Nursing is a calling that’s similar to the call to priesthood. The journey is paved with sacrifices and the desire to make what I call IMAD: I made a difference. Then add to that the rapid changes in technology available to clients and the need for culturally competent approaches to healthy living. With all these demands, nurses need to work and study harder, plus sacrifice even more.
As you put on your nursing uniform and gather your supplies for the day, add an objective reminder of your “Call” to keep you centered and focused on the difference you are making. These can come in the form of these tips for nurses:
The ABCs of Nursing—Tips and Tricks
- A – Anticipate needs; do a total, detailed assessment on admission.
- B – Bond with your patient; maximize every contact if possible. Prepare for discharge.
- C – Compassion, critical thinking, and clear communication are keys.
- D – Diversity competency is a must. “D” also stands for display compassion at the deathbed.
- E – Empathy is crucial to compassionate care and teamwork.
- F – Family members sometimes need more care than your patients. Allay their fears.
- G – Gratitude to be a part of the healing process empowers your care.
- H – Holistic care is a big circle of care that includes patient, family, and community.
- I – Influence your environment. Teach healthy living and maintenance tips for nurses and patients alike.
- J – Just like jellybeans: Remember that you have a good mix of people’s skills and personalities on your team.
- K – Keep your practice transparent, honest, competent, and ethical.
- L – Listen to your patients. Seek to understand and teach to make a difference.
- M – MRI scans, colonoscopies, or other procedures increase fear. Talk to your patients about it.
- N – Nervousness can lead to panic. Even a smile or silence can mask anxiety.
- O – Organize your day. Right from the start, prioritize and time your must-dos.
- P – Physicians are not gods. Patient advocacy requires good teamwork.
- Q – Quitting is not an option when things get tough. Stand back and re-evaluate.
- R – Respect is earned by respecting everyone. “R” also stands for rest and recreation (R&R), which is a must.
- S – Sit when possible with your patient. “S” also means stop the journey of gossip.
- T – Teaching your patients and fostering teamwork can ward off burnout or boredom.
- U – Understand your job description, role and responsibilities clearly.
- V – Volatile conditions demand stat backup response. Know your resources and numbers.
- W – Work ethic, whether good or bad, precedes you. Integrity is who you are in the dark.
- X – The “X” Factor reminds us that no one knows everything. When in doubt, ask.
- Y – Your reputation is priceless. Build, protect, and use it for the good of your patients.
- Z – Zeal must be maintained. Self-care, compassionate care, and teamwork nurture it.
Last but not the least, remember: the calling to the nursing profession is like an unpolished diamond; it’s hard work. It can also be as irritating as the making of a pearl. Like the pearl, enduring these irritants is necessary to make great nurses who leave a legacy through mentoring. And we also need to remember that as nurses, we often care for angels hidden under the layers of acute or chronic illnesses.