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7 Things to Learn from a "Lifer" Nurse
Prisca Smith | Scrubs Magazine
7. Nurses with longevity know how to handle management, the doctors, and the patients. They have become interpersonal experts and can navigate all the drama of the hospital in order to take good care of their patients. I see seasoned nurses at staff meetings, on committees and in charge. They have learned that in order to effect change, they have to take an active leadership role in what’s happening—on and off the unit!
Experienced nurses are an example of how to avoid burn out as they have found ways to cope with and love the profession for the long haul. And yes, I believe that time makes a good nurse even better! There of course is always an exception to the rule, but for the most part I am in awe of the nurses I am working with and am enjoying watching them in action. As always, I am realizing I have a lot to learn—much of which will take a lot of time. One day I hope to be a “lifer” who is an example of the excellence our profession has to offer.
Experienced nurses are an example of how to avoid burn out as they have found ways to cope with and love the profession for the long haul. And yes, I believe that time makes a good nurse even better! There of course is always an exception to the rule, but for the most part I am in awe of the nurses I am working with and am enjoying watching them in action. As always, I am realizing I have a lot to learn—much of which will take a lot of time. One day I hope to be a “lifer” who is an example of the excellence our profession has to offer.
Are you a nursing lifer? Share your advice in the comments below!
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pjmoon322
over 3 years ago
2 comments
Great article. I have 7 years of telemetry experience and love picking the brains of my senior nurses when I can. On tele it is rare to be able to have an indepth conversation but there always seems to be a "goto" nurse oozing full of knowledge. I am sometimes in awe of these amazing people. I am continuously empowered and motivated by the brilliant souls that built the foundation of our profession. Take care of yourself and always be open to learning!!!
nursemona
over 3 years ago
2 comments
Know there will be chanllenges and disagreements among co-workers, use the experience you have to develop your beliefs and confidence. Do what's best for the patient. if possible. Stick with the winners in the workplace, learn what they have to offer.Learn as much as you can in the area in which you work through lieterature, books, magazines, inservices. Don't be afraid to ask questions, good nurse are not "know it alls".. Allow yourself to be human, we all make mistakes. Take good care of yourself. Learn to say no when you can't work extra shifts. Create balance in your liffe: work, play, family, friends, the gym, eat healthy foods if possible. Be careful with people pleaseing just to fit in.
Barbrn1002
over 3 years ago
4 comments
Don't take yourself, or your job too seriously! If possible, have fun. Life is too short to let it go by while you have your nose to the grindstone! If it HAS to be there, then enjoy those you work with, laugh with your patients (if you can), and remember to find something of joy and value in each day, no matter how little it is! Barbara A. Wickham, RN, BSN, CCRN
Account Removed
over 3 years ago
I thought your article to be very informative, interesting and true. I Have seen many of my friends going crazy over the new profession for many reasons. I do believe that knowledge, common sense, and love for the career, and good interpersonal skills are keys to succeed in nursing. Thank you for your article.
linad
over 3 years ago
2 comments
I am a lifer, sounds like the military :) I graduated with my generic BSN in 1978, so I just passed 31 years. I am working on my MSN just now, but will finish it or bust!!! I have been told that I am very calm. I was a Fllight Nurse in the USAF. I have taught at community colleges and have been an ER educator in a hospital. I have been a charge nurse and a staff nurse. I have had my CEN and CCRN. Right now I am a staff nurse working 8 hour shifts full time in an ER, and determined to finish my MSN. Most of all, I love patient education.
natashatad
over 3 years ago
2 comments
Advocation is a word.
Dictionary.com ....
ad·vo·cate (ād'və-kāt')
tr.v. ad·vo·cat·ed, ad·vo·cat·ing, ad·vo·cates
To speak, plead, or argue in favor of. See Synonyms at support.
n. (-kĭt, -kāt')
1.
One that argues for a cause; a supporter or defender: an advocate of civil rights.
2.
One that pleads in another's behalf; an intercessor: advocates for abused children and spouses.
3.
A lawyer.
[From Middle English advocat, lawyer, from Old French advocat, from Latin advocātus, past participle of advocāre, to summon for counsel : ad-, ad- + vocāre, to call; see wekw- in Indo-European roots.]
ad'vo·ca'tion n., ad'vo·ca'tive, ad·voc'a·to'ry (ād-vŏk'ə-tôr'ē, -tōr'-, ād'və-kə-) adj., ad'vo·ca'tor n.
I agree that there is no evidence of a word as "assuridity."
jginnetti
over 3 years ago
6 comments
Sorry, but there are no such words as "assuridity" or "advocation". Nice article, though. John, RN