Nursing and dealing with death

One has to come to terms with one's own mortality, and that of, well, everyone. There comes a point at which one no longer breaks over every death because, often, one can see that it is a release rather than something horrible.

Do nurses have to deal with a lot of death? Realistically. And does it get easier?

Yes, they do. It depends what type of nursing you go into, but with the economy he way it is nowadays, many nurses are starting off in long term care. You have to come to grips with the fact that we're all going to see the pearly gates at some point. The best way to look at it is if you have a patient who is actively dying, you need to make them as comfortable and peaceful as possible. I had never dealt with death before becoming a nurse, but I can proudly say now that I have helped several hospice patients die comfortably and with dignity. I have had families give me cards saying "Thank You for helping my Mom pass on with respect and comfort". Death is awful but it's also a part of everyone's life. If you can help a family grieve or assist a pt in dying without any pain, then you are a good nurse.... I hope that helps?

It does help. But it still saddens me. I suppose you eventually get over it.

Try doing some volunteer work in either a senior center or in a long term care facility. Much of the aging/elderly population has come to terms with death, both their own and that of those around them, and they may be able to give you some insight that will come in handy later on in your career and in your personal life as well.

As nurse...part of your practice is dealing with life and death. There's no easy way in dealing with death of a family member or even a friend. Just being supportive to the family and the patient is the most you can do. How to be supportive...just being there,holding hands and even a hug will mean a lot to some people,but you have to maintain your Professionalism and keep it Professional.