I was hired at our local hospital after I moved to Georgia. I was a Unit Secretary. I entered doctor's orders, assisted staff and visitors etc. I finally obtained my Nursing degree and license in 1993. I love being a nurse. Frustrating, tiring and totally fulfilling for me.
The hospital system has changed and grown drastically in the past 27 years.
Nurses are no longer required to wear nursing caps, our school pins or white dresses, shoes and hose. It is difficult to distinguish a nurse from a tech without looking at the name tag.
Nurses are no longer required to wear nursing caps, our school pins or white dresses, shoes and hose. It is difficult to distinguish a nurse from a tech without looking at the name tag.
Nurse-Doctor relationships have also changed. A doctor is quickly reported for unprofessional behavior.
Yet, nurses no longer:
1.) rise from a chair when doctor enters nurses station.
2.) Offer support and assistance without being summoned.
3.) obtain coffee, charts etc for our Doctors.
Hopefully, we still show respect to each other. I do.
Technology, the use of Hospitalists, Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants have increased exponentially over the past 30 years. Medical research has improved our life expectancy and quality of life. Insurance and medical costs are the new hot topic.
Whatever your own healthcare experience and views may be, I think we can all agree that we need our Healthcare Team. We are decently paid, heavily taxed (emotionally, physically and monetary). Most of us are here to serve you, not for the money.
We are the people doing the grunt work. I promise you this-You do not want graphic details. I could write a book!
I do have a life outside of my career. I am blessed to receive personal satisfaction in my home and work life.
I welcome your comments, healthcare experiences or Nursing Education questions. I will not debate healthcare reform as that is not the purpose of this blog.
