Things I've Learned in the First Thirty Years of my Career as a Registered Nurse

1.  It's during the night shift that patients will tell you the most intimate details of their lives. 

2.  NEVER  judge a person by how they look or smell.  When I take the time to listen to the stories, it all makes perfect sense. 

3.  Being present with people at their most vulnerable moments is treading on holy ground. I've learned to tread lightly. 

4.  Nurses are very self-critical and they often extend that attitude of judgement to their fellow nurses. I've been a part of this culture and I've learned that its tough to disengage from the drama. 

5.  Some nurse colleagues end up being my best friends.  They get the responsibility for life and death thing. 

6.  "Best Practices" come and go.  I've learned to follow my instincts when it comes to best practice and not the "flavor of the week". 

7.  I've learned that my favorite part of nursing is being a patient advocate.  I have a hard time standing up for myself, but I rock at standing up for my patients! 

8.  Comfortable shoes are my best friend. 

9.  Hydrogen Peroxide takes out blood stains. 

10.  It's a slow process, but I'm learning that to take good care of others, I need to care for myself. At work I'm a multi-tasking Queen, at home I'm Queen of whatever makes my heart go pitter-patter! 

Here's to the next thirty years of lessons to be learned!