I understand the point you are trying to convey. I do not take issue with repetition of so called menial tasks *IF* there is a clear reasoning/point behind them. Do you not think I made sure my trauma bays were stocked, calibrated, all systems go every morning and every trauma thereafter? I was very meticulous on things that mattered the most. I do not think I am above a sheet change or the nit picky tasks required of me. However, I do not logically see them as an efficient use of time or improving patient outcomes. Flight checks and a culture of safety directly impact the mission and/or patient care. Checking and calibrating equipment along with ensuring you are stocked, locked, and loaded all have a direct impact on patient care.
When I say I 'think differently' than my peers, here is a classic example. A person arrives from the ED. (Most likely indigent or homeless.) Everyone is fixated on how bad they smell, contact precaution swabs, and the general uncleanliness/disorganization. I am fixated on a map of 40, poor pallor, and a heart rate in the 140s. The nurses here hone in on getting someone "situated" rather than stabilized first. It's not that they are poor clinicians, it's that they are very used to a situation where everything is in it's place before any interventions.
Not every day is a scene flight or bloody trauma. I realize those comprise a small % of actual transports. However, my practice is patient centered and to maintain a homeostasis of sorts. I enjoy many aspects of the ICU and have gained valuable exposure to the long term management of the critically ill. In many ways my post is a 'vent' of sorts and isn't meant to demean critical care nurses or 'whine.' The assertion that I cannot acclimate is false. Clearly, the heart of emergency nursing and the mastery of it is acclimation/adaptability. I have acclimated to the environment I'm in, but it is mentally draining to have a group of peers who prioritize differently.
The comment about having an ICU doctor holding my hand. I currently do not partake in hand holding nor will I ever. I am considered 'brash' by some because I am so forward and impatient with twiddling of thumbs by residents. I will have all appropriate labs ordered, gtts in hand, and say "these are our parameters, unless you vehemently oppose, want to put those(orders) in?"
In closing, I get your point. I know that not every task is fun or mentally stimulating. I'm simply reaching out to see if others have had the same experience.
You haven't crushed my career goals. I think I will stick it out and suck it up for now. (With the knowledge that my heart will always be in emergency nursing.)
