I had the pleasure of meeting Tim Porter O’Grady and working with him for a day at the American Nurses Association Corporate Advisory Board.
At one point, he stated “Nursing is the only medical profession that manages the journey, not the event. For the nurse, the question is….’Did I care?’”
The simple statement – one he’s probably made hundreds of times before – is a great reminder on how we need to focus on the wonderful ways Nurses can affect people in a positive manner instead of getting bogged down in performing the job duties.
Here are 5 reasons to take a step back and think about the next time you feel stressed with the ‘events’ instead of enjoying the journey.
1. Emotional Connection. Holding a hand, crying, laughing, or however you make the connection with any person in life brings emotional fulfillment for both parties. The ability of the Nurse – the caring, willing to listen Nurse – to have that connection with patients on a daily basis is good for the patient – and good for your soul.
2. Making a Difference. Many healthcare professionals point to the ability to make a difference in someone’s life is the reason they chose the profession. For nursing, that is proven time and again with both the tasks required of nurses and the interactions that happen between the tasks. On a regular basis, make a list of the patients you touched – either by improving their health with the tasks or by connecting spiritually or emotionally with them.
3. Advocate for the Patients. As the one clinician who sees the patient repeatedly during each shift, you are the one person who can advocate for the needs, desires, and satisfaction triggers for the patient. Standing up for the patient is a responsibility that can help you feel great satisfaction when that advocacy produces positive results – or simply satisfies a patient’s need.
4. Translate Medical Terminology. I often hear nurses talk about explaining medical issues, terminology, discharge papers, etc., in simple terms that the patient and their family can understand. What a great way to feel important – making sure someone understands. (and by the way, if you don’t like this reason, feel free to add in this space any other ‘special duties as assigned’ that brings you satisfaction in what you do.)
5. Every day is a new day. At the heart of healthcare is a singular relationship between two people at any given point in time. That by definition makes each day have variability and provides new and exciting ways to make a difference.
Take a few minutes and enjoy and enjoy the journey now – and make an appointment with yourself on a regular basis to think how you made a difference.