WORTH IT?

Last Saturday had to be my most challenging patient assignment at work so far. We were maxed out, giving each of us the max of 5 patients. One patient had a G-tube. Another had an NG tube. Three out of my five patients were confused. One was in restraints. Another in a halo vest. Two in contact isolation. Just to name a few of the things I had to face that day. It was…a very busy day, to say the least. Days like that make me wonder if this is what I’m really supposed to be doing. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy nursing. When it’s good, it’s really good. But when it’s bad? It’s VERY bad. 

Lately I’ve been thinking of what specialty I’d like to try next. Even though I’m learning a lot currently, I’m also stressing a lot, which is starting to manifest physically. My immune system is shot, I have constant pain in my back, shoulders, and neck, and on days off, I just want to stay in and rest. I’m turning into such an old lady. :P

But yesterday, a patient of mine told me something that reminded me, despite all the challenges, I do enjoy being a nurse.

“If there is any way I can give recommendations, I would give you one because you have been wonderful. It’s been such a comfort. Everyone here is nice, but you… have something special.” 

Hearing that made my day and I started thinking that maybe this IS what I’m meant to do after all. 

Sometimes I find myself asking if it’s all worth it because nursing becomes so task-oriented for me at times. All I’m doing is giving medications, assessing patients, charting, or trying to contact the doctors just to get orders.

But when someone points out a difference you’ve made, all of a sudden….. dealing with difficult family members, clashing with condescending doctors, skipping breaks, eating lunch ridiculously late, getting phone calls even while you’re at lunch, not getting to sit down for long periods of time, or doing all these tasks…. it makes it all worth it because you feel that you do serve a purpose. :P

So thank you to that patient (and all the other ones in the past) that puts it all into perspective for me.