I once had a patient that was very upset when they found out I was just the nurse. I am just the nurse that:
Holds your loved ones hand and comforts them when they are in pain
Spends time listening to their stories when family and friends are not there
Gets yet another warm blanket to help them warm up
Finds beverages and snacks to keep them full
Calls the doctor to get medicine to ease pain and suffering
Makes sure that the proper medications are given
Takes them to the bathroom and cleans up diarrhea all over themselves and the bed
Checks up on them to make sure they are doing alright
Makes sure further treatment is given if they start to decline
Educates them on taking care of their body
Prepares them for procedures they may have in the morning
Listens to complaints and tries to resolve any issues
Assesses them and their condition, making sure they are receiving the care they need
Advocates for them with the healthcare team when necessary
Yes, I am just a nurse. I am the link a patient has 24/7. I do my best to be deserving of the trust placed on me. Please appreciate the nurses that care for your loved ones, they do just about everything to take care of your loved ones, and often ignore their own physical needs to make sure that patients are getting the care they need in a timely fashion.
