It's not the pain meds

[pixierose, BSN, RN]

Ok, you awesome OR nurses. I wanted to pop over here to tell you all, thank you.

I had surgery this AM. It was scary as hell for me, because (a.) it was my first surgery EVER (oh heck no, intubated?!) and (b.) I was frightened about what I was going to wake up to.

From the moment I walked into pre-op to the moment I walked into the operating room, to the moment I was wheeled into the PACU and now into my little room here ... I was not only treated professionally but kindly. Not only were my physiological needs met but you helped allay my fears.

One of you even held my hand as I drifted off to sleep. *I can't tell you how much that meant to me,* I really can't.

I promise you, it's not the pain meds talking. I sincerely mean this, from the bottom of my heart. For all you OR nurses ... even if you just saw me for a few minutes. Thank you for taking the time to introduce yourself. Thank you for taking the time to describe the process, the time out, the room, the team, and not assume that just because you heard I was a nurse that I assume I know what's going on.

And thank you for holding my hand.

[ruby_jane, BSN, RN]

I love this. All the feels got stirred up and some are leaking out of my eyes. I'm going to be a better, kinder person today because of this. Thank you!! Hope your recovery is uneventful and your pain is well-managed!

[Tlstone]

I'm an OR nurse as well. An RN, CNOR. And, from personal experience with my pts, they have all appreciated it when I tell them, "I tend to give my pts. A little more info. because "I" want them well informed & to know what to expect Post-Op!" For example, the possible Co2 gas that is left behind & can cause residual shoulder pain. Or after a Colonoscopy, be sure to pass all that air, "flatus" or your abdomen WILL cramp! Patient teaching is a high priority in my care!

[Takethatfordata]

I will be using your tips to help my future patients! Thanks !