Normally I stick to topics related to questions asked by my readers, and give scientific answers, but today I want to step on my soapbox and make my own response to support the #NursesUnite cause. I love reading all of the stories of the nurses in different roles explaining to Joy Behar why they need their stethoscopes…and they aren’t just a part of a costume and they are certainly not only for doctors, but there is another side of being a nurse too. Let me explain what I mean, by telling you MY story:
Currently, one of my stethoscopes is in my office, and it has been lonely for a while as I am on maternity leave from my ‘nursing’ position (ironically nursing my baby somewhat non-stop) but my other stethoscope is right at home with me. Why would I need a “special” nurses stethoscope (because it HAS to be different from a doctor one, right?) outside of the hospital? Well let me tell you, just because I have traded my “nurses costume” for some nursing tops covered in baby spit up for a couple of months doesn’t mean that I haven’t helped to treat friends, family members, and neighbors! Not a day goes by that I am not asked to “just look” at someone’s rash, help a neighbors or friends child with a bump/bruise/cut, give health and wellness advice, let them know the proper dosing of over the counter (OTC) medications, suggest OTC remedies for common ailments, or check someone’s blood pressure that thinks it might be high, but they aren’t sure. Do I mind? Nope. I love helping people, and it is a relief for my friends and family to know that they can count on me and I am there to help with medical needs and advice (which can be confusing and scary!) I will do anything in my power to help others, whenever I can because I am a nurse.
I am always a nurse, even outside of the hospital, and I will always be a nurse. Every single nurse is a nurse every day, with or without our “costume” and stethoscope. We care for people, we help people, and even when they quite literally shit on us, we support and assist them and let them know it is OK. We give all we have to help people at their lowest times and when we cheer them on at their highest. We don’t ask for praise; we do what we do because we love it, despite working long hours, holidays, weekends, and countless days/nights away from our families. Who chooses to work a job where you might get a full lunch break, time to empty your bladder in a 12 hour shift, covered in bodily fluids, or help to save a life/help a family as they lose a loved one all in one day? A nurse.
In short, thank you Miss Colorado for bringing our profession and hard work to light, and a big thank you to the ladies of ‘The View’ for your ridiculous comments and “apology” because we all heard you…we just choose to educate you on your ignorance and rise above.
Nurses Unite!
Yours in Good Health,
B
