No Lunch...

It's been a really long time since I didn't take a break during my shift.  Working nights the cafeteria is open for two hours, from 1am till 3am...  so for me last night, nothing but snacks, and although I might get disciplined, a patient meal box!

But I'm an Emergency Nurse, and last night, my needs were eclipsed by another's...

I am amazed and impressed that there is no judgement regarding history and situation when a true emergency situation exists... don't get me wrong, when the crisis is over and the results are back, then the "oh... that explains it!" happens...

My fellow nurses, lab techs, respiratory techs, rad techs, ED techs, and others stepped up, and not only helped me with this patient... but made sure my others were watched, cared for, and taken care of.  Teamwork at it's finest!

But the purpose of this little story, is a glimpse at my motivation.

I do what I do.  For some reason, I have always found myself being adept at handling crises, emergencies, and difficult situations.  And first and foremost... my priority is to avoid and prevent situations from unraveling into a true emergency!  Truly, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

The other night I received one of the biggest compliments I have heard.  One of the Rad Techs coming to take a portable CXR said to me, almost in passing, "I like working with you... you're always so calm."

That sums it up right there!  I want to be part of the solution, not part of the problem... I remain calm, people around me see that I am calm, they remain calm. When I do get anxious and ask/call for help, I get a quick response... because I am the one usually responding to others...

There's more I could say, but I think that's enough.

Peace!