parascribe

All the above, plus a retractable pocket tape measure. And booze, but not pocket size, that's just asking for trouble

I try to remember what Oscar Wilde said: " A gentleman is never rude unintentionally." What I most try to avoid is replying in anger, or just snapping at someone. After that, depends on what you're trying to accomplish. I find that using rudeness as a communication tool is rarely effective, unless your goal is to escalate an arguement. It works great for that.

That's a great tip, thanks. As to superstition, I tell people I didn't use to be superstitious, then I became a paramedic. Being a nurse reinforces it. My first mentor gave me a great line "Always remember, we take care of other people's emergencies." Over the years that's been a great help in maintaining a professional distance.

Do you single out the men who don't throw away their garbage? Do you expect the men in your department to manage your trash for you?

I feel the same. However, it has been an issue at my work, hence my feeling that any woman that complains about the position of a toilet seat forfeits any issues of gender equality. Anyone who needs someone else to position the toilet seat is clearly not equal to those who can handle it themselves.

I'm surprised this is being discussed. I tend my own bathroom habits with no expectation of assistance from anyone. When I hear a woman complain about the toilet seat being left up, I assume they're forfeiting any future argument about gender equality.

I'm pretty sure I've had that patient, or their relative, or maybe it was someone who just hatched out of the same pod. I agree with Stargazer, I've had good results asking simple direct questions, always politely and calmly. I find that often, people are just frustrated, particularly if they happen to lack good coping and communication skills. On the other hand, some people are just (insert word not allowed by TOS).

So you're saying that women can't compete with men when the playing field is level? I disagree and think your comments are demeaning to women. The most toxic work environment I ever worked in was an all male fire station. Gossiping, backstabbing, lack or support, you name it, all there. Kind of a cross between and old lady bridge club and a junior high boys locker room. Was it this way because they were men? Not at all, just a bad work culture with too much down time and not enough leadership. The key I think is not to get caught thinking only in stereotypes. Granted, some stereotypes develop for a reason. Several of the recent posters here fit a certain stereotype of a witchy, nosy, man hating, irrational, "I am woman hear me roar" type. But they don't represent all women, anymore than male stereotypes represent all men. Enjoy you're team when it's a good one. After all, individuals count way more than demographics.

People who wish to take offense, will find a reason. I never said any such thing and I resent you implying it.

Engineering definitely changed the game for EMS and fire. One thing I noticed over the course of my EMS career was that I started to see vehicles with more damage, requiring more extrication effort, but not necessarily worse injuries. The advent of crumple zones seemed, anecdotally anyway, to leave people less injured but more stuck. Plus everything already mentioned with batteries and airbags and such...

I have about two shifts in my ER that were all male. It caused us all to pray for no gynecological emergencies.

self-concious and uncomfortable. I spent some many years wearing ems pants and boots, when I started nursing, scrubs and tennis shoes felt like I was undressed.

My first response was denial, but finally I went to a cardiologist.

I think when and how you ask is probably more important than what you ask. And also maybe who you ask. Most days, I'm like PedsRN and love to share a learning opportunity. But then some other days.... You have to pick your moment.

I've worked with a few people over the years who have a similar problem. Just remember, it's not generally the nurse's job to get stuck! If you don't have a problem administering shots and IV's, you should have no problem.