Living my dream
Today was my first shift working as a Registered Nurse. I've wanted to be a nurse since I was 13 after reading the 'Sue Barton' book series. On the train on the way to work, I wrote the following:
Today is my first proper shift as an RN, I've got my scrubs on with a purpose, dinner packed, my ID, swipe and watch in my pockets. Walking to the bus stop, I felt like I was walking with a straighter back and a purpose in my stride. This moment makes being a nurse feel so real an incredibly exciting. Today is the day I've dreamed of since I was 13, and after studying for three intense years and aiming my whole life towards nursing, it's finally happening. A dream come true. Nursing is a career where I get to make an impact in peoples lives, to be with them when they're most vulnerable and to provide support and a friendly face through the hard times. I often see my patients out in the street, and they mostly don't recognise me as I'm not in my uniform or in the context of the hospital. It's so great seeing them out enjoying the rest of their lives, looking healthy and back to their normal self in their normal clothes. I look forward to the challenge that nursing brings, this year and for the rest of my life.
- once a nurse, always a nurse -
Today was an afternoon shift in the short-stay medical ward that I am working in. I know the nursing staff already from my student placement, and felt like one of the team in the same coloured uniform. It's such a small difference, having that distinguishing uniform. The staff and the patients treat you very differently. I had two patients this shift, two admissions. The first was not as straight forward as initially anticipated, very demanding and requiring frequent pain relief and reassurance. The second was a sweet older lady whom was fiercely independent and a great inspiration. The majority of the shift was straight forward, vital signs, pain relief, small comfort measures. But it was the smaller things that made it so realistic for me. The fact I could give oral medications by myself, the fact that I didn't need co-signing on my notes, or permission to anticipate my patients needs. The doctors and other staff were more open to consulting with me and hearing my opinion, and I felt a valued member of the team. Although I felt almost out of my depth, I knew that I was supported and all I needed to do was ask for some help or assistance.
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