Makes Me Feel Like Crying

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Second patient I've had in the last 6-8 months that is probably a new para. Not their fault but both involved in spinal injury. I'm not able to state how, but I assure you the injuries have nothing to do with the patients- they were completely innocent of the circumstances leading to their injuries.)

We're at the stage where we're asking questions: Ever going to walk again? How am I going to take care of my kids? How am I going to live my life? Will I be in a wheel chair?

You know... it's sad. Thanks for listening.

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Specializes in Psych (25 years), Medical (15 years).

Yes it is, Accolay, and you're welcome.

At least the patient has an empathetic, caring nurse working with them.

Take care of yourself also.

The best to you and yours.

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

Sending a virtual hug. I've been there when the pt was told their spouse or child didn't survive the MVC, are newly quadriplegic etc. It's hard.

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You are doing the best you can (hugs). Keep up with the active listening and therapeutic silence. Come here to vent PRN we are here for each other.

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I have a hard time several years down the road let alone when it's fresh. Sending a hug.

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If only we could fix everything........So sorry you are struggling.

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Thanks guys. Don't worry- I'll soldier on.

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That is very sad. They are blessed to have such a caring nurse. :inlove:

Just cry if you want to. Sometimes it helps just to get it all out. Tears are cleansing. :cry:

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I've been doing this awhile and this never stops being painful.

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Specializes in Med/Surg/Infection Control/Geriatrics.

You have a heart for nursing and for listening. Don't ever lose that.

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Specializes in Adult Primary Care.

It never gets easier. I can still close my eyes and clearly see each of the tragic / pediatric outcomes from my ER days. Almost like a polaroid snapshot (if you are old enough to know what a polaroid is). I could describe my first pediatric demise as if it were yesterday. We do the best we can. Take care of the patient as best we can. Comfort the families as best we can. Then we move forward (as best we can).

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Second patient I've had in the last 6-8 months that is probably a new para. Not their fault but both involved in spinal injury. I'm not able to state how, but I assure you the injuries have nothing to do with the patients- they were completely innocent of the circumstances leading to their injuries.)

We're at the stage where we're asking questions: Ever going to walk again? How am I going to take care of my kids? How am I going to live my life? Will I be in a wheel chair?

You know... it's sad. Thanks for listening.

Why is the fact that they are "innocent" relevant? Even if they had some kind of personal responsibility for what happened, is that less sad?

I guess if the patient suffered the injuries while committing a murder or other very serious crime, it might make finding compassion a little harder, but in general, I am not understanding the need to state twice that these injuries were not their fault.

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