being a nurse

Last week was nurse's week. All week my working did a whole "spirit" week thing all week. It was very thoughtful; however I felt like I was back in high school. I did like that they where trying to make us feel special, which is always nice :)

All last week I kept thinking of why I became a nurse. A lot of days...mostly when I can't do things b/c of work. I wonder if this really is the right profession for me. I think about what else I could have done with my life. I can't ever think of anything else. Some things sound like fun, like travel agent, but none ever fit me. For some reason I have always wanted to help people feel better. What better way than be a nurse??

It is defiantly not a glamorous job by any means, nor is it easy.  First school feels like cruel and unusual punishment, but you get through it. I found myself fascinated by the body and all the things is does. After school you think yes! I'm done will all of that nonsense, but then there are boards. I had my first panic attack after taking those. Finally you get that wonderful RN after you name! You finally get to practice what you where taught!!

So after all this stress why did I do it? Because there isn't anything I could even imagine myself doing. To be a nurse you must deal with doctors with attitudes ( not all of them), working long hours, being able to go 12 hours without going to the bathroom or eating, getting pooped/peeded/vomited on, stick people/kids/babies with needles, not always being appreciated, and sometimes putting your family second. You must be strong enough to deal with death. Some days I'm stronger than others. Some days I'm so tired I can't keep my eyes open on my drive to and from work. But the joy you see in the patient or family's eyes when they see you makes it all worth it. There is nothing like making a sick patient's day. No matter how tired/ stressed I feel I love seeing that joy. I love knowing that I made an good impact on someone's day.

I guess that is why I'm a nurse. I truly love what I do. Even though I randomly look at other jobs, I can't ever bring myself to leave. I love being a bedside nurse. So thank you to everyone that has been strong enough to become a nurse! You all are very special to be doing this thing we call nursing :)