I'm wondering if others have quintessential moments of satisfaction while working, something I call "nursing moments". For me, its making beds, particularly if the pt. is sitting by the window, with family in the room. I know that it seems mundane, but I derive immense satisfaction from making beds. I don't have to calculate anything, measure, wipe or document the event. It's a fresh clean bed, with no wrinkles, no complaints, no doubts and everyone is grateful that it's done.
I have known this for some time, but just recently had the courage to tell a good friend, the former DON of a Harvard hospital. He said the same thing, but he liked making beds with people in them.
I like bed making too. I like looking in and seeing a coworker making a bed and helping from the other side. No words, just help. ...and a smile of thanks.
One special moment I only viewed from the sidelines, but I will never forget.
I had a patient who was within hours of dying, but still had all his faculties. His senior care physicianasked if he would like to stay in the hospital or be at home with his wife. At home was the choice.
The doctor lifted the man into a wheelchair. Took him home in his own car and had 4 university students help carry the chair up into the house.
The doctor stayed with the couple until he passed away.
And you know what? That doctor had been an RN for about 10 years before finishing medical school. He said that's where he learned "how."
Wow, thats awesome, you made my morning with that story...thank you! :kiss
legsmalone, RN
125 Posts
Wow, thats awesome, you made my morning with that story...thank you! :kiss