glcas

I love what I do!! I am a nurse in a psychiatric facility (behavioral health). I know that the nurses in other situations cannot understand how i could love helping people with mental illness but then, I don't think I could handle the stress of an ER or OR or EEEEEK, med-surg. All those machines!! To each his own. Why do I love it? I seem to have always had an affinity for the mentally ill. I have an innate ability to empathize and understand. The brain and thinking processes fascinate me. Every patient is different. It is always a challenge to think up a new way to help someone; you can't see it like a broken leg, you can't cut it out like a tumor. We save lives and give hope. Not too bad a legacy.

I love what I do!! I am a nurse in a psychiatric facility (behavioral health). I know that the nurses in other situations cannot understand how i could love helping people with mental illness but then, I don't think I could handle the stress of an ER or OR or EEEEEK, med-surg. All those machines!! To each his own. Why do I love it? I seem to have always had an affinity for the mentally ill. I have an innate ability to empathize and understand. The brain and thinking processes fascinate me. Every patient is different. It is always a challenge to think up a new way to help someone; you can't see it like a broken leg, you can't cut it out like a tumor. We save lives and give hope. Not too bad a legacy.

Hey! you forgot to starch the uniform, keep the hem below your knees and your hair above your collar. I assume your shoes are carefully polished and your white stockings are without runs. Gosh, I'm feeling old.

Hey! you forgot to starch the uniform, keep the hem below your knees and your hair above your collar. I assume your shoes are carefully polished and your white stockings are without runs. Gosh, I'm feeling old.

I forgot to see what the actual topic is on this thread, but I have comments that I hope are pertinent. First, I graduated in '69 (the dark ages), worked a short year, then did not work in the field for 22 years. I returned 9 years ago. My, how things had changed, and how they continue to change! I think I changed even more. I returned with a vengence, determined to be my own person. (So it took me a long time to get there ) I found that unless I chose to be stuck in a particular role, I could make a difference. I chose to be educated, not necessarily with a degree, but with all the knowledge I can find. I share it with those I work with, be they doctors, nurses, or techs. If it will help them think in another direction, hone a skill, or just plain grow a bit, I share. In the long run the little things we share enhance our patient care, build a better bond between staff, encourage others to learn. It is a positive thing. I try to do other positive things, such as looking for solutions instead of being a part of the problem. When I find myself slipping into the catty stuff, I kick myself back to reality. At least I try to do so..... I'm still female and think it must be genetic Instead of complaining about staff shortage on the unit, I speak out to all above me about just why it is dangerous, or unreasonable, then I go help the ones who need help. Somehow, just being different seems to help change the atmosphere. Laugh a little, encourage rather than tear down, help instead of hinder, smile and make them wonder what you are up to. It doesn't change things overnight, but it does create changes. One caveat... I have the luxury of being able to work prn and I can take chances some others cannot. On the other hand, no one is going to fire anyone for being cooperative, helpful, and supportive. Try it. Thought number two: There was a time when I had to suddenly return to the workforce. I did everything from secretarial to bookkeeping. Typical female dominated positions. It is the same in the business world as in nursing. Women are expected to do more with less and do it better for less pay. Fortunately, we are also the best equipped to do so. Unfortunately, we are the best equipped to do so. Bottom line, live with the status quo or do your part to change it. It is your choice. Do the job you like and you will do what you can to make it what it should be. Look at the problems as being challenges. Give those around you a boost instead of a stab in the back. Smile. My last thought: If you think nursing is where you want to be, then go for it. There are a multitude of areas you can specialize in if you don't find med-surg to be your thing. Nursing today is very different than 30 some years ago, but still needs a boost up the ladder. Come on in and help us get up another rung. p.s. Yes, I hate my pay and the dangers of my job as much as anyone here. And, no, I am not really a Pollyanna. BUT, I removed the welcome mat from my back to discourage people from walking all over me.