Reflections

Looking back over my posts I realize I focused a lot on the negative side of nursing: the long shifts, the hard work, and worst of all the patients that don't make it.  If I could start this assignment over, I think I would try to focus more on the positive.  I would try to use my words to convey those days when you walk of the floor fulfilled, happy and knowing you have a purpose.  I would talk more about the patients that heal both physically and spiritually.  The lessons you learn about yourself and those you're able to pass on to others.  The thing I'm most fearful of at this point is the idea that I may have scared someone away from this field.  For the record, that was the furthest thing from my mind.

I set out to identify the negative feelings and impact the profession of nursing has on those who practice it.  I personally feel as if I've done that.  I now know it is a common condition known as compassion fatigue.  I've also learned there are things that can be done to avoid it and when that's not possible, to treat it.  I've shared some personal stories along the way, both the good and the bad.  I guess you could say this blog has been more than an assignment in some class; it's been an emotional outlet for me.

Thank you all for reading and sharing in my ups and downs.  I hope you've all gotten something out of it.  I know I did.

Switching Teams

I just finished my first year as a nurse. It's had it's ups and downs as would any new career; however, nursing has a way of becoming part of who you are.  If you're not careful it can take over your life.  I started out looking to learn as much as possible about compassion fatigue and I really feel like I've gotten a good grip on what it is and what can be done. 

The first step anyone has to do in this situation is step back and look at your life.  I  just recently found myself working 30 plus hours a week on a rehab floor, fighting to keep my A average as a full time student, and , oh yea, did I mention I'm expecting?  Of course my work was getting to me.  So was traffic and school and the lines at the grocery store.  At some point in life, you're going to have to step back and say "enough."

That's just what I finally did.  I've enjoyed my time on the rehab floor but it was time to let it go.  I just started a job at a pediatric facility and I've already felt the difference.  It's amazing.  When I'm scheduled to get off at 8:00 I actually get off at 8:00.  No one is there long enough to form an attachment and I don't have to worry about coming in one morning and finding out one of my patients had a major heart attack at 2 A.M. and didn't make it.  I do miss certain aspects of my last job.  I miss the patients and I will always miss celebrating their triumphs with them. 

Every job will have it's ups and downs, good days and bad days.  There's no way to tell which ones will get to you and which ones you'll forget about the moment after it happens.  You just have to take things day by day and do the best you can.  Take care of yourself.  We have to remember to take a step back from time to time and breath.