors or words can be just as damaging as the use of them
ReplyDeleteSometimes a reminder like that comment helps us put things into perspective. On my worst days, when nothing seemed to go right, sometimes I would say to myself "well, at least I didn't kill anyone". I know it's kind of "sick" humor, but it put things into perspective for me.
Delete"I can't find her cervix," the nurse snapped to another nurse, both of them looking down at me as though I had deliberately hid it. Twenty four hours of labor and I was so exhausted that I didn't have the mental energy for a sarcastic comeback. "If your labor doesn't progress soon, you will have to have a c-section" she said, not even to me, but to the door of my room that she was already heading for. I looked at the monitor to see the baby's heartbeat for reassurance, the demoralizing sting of the nurses scowling over me still present in my mind. I wasn't a nurse at that time and the hospital room was full of stuff I didn't understand. I closed my eyes for an hour. Then the door burst open and in walked a ball of energy with red hair and a big smile. She clapped her hands together and said, "Are you ready to have this baby?!" Suddenly the room seemed infused with sunlight and energy. I was ready to see this baby, it was going to be a good day.
ReplyDeleteThis nurse whose name I do not remember, she changed my experience. Later, when I was deciding to begin a career in nursing I thought about what she taught me, that attitude is infectious and I could change someone's experience with the attitude I bring.
I can empathize. My labor/delivery nurse was a past radiation patient I previously cared for. When I arrived in labor, she saw me, announced loudly to all the other nurses,"This is my radiation nurse, she will be MY patient today!" It was a great experience, what an energetic cheerleader she was, kept me breathing and pushing.
DeleteTheresa Minniear - Clinical Research
ReplyDeleteMetal health continues to carry a stigma in today's society. In nursing school, I recall the instructor saying "The brain is an organ. It, too, can get sick." I always think of this when I'm working with a person with psychosocial deficits.
well said, Theresa
DeleteI like that Theresa that is a great way to explain things to a patient or coworker that view psychological deficits in a negative way.
DeleteThis is a really good way to look at it Theresa, thanks!
Deletei remember when I was in elementary my father told me a story that happen even before i was born that my father had an accident and there was this nurse that took care of him . she was so nice and really made a big difference in his life and thats why he named my sister after her. He would me this story over and over and when i told him that i wanted a nurse too someday . he is so happy.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful story! I am always impressed knowing the powerful impact nurses can make in a person's life!
DeleteFirst impression is last. Whenever I checked in a patient, I always make sure I am ready to take care of them. I always make sure I have a big smile for them.
ReplyDeleteYes, I always try to slow down before I go to see a patient so I do not seem rushed to the patient and their caregivers
DeleteI had a clinical nurse specialist tell me once that I am intelligent. That made me feel better.
ReplyDeleteThe essay was well written and a tear jerker
It must feel good to get positive feedback from someone else to make you feel confident!
DeleteSometimes it just not make you feel better but it boosts your confidence.
DeleteWhen I was still a PCT in nursing school, a nurse told me to "always put myself in the family's shoes. don't assume they know what to expect and explain everything." This was important for me because it stressed to me how important it is to explain all the tubing, wires, equipment, etc. to our patients' and families- we see it everyday but sometimes forget this may seem "scary" to others and others may not know what the equipment is for. I always try to put myself in the patient's shoes and explain everything to them in a way that they can understand.
ReplyDeleteSo true, that our patients and families can be easily overwhelmed by the technology. Helping them to understand is a rewarding feeling as a nurse too.
DeleteFor me that is not only a sign of professionalism but as well as a sign of respect.
DeleteI enjoyed the article! Such positive reinforcement of a valuable reminder… we can and do change lives!! There was one sentence that stood out for me: “…but I missed the human connection.” While words are very impactful, I am of the opinion that the nonverbal leaves just as long and powerful of a message! In all my years of health care as a provider, care giver or patient, it was the eye contact and genuine smile that changed everything. To know someone sincerely cares about you and shows it not only in word but with a human connection has provided me some awesome experiences! I thank those thousands of nurses who were there for me with their comforting smile in my darkest hours. You made a difference and will always be remembered!
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful article. It shows you just how important it is to choose our words wisely. Sometimes I would be so acutely aware of this that it paralyzed me into not saying much at all out of fear of having a negative impact on a patient. I have realized it is much more important to sincerely be in the moment with your patient. I have been a patient many times and I have had many wonderfully kind nurses. For me it is just the little things; a compassionate touch or a kind word. A night nurse that I had after my bilateral mastectomy came in and noticed that although I was feigning sleep, I looked filled with anxiety. She took care of me and administered some medications so that I could fall asleep because my husband had to leave me to take care of our children. She comforted me when I had no one to comfort me. That was 9 1/2 years ago and I am still very grateful.
ReplyDeleteI coudlnt agree more. Its so important to have a nurse who takes that time to comfort you when you have so much going on. The medical field can be so overwhemling to people, the little things make such a big difference especially when people just want to be heard.
DeleteBeing in the nursing field we come across so many people, and have the opportunity to make a difference. I became a nurse because of the compassion I saw when I was a young adult from the nurse who took care of me. The time she spent with me right after I came out of a procedure and calmed me down was so touching to me. She made me feel calm and reassured me that everything was going to be ok. I will always remember the care and time she took and how that difference shaped my life. I wish I could go back and see her and tell her that her words and time spent with me actually pushed me to go into the very same field. Nurses make such a difference and I try to bring that to every patient I see.
ReplyDeleteI continue to have nurses inspire me all the time! Through this nursing career there have been so many. Nurses who have taught me physical assessment skills, nurses who have taught me to slow down. Nurses who remind me that my life is so good and to share that love of life with my patients. Nurses in leadership who share by example instead of lectures. Just so many influences!
ReplyDeleteYou're right Jessica! There are a few nurses at CTCA that have taught me the importance of self care and to pass it along to the patients. I am so grateful.
DeleteI agree Jessica,There are so many influences past and present that have played and continue to play an active role in my life as a nurse.too numerous to mention,majority positive. But sometimes when you have an interaction and experience not so positive it can affect you as well. You have to remember not to take that one instance too seriously and look at the good overall. Ihad a recent experience with my mom in a hospital and I wished one of the nurses would of been more caring and would of had the compassion that I feel nurses can and do demonstrate
DeleteI cannot recall a specific event, but I loved the article as it reflects our holistic intent here at CTCA. The Nurses who teach the Birchtree Course for Holistic Certification made an impact on me by showing us what a powerful tool the mind is and how we can help patients and ourselves overcome obstacles and aid in healing. I will always use what I learned from them in my practice today.
ReplyDeleteGreat point Tina! I miss those ladies so much! I wish they were with me everyday to encourage me and help me in my practice. It's hard to remember to stay the course some days when you get caught up in the craziness of work!
DeleteI will never forget a few years ago when a loved one was told that he was HIV positive. He was not at any risk for contracting the disease-things just did not add up. I begged the Dr. and APN present to consider re-running the test to be sure and prior to starting the serious antiviral regime. I was emphatically told by the APN that "we needed to accept this!!!" I persisted and as it turned out the lab had mislabeled the vials and my loved one was indeed not HIV positive.......never got an apology from that nurse........
ReplyDeleteJulie,
DeleteWhat a horrible thing for you and your family to have to go through! It just goes to show that not all nursing memories are positive, and they can serve as an example of how not to act or care for others.
I am a nurse today because of my experiences as a child going through my medical situation. I was in and out of Lutheran General Hospital for several years and the RNs there left a lasting impression on me. They got to know me beyond my illness and my parents beyond having a sick child. I remember them holding my hand during procedures, being my cheerleader when I was tired and exhausted from all the tests, pokes, and not being able to be a kid. They knew I loved arts and crafts so instead of giving me the traditional IS, they had me decorate a pinwheel and blow into that to make it spin. They were all little things, but I remember them 20 years later.
ReplyDeleteHello Elizabeth,
DeleteWhat a lasting impression! I think many of us enter into the profession as a result of past experiences. I bet those nurses would feel a great sense of satisfaction knowing it was their care and attention that lured you into nursing!
Regards,
Jess
We miss you Elizabeth.
DeleteI do not recall any specific spoken words. What I do remember while in labor with my daughter, was the presence of my labor and delivery nurse. I was terrified and while my husband attempted very hard to ease my mind, what I really wanted was for him not utter another word. She got that and instead of trying to comfort me with words, she sat quietly next to me and rubbed my back. I still remember her name! Sometimes it is all about the mere presence.
ReplyDeleteJess
My sister's daughter yelled "STFU mom, you are really annoying me more than helping". My sister says "nice, nice way to speak to your mother". The Labor and delivery nurse laughed and said, "I love you guys"! McArdle girls in Labor
DeleteI was that kid. The girl who played rough, tough on the outside but so soft on the inside. I had all boys for friends. I also come from a family full of women. I was 9 years old when my sister hijacked my sleepover birthday party. We had our own rooms in my house and the rule was we needed permission to go into each others rooms. The other rule was also very clear. If mom was in her room, don’t bother her unless you were broken or bleeding. We did not tattle on each other. Long story long, my sister was cool and 2.5 years older. She invited all the girls into her room and closed the door and started telling them secrets. I could hear them giggling and laughing and all in all just making jokes. And she wouldn’t let me come in. She finaly came to the door and stuck her tongue out at me, and slammed the door. I finally got mad enough and I pushed open the door and was wagging my finger in her face. She threw her hand up and my finger snapped in half. My mopm heard the crack from all the way upstairs. My sister was chasing me into the basement yelling don’t tell mom I can fix it. My mom screamed don’t fix anything, told my other 13 year old sister that she was now babysitting everyone and took me straight to the ER. I was crying so hard, not because my finger hurt, but because my feelings were hurt.
ReplyDeleteThe ER nurse, Sunny, I still remember her name, took me aside and asked me how it had all happened and I sat and told her the story. The whole story! Every detail through sobs, tears anger and snot. I kept saying that my sister hated me so much and I just wanted her to like me. I was so sad. She hugged me so tight and told me this. “You know I am the older sister in my house. And you know what, I think you are just great. I sometimes did things to my sisters that were terrible and I felt really bad. Some things can’t be taken back. Remember that. Words can hurt just as much as broken fingers.” She assured me that even if it didn’t seem like it my sister was sorry. She also talked with me about being the youngest child and how much she grew to love her baby sister as they grew up. She really said everything I needed to hear that day. When I got home, all my friends were in my room, and my sister was sleeping in my bed. She woke up and cried and apologized so much for everything. I did make her my slave for a long time. She had to do most of my chores until my cast came off. And I had a weapon that evened the playing field for our next duel.
It had to be in my first job. Back then doctors yelled and I remembered that Dr. Jones screamed at me because I had called him too early for a delivery ( they wanted to come in and catch the baby). This was in the day they were at home and you had to "time" the delivery . Well after all was said and done- she delivered within 30 minutes - supervisor came and spoke with me. I was upset and she told me I was a good nurse and to continue on the path and move on. After two years of abusive behavior - all staff were equally yelled out- I moved on and flourished. This behavior is no longer allowed but back in the 70's it was accepted. I thank Mrs. Hoiem everyday for encouraging me and supporting me and the other nurses.
ReplyDeleteI remember those days!! Thank goodness they are behind us. Nursing has sure changed a lot and so has the way that we communicate with physicians. You are a "GREAT" nurse!
DeleteIn nursing school, I had a kind, engaging nurse instructor who taught the cancer
ReplyDeletecourse. I was fascinated as she taught us the evolution of cancer cells,
angiogenesis, and the immune responses. She captured my interest teaching us
about the various technology of treatments. I was totally hooked. Mrs. Suhr was
supportive as I discussed my desire to pursue oncology. She was approachable,
intelligent, and nurturing. She was responsible for my conversion to an oncology
nurse...37 years ago.
Wow! That is amazing, Donna! I love that you still remember this mentor! Having a teacher kick start the amazing nurse that you are would mean so much to her! I love stories like that!
DeleteIt's awesome that you emulate Mrs. Suhr with your passion and enthusiasm for nursing. The words that you used to describe her can be equally applied in describing the nurse you are. No doubt that you have had the same impact on the nurses you’ve taught over the years!
DeleteIn my almost 18 years of being a nurse there have been so many nurses that have made such an impact on me as a nurse. I feel like I have learned bits and pieces from so many and taken that to develop my own style of nursing. I do remember when I was a new grad a nurse told me to never stop looking up medications if you do not know what they are. To this day, even though in my area of radiation oncology, I give very few medications, if I hear of a new medication I look it up. I have often given this as advice to new nurses. Medicine and medications are constantly changing and it is important to stay on top of this.
ReplyDeleteI agree Tina. It is very hard to keep up all the medications, chemotherapy meds, immunotherapy etc. I always make a point to look up new or unfamiliar meds.
DeleteI really like this article it reminds me how I became a nurse. After high school graduation my dad's older brother who is a surgeon basically told me to be a nurse. At first I opposed the idea, I want to be a nutritionist for the main reason that I won't be going to college in my hometown.I have this dream that college days will be a new event in another place.Nursing was very big then, prestigious & only smart & select people can pass the entrance exam. I was outvoted by almost every member of my family. I indeed up taking nursing. After graduation, I was able to do my practicum program in other place.During our time, we have to do community service for 3 months before they issue our nursing license.My dream of going different places was achieved after becoming a nurse. I am so glad I respected my elders and listened to them. My dream of going places was achieved being a nurse.The instrument of coming here in America becoming a US citizen.I did never regret that decision, I made long time ago.I love being a nurse.I encountered nurses, patients/caregivers who made a lot of impact in my profession & life especially in CTCA. I hear testimonials how stakeholders always going beyond,embracing the 'MOTHER STANDARD OF CARE." I am so fortunate to be working with these elite nurses.
ReplyDeleteThe mother standards of care and the little simple things we do to all our patients differentiates us from other hospitals. I hope we keep it that way, despite all the changes going around here.
DeleteSince I have good health, I can't say as I've had many nursing interactions as the patient. But I can certainly attest to the love and care demonstrated here at CTCA by my fellow nurses, every day. I myself was recently in the middle of a hectic, stress-filled day, when a coworker took the time to share her daily calendar page with me. The page said, "I can do things uniquely that no one else can." I really needed that. So our words and actions, big and small, can make all the difference. They did for me.
ReplyDeleteAt my first job my preceptor said that our patients all have a story, get to know what it is if you can. Spend time with your patients, its the best gift that you can give them...the gift of yourself, your caring self and your listening ear. I have tried to do that with every encounter that I've had with my patients. I've learned so much and had so many patients thank me for listening to them and their story. I'm so glad that I learned this early in my career.
ReplyDeleteWhat a very wise preceptor. I never knew how much I really loved people until I became a nurse. I mean I thought I did but getting to know so many patients and their families has really led me to being a gift for others almost as much as they have been a gift to me. I feel honored that they will share their stories with me and that they can be so open during difficult times with a relative stranger to them. I have made many connections with patients on different levels just by being fully present.
DeleteThis may be an odd comment. I do not distinctively remember a comment from a nurse that was taking care of me as a patient, but I do remember a comment from a nurse that I was taking care of as a patient. She was in her sixties and had previously had cancer in her life that was in remission. She had recently retired from nursing, but then decided she wanted to go back into it. Soon after, the cancer returned. She told me she was sure that the cancer had come back due to the stress of her job. She wishes she would have never went back. But the thing she said to me that resonated the most, after I told her how depressed and stressed my mother currently is (she is also a nurse)...my patient said, "Tell your mom to retire". She said "she has put the work in, now it's in her best interest to retire". I feel like we need to know when enough is enough. I feel nurses especially know their bodies and recognize when something is taking a toll on them. Although we want to continue to help others we need to make sure to help ourselves. Nurses are so smart!
ReplyDeleteSo true Krista!
DeleteIt's hard to make big decisions like that or to offer advice we can't take for ourselves. But to hear it from another person that has our profession and knows how the body and mind wear over the years is so powerful. Crazy how certain things stick with us. :)
Preceptor: "Elisa, what is going on with your pt?"
ReplyDeleteElisa: "VSS, PERRLA, NSR, etc."
Preceptor: "No, What is REALLY going on with your pt?"
Elisa: "I'm not sure what you mean?"
Preceptor: "Look beyond the numbers and the statistics. This will tell you more about the pt than anything else".
These words have always stuck with me through out my nursing career. There is so much more to a patient than the numbers on the monitor. Sometimes just listening to the outside noise will tell you more than the inside noise(HR monitor, IV pumps ect)ever will. I think to be a successful nurse you need to have the knowledge but also really know how to listen. It may be that Joe who called and ripped your head off isn't just a jerk but that he just got a final notice before he is foreclosed on and he doesn't know what he's going to do.
I agree. To be a successful nurse you must be knowledgeable, but also have good communication and listening skills. When you're a nurse, you know that every day you will touch a life or a life will touch yours.
DeleteSo very true, Elisa. My first day after nursing school, I felt truly overwhelmed and ill prepared for the profession. I really practiced my "skills" and knew clinically how to care for a patient. They human side is something we continue to grow with each person who trust us with their care.
DeleteOne thing I always try to remind myself is to never assume what I heard from the patient is correct. I always try to restate what I heard to make sure I was correct. One story I remember is asking a patient if she could be pregnant and she stated no. After a positive pregnancy test and the patient in active cancer treatment, I asked her again and she replied " i didn't think I could get pregnant since I tried for years". I try not to be so literal with patients but usually it helps me be more accurate
ReplyDeleteThe best advise I received from a nurse was to be able to describe what you see, hear, and feel. Knowing the correct terms to use come a distant second to getting an issue across to a doctor that a patient is having. Focus on being a big help not using big medical terms.
ReplyDeleteHonestly the only encounters as an inpatient for me personally was during the birth of my children. My last child who was born 2 years ago had a lot of trouble with breast feeding and I was very emotional. She was loosing weight and not feeding well, I was becoming very nervous and upset and the nurse calmly said to me, "MOM, its ok, this is all completely common, no worries she will get it soon". Doesn't seem like much I know but in the midst of tears and fear those words seem to make it all more optimistic. My daughter did catch on after a few days and began to gain weight. As a nurse the words to find aren't always easy depending on the situation but knowing the power in just saying the right thing at the right time is key.
ReplyDeleteI personally have never been hospitalized or dealt with nursing specifically for my health, but there is a nurse that comes here for treatment that has changed my life. When I met her we just clicked. I was having GI problems that were making me miserable and she told me that I needed to get them looked at because if I don't take care of myself, I can't take care of anyone else. I She encouraged me to take control of my health because there is only one of me, and my family and patients need me. I had been avoiding the doctor because I didn't think I was that sick. I ended up changing several aspects of my life after that day and now I feel better than ever and feel like I am in control of my body and my mind. This patient continues to encourage me every time I see her. The fact that she is a nurse makes it that much more special.
ReplyDeleteOne comment that has stuck with me forever was from nursing school. Instructor always stated" What is the best defense against infection: Intact skin! Intact skin!" Just something that has always stuck with me. I also know from my peers and patients I am appreciated. Knowing how my patients feel about me, makes me feel rewarded!
ReplyDeleteFew years after graduating nursing. I volunteered in an organization back home called Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation ( ERUF ). Every single day, we were reminded by our OIC that " We Serve So Others May Live ". Since then and till now, I keep that promise to myself and remember it every single day I come to work.
ReplyDeleteOn a personal note, I will never forget these two simple words ( THANK YOU ). Few months ago, I had a patient who happens to be a nurse said " thank you " to me and goes on by saying "WITHOUT YOU" she meant us (all CTCA employees ),I will never see my kids grow, finish school, get married and have their own family if NOT for all our help, support, dedication and compassionate care. This short conversation with my patient really encourage and motivates me to keep my promise day in & day out to serve so others may live.
All my life, I have worked so hard to be where I am. A lot of praises and accolades has been given and shown to me which made me appreciate, love, and enjoy what I am really doing, but sometimes when I look back at all those things and try to savor them again in my memory, it humbles me and makes me keep thanking God for what he had completely showered upon me. As I long for parents to be physically present since they are both my angels now from up above, in my times of agony and depression, I have met a wonderful couple who became my source of inspiration and confidant during those times I was in my melancholic phase. After knowing them and telling me that I can be part of their family was a huge thing for me because it had given me that opportunity to feel again that someone cares and would never leave me down. I was very inspired by these couple because despite the husband battling for cancer and the wife acting to be the stronger warrior, they welcome me with open arms and made me realized that in life, we battle for so many things be it so big or small, but in the end they said that the greatest test of courage is to bear defeat without losing heart. To this date, just this Valentine's Day, I have gotten a message from them saying, "Richie, you know you always have a special place in our hearts" and to me that was just the most sincerest words I have ever read that up to this time I value and treasure.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was still in nursing school, the nurse during my clinical rotation was Halina at Vista. I'm pretty sure she had been a nurse longer than I had been alive, and she was very no nonsense. I listened attentively, followed close on her heels, and dove in with each new task she'd set me. One day she turned to me, and in her Polish accent said, "I like you. I don't have to tell you to turn on the light, you just do." Which I took as a vote of confidence that not only was I catching on with this whole nursing thing, I already had an instinct that I was working with, even while still in school. The boost of confidence meant a lot to me. Whenever I am unsure of myself, I hear Halina's voice telling me, "I don't have to tell you to turn on the light, you just do."
ReplyDeleteThat's a nice experience you had Katrina.
DeleteI am so happy to hear the boost of confidence that was given to you and the fact it has stayed with you and continue to hear her. That is quite special and a great asset to trust yourself!
DeleteI had in mind to become a nurse and for so many years I held back; English is my second language and at times I felt somewhat intimidated about going to school. Eventually, I overcame my fears and I remember while in labor the nurses that took care of me the night prior to my delivery were caring and very understanding of the situation. The next morning everything looked as if I was going to have a second c-section but, things changed within a short period and I was ready to have a normal delivery. It was a Monday around noon eleven years ago my nurse asks if I could allow some nursing students to come in and observe – to which I agreed. In the midst of everything going on; I remember the nursing students being so grateful for the opportunity and the nurse being able to manage assisting the doctor; giving me support and overseeing the students getting the most of this experience- this made a long lasting impression and it was then when I was convinced that I wanted to pursue my nursing career. While in the program many of my instructors were outstanding, but extremely encouraging and kept motivating me along the way. I will forever be thankful of Susan Willing and Tim Sorensen for their kind words and the knowledge they shared to all of us at GTC.
ReplyDeleteHortensia Aiello
I really enjoyed that article.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I have not had an encounter with a nurse who has said or done anything memorable to me. However, I have had multiple patients compliment my team and CTCA as a whole when comparing us to their home town clinics/hospitals. Many say they are not given much hope after being diagnosed. After coming to CTCA, they are given more options and a new outlook. Patients will always remember how we made them feel during this difficult time in their lives.
When I first started working in CTCA, I was so scared and sad with the kind of patient that we are all dealing with, which are cancer patients. My preceptor told me, you are going to be just find. I can see it in you. That gives me confident and faith in myself. Although I was really struggling for the 1st 6 months. I had the most difficult and challenging patients. In which I learned a lot. I am so proud of her as my preceptor, very smart, organize and most of all very caring. She will fight for you when the doctors starts criticizing us. I always remember her. BP.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I have been a nurse for 4 years now, I still find myself asking questions and looking up to my fellow veteran nurses. I have learned so much over these past four years and am proud every day to work with such a wonderful group of people. There have been many nurses in my career who have encouraged and supported my abilities and that I will never forget. There are also those who will forever be remembered for their caring nature and great nursing skills. I have many stories of great nurses who I will always remember. However, for this post, I am choosing to talk about a more personal experience. Recently, my mother was ill and had to be hospitalized for over two weeks. As a fellow nurse, I found it very difficult not to assert my nursing opinion. I wanted to be respectful of the nurse caring for my mom, but at the same time wanted the best treatment for her. In my head, I was thinking about what I would do and how I would care for my mom. There were several nurses I could not help but think were not doing their job and I was frustrated by the lack of care. This was hard as I know how difficult and busy our job can be. These nurses were so task oriented in my opinion, that they lost sight of what nursing is all about, the patient. I will never forget how I felt in this situation and will never let myself treat my patients the way I felt my mom was treated.
ReplyDeleteI have heard lots of great things from nurses over the years... the one I would like to reflect on now is not so much exact words but the way the nurse made me feel. I was a first time mom and instead of being overjoyed with my new bundle of joy... I found myself a nervous wreck after my few hour old sweet baby girl had stopped breathing and went blue. I was a nurse myself at the time but in those moments - I was a "mom" and being a nurse and knowing what to do what not something I "chose". Our NICU nurse was fantastic! I was a mess and she was the glue holding me together. I wish I could recite quotes that made a difference to me during that fragile time in my life... but what I do remember and will never forget is the way she made me feel at my weakest hours. She was amazing and exactly what I needed.
ReplyDeleteMy first nursing preceptor, Sharon, was filled with knowledge and was a shining example to me as new graduate nurse. Her words I still recall: “the charting isn’t going anywhere, it’ll be there at the end of the night but the patients need us now” as I strived to be as caring, efficient and smart as she was. Working the night shift on a surgical telemetry floor with a 13 patient assignment and one CNA to share between the 4 or 5 RN’s on duty was really a challenge. Her ongoing encouragement was priceless.
ReplyDeleteLisa Hammons RN
ReplyDeleteOther than having children and having a tonsillectomy at age 6, I haven't been in the hospital, so I don't have much experience interacting with nurses as a patient. I do remember being very irritated with a nurse who wouldn't listen to me when I told her that my IV site was bad. She kept telling me it was fine and refused to restart it. Well it finally blew and I ended up having to have it restarted in the OR room before my C-section, and my wrist had a hardened and painful vein for weeks after that. I'd say that it is important to really listen to what a patient is telling you, and act on that. Being compassionate and really listening to your patient is very important, even on those days when you are really busy.
Lisa, your story, as well as several others' here, remind me how important it is for us to listen to our patients, especially when they tell us something is wrong. My mother, a nurse, once developed an aneurysm that required emergency surgery after giving blood and being laughed at by her nurse (a co-worker) when she suggested that they were drawing from her artery. We need to always take the time to listen and respond in a manner that either relieves the patient's concern, or resolves the problem that they identify.
DeleteWhen I was pregnant with twins, I ended up spending much time in my final weeks with the labor and delivery staff of my local hospital. I initially went into pre-term labor and later developed HELLP syndrome. Although I cannot recall a single statement, I do remember one nurse who immediately developed a bond with me and always made me feel safe, watched over and cared for. She completed a meticulous assessment each time she cared for me and provided so much anticipatory guidance for what I might expect as I approached delivery. She provided excellent medical care as well as meeting my emotional needs during a very stressful time. I will never forget her.
ReplyDeleteEvabeatriz Somentac. When I first started working in the US, I was so scared of being yelled at by the docs because they really did.I spoke to our DON and she gave me some advise on how to handle situations like this. She talked to the docs as well letting them know how we felt. As I became more familiar with how the docs worked and able to present a problem to them, working with them was stress free. The DON still helped us in anyway she can.She would even put her scrubs when we are needing help with staffing.She was our guiding light.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was 10 years old I spent about 6 months at childrens memorial downtown Chicago. I meet Cheryl she was my ICU nurse and during the middle of the night she would take me down the hall in a wheelchair. When I got a bit better we had "races" with another kid and RN. As I improved she brought me root beer popsicles because I couldn't have red or orange and I hate purple flavor. Cheryl is with me each day I am a nurse. I was honored to have her attend me nursing graduation
ReplyDeleteAckley, I think that is why you are such a wonderful nurse. One of the many reasons ... :)
DeleteThat is an incredible nurse. I can imagine she left quite an impression on you. It is amazing that you kept a relationship with her that long.
DeleteWhen I was 13yo I had knee surgery at Michael Reese Hospital. My parents dropped me off and spent the night elsewhere. I scared to death, the night nurse was so kind to me. She kept coming in my room to see if I was okay all night. My surgery was scheduled in the afternoon the following day, but the next morning I was prepped for the first case... I remember the night nurse saying "I so sorry sweetie, I can't get a hold of your parents". She told me not to worry that they would be there when I came out of surgery. She was right, they were there waiting for me. I had such a good experience. I'm not sure that I would be a nurse if my experience was different.
ReplyDeleteI will never forget what my Med-Surg nursing instructor said to me, so many, many years ago. It was just before we were starting the clinical day. She looked at me and said "you have a face that makes people want to tell you everything". That statement made me realize how important it was for me to try to have a pleasant, open expression when I interacted with patients (and others). She made me realize that patients needed to be able to communicate with nurses and that I needed to create an environment where open, honest interaction was supported and encouraged. Because of what she said to me, I understood what I could bring to a therapeutic relationship by having a pleasant, present, and open demeanor.
ReplyDeleteI had my gallbladder out in November 2016, and it has been a very difficult road following the surgery. I was in to see my allergist and he knew how rough things had been. He sent her in to see me. It felt so good to know that I was not the only person having so many issues after it, and the advice she gave me was so encouraging at a time when I could not see a light at the end of the tunnel.
ReplyDeleteHi my name is Hazel Acacio.This is my first year with journal club. I work at outpatient infusion and I agree and understand journal club guidelines. I'm interested in learning new and better ways care for my patients.
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