Over the years spent in the field of nursing I’ve come to realize that my career choice happens to be one of the most misunderstood. I’ve noticed on many occasions people tend to not see the whole picture about their nurse. To quote Paul Harvey, they may not have “the rest of the story.” Rather they see what they want to see because it’s easier that way.
Not always, but often times there are misconceptions about the field, and about your nurse. Some patients get it, and for them I’m so grateful, but some people don’t. Many times I wish I could just lay it all out there, to just explain exactly what runs through my heart and mind. But typically there’s about as much time for explanations as there is for lunchtime and potty breaks.
But if I could say a few things briefly it might sound like this.
I know being sick stinks. I know you may think that I don’t know this, but I do. And even though sick folks are my bread and butter, in all honesty I don’t want you here either. I want you back home where you belong.
Even though I may seem aloof or distracted sometimes in your hour of need it’s never because I don’t think being sick is hard. I know it is. I also know it’s scary, so I understand. And even though I may not have personally been in your situation, part of my job is to place myself in your shoes.
I know poking your finger is painful, and I’m aware that the blood pressure cuff squeezes really hard. I know we’re waking you up often, and I realize it’s loud around here too.
Barium tastes like crap, and your heart healthy diet tastes even crappier because it lacks salt. The doctor was rude, and that other doctor was too young. I know.
That needle is sharp, and that medicine burns. And I don’t want to stick you more than once for an IV; the lab technician doesn’t enjoy it either. You being sick makes your veins more difficult for us to cannulate (insert IV) for a number of reasons, and we don’t do it for fun, or even to punish you.
Everything we do in the hospital is aimed at getting you better, and getting you out the door. Sadly most of those interventions are painful and annoying. It’s no fun, and I realize this. Don’t shoot the messenger.
I really am busy. When I am gone for an extended period of time it is always with good reason. Yes, I said always. If I’m going on lunch you’ll know it because I’ll tell you first. If I am absent from your sight for a lengthy amount of time without explanation it is because I’m busy.
Seriously, I am.
Short-staffing is real. It’s not just a term we make up so we can go hide in the lounge and eat bonbons. And then there’s the feces.
Oh, the feces. It hits the fan. Frequently. Sometimes it’s literally feces I’m busy with, but sometimes it’s beyond that. Many times I may not return with your water because someone is dying. Nurses triage patient need, and if I see a situation that trumps yours then I will act accordingly. I’m pretty sure that’s the kind of nurse you want, especially if you find yourself needing the critical attention.
Remember that I know when I’m being lied to. After years of dealing with people nurses become quite adept at knowing when someone is keeping something from us or not telling the whole truth. The thing is we’re a team, or we should be. Your nurse wishes to be your advocate, and to work towards a resolution of your condition together. This relationship requires honesty though.
If you’re having abdominal pain due to something you inserted in your rectum just tell me. The xray will eventually.
Have you had anything to eat since midnight? Please realize your vomited and likely aspirated eggs will tell on you.
If you don’t have someone to pick you up when I discharge you please just fess up. I’ll still give you the IV pain medicine, and then I’ll call you a cab instead. My treat. Let’s not waste time waiting on an imaginary friend.
How much alcohol do you drink? A six pack a week? The truth will come to light, and it won’t be pretty. By honestly speaking with your nurse about your consumption we can work together before withdrawals hit. Don’t be embarrassed. I certainly won’t judge, and I can guarantee I’ve seen worse.
The one area where this does not matter is your level of pain. What I mean is that pain is subjective. So if you rate your pain 10 out of 10 then by golly it’s a 10, and I’ll treat it as such. Even if you’re playing Candy Crush Saga on your iPad while laughing on the phone with your brother. The brother who’s going to bring you a Route 44 Dr Pepper to help us with your diabetes. Point being, I will always treat your pain according to your perception of it. But for everything else I might call you out on your fib.
But I do care! That’s the most important thing when it comes down to it, and even if you don’t think I do, I do. Nurses don’t do it for the money I can tell you. We do it for the patients, and deep down we really care how you’re feeling, and we care about your outcome.
The thing is I love nursing. I love what I do, and if I didn’t you can bet I wouldn’t be here. Do I get busy? You betcha! Frustrated? Who doesn’t. Does that mean I don’t care about you? Not at all.
Your nurse is in a heck of a position. They happen to be present when you’re at your worst, physically and emotionally. We just want to help you feel better, but sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it’s a tough road, but you’re not alone in it. Your nurse is also there. And though this might surprise you, your nurse feels every needle stick and the dampness of each tear shed.
Look up and a nurse will be there, feeling your pain, and searching for the next step required to get you back home. After all, we know being sick stinks. I promise.
So now you know the rest of the story.
Denise says
Fantastic… Right to the point and written with perfection!! This should be printed and posted in every patient admission pamphlet.
brieann.rn@gmail.com says
Thank you.
Cynthia McMillen Kinney says
Well said and completely valued.
I wouldn’t be here without you (collectively all nurses).
You fill the gap most necessary between my arrival and the doctors arrival.
You are proactive with the details of my care.
Your calm personality comforts me.
You are highly appreciated.
Thanks bunches!
brieann.rn@gmail.com says
Awesome. Thank you!
Patricia McKeon Stevens says
As I prepare to sit for my NCLEX, I love reading your blog. I truly understand what you are saying and can’t wait to be in your shoes. Love that you keep the Lord the center of what you do and share so much with those of us that love to follow along.
brieann.rn@gmail.com says
Thank you so much! Best wishes on the NCLEX. You’ll do great!
Suzanne Lamont says
Wow, you said it all and very clearly. This should be posted in every hospital room, emergency room, etc
I have many relatives and friends who are devoted nurses and I am so proud of them.
brieann.rn@gmail.com says
Thank you.
Bill Fintel says
I get it ! Thank you.
brieann.rn@gmail.com says
Thank you.