The Other Side

[XB9S, BSN, MSN, EdD, RN, APN]

I have been a nurse for almost 20 years now, there have been times when I have wondered why I bother with staff cuts and dealing with the usual front line nursing problems in the NHS.

Over the last 2 weeks I have been fortunate / unfortunate enough to experience the other side of the NHS. I know that there is much discontent within the UK, the NHS is in crisis and I have read a few posts from students and potential students who are questioning their decision to nurse so I have decided to share my experience.

2 weeks ago my grandad had a fall at home, he is in his 80's and lives alone with me and my dad helping him daily. It turned out that he had a small stroke, not too bad should be able to rehab him. Unfortunately the following night he extended his CVA and became very unwell, he aspirated and developed pneumonia as a result. We decided then that after treatment with antibiotics that he had not responded to as he was unresponsive to any stimulai that it would be kinder to keep him comfortable. That was 10 days ago.

During that 10 days I have witnessed the very best that the NHS has to offer, the nursing care has been outstanding, he has been kept clean dry, with regular oral and pressure area care. THe nurses despite being busy with heavy workloads have had time to comfort me and my family and spend time talking to him. It has been very distressing seeing him in this state but when we became upset the nurses had time.

My grandfather passed away yesterday, it was very upsetting but also a relief that he would no longer suffer. It has only been the kindness and devoted care of these wonderful nurses - both qualified, students and unqualified that has helped me and my family through this difficult time.

From a nurse who has experienced the other side thankyou to all of you hardworking, caring nurses who make times like this a little more bearable.

To those students or potential students you can do a great deal of good and make a huge difference to patients and thier families in a way that no other profession can.

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

hi

I am sorry to hear that you have been through some rough times recently but glad that the experience was of ease for you and your family and that the nurses gave you the support and time that you needed.

[tracy9559]

first my sympathies to you on the death of your grandfather.

thank you for taking the time to remind us all of nursing at its best.

we all deal with lifes most difficult moments and what makes it all worth it is to be appreciated.

[ukrn2ca]

I am sorry to hear of your loss, but glad to hear that your grandfather had a good level of care, I know how important that is to relatives having been on the other side myself.

We are all so quick to moan when things go wrong but don't often take the time to give praise.

[muffie, RN]

condolences to you and your family